2017 Suzuki RM-Z450
(discontinued)
While it's true that Suzuki's RM-Z450 features the same plastic it did nine model years ago, it's often forgotten how many parts and updates it's actually received over the years. While it may look similar to the 2008 model, it's different and comparable at the same time. It's received been through three chassis in that time, three forks, swingarms, engine upgrades, etc. In the end though, its biggest downfall and positive are that it still feels similar to the 2008 model. While other manufactures have gone to radical engine layouts, new geometry, and more, the RM-Z450 has retained a feel and characteristics that are easy to learn and ride with. With a chassis that's known for its cornering prowess and an easy to ride, broad power package, the RM-Z can bring out the best feeling for some riders. On the other side, the Showa SFF TAC fork can also bring out the worst comments from some as there can be struggle with the setup. All-in-all, we've seen at the pro level that the bike can still be quite dominant with the right parts added, but how will it fair in production trim against the flock of new and updated 17 models? Considering this 17 RM-Z450 has only received visual changes (which we will admit was step in the right direction compared to some of the last few years of color usage). With the 2017 450 Shootout coming soon, it'll be interesting to see which testers the RM-Z can win over with its memorable layout in the face of the newest technology.
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