2011 Yamaha YZ450F vs 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2011 Yamaha YZ450F 2011 Yamaha YZ450F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Titanium valves
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
245.0 pounds
2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
223.8 pounds
Full Specifications
General
ColoursWhite/Red, Team Yamaha Blue/White)Yellow
Warranty30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)381 mm350 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)15.0 inches13.8 inches
Seat Height998 mm / 39.3 in.955 mm / 37.6 in.
Wheelbase1,491 mm / 58.7 in.1,480 mm / 58.3 in.
Height1,311 mm / 51.6 in.1,260 mm / 49.6 in.
Length2,192 mm / 86.3 in.2,185 mm / 86.0 in.
Width823 mm / 32.4 in.830 mm / 32.7 in.
Weights & Capacities
Oil Capacity (Quarts)0.08 quarts-
Oil Capacity (l)1.20 litres-
Dry Weight-101.5 kg / 223.8 lbs
Fuel Capacity6.17 litres / 1.63 gallons6.20 litres / 1.64 gallons
Wet Weight111.1 kg / 245.0 lbs-
Performance
Mods from previous modelNew clutch lever and pushrod for more consistent clutch feel during long motos.-
Engine
Displacement (cc)449.00 cc449.00 cc
Displacement (ci)27.40 cubic inches27.40 cubic inches
Stroke-4
Fuel ControlDOHCDOHC
Bore x Stroke (mm)97.0 x 60.8 mm96.0 x 62.1 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.8 x 2.4 inches3.8 x 2.4 inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-strokeSingle cylinder
Engine DetailTitanium valves-
Fuel SystemInjection. Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI), Keihin 44mmInjection. Electronic Fuel Injection
Compression Ratio12.5:112.2:1
Engine LubricationDry sumpSemi-dry sump
IgnitionCDIDigital CDI
StarterElectric-
Valve System4-
Drivetrain
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox5-speed5-speed
Primary Drive2WD; Sealed O-Ring Chain, Eccentric Adjustment-
Chassis
Suspension - FrontKYB Speed-Sensitive System, inverted fork: fully adjustable, 12.2-in travelTelescopic, cartridge-type fully adjustable rebound, compression and pre-load settings
Suspension - RearKYB Fully adjustable single shockLink-type, spring preload fullyadjustable rebound, compression and pre-load settings
Wheel Travel - Rear315 mm / 12.4 in.-
Electrical Systems
Lighting systemDual 30W Krypton multireflector Headlights and 3.9/0.5W LED Brake light-
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)245 mm-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)9.6 inches-
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)250 mm-
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)9.8 inches-
Brakes - FrontSingle discSingle disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Tyres - Front80/100-2190/90-21
Tyres - Rear120/80-19120/90-19

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2011 Yamaha YZ450F and the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 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

2011 Yamaha YZ450F - Advantages

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

2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 - Advantages

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

2011 Yamaha YZ450F vs 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2011 Yamaha YZ450F and 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450?
The 2011 Yamaha YZ450F uses Single cylinder, four-stroke, while the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 is powered by Single cylinder.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2011 Yamaha YZ450F or the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450?
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 2011 Yamaha YZ450F or the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450?
Both are strong choices. The 2011 Yamaha YZ450F has the edge in greater ground clearance, while the 2008 Suzuki RM-Z450 stands out for lower seat height. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.