Kawasaki KX450F Motorcross Review

Green Ebony 2012 Kawasaki KX450F Motorcross Review

No other production motocrosser offers a higher degree of adjustability to the rider interface or engine character than the new 2012 KX450F. With a choice of four different handlebar positions, two footpeg positions, and two optional plug-in DFI settings (plus virtually unlimited DFI mapping capabilities with the use of Accessory Kawasaki Racing Software Kit) – thanks to its advanced Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system – the KX450F is uniquely able to adapt to changing track and surface conditions and meet the needs of a surprisingly wide range of riders. Available Colors: Lime Green

2012 KX™450F highlights begin with the Supercross winning DNA of last year’s bike. The advanced design of the aluminum perimeter frame and dominating motor received a host of refinements to create a more compact and mass-centralized chassis propelled by more useable power than ever. Headlining the technological charge, the KX450F features an all new Launch Control Mode, which changes DFI settings with the push of a button to maximize traction out of the starting gate. This is accomplished without sacrificing any of the mid-range grunt or straight-line speed that made the KX450F famous.

Just sitting on the new 2012 model reveals that it's an all new bike. The slimmer new frame (4mm slimmer over its predecessor), new minimalist bodywork and a flatter tank-seat line offer a noticeably slimmer riding position and improved ergonomics. A choice of four different handlebar positions and two different foot-peg positions allows the rider to tailor the new bike to their riding position. Already one can see that this is a noticeably different motorcycle, and it hasn't even been started yet.

Kick it over and the new ECU does a masterful job of communicating with the KX but not without your input. Using the supplied DFI couplers, riders can quickly and easily access their choice of three maps (standard, hard or soft) according to track conditions.

But perhaps the most exciting addition to the all new 2012 Kawasaki KX450F is the world's first production use of Launch Control on an MX bike. Activated by the push of a handlebar mounted button, the Launch Control system, similar to that on the factory Kawasaki racers, activates a separate engine map designed to ensure efficient race starts in slippery conditions. (The Launch Control Mode map "exceptional people" ignition timing, allowing tyres to gain grip in low-traction situations, and allowing riders to focus on their lines.) Once the rider shifts into 3rd gear, the system is automatically disengaged, switching back to the normal engine map.