2026 Kawasaki KX450SR Review

The production KX450SR is designed to resemble the KX450SR used by Monster Energy Kawasaki during the 2024 race season. Leveraging significant high value parts proven by the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team, the enthusiast motocross racer is better prepared to battle and win on the KX450SR.

Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications

2026 Kawasaki KX450SR: RACE DEVELOPED.

Introducing the 2026 Kawasaki KX450SR…

Following its successful debut four years ago in 2022, the KX450SR motorcycle is back for 2026. The “SR” or Special Racer designation represents the peak of Kawasaki race performance, and riders will feel the difference once they swing their leg over the SR. The KX450SR is purpose-built with high-value components proven by the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team in Monster Energy Supercross and AMA Pro Motocross Championships. Building on the popular KX450 platform, the KX450SR is crafted for riders aiming for the class win. The motorcycle features elite racing components, like the Pro Circuit Ti-6 titanium exhaust and XTRIG Rocs-Tech triple clamp, special engine tuning, polished intake ports, and design elements taken from the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team, which help enhance both its performance and factory racer aesthetics.

Kawasaki brings its rich motocross racing heritage closer to the customer with the production KX450SR motorcycle. Throughout Kawasaki’s factory involvement in top-level motocross and supercross, the race developed “Special Racer” parts that only the factory racing team had access to have been fitted to the Kawasaki KX SR. The production KX450SR is designed to resemble the KX450SR used by Monster Energy Kawasaki during the 2024 race season. Leveraging significant high value parts proven by the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team, the enthusiast motocross racer is better prepared to battle and win on the KX450SR.

Featuring special tuning and elite-level racing components, the limited-edition KX450SR motorcycle is built to win right out of the box. Based off the championship-proven KX450 platform, this bike is designed to further elevate the performance, durability, and styling by featuring components from the most respected brands in the sport. Available in limited quantities, this is your chance to cross the finish line first with this elite race machine.

2026 Kawasaki KX450SR Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

• 449cc 4-STROKE ENGINE WITH POLISHED INTAKE PORTS
• 49mm SHOWA COIL-SPRING FORK WITH KASHIMA AND TITANIUM COATINGS
• SHOWA REAR SHOCK WITH KASHIMA COATING
• PRO CIRCUIT TI-6 TITANIUM RACE EXHAUST
• XTRIG ROCS-TECH TRIPLE CLAMP WITH PHDS (PROGRESSIVE HANDLEBAR DAMPING SYSTEM)
• SPECIALIZED ECU FI SETTINGS
• POWER MODE SELECTION WITH HANDLEBAR-MOUNTED SWITCH
• SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY—CHANGE ENGINE MAPPING WITH RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX
• KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL (KTRC) WITH HANDLEBAR-MOUNTED SWITCH
• FACTORY RACE TEAM-INSPIRED GRAPHICS
• Lightweight aluminum perimeter frame
• Coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch
• Hinson clutch cover with Kawasaki logo
• Renthal rear sprocket and D.I.D gold chain
• D.I.D DirtStar ST-X rims
• ERGO-FIT adjustable components for ride position optimization
• ODI lock-on grips
• Quick-release side cover and tool-less air filter access
• Brembo front brake system with 270mm disc

POWER & PERFORMANCE
LIMITED-EDITION RACER
The KX450SR motorcycle is designed for serious competitors seeking race wins. Featuring elite-level racing components, special tuning, and design inspired by the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team, this limited-edition Special Racer boasts elevated performance and factory racer looks.

MORE POWER TO DOMINATE
Thanks to polished intake ports, a high-performance Pro Circuit exhaust, specialized ECU FI settings, and tuning, the KX450SR motorcycle offers considerably stronger power and torque at mid- to high-rpm than the base KX450 motorcycle.

KEEP IT LIGHT
Experience increased engine performance and lighter weight with a Pro Circuit titanium race exhaust system.

LIGHT PULL & SELF-ADJUSTING
A coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch offers light clutch pull and a wide engagement range. Large-diameter plates provide enhanced fade resistance.

RACE-READY SUSPENSION
SHOW THEM HOW IT’S DONE
Enjoy smooth action, firm damping, and optimal traction with the highly adjustable Showa suspension package on the KX450SR motorcycle. The Showa suspension package on the KX450SR is inspired by the machines ridden by the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team with optimized settings to achieve higher performance, smoother suspension action, and provide a plush feeling.

RACE READY
Experience unmatched suspension performance with the highly adjustable 49mm Showa Coil Spring Front Fork. Kashima Coating creates a hard, low-friction surface on the fork’s outer tubes. Large-diameter inner tubes with titanium coating deliver smooth, low-friction action and allow the use of large damping pistons for race-winning performance.

GAIN TRACTION
The adjustable dual-range (high- and low-speed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping, and adjustable preload come thanks to the new Uni-Trak rear suspension system, featuring a Showa shock with Kashima Coating outer tube. The result is unmatched damping and rear-wheel traction.

PERFECT FIT
The XTRIG ROCS-TECH (Revolutionary Opposed Clamping System) clamps the upper fork tubes from opposite directions helping to reduce inner tube distortion and allowing the fork to flex naturally. The PHDS (Progressive Handlebar Damping System) absorbs vibrations while maintaining steering precision. This also increases the available handlebar mounting which can be adjusted to 12 different positions. A factory-style aluminum Renthal Fatbar handlebar comes standard.

CHASSIS, ERGONOMICS, & STYLING
THE ADVANTAGE IS YOURS
With agile handling, a strong and lightweight chassis, and ERGO-FIT adjustable components, you’ll experience an unmatched race-winning advantage on the KX450SR motorcycle. Stand out from the crowd with factory-edition styling, featuring Monster Energy Kawasaki race team-inspired graphics, Lime Green handlebar pad, Metallic Magnesium Gold cylinder head cover, and a Hinson clutch cover.

PRECISE BALANCE
Stay ahead with a lightweight aluminum perimeter frame and swingarm that provide fantastic overall rigidity balance and contribute to precise cornering. Enjoy front-end feel that’s predictable while maintaining maximum traction through the rear wheel.

DURABILITY ELEVATED
A D.I.D gold chain and Renthal rear sprocket handle gearing duties while D.I.D Dirt Star ST-X rims offer enhanced style and durability to the wheelset.

ADVANCED STOPPING POWER
Next-level stopping power matches incredible acceleration capability. The high-performance 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 high-performance system offers increased control during braking, contributing to enhanced corner entry.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
RIDE CONFIDENTLY
Offering quick, reliable starting, and advanced braking power backed by decades of championship-proven experience, the KX450SR motorcycle delivers superior technology designed to inspire confidence from the gate drop to the finish line.

POWER IN YOUR HANDS
Enjoy power mode selection at the push of a button located on the handlebar of the KX450SR motorcycle. This feature allows riders to switch between 2 power modes (Normal or Aggressive response) quickly and easily. Riders can select between Normal and Aggressive response to suit riding conditions or preference. The Aggressive mode is exclusive to the KX450SR and was developed with feedback from racers, making this model well-suited to competitive riding.

KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL
The KX450SR motorcycle features Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) at the push of a button. Using the traction button (T) on the left handlebar switch, 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.

POWER TO THE GROUND
A factory-style launch control system helps put the KX450SR motorcycle’s power to the ground for maximum acceleration. By pushing the Mode and Traction buttons simultaneously, riders activate the launch control system 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 any extra equipment. The app also provides KX FI Calibration to check fuel volume and ignition timing, engine monitoring for checking engine metrics, a maintenance log for recording memo-style logs, and many more useful functions.

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 KX450SR Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

Factory-style Details
• Polished intake ports[1] help smooth airflow to the combustion chamber for more efficient cylinder filling and increased performance.
• Pro Circuit Ti-6 Pro titanium race exhaust system is lightweight, contributes to higher power output in the mid-high rpm range, and provides that high-performance exhaust note similar to the factory race machines.
• Special FI mapping provides powerful yet controllable engine characteristics for high-performance riding for a wide range of riders. While the base KX450 has Normal and Mild power modes, the KX450SR has Normal and Aggressive modes, with Aggressive developed with racer feedback making it well-suited to competitive riding.
• Exclusive KX450SR suspension settings for increased suspension performance and closer resemblance to the Monster Energy Kawasaki factory racer. Just like the factory race machines, the fork tubes have a dark navy blue titanium coating for reduced stiction and higher durability.
• XTRIG ROCS-TECH triple clamps, used by the Monster Energy Kawasaki factory team, have opposing split clamp areas that help improve fork flex action for more optimal fork function.
• Upper triple clamp fitted with XTRIG’s Progressive Handlebar Dampening System (PHDS) so that the handlebar is supported by elastomers designed to absorb engine and chassis vibrations. The system also dampens the forces acting on the handlebar in a horizontal and vertical direction for increased steering precision. The handlebar can be adjusted in 12 different positions to suit various rider sizes and preferences.
• DID Dirt Star ST-X aluminum alloy rims, used by the Monster Energy Kawasaki factory team, are strong, lightweight and add a factory touch.
• DID gold chain with Renthal rear sprocket as well as Hinson clutch cover add to the factory appearance.
• Special graphics complete the factory look.

KX450SR EXCLUSIVE FEATURES
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.
• 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.

ENGINE
Race-tuned 4-Valve Cylinder Head(KP)
• Symmetrically aligned intake and exhaust ports[7] 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.

ENGINE
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 new dome-shaped filter[9] that offers greater filtering area 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.

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 Aggressive engine mapping in the ECU by using the Mode button on the left handlebar.
• Normal mode provides full power while Aggressive mode was developed with racer feedback making it well-suited to competitive riding.
• 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 a separate 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 KX450X 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

SUSPENSION
SHOWA 49mm Coil-Spring Fork
• Equipped with SHOWA fork with exclusive SR settings for increased racing performance and to more closely resemble the Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team in appearance and performance. Hard titanium oxide (TIO) coating on the outer surface of the inner sliding fork tubes helps prevent wear, scratches and other damage to the tubes while reducing stiction and improving overall fork action. – Large-diameter inner tubes allows large compression damping pistons and cartridge cylinder to be used for smooth action and firm damping.

New Uni-Trak Rear Suspension
• KX450SR-specific suspension settings help increase racing performance.
• Compact designed rear shock has large diameter compression adjuster that helps prevent oil cavitation under high frequency movement.
• New 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 low-speed damping to be tuned separately.

• 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[16] 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
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.

2026 Kawasaki KX450SR – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $13,599 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 27.1˚/4.7 in.
Front Wheel Travel 12.0 in.
Rear Wheel Travel 12.1 in.
Front Tire Size 80/100-21
Rear Tire Size 120/80-19
Front Suspension 49mm Inverted Coil-Spring Fork
with adjustable compression and rebound damping
Rear Suspension NEW Uni-Trak with Adjustable Preload, Low and
High Speed Compression Damping Adjustment,
Adjustable Rebound Damping
Wheelbase 58.5 in.
Front Brake Type 270mm Disc
Rear Brake Type 250mm Disc
Fuel Tank Capacity 1.64 gal.
Ground Clearance 13.4 in.
Seat Height 37.6 in.
Weight Without Fuel 238.4 lb.
Curb Weight= 248.3 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 KX450SR – Totalmotorcycle.com  Canadian Specifications/Technical Details

PERFORMANCE

DETAILS

2026 Kawasaki KX450SR – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

TBA

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).