2021 KAWASAKI KX450
R I D E R E V I E W
P84
Good Memories
On the track, the new KX feels much as it did
before—the chassis is nimble yet neutral; by
that, I mean, while it turns well, it also is very
stable and balanced. The bike doesn't pitch
excessively when under braking or accelera-
tion, it remains stable in chop and doesn't
over react when encountering a hidden or
ill-placed bump on the track.
The KX's suspension
is, in my opinion, one
of the best out there.
I've always been a big
fan of the KX's legs. Its
Showa suspension is
termed "A-Kit technol-
ogy," meaning it's very
similar to the suspen-
sion systems used by top-level race teams
for years. While the A-Kit-inspired suspen-
sion might not be the exact $10,000-plus
units on Adam Cianciarulo's or Eli Tomac's
KX450s, the stocker does share many of the
same design features as theirs. I like the KX's
49mm coil-spring fork because it is plush, yet
still holds up very well when pushed through
the stroke. In fact, I made only minor changes
from the set baseline that we started out the
day with, eventually settling on two clicks
slower rebound and two clicks stiffer com-
pression as the track got rougher. The Showa
A-Kit shock is equally as versatile and impres-
sive. With just a few minor adjustments, I got
the back end to track well over acceleration
chop and firmly planted while exiting corners.
Otherwise, the
KX450's engine
is the same as
before, except
for a new anti-
friction coating
for the piston.
The KX's hydraulically-
actuated clutch is
completely redesigned.
It's larger in diameter,
friction plates are new,
and the five coil springs
are gone in favor of
a single "coned" disc
spring. The result?
Improved control,
feel, consistency and
durability.
