Opinions on a 06' RMZ-450

[RCPH]

Found a nice and clean 06' RM-Z 450 from a dealer freind of mine, and Im really tempted. I loved the way the RM-Z turned and enjoyed its powerband.

Now I have read some of these forums and see that people say there build quality is not as good as the others and that scares me. Should I wait for a CRF ??

I loved all my GSXR's and found no issues with the quality in there on-road program.

So, buttom line, should I stay clear ?

[ccnut]

The bikes nowadays are not that much difference in mfgs. They are quality products,it's mainly personal preference. Ask Woody393 he has the same yr. I think and loves it!....Jerry

[G220]

2 of my friends ride 06 rmz 450's and they love them, I ride an 07 crf450 and I like how the rmz feels almost better than the crf, so much so I put the rmz handlebars on my crf. Its just like ccnut said they are all pretty much the same as quality its all personal preference.

[dklassen]

I'm going to take some heat here but I have raced both Suzuki's and Honda's in MX (as well as Kawasaki and Yamaha) and I believe strongly that Honda has a much better product right down to the nut and bolt quality. I realize that the manufacturers are closer than they were in the 80's when Honda was way better however from a quality only standpoint you won't go wrong with a Honda. I can't say the same for Suzuki. One last thing to consider is the cost of replacement parts and Honda has that won hands down.

[Mainjet2001]

Soichiro Honda.....


dklassen, this guy (RIP) would certainly agree.

[G220]

I will say in my experience that Honda is definately the most reliable bike. I raced both suzuki's and honda's also but in road racing, and I was more comfortable on a gsxr than I was on a cbr, the gsxr was easier to work on too, but the honda's always start no matter what.

[mxerhale]

Well, I had an '06 RMZ so I can talk from real experience. I loved mine and rode/raced it for a little over a year with no issues whatsoever. I've owned bikes from all of the big five and they have very little difference between them. The RMZ handled awesome, the suspension was pretty good (as good as any other stockers), I loved the ergos, the power seemed a little soft compared to my YZF but it turned out to be a blessing and a holeshotter (which is something I was NEVER known for) and the back brake was very good but the front needed to be bled monthly to keep it feeling strong. Those are my feelings toward and just FYI I was a frontrunner in the Vet Intermediate class it was also the bike that converted Woody393 to Suzuki.

[Freak]

Throwing in my 1/2 peso as well. I've rode a couple of RMZ's and honestly, I like them. Solid bike. Don't know of anyone with any major problems with them. good luck

[RCPH]

Thanks all for your input. I have always owned CRs, so this will be a little switch if it goes through.

The turning was so precise it was addicting. And coming from the 2 strokes all my life, it required less energy it seemed. Were looking at all the valve clearences tommorow among other things to see if its all within spec.

I should mention as well that it has RG3 front fork valving and Shock Valving. Along with RG3 Upper and lower tripple Clamps and it looks like RG3 linkage. (Not sure how it feels as the RM-Z I rode was stock suspension)

I hope it all works out

[ccnut]

Yes please keep us informed and send pics when you can!! I love the way my RM handles and would love to here your opinions of the difference from 2 t to 4t..Thanks.....Good Luck.....Jerry

[RCPH]

Well, brought her home yesterday and so far I have been very happy. I cannot begin to give a honest review of the bike yet, or the goods/bads vs the 2 stroke.

The little bit that I have been able to ride it though i will admit, the power is very smooth and powerfull. I can't wait to take it to a proper riding venue and really lean into it and give it an honest review.

Last but not least, It was devastating selling my CR250 to get the new bike. Thank goodness it went to a great friend and went to good hands.

Hers a quick pic. The seat foam has been lowered from the last owner. It has full RG3 Suspension Shock/forks/linkage and upper and lower RG3 triple clamps and fortunatly, low hours. I will update as soon as I can give it a good solid ride.

[ccnut]

Cool! Clean looking bike!! I don't think you will be disapointed. Zukes handle like no budies biz. I just got my 03 yz 2t and am adjusting to the diff. My RM cornered so much easier and faster! The YZ you really have to stuff hard into the corner than apply GAS to get it right Love it!!!.....Jerry

[G220]

Originally Posted by RCPH

Well, brought her home yesterday and so far I have been very happy. I cannot begin to give a honest review of the bike yet, or the goods/bads vs the 2 stroke.

The little bit that I have been able to ride it though i will admit, the power is very smooth and powerfull. I can't wait to take it to a proper riding venue and really lean into it and give it an honest review.

Last but not least, It was devastating selling my CR250 to get the new bike. Thank goodness it went to a great friend and went to good hands.

Hers a quick pic. The seat foam has been lowered from the last owner. It has full RG3 Suspension Shock/forks/linkage and upper and lower RG3 triple clamps and fortunatly, low hours. I will update as soon as I can give it a good solid ride.

Nice! I think you will get over that 250 real fast.

[Freak]

nice looking ride you got there.

[pjg351]

Nice ride, once you get that RG3 dialed in, you will love it. Best suspension we have ever had on a bike.

[RCPH]

Thanks so much for all the kind words guys !

Originally Posted by pjg351

Nice ride, once you get that RG3 dialed in, you will love it. Best suspension we have ever had on a bike.

So far, I have been very impressed, Its like landing on a bucket of cool whip. I cannot wait to actually hit a jump worth while. But so far, it seems very plush on all the small bumps I can find around my house !

[Freak]

Now you need some video of being up on one!