The 2023 Kawasaki KX450, the flagship model in the Kawasaki KX series, is built with race-winning components to help Kawasaki riders reach the top of the podium. A sleek aluminum perimeter frame, Showa A-KIT technology suspension, coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch, electronic start, and a powerful 449cc liquid-cooled four-stroke engine combine to produce the ideal championship-winning combination for race-experienced riders.
Using assistance from the Monster Energy Kawasaki racing team, the 449cc lightweight engine package generates peak power and a torque profile that allows for easy early throttle application. With a single button push, the powerful KX450 engine can be started utilizing an electric start system powered by a compact Li-ion battery. Kawasaki’s premier road racing technology and World Superbike engineers have developed a lightweight finger-follower valve actuation system that enables larger-diameter valves and aggressive cam profiles. A high-capacity coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch combined with a close-ratio five-speed gearbox ensures control and a consistent feel even in challenging situations.
Braking incorporated a larger 270mm petal-shaped front brake rotor to match the 2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle’s strong engine. A 250 mm petal-shaped brake rotor in the rear corresponds to the size of the front disc.
Kawasaki retains its unrivaled dedication to providing riders with class-leading ERGO-fit comfort with its adjustable handlebar mounting system and footpegs to accommodate various riders and riding styles. The factory-style 1-1/8″ Renthal Fatbar handlebars include four-way adjustable mounts with 35mm flexibility to suit riders of all sizes. The dual-position mounting points on the footpegs reduce the knee angle for taller riders when seated, with a lower position that is 5 mm lower than the standard setting.
In addition to its aggressive styling and in-mold graphics on the radiator shrouds, which create an ultra-smooth surface and a racy look required to finish at the top of its class, the 2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle builds on championship-winning technology. The slim bodywork is easy to move back and forth and improves rider mobility since it is contoured to match the tiny chassis design and V-mounted radiators.
2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle – Features and Specs
Engine
The engine’s high-performance characteristics enhance the 2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle’s overall economy and power delivery. Engine performance is improved by the lightweight piston design with its bridged box bottom and short skirt. To further enhance efficiency, a dry film lubricant is applied to the piston skirt to reduce friction. The forward cylinder offset and wedge-shaped crank web help minimize friction and boost power output while using simple bearings at the connecting rod’s large end saves mechanical loss.
The chrome composite-plated aluminum cylinder offers superior lubricant retention, exceptional wear resistance, and quick heat transmission for increased longevity and performance better than 2022 Kawasaki KX450. By keeping most of the oil in the gearbox, avoiding power-robbing stirring loss, and enabling a lower crank position to decrease the 2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle’s center of gravity, the semi-dry-sump lubrication system further improves engine responsiveness.
Race-Tuned 4-Valve Cylinder Head
With a finger-follower valve train for high rpm performance, the race-tuned 4-valve Cylinder Head lowers friction and bulk in the valve train. Weight is decreased via titanium valves, and increased wear resistance is achieved by DLC coating on the followers. Inspired by factory racers, the Launch Control Mode provides an additional engine map to help with holeshots by reducing ignition timing and maximizing traction at crucial starting points.
Aluminum Perimeter Frame
With the engine acting as a stressed element, the aluminum perimeter frame maintains a balanced stiffness for agile handling. The chassis of 2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle incorporates parts from SHOWA’s A-Kit premium aftermarket performance kit fork, which includes large-diameter inner tubes and unique coatings for enhanced suspension action. The frame design is centered on optimizing grip during acceleration.
Uni-Trak Rear Suspension
With Showa A-KIT shock technology, the Uni-Trak rear suspension system provides dual compression adjustment for fine-tuning. The compact rear shock provides improved suspension action and prevention of oil cavitation with a more considerable compression adjustment.
Big Brakes
A 270mm front brake disc and a 250mm rear brake disc are part of the braking system. They both have petal designs for improved stopping force and debris removal.
Ergonomics
The 2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle’s ergonomics are built for comfort and control with components like wide footpegs, Renthal 1-1/8 inch aluminum Fatbar handlebars, and bodywork that promotes rider mobility. The 2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle is a competitive and competent motocross motorcycle because of its extensive feature set that is focused on performance.
2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle – Price
The new 2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle is available at $9,599 only.
2023 Kawasaki KX450 Dirt Motorcycle – Technical Specifications
Power
Engine | 449cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC 4-valve single |
Bore x Stroke | 96.0 mm x 62.1 mm |
Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 |
Fuel System | Fuel injection: 44mm x 1 |
Ignition | Digital DC-CDI |
Starting | Electric |
Lubrication | Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump |
Transmission | Five-speed, return |
Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
Final Drive | Chain |
Performance
Frame | Perimeter, aluminum |
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel | 49mm inverted fork including adjustable compression and rebound damping / 305mm (12.0 inches) |
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | New Uni Trak featuring adjustable dual-range (high/low-speed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping & adjustable spring preload / 307mm (12.1 inches) |
Rake / Trail | 27.6° / 122 mm |
Steering Angle (L/R) | 42° / 42° |
Front Tire | 80/100-21 51M |
Rear Tire | 120/80-19 63M |
Front Brakes | Semi-floating 270mm petal disc including dual-piston caliper |
Rear Brake | ø250 mm petal disc with single-piston caliper |
Details
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2,185 mm x 820 mm x 1,265 mm (86 in x 32.3 in x 49.8 in) |
Wheelbase | 1,485mm (58.5 in) |
Road Clearance | 340mm (13.4 in) |
Seat Height | 955mm (37.6 in) |
Curb Mass | 110.4 kg (243 lb) |
Mass Without Fuel | 105.8 kg (233 lb) |
Fuel Capacity | 6.2 litres |