2016 Kawasaki KX65 vs 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2016 Kawasaki KX65 2016 Kawasaki KX65

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs
2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
246.9 pounds
Full Specifications
General
ColoursLime GreenChampion Yellow/Solid Black
Warranty-12 month unlimited mileage limited warranty.
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)305 mm325 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)12.0 inches12.8 inches
Seat Height759 mm / 29.9 in.955 mm / 37.6 in.
Wheelbase1,120 mm / 44.1 in.1,495 mm / 58.9 in.
Height955 mm / 37.6 in.1,270 mm / 50.0 in.
Length1,590 mm / 62.6 in.2,190 mm / 86.2 in.
Width759 mm / 29.9 in.830 mm / 32.7 in.
Weights & Capacities
Fuel Capacity3.79 litres / 1.00 gallons6.20 litres / 1.64 gallons
Wet Weight60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs112.0 kg / 246.9 lbs
Engine
Bore x Stroke (mm)44.5 x 41.6 mm96.0 x 62.1 mm
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-strokeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Fuel Control-Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Bore x Stroke (in,)1.8 x 1.6 inches3.8 x 2.4 inches
Engine DetailReed valveAluminum cylinder with Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) coating
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Mikuni VM24SSInjection
Compression Ratio8.4:112.5:1
Engine Lubrication-Semi-dry sump
IgnitionCDI w/digital advanceElectronic ignition
StarterKickKick
Valve System-4
Drivetrain
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox6-speed5-speed
Primary Drive-Chain, DID520MXV4, 114 links
Chassis
Frame TypeSemi-double-cradle, high-tensile steel-
Suspension - Front33mm leading axle conventional fork with four-way rebound damping / 8.3 in.Inverted telescopic SFF-Air suspension
Suspension - RearUni-Trak single shock system with four-way rebound damping and fully adjustable spring preload / 9.4 in.Showa link type, coil spring, oil damped
Rake27.0°-
Trail61 mm / 2.4 in.-
Wheel Travel - Rear-310 mm / 12.2 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Hydraulic.Single disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Rims-Aluminum rims with stainless steel spokes.
Tyres - Front60/100-1480/100-21
Tyres - Rear80/100-12110/90-19

Verdict

Winner on specs

2016 Suzuki RM-Z450

The 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 edges out the 2016 Kawasaki KX65 thanks to its fuel injection and greater ground clearance. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2016 Kawasaki KX65 - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 759 mm vs 955 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.

2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 - Advantages

  • Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.
  • More ground clearance: 325 mm vs 305 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2016 Kawasaki KX65 vs 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2016 Kawasaki KX65 and 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450?
The 2016 Kawasaki KX65 uses Single cylinder, two-stroke, while the 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 is powered by Single cylinder, four-stroke. This is a fundamental difference - the 2016 Kawasaki KX65 is a two-stroke engine while the 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 runs a four-stroke, resulting in very different power delivery, maintenance requirements, and riding character.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2016 Kawasaki KX65 or the 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450?
The 2016 Kawasaki KX65 has the lower seat at 759 mm, making it more accessible. The 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 sits higher at 955 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2016 Kawasaki KX65 or the 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450?
Both are strong choices. The 2016 Kawasaki KX65 has the edge in lower seat height, while the 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 stands out for fuel injection and greater ground clearance. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.