Since 2000, Japanese manufacturer Suzuki has completely revamped its ATV lineup by introducing a new model year after year. Some of them have been named "ATV of the Year" by various websites and magazines.

In 2005, the KingQuad made a comeback in the fastest-growing segment at the time: large-displacement utility ATVs. The KingQuad 700 even became an "ATV of the Year" thanks to unique characteristics, sporty dynamics and a very competitive price.

The new KingQuad 450 takes on an extremely fierce and highly popular market segment.

Last year, the Suzuki family expanded once more with the arrival of what I like to call the "little king". The new KingQuad 450 takes on an extremely fierce and highly popular market segment: medium-displacement sport utility ATVs. Its youthful, sporty design (a carbon copy of the 750-cc model) is very well executed. It looks far less utilitarian than most rivals.

Sporty dynamics
The great news is that the Suzuki KingQuad 450 not only looks sporty, it delivers a truly sporty riding experience unlike few other competitors. You immediately feel confident when you sit on the rider's seat. The sturdy chassis, directly derived from the larger KingQuad, has a lot to do with it. This chassis features a double-wishbone front suspension and a long-travel independent rear suspension with a single articulated link and a large-diameter sway bar. These settings felt a tad firmer than those of the 2007 KingQuad 700 I previously tested, making for a sportier though slightly less comfortable ride.

As for the brakes, the 2008 KingQuad 450 uses a pair of 200-mm discs and single-piston calipers up front and a sealed, multi-plate rear brake system. This unique, clutch-type design provides high durability, reduced unsprung weight and low-maintenance. It's completely sealed, which is a must-have in muddy trails.

The KingQuad 450 uses a pair of 200-mm discs up front and a sealed, multi-plate rear brake system.