If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it – that saying been couldn’t be more relevant to the 2017 Suzuki RM-Z450. Just take a look at riders such as Todd Waters domestically and Ken Roczen internationally, both aboard the current RM-Z450 and putting in awesome performances time and time again. This bike has always been a solid package, and for 2017 not a whole lot has changed, but that’s definitely not a bad thing.

For 2017 the Suzuki RM-Z450 receives mostly cosmetic updates with an all-new colour scheme for the new year. The most noticeable addition are the black Excel rims – those black rims are something I personally felt the Suzuki needed for quite some time and it’s a welcomed update for 2017! To compliment the black rims, Suzuki have added black triple clamps, black side number plates, a yellow rear fender and a gripper seat cover with black sides and a yellow top.

Overall in the looks department, the 2017 Suzuki RM-Z450 is by far the most impressive model to date right off the showroom floor. As a fan of the RM-Z450 bodywork shape that has remained the same for quite some time, these updates to the colour scheme really bring it together and it’s an awesome looking machine in stock trim. Throw your custom numbers on and you’ve got a sweet looking bike on your hands right away.

Image: iKapture.

For 2017 the 449cc four-stroke liquid-cooled DOHC four-valve fuel-injected engine remains largely the same. It still features the compact aluminum cylinder, finished with Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) coating for durability, light weight and efficient heat transfer along with Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) surface treatment on the piston pin, for less friction and increased durability.

For quick fuel adjustments to suit riding conditions, two couplers are provided. One is for rich and another for lean fuel setting compared to stock setting. This enables you to change fuel settings in seconds by simply connecting either coupler to the wire harness, an awesome feature that changes the bike’s characteristics considerably in a short amount of time. Track is super tacky in the morning? Set your coupler to suit. Dry and slick in the afternoon? Mellow the power delivery out and get the most out of your day!

The 2017 RM-Z450’s refined five-speed transmission enables precise gear shift operation. The transmission feel has been improved with a revised shift cam for accurate gear selection. Specialised machining processes also increase the precision of the matching gears. To prove just how strong the engine package is, our own factory Suzuki team choose to run the standard gearbox and piston on their race bikes complimented with upgraded an upgraded clutch and cylinder head work for maximum power output.

Image: iKapture.

The 2017 Suzuki RM-Z450 engine package is outstanding. Suzuki have put together an engine that’s ultra-smooth, yet still packs a serious punch – it’s not lacking power by any means. The point I’m trying to make is that you could ride this bike as an average rider (such as myself), and have an absolute ball, or you can go out and race it as a professional and be very competitive right out of the box. The way the power is delivered allows you to be super smooth and use minimal energy to make your way around the circuit.

If you’re planning to use the 2017 RM-Z450 as a racing weapon, Suzuki has you covered in the starting department. The Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) is a selectable launch system derived from the factory race bike to help riders launch from the starting gate for an early lead. There are three modes riders can choose for the best option per their skill level and starting conditions.

‘A Mode’ is for hard surfaces or slippery conditions at the starting gate. In this mode, S-HAC alters ignition timing at the moment of launch and the ride over the gate to reduce wheel slip to deliver a smooth take off. It also advances ignition timing during this sequence for stronger acceleration. After 1.2 seconds or when you reach third gear, the system shuts off and returns to normal ignition timing

Image: iKapture.

‘B Mode’ is suitable when conditions at the starting gate have improved traction, and a more aggressive launch is desired. S-HAC will advance the ignition timing to allow increased throttle response and stronger acceleration off the line. The ignition timing alternation is in a similar sequence as Mode A, but with increased overall timing. One of three conditions will return the ignition to normal operation (whichever happens first): After 4.5 seconds has passed since throttle opening, when you shift to fourth gear or when the throttle is closed.

Finally, ‘Base Mode’ is a standard power launch, there is no action required on the S-HAC switch. If you’re a rider who would rather use your own throttle control and clutch control, you can choose to go without the S-HAC system and use your preferred technique to launch out of the gate. The beauty of this system is that a regular rider, with no desire to ever race the RM-Z450, will never notice the system at all – just ride the bike as normal and the small button on the handlebars won’t ever be an issue.

In the chassis department, this is where the 2017 RM-Z450 really stands out – the way the bike handles and turns is incredible. For 2017 the Showa SFF-Air fork is once again featured on Suzuki’s flagship motocross model. The SFF-Air suspension evolved from the SFF system but without a conventional coil spring resulting in reduced weight, increased inner tube diameter and damper rod/piston size. SFF-Air utilizes three tunable chambers so riders can easily adjust the spring rate with an air pump instead of changing out steel springs.

Image: iKapture.

There are mixed reviews out there on air fork systems, but the Showa SFF-Air fork really works well with the Suzuki chassis package. Initially for me in stock trim the fork felt a slightly harsh, so I went in and had the very helpful Suzuki technicians to massage the settings and back out I went. We increased the standard air pressure of 171 psi to 188 psi in both the inner and balance chambers to allow the fork to sit higher in the stroke. Bringing the fork up higher in the stock instantly took away that harsh feeling and allowed the bike to float over choppy bumps, yet still turn on a dime.

The way the 2017 Suzuki RM-Z450 handles and turns is definitely its strongest feature. The chassis and suspension combination provides such a confidence inspiring ride and the bike feels very planted at all times. You know exactly what your front wheel is doing, there is a strong connection between the rider, the bike and the track – that’s something I really do look for in a bike. At speed the RM-Z450 is also very stable and that’s something that’s hard to master. The Showa rear shock, with rising-rate linkage system, provides 12.2 inches of wheel travel and complements the SFF-Air fork perfectly. I set the sag at 102mm and didn’t touch it for the remainder of the day.

Housing the strong RM-Z450 engine and complimenting the suspension setup is the aluminum frame has that features increased rigidity and reduced weight from previous generation RM-Z450s. The slim chassis design creates a trim riding position, allowing you to actively take control of the machine and move around on the bike with ease. The ergonomics of the 2017 RM-Z450 are right on the money, it’s a very neutral riding position that will suit a range of riders. The Renthal Fatbar, standard on all 2017 RM-Z450s, is also a very comfortable bend and a high quality component also.

Overall the 2017 Suzuki RM-Z450 is one impressive machine right out of the box. It features everything you need to get out on the track and have an awesome time with your buddies, or line up at the races and be super competitive. A huge thanks to Suzuki Australia for having us out for the day at Echo Valley in Toowoomba, they worked tirelessly to ensure us riders were well accommodated at all times. The new RM-Z450 is now available for purchase Australia wide at a recommended retail price of $10,990. Head to www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au for more information.