and the bike becomes a joy to pilot. The 450MT, on the other hand, came alive in town and on tighter, more technical stretches. It felt more connected and when things got twisty or a bit loose the 450 showed its strength. On gravel sections and even a fire break, the 450 is composed and confidence-inspiring. Flickable, lighter, and with enough punch to keep things fun, it makes the most of every bit of terrain. The 800, in these same offroad sections, was more of a handful, tall and powerful. In the hands of a more experienced off-road rider, it’ d be fantastic value, but for me, the 450 feels like the easier tool for the job. Yes, the 450MT lacks the tech toys, but it offers something harder to define, more engagement. The 800MT-X is fast, refined, comfortable and capable, but when things get tricky, I’ d be reaching for the 450. TODD SUTHERLAND
KIWI RIDER 45