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2019 Kawasaki KX450 unveiled

Published: 25 July 2018 Updated: 25 July 2018
  • The Kawasaki KX450 is aimed at intermediate to advanced riders
    The Kawasaki KX450 is aimed at intermediate to advanced riders
  • A start button means easier starting
    A start button means easier starting
  • The Kawasaki KX450 shows racing potential
    The Kawasaki KX450 shows racing potential
  • Smoothed bodywork means greater rider movement
    Smoothed bodywork means greater rider movement
  • New suspension means better handling
    New suspension means better handling
  • A new swingarm helps with rigidity
    A new swingarm helps with rigidity
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Kawasaki have released details surrounding the new 2019 Kawasaki KX450 motocross bike, which boasts a more powerful engine and a lighter aluminium chassis than its predecessor.

Aimed squarely at intermediate to advanced-level off-roaders, other features of the bike include an electric start, launch control and Kawasaki’s first hydraulic clutch for a motocross machine.

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With a kerb weight of just 110kg, Kawasaki have re-worked the bike’s single-cylinder 449cc engine to produce an extra 3.4bhp in peak power. Meanwhile, a flatter torque curve will also help riders get on the power earlier.

In the event of a spill, a new electric start will also help riders get back up and going quicker, with the hydraulic clutch offering a lighter lever action and less play as it generates heat during use.

A weight-saving frame

As well as working on the bike’s internals, Kawasaki have also gifted the 450 with a lightweight aluminium perimeter frame, which uses the engine as a stressed member and helps improve the bike’s rigidity.

This is then complemented by a new swingarm, which together help increase the traction from the rear wheel – allowing for more drive on corner exit and along straights.  

To help control the bike, the Japanese firm have also worked on the 450’s suspension and brakes, giving the KX new 49mm inverted coil spring forks, the same diameter inner tubes as their factory race bikes and a 270mm front and 250mm rear disc, as well as new front brake master cylinder.

Bodywork changes

Tweaks have been made to the bike’s aesthetics too, with only the front fender and number plate remaining the same as the 2018 machine.

To help with rider movement, the panels have been made longer and smoother, with the petrol tank lowered and flattened – meaning you can sit further forward. The engine covers have also been smoothed.

To ensure the bike is adjusted to exactly how you want it, there is also a choice of four handlebar and two foot peg positions. It is also only available on lime green. 

Find your next Kawasaki at MCN Bikes for Sale.

By Dan Sutherland

News Editor - I joined the MCN team straight from studying at the University of Sheffield, having achieved Class One Honours in Journalism Studies and a Gold Standard Level 3 Diploma in Journalism from the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ). I started out as Acting Consumer Editor, before becoming the Senior Online Reporter, Senior Writer and more recently the News Editor. Although my first love will always be performance bikes and racing, I have a passion for all things two-wheeled. I have reported on everything from breaking new bike news to charity fund raising, as well as attending countless international new model launches and nurturing the growth of MCN’s amazing YouTube channel alongside a very talented team. I did my Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) on my 16th birthday and passed my full test around a year later. I now covers around 20,000 road miles a year on motorcycles of all genres and in all weathers. I have also experienced elements of advanced rider training, tackled countless UK and international short circuits and achieved an ACU race licence to begin a fledgling competition career. When I’m not at the track, I can be found chugging along the back lanes aboard my Royal Enfield Classic 350 two-up with my girlfriend.