2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 vs 2011 Yamaha YZ450F

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
223.8 pounds
2011 Yamaha YZ450F 2011 Yamaha YZ450F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Titanium valves
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
245.0 pounds
Full Specifications
General
ColoursYellowWhite/Red, Team Yamaha Blue/White)
Warranty-30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)13.8 inches15.0 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)350 mm381 mm
Seat Height955 mm / 37.6 in.998 mm / 39.3 in.
Wheelbase1,480 mm / 58.3 in.1,491 mm / 58.7 in.
Height1,260 mm / 49.6 in.1,311 mm / 51.6 in.
Length2,185 mm / 86.0 in.2,192 mm / 86.3 in.
Width830 mm / 32.7 in.823 mm / 32.4 in.
Weights & Capacities
Oil Capacity (l)-1.20 litres
Oil Capacity (Quarts)-0.08 quarts
Dry Weight101.5 kg / 223.8 lbs-
Fuel Capacity6.20 litres / 1.64 gallons6.17 litres / 1.63 gallons
Wet Weight-111.1 kg / 245.0 lbs
Performance
Mods from previous model-New clutch lever and pushrod for more consistent clutch feel during long motos.
Engine
Fuel ControlDOHCDOHC
Engine TypeSingle cylinderSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Bore x Stroke (mm)96.0 x 62.1 mm97.0 x 60.8 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.8 x 2.4 inches3.8 x 2.4 inches
Stroke4-
Displacement (cc)449.00 cc449.00 cc
Displacement (ci)27.40 cubic inches27.40 cubic inches
Engine Detail-Titanium valves
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic Fuel InjectionInjection. Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI), Keihin 44mm
Compression Ratio12.2:112.5:1
Engine LubricationSemi-dry sumpDry sump
IgnitionDigital CDICDI
Starter-Electric
Valve System-4
Drivetrain
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox5-speed5-speed
Primary Drive-2WD; Sealed O-Ring Chain, Eccentric Adjustment
Chassis
Suspension - FrontTelescopic, cartridge-type fully adjustable rebound, compression and pre-load settingsKYB Speed-Sensitive System, inverted fork: fully adjustable, 12.2-in travel
Suspension - RearLink-type, spring preload fullyadjustable rebound, compression and pre-load settingsKYB Fully adjustable single shock
Wheel Travel - Rear-315 mm / 12.4 in.
Electrical Systems
Lighting system-Dual 30W Krypton multireflector Headlights and 3.9/0.5W LED Brake light
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)-9.6 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)-9.8 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)-250 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)-245 mm
Brakes - FrontSingle discSingle disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Tyres - Front90/90-2180/100-21
Tyres - Rear120/90-19120/80-19

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 and the 2011 Yamaha YZ450F are evenly matched across the key measurable criteria. Your decision comes down to personal preference, riding style, and which brand's dealer network best suits your location.

Key Differences

2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 955 mm vs 998 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.

2011 Yamaha YZ450F - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 381 mm vs 350 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 vs 2011 Yamaha YZ450F - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 and 2011 Yamaha YZ450F?
The 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 uses Single cylinder, while the 2011 Yamaha YZ450F is powered by Single cylinder, four-stroke.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 or the 2011 Yamaha YZ450F?
The 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 has the lower seat at 955 mm, making it more accessible. The 2011 Yamaha YZ450F sits higher at 998 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 or the 2011 Yamaha YZ450F?
Both are strong choices. The 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 has the edge in lower seat height, while the 2011 Yamaha YZ450F stands out for 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.