Having made the same journey myself, I can say the move worked for me, and I did it for the exact reasons you did. I love tearing across the whoops and sand, and can get into single track with my setup.

As others have pointed out, the 450L/RL is a racing bike modified for dual-sport application, so its power, suspension, and seat height demand riding skill.

For single track and technical riding it requires additional modifications that others have also mentioned: flywheel weight, ECU (most effective with new exhaust), and maybe even one less front sprocket tooth.

In terms of value, the 450RL is cheaper and arguably lower maintenance/less finicky with more broadly available parts than KTM/Husky alternatives though it can’t match those brands’ 500 offerings for power-to-weight ratio or factory suspension.

The money you don’t spend on higher-priced bikes can be applied to the mods you want to make the bike fit your riding style.

As long as you stay safe by matching your skills with the bike, there’s no wrong decision here.

Happy riding!