Double test: 2018 Kawasaki KX250F and KX450F
We don't see much green in the motocross world anymore, but this doesn't mean that Kawasaki won't remain a top performer in the motorsport industry. In 2018 they will once again present a strong range. A KX65, KX85, KX110 that is gaining more and more popularity, a KX250F and finally the powerful KX450F. Read below how we experienced the KX250F and the KX450F.
As everyone knows, the KX250F and KX450F were completely renewed in 2017, this year the engineers are coming out with some refreshing updates with a focus on the engine and suspension.
Specifications 2018
The previous model was completely renewed this year, Kawasaki has overhauled the entire engine block, which increases the compression in the cylinder, which in turn provides more power and more torque.
Kawasaki Benelux invited us for a well-organized test in MC Lille where they had prepared a standard KX250F, a special KX250F and a KX450F for all press members. The special KX250F received a special setting (mapping), a VanHasselt exhaust and a sand tire. This bike was ready for us to demonstrate that a big difference can already be made with a relatively small budget.
Engine type Liquid-cooled, 1-cylinder 4-stroke engine |
Start system Primary kick |
Cylinder capacity (cm3) 249 cc |
Lubrication Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump |
Bore x Stroke 77 x 53,6 mm |
Brake for Single semi-floating 270 mm brake disc. Brake caliper: Double piston |
Compression ratio 13.4:1 |
Brakes, rear Single 240mm brake disc. Brake caliper: Single piston |
Valve system DOHC, 4 valves |
Suspension, front 48 mm inverted telescopic Separate Function (SFF) front fork type 2. Compression damping: 22-fold. Rebound damping: 20-fold. Spring preload: 40 times |
Fuel System Fuel injection: 1 x Ø 43 mm (Keihin) double injection |
Suspension, rear Uni-Trak. Compression damping: 19-fold (at low speed), 4-fold (at high speed). Spring damping: 22-fold. Spring preload: fully adjustable |
Ignition Digital DC-CDI |
Action at its best
The years of experience that Kawasaki has are translated into the agility of the engine, the new KX250F handles like no other. The 'throttle response' has been very finely worked out, allowing you to drive very precisely on the gas. This has its advantage on any type of track. Driving the standard KX250F is anything but tiring, it is a pleasant engine with comfortable power. The more the power is increased by a different exhaust or a different setting, the more tiring the engine becomes. Surprisingly, the comfortable feeling does not disappear when changing the mapping or the exhaust.
The sand tire in combination with the exhaust gave a more aggressive feeling, which made exiting the corners feel a bit awkward at first. In terms of top power, you feel that the standard engine falls short compared to the special engine. On the other hand, I loved the sound with the standard engine, it sounded very sharp and punchy, a really nice feeling. Some special features that you do not immediately notice with the Kawasaki are the adjustable footrests and the 4 possible positions in which you can place the handlebars.
Keep the front wheel high
A 450 engine naturally has more than enough power, so a special KX450F would have been unnecessary. The first thing you notice when you start with the KX450F is the linear power, this engine is very smooth and you get used to it very quickly. The power with which you can get out of the corners is so smooth that it is not even tiring.
Suspensions are a dangerous topic to describe as everyone has a different weight and their own style on the motorcycle. In my opinion, the new suspension of the 450 certainly passed the test, it handled correctly and stable. Only when braking did you experience an unstable feeling, especially the steering wheel of the motorcycle sometimes started to move away. Small short stops have always been a challenge for suspension specialists and to my knowledge there is no suspension on the market that is perfect for everyone. That is why I recommend testing the suspension sufficiently to ultimately achieve the desired result.
Decision
The new KX250F is a very pleasant engine but lacks top power, by making a few minor adjustments you can solve this problem. In my opinion, this is the ideal motorcycle for riders who like to have fun on the motorcycle and want to learn quickly.
Pricing
KX110 – €2799
KX65 – €3599
KX85I – €4599
KX85II – €4799
KX250F — €8249
KX450F — €8649
Also to read
Gallery: MXGP Portugal 2024 XXL from NiekFotografie
The riders and mechanics had a hard time in Agueda. This also applies to the photographers because the weather conditions were harsh! Yet our #NiekFotografie made this XXL gallery...Jorge Prado in Simon Laengenfelder over Agueda
The Grand Prix of Portugal will be remembered for a long time and may be one for the history books. The heavy rain that descended on Agueda made this 2024 edition a rush…Danee Gelissen on stage in Italy
During the second match of the Italian Women's Championship, Danee Gelissen was allowed to climb onto the podium. The Limburg rider finished second behind Kiara Fontanesi in both heats in Lovolo. The Ceres71 driver starts…VIDEO: Highlights MXGP Portugal 2024
After a two-week break, the FIM MXGP-MX2 World Championship continued in Portugal. The normally sunny south was treated to lots of water this weekend! Liam Everts made very…
Your reactions