2014 KAWASAKI KX450F: THE SHOOTOUT WINNING KX450F IS MORE MASSAGED THAN MODIFIED

The 2014 KX450F features a 48mm Kayaba Pneumatic Spring Fork (PSF), which uses pressurized air to eliminate the traditional metal-coil fork springs. The reduced weight and inertia an air spring offer improves smoothness and enhance the fork’s ability to follow terrain contours. The Pneumatic Spring Fork also significantly reduces friction and cuts weight by an amazing 1.7 lbs. per set. Out back a Kayaba rear shock features a beefy 50mm piston and a top-shelf Kashima Coat surface treatment on the inside walls of the shock body. Ample adjustability helps ensure smooth, reliable and consistent action of the rear suspension that not only offers superior performance, but also helps the rider relax and conserve valuable strength on the way to the finish line.

Kawasaki offers an optional rear suspension tie rod that is one millimeter longer than stock, which can be used to reduce seat height by four millimeters. The KX450F’s swingarm complements the shock by incorporating a large front casting, combining forces for maximum strength and rigidity.

The Digital Fuel injection (DFI) system comes standard with three pre-programmed ignition maps which are easily changed without the use of a laptop computer or any other electronic devices. Maps can quickly be changed between three settings – standard, hard (terrain) and soft (terrain) – by swapping the DFI wire coupler cap clipped to the side of the steering head. Easy access to the coupler cap means no additional accessories are needed to alternate between pre-preprogrammed maps – simply connect the appropriate coupler cap to immediately activate an ignition mode to match different track conditions.


The ECU is also fully re-programmable and custom maps can be created using the accessory Kawasaki Racing Software Calibration Kit, the same tool used by Kawasaki factory and privateer teams in AMA and FIM racing.