KX450X (MY21) – Kawasaki

When it comes to KX motorcycles, winning runs in the family. The all-new cross-country KX450X motorcycle is powered by technology that hails from a legacy of champions and tuned to take on the toughest terrain. Get the off-road edge on the bike built to ride ahead of the rest.

Based on the championship-winning KX450 motocrosser, the new cross-country racer boasts an arsenal of factory-style features. Cross-Country specific tuning for the engine, suspension and brakes, complemented by a 21”/18” wheel combination fitted with enduro-type tyres, and convenient standard features like a side stand and skid plate make the new KX450X even more attractive for cross-country competitors.

ENGINE

The same championship-proven engine performance found in KX motocross bikes is what propels the all-new cross-country KX450X motorcycle. This fuel-injected 449cc 4-stroke engine delivers the type of hard-hitting power and a flat torque curve that encourages quick acceleration. The hydraulic clutch offers direct feel and light lever action. Less play as the clutch heats up during heavy use results in more consistent feeling. The use of coned-disc springs lightens the clutch actuation when the lever has been pulled in, and a wider clutch engagement range for rider control.

KX450X features a valve train designed by Kawasaki’s World Superbike engineers. Finger-follower valve actuation enables the use of large-diameter valves and aggressive cam profiles. The press of a button, riders can activate a separate engine map designed to ensure efficient starts in low-traction conditions. The Launch Control Mode map retards ignition timing, allowing tyres to gain grip, and allowing riders to focus on their lines. Adjusting engine settings to suit conditions is simple with the three DFI couplers. Plug-and-play style system is quick, easy and stress-free. Each of the three maps can be reprogrammed using the optional KX FI Calibration Kit.

SUSPENSION AND BRAKES

High-performance ø49 mm inverted coil-spring fork. Super-hard titanium coating on the outer surface of the fork inner tubes helps prevent wear abrasion. Kashima Coat creates a hard, low-friction surface on the outer tubes. The New Uni Trak rear suspension system mounts the suspension arm below the swingarm, allowing a longer rear suspension stroke. The rear shock features dual compression adjustability, allowing high speed and low-speed damping to be tuned.

KX450X brake package optimised for Cross-Country riding delivers strong stopping power and a high level of control. A short skirt, reinforced external ribs and the use of a bridged-box bottom, featuring internal bracing, contributes to a light, strong piston design. A light piston (243 g) reduces the reciprocating weight and enhances the engine’s performance. Needle bearings to the connecting rod big-end reduces mechanical loss = better engine performance.

FRAME

Light and nimble handling is achieved thanks to the use of the lean, lightweight chassis of the legendary KX450 motocross bike. A well-balanced, slim aluminum perimeter frame helps keep the overall weight down and allows for light handling and slim ergonomics. Slim aluminium perimeter frame is a lightweight construction composed of forged, extruded and cast parts. Overall rigidity balance was optimised to deliver both light handling and excellent traction. Engine is used as a stressed member, contributing to the frame’s rigidity balance.

KX FI Calibration Controller enables riders to make changes to engine maps by plugging into the ECU without a PC or battery. Comes equipped with seven preset map settings, a built in colour LCD screen, transfer and diagnostic cable SD card, user manual and carry case. Lightweight and compact the proven Li-ion Battery helps keep the weight minimal. The two position footpeg brackets enables riders to vary the footpeg position to find the right fit. The footpeg bracket can be lowered 5mm from the standard position. Lightweight, wide-style footpeg design for excellent grip and superb control.

Upper triple clamp with two sets of handle mount slots and reversible handle mounts offers riders a choice of four handle positions: 25 mm forward, 15 mm forward, STD and 10 mm back. Bodywork on the KX450X features long, smooth surfaces that make it easy to slide. Seams between the shrouds, seat and side covers are flush for moving around on the bike. In-mould graphics on the shrouds are ultra-smooth and ensure the race-style graphics are not easily damaged.