After extensive use of our Kawasaki KX450F, it’s time to share insights into its durability and performance. This machine has endured considerable riding, and overall, the experience has been positive. My initial setup, detailed previously, has largely held up, minimizing the need for significant adjustments. However, the recent pipe shootout is prompting consideration of exhaust upgrades, particularly the Big Gun quiet exhaust system.
Routine wear and tear led to a necessary clutch replacement. The stock clutch began to fade, prompting a switch to a complete Barnett kit. This upgrade included fibers, metals, and springs, enhancing clutch performance and feel.
A minor issue surfaced with a weeping fork seal after approximately 10 hours of ride time. This was traced to a rock ding on the lower fork leg. While smoothing the imperfection with a fine grinding stone helped, the seal was compromised enough to cause minor oil leakage when the bike was stationary. Additionally, the water pump impeller seal exhibited coolant leaks during each ride, escaping through the pressure release hole in the side cover. Consequently, this seal was also replaced. These maintenance items are fairly typical for a bike with 13 hours on the Motominder, in addition to the 20 hours accumulated during the initial shootout testing.
Tire replacement became necessary after the original Dunlop D756 tires wore out. For desert riding and subsequent track days, I opted for a Dunlop D742 90/100 front tire and a D952 rear tire. This combination was chosen for its durability in harsh terrain while still offering adequate performance for track use.
Regular oil changes have been performed consistently, with four oil changes completed to date. Silkolene 10W40 oil has been the preferred choice, appreciated for its red tint, which simplifies visual inspection of oil condition through the side cover view window, making it easy to determine when an oil change is due.
On the track, the Kawasaki KX450F continues to impress, particularly with its exceptional traction. The bike maintains excellent grip in corners with the front wheel and delivers strong straight-line traction with the rear. While trail riding isn’t the ideal environment for a motocross bike, the KX450F proved surprisingly capable during a day of trail riding. The suspension setup, being slightly softer than the Team Green 24-hour bike, even enhanced its trail performance. The four-speed transmission presents challenges in both slow and very fast trail sections. However, on tracks and trails, the bike excels when focusing on jumps, demonstrating its motocross DNA.
Looking ahead, the Kawasaki KX450F is anticipated to see many more laps and races as time allows. Furthermore, lending the bike to friends, including my doctor (pictured), ensures it’s being thoroughly tested under various riding styles, regardless of claims of gentle treatment. With the summer motocross season approaching, the KX450F is primed for continued action.
