The dessert of the test was a tour of the SMAC facility where the KingQuad 450 4x4 is built; it gave me a good glimpse at Suzuki's dedication to quality, attention to detail and commitment to offering great ATVs at an affordable price. These guys are extremely organized and dedicated to delivering a top-notch package with all of the groundbreaking innovations that have hit the market over the past few years. For amateurs to intermediate riders who are looking for a good utility ATV for work or recreation, this quad could be an ideal option. And for even the most seasoned riders, the KQ 450 can deliver a thrilling experience on the trails. This machine is likely to run atop the 450 class in 2007, but we will just have to determine that with a shootout in an upcoming issue.
> Strong power for tackling gnarly terrain
> Great handling and stability
> Easiest shifter on the market
> Front tires tend to push while cornering
> Excellent overall package
Suzuki KingQuad 450 4x4
Retail price: $6499; camo, $6799
Engine type: Single-cylinder, four-stroke, four-valve SOHCDisplacement: 454cc
Bore x stroke: 84x82mm
Cooling: Liquid-cooled with fan assist
Carburetion: EFI
Lubrication: Wet sump
Starting: Electric with auxiliary recoil
Drivetrain
Drive system: Shaft, 2x4/4x4
Transmission: Automatic CVT with high/low range, reverse, engine-braking, diff-lock
Suspension (Type/Travel)
Front: Dual A-arms, independent, coil spring, oil-damped, five-way adjustable spring preload/7.1 in.
Rear: Dual A-arms, independent, coil spring, oil-damped, five-way adjustable spring preload/8.1 in.
Tires
Front: 25x8-12, tubeless
Rear: 25x10-12, tubeless
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 50.4 in.
Claimed dry weight: 606 lb
Ground clearance: 10.2 in.
Length/width/height: 83.3/47.6/48.0 in.
Seat height: 33.9 in.
Fuel capacity: 4.6 gal.
Load Capacity
Front/rear rack capacity: 66/132 lb
Hitch tongue/Towing capacity: NA/992 lb
Electrical
Taillight: Yes
Headlight: Dual 30-watt high/low beam with 40-watt auxiliary
DC outlet: Yes
Instrumentation: Fuel gauge, speedometer, odometer, hourmeter, clock, dual tripmeters; drive range, drive mode, LED high beam, high-temperature indicators
Colors: Black, olive, red; Advantage Max-4 HDT camo