THE BIKE THAT BUILDS
CHAMPIONS
REVIEW
The KX legacy has produced countless champions. The drive to keep moving forward has never waned. Our flagship race bike, the KX450, is designed with advanced technology and power to dominate the track. Over the years, we’ve learned what it takes to win and stay at the top. The KX450 perfectly embodies that legacy.
BENEFIT :
- Powerful 499cc 4-stroke engine
- Downdraft intake, straight intake/exhaust cylinders, and a central exhaust system
- Handlebar-mounted traction control and power mode switch
- Smartphone connectivity: change engine mapping with your smartphone
- Brembo brake components
- Adjustable ergo-fit ergonomics
MODEL
FACTORY-STYLE ENGINE COMPONENTS AND TUNING
Championship-proven Performance
The KX450’s engine has always been a powerhouse, but Kawasaki engineers have found a way to make it even more powerful. Offering smoother low-end torque characteristics and stronger over-run, the new, more powerful engine is supported by features like electric start and a hydraulic clutch.
FACTORY-STYLE ENGINE COMPONENTS AND TUNING
The downdraft intake layout and symmetrically aligned exhaust deliver powerful, smooth low-rpm torque characteristics. The redesigned intake offers a straighter route for the air-fuel mixture to enter the cylinder, while the centrally positioned exhaust port aligns with the intake for high airflow efficiency—both contributing to improved performance.
FACTORY-STYLE ENGINE COMPONENTS AND TUNING
Being able to restart an engine quickly during a race can mean the difference between maintaining a lead or having to fight back. Electric start makes restarting an engine as easy as pressing a button.
FACTORY-STYLE ENGINE COMPONENTS AND TUNING
Light & Responsive
The hydraulic clutch offers a direct feel and light lever action. Less clutch play due to clutch heating under heavy use results in a more consistent feel. The use of a conical disc spring contributes to a lighter clutch actuation when the lever is pulled in and a wider clutch engagement range, making it easier to control (especially when half-clutch).
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND TUNING
Light and Agile
Complementing the straight-line performance and agile handling, a redesigned frame with optimized stiffness balance enables improved cornering performance that remains consistent across a wide range of conditions, while more centralized mass also contributes to improved handling. Premium Brembo brake components and ODI Lock-On grips add to both performance and brand recognition.
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND TUNING
The redesigned frame accommodates updates to the engine’s intake and exhaust systems, while delivering a high level of lightness, agility, and a composed character. An optimized stiffness balance contributes to improved front-end feel, which translates to improved cornering performance in a variety of conditions.
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND TUNING
The brake system includes perforated Braking/Sunstar discs (ø270/240 mm) paired with Brembo calipers and master cylinders at the front and Nissin calipers and master cylinders at the rear. This high-performance system provides enhanced brake control, helping the rider enter corners more easily.
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND TUNING
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND TUNING
A choice of four handlebar positions and two footpeg positions allows the rider to customize the riding position to suit their body size and preferences. A factory-style ø28.6 mm (1-1/8”) Renthal aluminum fat bar helps reduce vibration and shock transmitted to the rider, while a lower, closer grip position helps position the rider in a position that makes it easier to put weight on the front wheel.
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND TUNING
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND TUNING
The left side cover can be removed without tools, allowing easier access to the air filter element. The element is now secured with a quick-release latch (previously a wing bolt), making air filter replacement a simpler task.
ADVANCED TECH AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Power Modes, Kawasaki Traction Control, and Launch Control Mode Accessed from the Left Handle Switches
Complementing the updated Launch Control Mode, the new KX450 and KX450X are the first KX models to offer selectable Power Mode and Kawasaki Traction Control at the push of a button. And with smartphone connectivity, riders can adjust engine maps directly from their smartphones—another KX first that eliminates the need for accessory kit.
ADVANCED TECH AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
The Power Modes selector switch—a first on a Kawasaki KX model—replaces the DFI coupler used on previous models. Using the Mode (M) switch on the left handlebar, riders can quickly and easily switch between the two engine maps (Normal, Light Response) available in the ECU.
ADVANCED TECH AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Using the Traction button (T) on the left handlebar, riders can quickly and easily select between two levels of traction control (Low, Strong) to suit conditions and preferences. Riders can also choose to turn the system off.
ADVANCED TECH AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
The factory-style launch control system increases the chances of getting a good start by helping riders maximize traction when starting on low-traction surfaces.
ADVANCED TECH AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Using the “RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX” smartphone app, riders can access and customize their bike’s engine map. The functionality (adjusting fuel and ignition timing) is similar to that offered by the KX FI Calibration Kit accessory used on previous models. Maintenance and setup logs are also available.