The KX450 continues to be a trustworthy companion for any avid racer. As riders prepare to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season, they can continue to put their trust in the unparalleled performance of the KX450 to take them to the top step of the podium.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Kawasaki KX450: STEP UP TO THE PODIUM.
Introducing the 2026 Kawasaki KX450…
Now in its sophomore year since its complete re-design, the KX450 returns for 2026 with its race-winning features unbroken. Building upon its legacy in the sport, the KX450 remains at the top of motocross excellence, blending cutting-edge technology with championship-capable pedigree. With its powerful 449cc engine, Brembo front brakes, and all the other defining features of the motorcycle, the KX450 continues to be a trustworthy companion for any avid racer. As riders prepare to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season, they can continue to put their trust in the unparalleled performance of the KX450 to take them to the top step of the podium.
The KX legacy represents a long line of champions. The drive to produce more has not slowed down. Our flagship KX450 motorcycle offers next-level engineering and power to dominate the track. Over the decades, we’ve learned what it takes to win and stay on top. The KX450 embodies this legacy to the fullest.
2026 Kawasaki KX450 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- 449cc 4-STROKE ENGINE
- POWER MODE SELECTION WITH A HANDLEBAR-MOUNTED SWITCH
- RIDEOLOGY CONNECTIVITY – CHANGE ENGINE MAPPING WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE
- KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL (KTRC) WITH A HANDLEBAR-MOUNTED SWITCH
- BREMBO BRAKE COMPONENTS FOR PREMIUM CONTROLLABILITY
- ERGO-FIT ADJUSTABLE COMPONENTS FOR RIDE POSITION OPTIMIZATION
- Lightweight aluminum perimeter frame
- Straight exhaust port and center exhaust
- ODI lock-on grips
- Quick-release side cover offers tool-less air filter access
- Streamlined ergonomics for easy rider movement
- Coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch
POWER & PERFORMANCE
BUILT TO WIN
The KX450 motorcycle engine delivers broad, useable torque and strong, responsive power across the rev range. From the starting gate to the finish line, this race-ready machine is built to stay ahead of the pack.
Power Through The Finish
The powerful 449cc engine features a downdraft intake layout and centrally positioned straight exhaust port for high airflow efficiency to deliver robust power across the rev range.
Pull Ahead
A flat torque curve allows for smooth and powerful acceleration, so you can pass the competition and stay ahead of the pack.
Reliable Starting
Being able to restart your engine quickly after a stall can make or break your race. Powered by a compact and lightweight Li-ion battery and supported by an automatic centrifugal decompression system, all it takes is the push of a button to start up.
RACE-READY SUSPENSION
LEAVE THEM IN THE DUST
Take the lead with proven race-winning performance. The highly adjustable Showa suspension package delivers smooth action, firm damping, and contributes to optimal traction.
Race Ready
The high-performance 49mm inverted Showa coil-spring fork handles suspension duties up front. The fork’s internal valving, adjusters, and oil level are fine-tuned to deliver optimized settings. The large-diameter inner tubes (the same size as on our factory motocross racers) enable the use of large damping pistons, delivering smooth action and firm damping.
Championship-Proven
The Uni-Trak rear suspension system features a Showa shock with adjustable dual-range (high- and low-speed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping, and adjustable preload. The result is optimal damping and rear-wheel traction.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
RIDE WITH CONFIDENCE
All KX450 motorcycle advanced controls are streamlined for rider convenience. Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC), Power Mode Selection, and Launch Control Mode are available at the push of a button. These features enable riders to quickly adjust power delivery and traction for riding conditions and preference. The KX450 offers superior features designed to inspire confidence.
Power Delivery
The KX450 bike features Power Mode Selection which allows riders to switch between 2 power modes (Normal or Mild response) quickly and easily. Riders can select between Normal (Full Power) and Mild response to suit riding conditions or preference. Mild response is good for riders still familiarizing themselves with the high performance of the KX450.
Kawasaki TRaction Control
The KX450 bike features Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) at the push of a button. By using the traction button (T) on the left handlebar, riders can quickly and easily select from 2 levels (Weak or Strong) of traction control to suit riding conditions and preference. Riders may also elect to turn the system off.
Every Second Counts
A factory-style launch control system helps put the KX450 bike’s power to the ground for maximum acceleration. By pushing the Mode and Traction buttons simultaneously, riders activate the launch control system which is designed to deliver efficient race starts in low-traction conditions, making the holeshot yours for the taking.
Smartphone Connectivity
Thanks to smartphone connectivity, riders can adjust engine mapping straight from their phones via RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX, without the need for extra equipment. The app also provides KX FI Calibration to fine-tune fueling and ignition timing, engine monitoring for checking engine metrics, a maintenance log for recording memo-style logs, and many more useful functions.
Light Pull & Self-Adjusting
A coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch offers light clutch pull and a wide engagement range. Large-diameter plates provide excellent fade resistance.
Advanced Stopping Power
Next-level stopping power matches incredible acceleration capability. The high-performance Brembo brake system features drilled Braking/Sunstar discs (270/240mm) paired with a Brembo caliper and master cylinder at the front and a Nissin caliper and master cylinder at the rear. The premium system offers confident controllability of the brakes, contributing to precise corner entry.
Excellent Traction
Based on feedback from Kawasaki’s factory race teams, the KX450 bike features a large-diameter rear hub. The hub’s rigidity allows loads to be transferred directly to the ground, contributing to fantastic rear-end traction. Dunlop MX34 front and rear tires offer impressive longevity, excellent ground contact contributing to great cornering performance in the front, and stellar bump absorption and traction in the rear.
Balance Meets Precision
A lightweight aluminum perimeter frame delivers a high level of both light, nimble handling and a composed character. Optimized rigidity balance contributes to a steady front-end feel that translates to precise cornering performance in a wider range of conditions.
Get a Grip
Wide footpegs ensure excellent grip for optimum comfort and control and make it easy to weight the pegs.
Perfect Fit
Find your best performance with the Kawasaki ERGO-FIT advantage. Four handlebar positions and 2 footpeg positions allow you to tailor the KX450 motorcycle to your body size, riding style, and preference.
ERGONOMIC DESIGN
Sleek design of the shrouds, side panels, and rear fender eliminate hooking points, further facilitating rider movement.
RENTHAL FATBAR HANDLEBAR & ODI LOCK-ON GRIPS
A factory-style aluminum Renthal Fatbar handlebar comes standard. Medium-compound ODI lock-on grips offer excellent grip feel, while their screw-type fastening system greatly facilitates the task of swapping grips.
Quick Access
A quick-release side cover can be removed without tools, allowing for easy access to the air filter element.
THE BIKES THAT BUILD CHAMPIONS
The Kawasaki KX line of motorcycles stands as a continued symbol of high performance and competitive quality, trusted by riders to succeed on some of the most demanding tracks in the world. Today, the KX family remains a leader in both motocross and supercross, with the KX250 and KX450 consistently ranking among the top bikes in their respective classes. The game-changing KX450SR continues to turn heads at the track with its race-focused upgrades and factory-inspired design, while the KX250X and KX450X bring the heat to off-road races across the world. The mini-classified KX65 plays a crucial role in developing young talent, helping aspiring athletes build their skills and advance in the sport.
Drawing design and performance insights from the Monster Energy Kawasaki factory racing team, the 2026 KX motocross models uphold the brand’s legacy by delivering race-ready power, precision, and reliability.
2026 Kawasaki KX450 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
The downdraft intake and center-port exhaust significantly contribute to the potent peak power while maintaining a flat torque curve that makes it easy to accelerate and find traction. Kawasaki’s multi-time World Superbike Championship-winning engineers designed the finger-follower valve train that, combined with minimal friction loss and steep downdraft style intake tract, contributes to the power.
4-Stroke Engine
• Light piston helps minimize reciprocating weight and contribute to engine performance. The piston features a similar bridged-box bottom design featuring fully flush internal bracing as those used on the factory racers, with a short skirt and reinforced external ribs resulting in a lighter, stronger piston.
• Thick piston top ring matches the engine’s power.
• The piston skirt is coated with a dry film lubricant to reduce friction between the piston and cylinder for increased performance.
• The connecting rod length is designed to help reduce friction.
• The plain bearings at the connecting rod big end reduce mechanical loss and help boost power, and now have greater crush height. This greater height combined with larger-diameter main journal bearings help maintain durability to match the increased engine performance
• Cylinder offset is 8.5mm forward to reduce friction and enable more efficient power generation.
• Wedge-shaped crank web increases offsetting moment for a balance factor close to 60 percent, which is close to the factory bike. The high balance factor contributes to reduced engine vibration, smoother power delivery and increased performance, especially at low rpm where response is noticeably snappier.
• Aluminum cylinder with chrome composite plating(KP) provides rapid heat transfer, superb wear resistance and optimum lubrication retention for increased performance and durability.
• Semi-dry sump(KP) lubrication system for quicker engine response. The majority of oil is stored in the transmission to keep excess oil away from the crankshaft and prevent power-robbing stirring loss. A shallow chamber collects oil at the bottom of the crankcase, where a scavenge pump moves it to the transmission.
This allows the crank to be located as low as possible to help lower the center of gravity.
ENGINE
Race-tuned 4-Valve Cylinder Head(KP)
• Symmetrically aligned intake and exhaust ports optimize intake and exhaust flow efficiency for maximum performance.
• Intake valve size helps to optimize the power feel of the engine.
• Finger-follower valve train designed by Kawasaki’s multi-time World Superbike Championship winning engineers allows large diameter valves, aggressive cam profiles and high rev limit for high-rpm performance.
• Finger-follower valve actuation reduces valve train mass by approximately 6.5 percent compared to tappet-style actuation, as well as reducing friction at the cam lobe. DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating on the followers help prevent wear.
• Aggressive camshaft lobes have a chromium nitride coating for durability.
• 38mm intake and 33mm exhaust valves are titanium to help reduce weight.
• Chromium steel valve spring retainers are also light and provide reliable valve control at high rpm.
• When the cylinder head is cast the intake port cores are coated so that they have extremely smooth surfaces for increased intake efficiency.
Downdraft Intake
• Downdraft-style intake routing has a steep 40˚ approach angle for a straight approach for intake air that enhances cylinder filling efficiency and contributes to power.
• 44mm throttle body layout is optimized to match the intake and exhaust port layout. It flows abundant air for maximum performance, especially at high rpm and overrun. A reversed orientation tilts the butterfly valve open from the top for optimum fuel atomization from the top-mounted injector.
• Fine atomizing, 12-hole injector sprays 75 micron droplets and contributes to smooth power delivery and superb engine response at partial throttle.
• High fuel pump pressure contributes to easy rideability.
• The airbox features a high-volume, dome-shaped filter to help reduce intake resistance as the filter collects dust during a race. It slides in and out
of mounting grooves and is secured with quick-release hooks for easy filter maintenance.
Resonator Exhaust
• Center-port exhaust allows a relatively long header pipe to be utilized for robust low-end power.
• The muffler is forward mounted to help centralize mass.
• A flat-shaped exhaust resonator chamber, which effectively increases exhaust pipe length and reduces exhaust noise, is located inward to prevent interference with the rider’s leg and contribute to an easy reach to the ground, which is especially helpful on the starting line.
Coned Disc-spring Hydraulic Clutch
• The clutch uses a single coned disc spring instead of five coiled springs for light clutch actuation when the lever is pulled and a wide clutch engagement range that helps the rider control the clutch.
• Large diameter clutch plates and special friction plate material help to resist clutch fade. The friction plates also have offset segments to promote clean separation of the discs to help reduce drag when the clutch is disengaged.
• Kawasaki’s hydraulic clutch offers direct feel and light lever action. Less play as the clutch heats up during heavy use results in a more consistent feel
Electric Start
• Provides the convenience of quick and easy push- button engine starting.
• Powered by a lightweight, compact lithium-ion battery that helps keep weight gain to a minimum.
• Automatic centrifugal compression release system on the exhaust cam lifts one exhaust valve to facilitate starting. The system’s simple construction is light weight and highly reliable
• NOTE: Only use Lithium-ion specific battery charger to help prevent fatal battery damage.
ELECTRONICS
Power Modes
• Riders can quickly and easily switch between Normal and Mild engine mapping in the ECU by using the Mode button on the left handlebar.
• Normal mode provides full power while Mild mode softens engine response for better traction on hard-packed tracks and is a good level to use for riders just becoming familiar with the KXTM450.
• Each map can be fine-tuned using one’s smartphone with
RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX.
Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC)
• Using the Traction button on the left handlebar pod, riders can quickly and easily select between Weak and Strong levels of traction control to suit conditions and rider preference. The system can also be turned off.
• Monitoring engine speed, the ECU senses rpm spikes when rear wheel speed increases too quickly and retards ignition timing to enhance traction.
Launch Control Mode
• Similar to the system used on the Monster Energy Kawasaki factory racers, allows riders to activate aseparate engine map designed to assist them get holeshots by pressing a button.
• The Launch Control Mode uses dedicated KTRC, ignition and fuel maps to provide optimal control to maximize tire grip to help riders get strong starts.
• Even for top-level riders, controlling the massive power of the KX450 off the start requires throttle control and clutch finesse. Launch Control Mode helps riders maximize traction and increase the chance of getting a good start.
• Launch Control Mode has the greatest effect within the first few seconds of releasing the clutch off the start – the most crucial time to get ahead of rivals for better positioning going into the first corner.
• The system automatically disengages when the transmission is shifted into third gear, switching back to the normal engine map.
Aluminum Perimeter Frame (KP)
• The frame was designed to accommodate the engine’s symmetrically aligned intake and exhaust ports and delivers a high level of both light, nimble handling and a composed character. Optimized rigidity balance contributes to superb front end feel for excellent cornering performance in a wide range of conditions.
• The downtube Y joint shape and position along with upper cross pipe shape, rib shape at the swingarm bracket, and square lower cross pipe all contribute to the optimized frame rigidity.
• Tuned torsional rigidity provides excellent front end feel when cornering in a wide range of track conditions for consistent cornering performance.
• Mass centralization contributes to the nimble handling feeling.
• The engine is used as a stressed member, contributing to the frame’s rigidity balance.
• Composed of a combination of forged, extruded and cast parts, the aluminum frame is designed with a balance of torsional and longitudinal rigidity for quick handling.
• Design emphasis on providing maximum traction under acceleration. Specific chassis dimensions and design (reinforcing ribs, swingarm pivot, output shaft, linkage mounts and rear axle) placed to prevent chassis squat and improve traction.
FRAME
SHOWA 49mm Coil-Spring Fork
• Large-diameter inner tubes –the same size used on Kawasaki’s factory racers – allows large 39mm compression damping pistons and a 25mm cartridge cylinder to be used for smooth action and firm damping.
• Internal valving, adjusters and oil level were fined-tuned to match the engine and chassis characteristics.
• Kashima Coat on the fork outer tubes creates a hard, low-friction surface that helps prevent wear abrasion on the inside of the tubes so that the sliding surfaces remain smooth for a long period of time. The lubricating material in the Kashima Coat contributes to smoother suspension action,
especially at the initial part of the stroke, for a better ride feel.
• Based on feedback from Kawasaki’s factory race teams, the 22mm front axle enhances front-end traction.
New Uni-Trak Rear Suspension
• Internal valving, adjusters and oil level were fined-tuned to match the engine and chassis characteristics.
• With the lower shock mounting position, the shock unit was shortened 32mm and the reservoir tank repositioned to the left side to create more space for the exhaust pipe.
• Uni-Trak rear suspension linkage ratios selected to suit the chassis. The linkage mounts underneath the swingarm allowing additional rear suspension travel yet maintaining a low seat height. The additional rear travel offers improved suspension action over a wider range of track conditions.
• Dual compression adjustability allows high speed and lowspeed damping to be tuned separately.
• The inside of the shock reservoir has a self-lubricating alumite coating that helps prevent wear abrasion and reduces friction for smoother suspension action.
SUSPENSION
With its highly-acclaimed slim ergonomics, the KX450’s bodywork offers a smooth rider interface. The shrouds, side covers and rear fender are firm and designed to eliminate hooking points with the rider’s boots and knees for easy movement.
• Quick-release side cover can be removed without tools for easy air filter maintenance.
• Equipped with medium-compound ODI Lock-On grips [13] for rider comfort, excellent feel, and the screw-type fastening system makes changing grips simple.
High-Performance Brakes
• The 270mm Braking brand petal front brake disc is paired with a Brembo caliper and master cylinder. This combination provides strong braking force and controllability that contributes to excellent corner entry.
• Thick front lever provides great feel for precise brake control.
• A 240mm petal rear brake disc with Nissin caliper is used for a balance of strong stopping power and controllability.
• Petal disc shape helps remove dirt build up in pads, increasing performance.
Wheels/Tires
• Based on feedback from the Monster Energy Kawasaki race teams, a large-diameter rear hub provides rigidity so that loads are transferred more directly to the ground, contributing to great rear-wheel traction.
BRAKES
ERGONOMICS
A smooth, flat rider interface provides easy rider mobility on the bike. [12] Slim, Adjustable Ergonomics
• Renthal 1-1/8 inch aluminum Fatbar handlebar helps reduce vibration and shocks transmitted to the rider. The bend helps to make it easier for the rider to weight the front wheel.
• Wide footpegs provide firm footing.
• Bodywork is designed to facilitate rider movement with long, smooth surfaces that ease sliding back and forth on the bike.
• The top of the fuel tank is designed to provide a flat progression from the seat to the tank, giving riders great freedom of movement and allowing them to sit far forward.
• Radiator shrouds are positioned close to the frame so they are slim where the rider’s knees make contact, and the single-piece design make them easy to grip with the legs.
• The radiators are turned inward 10 degrees, and combined with the narrow frame spars provide a narrow rider interface.
ERGO-FIT Components
• Upper triple clamp provides two mounting positions for the reversible handlebar clamps so that the Renthal handlebar can be set in one of four positions with a 35mm range of adjustment.
• The footpeg brackets can be mounted in two positions, allowing the rider to change footpegs height by 5mm.
FACTORY DETAILS
Factory-style Details
• Gold finish on the oil filler, flywheel nut cap and timing inspection cap contribute to factory looks.
• A works-style Renthal aluminum handlebar is light yet strong.
• Black wheels, triple clamps, and cylinder head covers complement Kawasaki’s racing lime green color.
• Lightweight magnesium clutch, generator and cylinder head covers.
• Optional parts available through Kawasaki dealers include rear sprockets, solid brake discs, handlebar holder for 7/8” handlebar, and stiffer or softer shock springs.
• The KX graphics use an in-mold process to seal the graphic into the shroud plastic for greater longevity and an ultra-smooth outer surface. The nature of off-road racing differs from that of motocross/supercross.
2026 Kawasaki KX450 – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $10,499 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ TBA CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ TBA (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine Type 4-Stroke, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, 4-Valve, Single Cylinder
Displacement 449cc
Bore & Stroke 96.0 x 62.1mm
Compression Ratio 12.5:1
Fuel System DFI w/ Keihin 44mm Throttle Body
Ignition Digital DC-CDI
Transmission 5-Speed
Rake/Trail 27.0˚/4.6 in.
Front Wheel Travel 12.0 in.
Rear Wheel Travel 12.1 in.
Front Tire Size 80/100-21
Rear Tire Size 120/90-19 / 120/90-18 (KX450X)
Front Suspension 49mm Inverted Coil-Spring Fork
with fully adjustable compression and rebound damping
Rear Suspension New Uni-Trak with Adjustable Preload, Low and High Speed
Compression Damping Adjustment, Rebound Damping Adjustment
Wheelbase 58.3 in.
Front Brake Type 270mm Disc w/Brembo Caliper
Rear Brake Type 240mm Disc
Fuel Tank Capacity 1.64 gal.
Ground Clearance 13.6 / 13.2 (KX450X) in.
Seat Height 37.8 / 37.4 (KX450X) in.
Weight Without Fuel 238.3 / 239.8 (KX450X) lb.
Curb Weight= 248.2 / 249.9 (KX450X) lb.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Ask about Kawasaki’s Team Green amateur rider support program.
(KP) = See Kaw-Pedia section for more details.
* = Changes from previous model year.
= = Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
2026 Kawasaki KX450 – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
POWER
| Engine | 449cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 4-valve single |
| Bore x Stroke | 96.0 x 62.1 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection: ø44 mm x 1 |
| Ignition | Digital DC-CDI |
| Starting | Electric |
| Lubrication | Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump |
| Transmission | 5-speed, return |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
| Final Drive | Chain |
PERFORMANCE
| Frame | Perimeter, aluminum |
| Front Suspension / Wheel Travel | ø49 mm inverted fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping / 305 mm (12.0 in) |
| Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | New Uni Trak with adjustable dual-range (high/low-speed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload / 307 mm (12.1 in) |
| Rake / Trail | 26.6° / 115 mm |
| Steering Angle (L/R) | 42° / 42° |
| Front Tire | 80/100-21 51M |
| Rear Tire | 120/80-19 63M |
| Front Brake | Semi-floating ø270 mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper |
| Rear Brake | ø240 mm petal disc with single-piston caliper |
DETAILS
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2,180 x 820 x 1,270 mm (85.8 x 32.3 x 50.0 in) |
| Wheelbase | 1,480 mm (58.3 in) |
| Road Clearance | 345 mm (13.6 in) |
| Seat Height | 960 mm (37.8 in) |
| Curb Weight* | 112.6 kg (248 lb) |
| Weight Without Fuel | 108.1 kg (238 lb) |
| Fuel Capacity | 6.2 litres |
*Curb weight includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
**Estimated dry weight does not include all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
KAWASAKI CARES: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and proper apparel. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Professional rider shown on a closed course. 2020 Canadian Kawasaki Motors, Inc.
Specifications subject to change.
2026 Kawasaki KX450 – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
TBA
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
