2016 Kawasaki KX450F: FIRST LOOK

The 450cc motocross race is set to hot up with Kawasaki unveiling an all-new KX450F for the 2016 model year.

Team Green has spared no expense in the revamp of the machine that has won 32 AMA Supercross championships, producing a machine that’s a claimed 7.5lb lighter than the 2015 model, with more horsepower. 

New engine is lighter and has more ponies than 2015

The engine has been reworked from top to bottom, with new, lighter engine cases; there’s new intake ports, valves, cam timing and the cylinder offset has been moved 8.5mm forward for increased power across a wider rev range. Also new is the airbox, Bridged-Box-Bottom piston, similar to those used on the factory racebikes, allows for a lower friction as well as increased durability and better low-to mid range power. There’s also a new exhaust header and muffler.  

Chassis has come in for a revamp and is skinnier, lighter and with greater rigidity

On the chassis side the Kawasaki KX450F gets a new, lighter perimeter frame is 6mm slimmer and offers increased rigidity and feel, as well as a new swingarm design. There’s also a new version of the Showa SFF-Air TAC (Separate Function front Fork, Triple Air Chamber), new lower friction fork seals and inner tubes, as well as Kawasaki’s Uni-Trak rear suspension wit revised linkage ratios and a lower spring rate for better rear suspension action.

New Showa SFF-Air TAC fork

Styling has ben upgraded too, with new graphics, a flatter seat for better rider comfort and four position handlebar and two position footpegs. There’s also new number plates, 1.2” slimmer shrouds, fenders, skid plate, engine water guard and tank. 

Handheld calibration kit allows for easy fuel injection changes

The Handheld Kawasaki Accessory FI Calibration Kit allows precise adjustment of fuel and ignition settings while eliminating the need for a laptop. The unit stores up to seven preset maps, allowing rider optimization of engine power delivery for multiple track layouts and riding conditions. Handheld device is PC-compatible. 

The new machine will retail for $8799.