2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 vs 2016 Yamaha YZ125

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
249.1 pounds
2016 Yamaha YZ125 2016 Yamaha YZ125

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
94.8 kg / 209.0 lbs
Full Specifications
General
ColoursChampion YellowTeam Yamaha Blue/White
Warranty12 month unlimited mileage limited warranty.30 Day Limited Factory Warranty
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)325 mm366 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)12.8 inches14.4 inches
Seat Height955 mm / 37.6 in.975 mm / 38.4 in.
Wheelbase1,495 mm / 58.9 in.1,443 mm / 56.8 in.
Height1,270 mm / 50.0 in.1,295 mm / 51.0 in.
Length2,190 mm / 86.2 in.2,136 mm / 84.1 in.
Width830 mm / 32.7 in.828 mm / 32.6 in.
Weights & Capacities
Fuel Capacity6.20 litres / 1.64 gallons7.95 litres / 2.10 gallons
Wet Weight113.0 kg / 249.1 lbs94.8 kg / 209.0 lbs
Engine
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)-
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Bore x Stroke (mm)96.0 x 62.1 mm54.0 x 54.5 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.8 x 2.4 inches2.1 x 2.1 inches
Engine DetailAluminum cylinder with Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) coatingReed-valve-inducted
Fuel SystemInjectionCarburettor. Mikuni TMX 38
Compression Ratio12.5:18.6:1
Engine LubricationSemi-dry sump-
IgnitionElectronic ignitionCDI
StarterKickKick
Valve System4-
Drivetrain
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox5-speed6-speed
Primary DriveChain, DID520MXV4, 114 links-
Chassis
Frame Type-Aluminum
Suspension - FrontInverted telescopic, coil spring, oil dampedSpeed-sensitive system inverted fork
Suspension - RearLink type, coil spring, oil dampedFully adjustable single shock
Rake-28.0°
Wheel Travel - Front-300 mm / 11.8 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear-315 mm / 12.4 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)-250 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)-9.8 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)-245 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)-9.6 inches
Brakes - FrontSingle discSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Tyres - Front80/100-2180/100-21
Tyres - Rear110/90-19100/90-19

Verdict

Winner on specs

2015 Suzuki RM-Z450

The 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 edges out the 2016 Yamaha YZ125 thanks to its lower seat height and fuel injection. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 955 mm vs 975 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
  • Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.

2016 Yamaha YZ125 - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 366 mm vs 325 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 vs 2016 Yamaha YZ125 - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 and 2016 Yamaha YZ125?
The 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 uses Single cylinder, four-stroke, while the 2016 Yamaha YZ125 is powered by Single cylinder, two-stroke. This is a fundamental difference - the 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 is a four-stroke engine while the 2016 Yamaha YZ125 runs a two-stroke, resulting in very different power delivery, maintenance requirements, and riding character.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 or the 2016 Yamaha YZ125?
The 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 has the lower seat at 955 mm, making it more accessible. The 2016 Yamaha YZ125 sits higher at 975 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 or the 2016 Yamaha YZ125?
Both are strong choices. The 2015 Suzuki RM-Z450 has the edge in lower seat height and fuel injection, while the 2016 Yamaha YZ125 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.