2008 450 ATV Sport Shootout

Suzuki QuadRacer R450
An MX rider typically has much to do in terms of preparation before ever hitting the track with a new machine. Beginning with a trail machine that averages in width of around 46 inches, key suspension components must be replaced to achieve an ideal maximum width of 50 inches. The R450 is the only machine that's available from the factory with this 50-inch width being standard. This is ideal for a weekend track warrior or racer on a budget. While the Suzuki is aimed at the motocross market it's far from being limited to the track, as we discovered during testing at Durhamtown Plantation.

Sitting low and wide, the Suzuki is ready to attack any terrain it may encounter. Stability is by far the best of any stock machine, and enables faster speeds to be carried through turns as well as increased balance when navigating steep grades. The suspension is plush enough to provide an enjoyable trail ride yet still maintains the ability to absorb the brutal assault of the MX track. The point-and-shoot steering is deadly accurate with great predictability, allowing the extreme width to be kept between the trees when blazing trails. As ruts develop, ground clearance can become an issue as the competitors' 20-inch tires dig deep, leaving the Suzuki to struggle for traction.

As you throw the Suzuki through a turn and hit the throttle, instantaneous power is delivered, firing the LT-R toward its next target. A short run to the face of a big jump could be intimidating on a lesser machine but is accomplished with ease, due to the power and traction of the electronic fuel-injected 450. This rapid supply of forward momentum also aids in overcoming difficult obstacles, such as rigorous hillclimbs that are regularly faced in cross-country racing. Despite being the heaviest machine in the 450 class the engine proves to be more than adequate to make up for the slight disadvantage in weight.

The Suzuki's ergonomics fit our vast array of riders nicely earning only one complaint about the seat being too wide. There's plenty of leg room for taller riders without the cramped feel that's often experienced on sport machines. Controls are well placed and function with ease. This ensures that the rider's focus remains on the rapidly passing trail where it belongs and off the machine.