SHOOTOUT
P38
2014 450-CLASS MOTOCROSS SHOOTOUT
>> QUICK REVIEW
Other than getting new grips and
new ECU settings, the 2014 Kawasaki KX450F is the same as
the previous model. And we're
okay with that. The KX was already one of the top machines in
its class; in fact, it won our 450
MX Shootout last year, just like
it did the year before. The 2013
KX won us over again for many
reasons, but the bottom line was
it simply did everything well, just
like the 2014 model does.
The KX is blessed with a fantastic motor. It makes tons of
power from top to bottom, and
it's all useable power. Both the
novice and pro rider can take full
advantage of the KX's excellent
bottom end, strong midrange and
impressive top-end performance.
You can rev or lug it or whatever
- the Kawasaki always responds.
It also shifts well, has a lightpull clutch and snappy throttle
response. The KX, however, is
loud, in spite of its large muffler.
Luckily, the KX has the suspension to keep up. Both the fork
and shock soak up the bumps
and square-edges extremely
well. The back end tracks well
and offers a plush ride but not
so plush that it can't hold its own
over the big stuff.
The KX's pneumatic fork has
good performance and control,
but, like the Honda's air forks,
requires constant monitoring,
which can be somewhat irritating. What setting works well in
the morning when it's cool might
not be so great after things heat
up. Knowing this, the Kawasaki
comes with specially made air
pressure gauge.
Stability is another KX strongpoint. It feels as solid as a rock
at speed, yet can still get you in
and out of the turns quickly and
without much effort. And getting
it hauled in is not a problem with
its powerful brakes.
The Kawasaki has excellent ergos and provides excellent gripping for your legs.
We also like the KX's adjustability and how you can lower the
footpegs, make multiple adjustments to the handlebars, and can
make adjustments to the motor's
ECU via three, easy-to-swap-out
preprogrammed couplers. And
you also have the KX's exclusive
Launch Control Mode. This bike
has a lot to offer.
Just like last year, we don't
have much to complain about
with the 2014 KX450F. The loud,
blown-out sounding muffler, however, is one of them. Same with
the black rims. Sure, they look
great new, but they don't stay
new looking for long.
Changes or not, the 2014 Kawasaki KX450F is still high on our
list.
