Track Tested | 2020 SML 450 MX Shootout

Second Place: Kawasaki KX450

Test rider scores: 1-2-1-5-2-2

Winner of the 2019 TransWorld Motocross 450 Shootout, the Kawasaki KX450 returns unchanged for 2020, save for some super-cool green bodywork for the new year. The KX450 boasts a superb powerband with plentiful low-end, great mid-range and adequate top-end pull, and the green machine is the only Japanese bike equipped with a hydraulic clutch. The EFI maps are adjustable through two optional couplers that must be changed in the pits – one smoother and the other more aggressive – but we found that the standard coupler works just fine with a broad spread of power throughout the rpm range.

The Showa suspension works great on both ends of the Kawasaki and the bike has excellent high-speed stability, but it has excellent cornering abilities as well. One of the largest-feeling bikes in the class, the Kawasaki still feels light and responsive in all instances on the track. Test riders all commented how trustworthy the bike is at speed and praised the KX for its predictable nature in even the roughest of conditions. The chassis and suspension are very well balanced, as the bike stays level under braking and acceleration. The bike has a narrow feel between your legs, and the bodywork is smooth and easy to maneuver forward and aft on.

Of all the bikes, the KX450 is the most adjustable when it comes to rider comfort. While other bikes offer the same four-position handlebar mount positioning as the green machine, the Kawasaki is the only bike with two footpeg mount positions. This is great for taller riders. It is worth noting that the Kawasaki is the only bike not equipped with oversized 1 3/8” handlebars.

A couple testers chose the KX450 as their favorite bike in the comparison, and Kawasaki was correct to leave the bike as-is for the new season. It’s a winner!

Hits

• Broad powerband with plenty of torque
• Excellent suspension balance and performance
• Great looks: we love the green sidepanels and numberplate
• Unmatched blend of stability and agility
• Hydraulic clutch provides consistent performance

Misses

• Front brake and clutch levers have a strange, thin shape
• Oversized rear brake system can overheat if dragged
• Judder spring in clutch has an odd feel (it is easily removed and replaced with a standard steel plate)
• EFI mapping not adjustable on the fly
• Renthal 7/8” bars bend easily in a crash

Donn Maeda on the Kawasaki KX450

Test Rider Props

“An all-around strong setting on the fork and shock that give the bike a solid feel with great balance. you can really put the bike wherever you want, and the engine is immediately responsive and carries the power all the way through the rpm range.” – Connor Ericsson

“The KX450 may not be the fastest bike but the power delivery is exciting, the response is crisp, and power is hearty throughout the power curve. Handling is where the Kawasaki shines. The bike feels light and agile with excellent cornering prowess.” – Pat Foster

“The Kawasaki engine is very strong and has no weaknesses; it’s great everywhere! The bike handles very well, the rear end stays low, and the bike corners very well. All around, I made the least amount of changes on this bike and I loved it.” – Rene Garcia

“The Kawasaki has a larger feel that inspires confidence. It’s hard to crash a cruise ship, right? The bike is powerful, stable at speed, and corners as great as anything else out there.” – Donn Maeda

“Great engine that is easy to ride with plenty of power everywhere. Really strong down low and through the mid. The bike handles great and has the most comfortable chassis. The most stable and trustworthy.” – Kyle Puerner

“The Kawasaki handles great with a low center of gravity and a high level of comfort. The bike dips into corners extremely well. The engine has no weak points as it produces a quick, light-feeling powerband.” – Mike Sleeter

Test Rider Chops

“I had a slight tendency to tuck the front end entering corners…maybe the fork was a little soft for me.” – Connor Ericsson

“The Kawasaki could benefit from a little more snap down low, as it feels a little flat right off of idle.” – Pat Foster

“I think the clutch and front brake lever feel too thin…kind of like pulling on chopsticks.” – Rene Garcia

“The oversized rear brake rotor was a problem for me in 2019 as I would overheat the system when racing and lose my rear brake. I replaced it with a smaller system from 2018 and had no more troubles.” – Donn Maeda

“Suspension is a little on the soft side. If I were to race this bike full time, I think I would need to stiffen the fork up at the very least.” – Kyle Puerner

“The fork’s bottoming resistance could be better. I hate the grips. Absolutely terrible hand eaters.” – Mike Sleeter