Kawasakis KX450 has topped the charts in Dirt Riders 450 Motocross Shootout since 2019. After receiving minor revisions in 2021, which included a new coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch, larger-diameter clutch plates with a revised friction material, new dry film lubricant coating on the piston skirt, a 1-1/8-inch handlebar, and bold new graphics (BNG), the 2022 model hits dealership floors with only BNG on the update list.
2022 Kawasaki KX450 Specifications
Engine:DOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Displacement:449cc
Bore x Stroke:96.0 x 62.1mm
Compression Ratio:12.5:1
Transmission/Final Drive:5-speed/chain
Dirt Rider Measured Horsepower:52.2 hp @ 9,500 rpm
Dirt Rider Measured Torque:32.4 lb.-ft. @ 6,900 rpm
Fuel System:EFI w/ 44mm throttle body
Clutch:Wet, multiplate; hydraulic actuation
Frame:Aluminum perimeter
Front Suspension:Showa 49mm coil-spring fork, compression damping and rebound damping adjustable; 12.0 in. travel
Rear Suspension:Showa shock, spring preload, high-/low-speed compression damping, and rebound damping adjustable; 12.1 in. travel
Front Brake:Nissin 2-piston caliper, 270mm semi-floating disc
Rear Brake:Nissin 1-piston caliper, 250mm disc
Tires, Front/Rear:Dunlop Geomax MX3S; 80/100-21 / 120/80-19
Rake/Trail:27.6/4.8 in.
Wheelbase:58.5 in.
Ground Clearance:13.4 in.
Dirt Rider Measured Seat Height:37.8 in.
Fuel Capacity:1.6 gal.
Dirt Rider Measured Wet Weight:244 lb.