As far as the mechanics of the LTR, it’s
not terribly hard to work on. With fuel injection
and electric start, there is an added level
of know how needed to tackle more complicated
forms of repair, but general service work is
a breeze. The air box works well and even staves
off water when it’s encountered on the
trail. Access to change the oil is straight
forward and basic tools are all that is needed.
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The
Suzuki LTR 450 air box works well and
even staves off water when it's encountered
on the trail ride |
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| The
stock plastic skid plates work well for
MX riding, however there isn't much protection
for rocky trail riding |
The lower ride height and ground clearance would
be a factor as well if trails were your main goal.
From the factory, the stock rear skid plate set
up works pretty well for general riding, however
there isn’t a lot of clearance back there
when large rocks will be encountered. This takes
us back to larger tires and different ride height
settings and quite possibly a different style
of protection for the rear sprocket and rotor.
All easily available and for the most part not
terribly expensive changes that would be a big
positive for the trail crowd.
Overall feel from the machine is very positive
and the controls all easily reached. A smooth
clutch pull, great braking and confidence inspiring
handling make this one fun animal to ride no matter
where you happen to be. We currently sit at a
crossroad with the LTR as in its current stock
form, we could easily just add gas and do regular
maintenance and have a blast just enjoying the
MX track and the occasional romp on the trails.
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The
stock Suzuki LTR 450 handle bars were
comfortable, however it was noted that
the grips were on the harder side, which
can easily be fixed and replaced by the
rider |
On the track, it’s all we could ever
ask for in a stock quad and the sky is the limit
if we decided to upgrade from the stock suspension.
For the woods however, we would be facing the
task of turning the machine into something that
wouldn’t be as comfortable on the MX track,
the great catch 22….what to do what to
do! For now, we will enjoy it as is and could
possibly pick up a deal on another left over
that would serve as a platform for a true XC
based ride.
