KX450FX

F21”/R18” wheels and enduro-type tyres are well-suited to a variety of situations encountered in cross-country racing, while a convenient side stand, sealed chain, and bullet terminals for headlight and taillight use add to convenience, and a rear brake disc guard contributes to vehicle protection. For 2027, new cross-country- focused standard equipment includes a large capacity fuel tank (7.5 L), a skid plate to help protect the underside of the engine, Kawasaki’s first use of a linkage guard to help shield the rear suspension, and hand guards to help shield against branches and mud.

The KX450F’s engine has been its strength since its beginning, and with this model update it receives even more power and torque thanks to refinements to the intake and exhaust systems. Riders will notice a more aggressive throttle response, stronger drive out of corners, and that it keeps pulling strongly at higher rpm.

While maintaining the high level of handling performance of the previous model, rear-wheel traction and controllability have been improved. The redesigned frame contributes to this change and to improved handling. This is complemented by improved components all around, including the brakes, suspension and bodywork, to offer the rider a stronger, more refined level of control.

The KX450F gives riders the advantage they need on the track, with Power Mode selection and Kawasaki TRaction Control both available at the push of a button, in addition to Launch Control Mode for ideal starts.

Kawasaki’s new and improved app made specifically for riders to tune and manage their KX machines features added functionality that improves the user experience and opens new ways to enjoy their KX. Riders have access to more intuitive engine tuning functionality, greater selectability for launch and traction control, trip log capability, a monitoring function, and maintenance reminders.

Complementing the handling performance of its predecessor, a newly designed frame, revised swingarm and longer wheelbase offer improved rearend traction and controllability, and enhanced stability, contributing to improved overall performance.

High-performance brake package now includes Brembo components for both the front and rear brakes. The Brembo front caliper and master cylinder are complemented by a steel-braided brake line for increased controllability. The new Brembo rear brake caliper and master cylinder—Kawasaki firsts on a 450cc motocrosser—add to controllability on corner entry and through corners, contributing to faster cornering ability.

At the front, optimized suspension settings offer improving shock absorption, while at the rear, the New Uni-Trak rear suspension has also been updated to further enhance performance.

Thanks to revised intake and exhaust systems and optimized fuel injection settings, the new engine improves performance with a more aggressive engine feeling. Stronger low-end power feel is complemented by improved power at mid to high rpm, and the difference is immediately noticeable when riders open the throttle, especially when accelerating out of high-speed corners. On the straights, the engine keeps pulling strongly through the high rpm range.

Using the KTRC mode (T) button on the left handlebar, riders can quickly and easily select from Mode 1, Mode 2, or OFF to suit conditions and preference. The setting for both modes is initially the same, but the level of intervention for each mode can be set via RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX2.

Factory-style launch control system increases the chance of getting a good start by helping riders maximize traction when starting on a low-traction surface. The system is activated by simultaneously pressing the Power Mode (M) button and KTRC Mode (T) button on the left handle. The updated system includes a rev-limit control function that allows riders to focus on gate timing and clutch operation without having to spend energy on delicate throttle control. Using RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX2, riders can select from three levels of intervention (LOW, STD, HIGH) for the maps used by Launch Control Mode, as well as set the rev limit or turn the rev-limit control function off altogether.

Using the Power mode (M) button on the left handlebar, riders can quickly and easily switch between two engine map settings. These two maps, initially set to the same configuration, can be selected/programmed via RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX2.

Medium-compound ODI Lock-On Grips offer excellent grip feel, while their screw-type fastening system greatly facilitates the task of swapping grips.

Bodywork with smooth surfaces fit the rider to let them move freely—helpful when competing on the racetrack—while a new, improved seat and slim shrouds contribute to both more attractive looks and an enhanced ergonomic package.

A choice of four handlebar positions (25 mm forward, 15 mm forward, standard and 10 mm back) and two footpeg positions (standard, 5 mm lower) allows riders to tailor their riding position to suit body size and preference, offering them a feeling of confidence at offroad tracks.

The updated KX450F has the look of an athlete crouched at the starting line, ready to spring forward. The compact design, slim proportions and clean lines emphasize a design with nothing wasted; every part dedicated to victory.

Racing-inspired graphics, as seen on the KX450F, adopt Kawasaki’s legendary blue as an accent colour, reinforcing their presence in the market as “Kawasaki Racing Colours.” Positioning the graphics at the center of the shrouds creates a shared visual identity with the Ninja ZX series, contributing to a unified image across Kawasaki’s performance models.