2013 model information

2013 MODEL INFORMATION
OVERVIEW --------------------- P.2
AT A GLANCE ------------------ P.4
KEY FEATURES ---------------- P.5
HARD-HITTING FUEL-INJECTED POWER ---- P.5
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS
AND TUNING ----------------------------------- P.14
ADDITIONAL FEATURES ---- P.23
COLOUR(S) ------------------- P.24
SPECIFICATIONS ------------ P.25
MODEL NAME
KX450F
MARKETING CODE
KX450FDF
Version: 30 May 2013
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OVERVIEW
CHAMPION
PERFORMANCE
KX design philosophy is simple: put
mid-level to expert riders on the top step of
the podium – and that is what the KX450F
does best. Engine and chassis performance
delivers what riders need to win. And
complementing this dominant performance,
the KX450F is loaded with advanced
technology and industry firsts that give riders
an even greater edge.
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2
OVERVIEW
Proven Performance
Racing Dominance
Industry-leading Advanced Technology
NEW
Next-generation suspension: Pneumatic Spring Fork (PSF)
2011 AMA SX Champion
Advanced design fork
replaces springs with
pressurised air.
NEW
More powerful
engine
Increased performance at
all rpm (especially
ultra-low to medium-rpm
torque) thanks to:
- revised piston crown
- revised ECU settings
Launch Control Mode
PSF advantages:
2011 AMA MX Champion
- Increased bottoming resistance & road
holding:
During compression the counterforce
generated by pressurised air is firmer than
a spring; during rebound air offers less
resistance than a spring.
- Wider setting range:
PSF range of adjustability (green) is much
wider than AOS spring (grey).
2012 AMA SX Champion
AMA factory racer-spec
system gives riders an
edge when starting in
low-grip conditions.
DFI Setting Data Selection
Plug-and-play DFI couplers
give riders easy access to
3 engine maps: Standard,
Soft and Hard conditions.
Each of the maps can be
reprogrammed using the
KX FI Calibration Kit.
Adjustable Ergonomics
Riders are able to fine-tune their riding position with:
- 4-position handlebar
- 2-position footpegs
- Stepless setting adjustment:
Riders are not limited to STD and optional
“spring” settings.
- Hassle-free adjustment
- Significant weight reduction: 750 g lighter (total)
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3
AT A GLANCE
Adjustable handlebar position - P.18
A choice of four
positions allows riders
to tailor their riding
position. Factory-style
Renthal handlebar and
pad come standard.
Launch Control Mode - P.7
Factory-style launch
control system increases
the chance of getting a
good start by helping
riders maximise traction
when starting on a
slippery surface.
Setting-adjustable
motocross ECU - P.9,11
Lightweight ECU was designed specifically to
withstand the rigors of motocross racing. ECU
contains three engine maps (plus a fourth for
Launch Control Mode). Settings for the three
maps can be reprogrammed with the optional KX FI
Calibration Kit.
DFI Setting Data Selection - P.8
Using the provided DFI
couplers, riders can quickly
and easily access their
choice of three maps
(standard, hard, soft)
provided in the new ECU.
NEW Pneumatic Spring Fork (PSF) - P.15
NEW
The KX450F is the first mass-production motocrosser to
features this next-generation fork technology. Shock
absorption duties are carried out using pressurised air
instead of springs. Reduced weight, easier adjustability
and a wider setting range are some of the advantages.
Slim, racer-friendly
rider interface - P.18
Slim frame, minimalist bodywork and a flat tank-seat line
were designed to make it easier for racers to go fast.
New handle grips enable a more compact riding
position.
Slim aluminium perimeter frame - P.14
Race-ready front suspension - P.17
Aluminium perimeter frame is a lightweight construction
composed of forged, extruded and cast parts. Slim
design contributes to racer-friendly ergonomics.
Diamond-Like Carbon coating reduces sliding friction
for improved fork action, especially during cornering.
Kashima Coat and high-precision machining further
reduce friction.
NEW
NEW New Uni-Trak rear suspension - P.18
Front and rear petal brake
discs are complemented
by a new front brake
master cylinder and front
brake pads, for stronger
braking performance and
enhanced control.
Linkage mounts below the swingarm for more precise
suspension tuning. Dual compression adjustability
offers a wide range of tuning options. Kashima Coat on
the tank cylinder improves action. For ’13, revised
damping settings match the new front fork.
Adjustable footpeg
position - P.19
NEW
Factory styling - P.22
Complementing the new front fender design and white
rear fender, factory-style graphics, black alumite1 rims,
black fork guards, blue alumite1 finish on the suspension
adjusters, and a blue finish on some of the engine trim
give the KX450F the looks to match its highly tuned
performance.
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Petal brake discs - P.21
Riders can choose
from two
positions to suit
body size and
preference.
449 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single with
battery-less fuel injection - P.5
Progressive throttle
link - P.11
Fuel-injected engine
offers hard-hitting power
across the rev-range
while ensuring stable
fuel-metering in all
conditions.
Lightweight 43 mm throttle
body uses two shafts
joined by a progressive
link to give sharp response
and excellent power
feeling.
NEW
Factory-inspired tuning - P.6
Works-base bridged-box bottom piston (unique
Kawasaki feature used for the first time on a
mass-production motocrosser on the 10MY KX450F) is
just one of many features inspired by our factory racers.
For ’13, fine-tuning to the piston, intake cams and ECU
settings result in increased performance, especially
ultra-low to mid range torque.
4
KEY FEATURES
HARD-HITTING FUEL-INJECTED POWER
Fuel-injected 449 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single delivers hard-hitting power from low- through high-rpm. The broad powerband and
responsive throttle offer a broad spread of torquey response that enables racers to get on the gas and go even from down low. In addition to
the inherent benefits, fuel injection contributes to the KX450F’s lag-free acceleration, especially after landing jumps. Already featuring
race-inspired tuning and parts like the high-performance piston with bridged-box bottom (a mass-production first when introduced on the 2010
KX450F), for 2013 engine fine-tuning and revised ECU settings offer increased performance, especially ultra-low to mid range torque. Other
changes ensure the KX450F meets stricter noise regulations.
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5
KEY FEATURES
Factory-racer engine tuning
* High-performance piston, featuring the same design used on our factory
racers, contributes to improved performance at all rpm. A short skirt,
reinforced external ribs and the industry’s only mass-production use of a
bridged-box bottom, featuring internal bracing, result in a lighter,
stronger piston.
NEW * Revised piston crown is 0.2 mm lower and features sloped edges
(instead of a step at the crown edge). The revised surface contributes to
improved performance. (Compression ratio is unchanged.)
(Photo 1)
1
NEW * Revised intake cam profiles with reduced lift (0.4 mm less) complement
the new piston and revised ECU settings, contributing to engine
performance.
NEW * Revised ECU settings (fuel and ignition maps) ensure the ideal fuel-air
mixture and offer a smoother power delivery when transitioning from low
to high rpm, as well as improved engine braking characteristics.
* Wedge-shaped crank web increases offsetting moment for a high
crankshaft balance factor. At close to 60%, the balance factor of the ’13
KX450F is on par with Ryan Villopoto’s factory racer. The high balance
factor contributes to reduced engine vibration, smoother power delivery
and increased performance – especially at low rpm, where response is
noticeably snappier.
* In addition to generating the electrical output necessary to ensure easy
starting, the large-diameter ACG also contributes to engine feeling at
partial throttle.
12MY
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13MY
6
KEY FEATURES
The holeshot advantage: Launch Control Mode
KX motocrossers have long drawn on works technology to offer riders the best possible performance right out of the box. Launch Control
Mode is just one of the factory features that give riders an edge when lining up at the start gate.
* The KX450F features a
launch control system
similar to that on our
factory racers. With the
simple press of a button,
riders can activate a
separate engine map
designed to ensure
efficient race starts in
slippery conditions. (The
Launch Control Mode map
retards ignition timing,
allowing tyres to gain grip
in low-traction situations,
and allowing riders to
focus on their lines.)
A
* Even for top-level riders, controlling the massive power of a 450cc-class
motocrosser off the start requires a high degree of throttle control and
clutch finesse. By slightly reducing this power, Launch Control Mode
helps riders maximise traction, increasing the chance of getting a good
start.
* To activate Launch Control Mode riders depress the launch control
button (for two seconds or more), located at the left handle. (When
activated, the indicator lamp next to the button will flash quickly to let the
rider know.) (Photo 2)
2
(Illustration A)
* Launch Control Mode has the greatest effect within the first few seconds
of releasing the clutch off the start. This is the most crucial time for
riders to get ahead of their rivals so they are better positioned going into
the first corner.
* Launch Control Mode works in 1st and 2nd gear (and Neutral). Once
the rider shifts into 3rd gear, the system is automatically disengaged,
switching back to the normal engine map.
* System designed to the same specifications as that of our AMA factory
racers.
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KEY FEATURES
Easy engine tuning: DFI Setting Data Selection (3 map choices)
Adjusting engine settings to suit conditions has never been easier than with the KX’s DFI couplers. Plug-and-play style system is quick, easy
and stress-free.
* Instead of a single engine map, the ECU features three (four, counting
the Launch Control Mode map).
* Each of the three maps can be reprogrammed using the optional KX FI
Calibration Kit. (Please see below.)
* Initial settings for the three maps are: Standard, Hard (conditions) and
Soft (conditions). Using provided DFI couplers, riders are able to easily
switch between the three maps to suit riding conditions. Plugging in
each of the 4-pin couplers activates the corresponding engine map.
(Plug is conveniently located on the right side of the head pipe for easy
access without having to remove any parts.) (Photo 3)
3
Soft
Standard
Hard
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8
KEY FEATURES
Precision engine tuning: KX FI Calibration Kit (option)
The KX FI Calibration Kit is the same kit used by Kawasaki’s works teams in Europe and the
U.S. The kit enables expert riders to adjust engine characteristics (by rewriting actual data
maps) to suit their preference, record riding data, and analyse their riding data to further
fine-tune their settings.
* The KX FI Calibration Kit contains KX Racing software, an ECU
controller, mounting equipment and dampers and a USB cable. In
addition to the kit, some model-specific parts (available separately), a
PC and 12 V battery are all that is required. (Photo 4)
4
4
1
3
2
7
or
DATA
LOGGING
DISPLAY
most sample maps
offered in industry
only data logging
function in industry
choice of
display
* While the kit is designed to satisfy racers and expert riders, it is simple
and hassle-free to use:
- the ECU controller mounts behind the number plate for easy access
- accessing the ECU is accomplished simply by connecting to a PC via
the ECU controller using a USB cable (no additional switches are
necessary)
- setting adjustments can be prepared in advance on a PC, or done
when connected to the ECU
- the kit’s user-interface is simple to understand and easy to use
* The KX FI Calibration Kit contains seven preset settings that can be
quickly and easily used to adjust the ECU to suit track conditions. The
provided settings are shown below.
11
5
Controller sub-harness†
2 USB cable
3 Software CD-ROM
4 Power supply harness
-HOUR
PRESETS
SETTING
1
6
6
5
7
9
7
ECU mounting bracket†
(replacement part for use with kit)
6
10
8
Controller bracket
ECU controller
Wire harness clamp
9 Controller bands
10 Upper/lower controller dampers
11 Controller damper
8
DESCRIPTION
Richer fuel setting
fuelling 5% richer than stock
Leaner fuel setting
fuelling 5% leaner than stock
Advanced ignition setting
ignition advanced 3o from stock
Retarded ignition setting
ignition retarded 3o from stock
Hard riding surface setting
ignition retarded, fuelling richer
Soft riding surface setting
ignition advanced, fuelling leaner
Beginner setting
engine power suppressed:
ignition retarded, fuelling richer
Part is model-specific (KX450F, KX250F require different parts) and sold separately
†
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9
KEY FEATURES
* For more advanced setting optimisation, the ECU maps for volume of fuel
injected (via the FI adjustment window) and ignition timing (via the IG
adjustment window) can be adjusted for given throttle position and rpm.
* Both click-and-drag (using the graph window) and numerical editing
(using the map sheet) are possible.
* When connected to the ECU, the KX FI Calibration Kit can be used to
display the status of a running engine. Information can be displayed in
numeric form using the Data Monitor, or in visual form using the various
display options offered by the Data Meter.
Data Monitor Window
Base settings are shown as a flat graph (left). Settings can be increased or decreased
from the base according to rider preference (right).
* Multiple display options are available. Click [3D Graph] or [2D Graph] of
the [3D/2D] to select the 3 or 2-dimensional display. When you use the
[3D Graph], select [Surface Display] or [Frame Display] of the [3D Graph
Type] to select the display type.
Data Meter Window
* The KX FI Calibration Kit can also be used as a data logger, recording
up to six hours of data depending on the number of parameters (engine
rpm, angle of throttle opening, etc)
being recorded. After riding, the
riding data can be viewed using
the [Analyze] window. Parameters
to be recorded and displayed can
be selected independently.
* The logged data can be lined up with the course layout to check actual
riding, enabling more efficient FI settings to be determined. It also
enables before-and-after comparisons and comparisons between riders.
* Kit is compatible with both 64-bit operating systems (such as Windows 7)
and 32-bit systems (Windows 7, XP, Vista).
3D Surface Display
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3D Frame Display
2D Graph Display
For more detailed information on use and functions of the FI Calibration
Kit, please refer to the KX FI Calibration Kit Instruction Manual.
10
KEY FEATURES
Battery-less fuel injection system
Designed specifically for motocrossers, the fuel injection system incorporates a small lightweight ECU and operates without a battery to further
eliminate unnecessary weight. And of course, fuel injection eliminates the need to adjust engine settings to suit track and climate conditions.
* Ensuring quick starting without a battery was a prime directive when
developing the KX450F’s fuel injection system. Using only electricity
generated by the kick starter, the engine can be started with only three
rotations of the crankshaft. The system delivers electricity in the
following order: 1) ECU, 2) fuel pump, 3) injector. With a warm engine,
starting can be accomplished in a single kick.
* Lightweight flat-bottom
aluminium fuel pump is
located in the plastic
fuel tank. (Photo 5)
5
* The compact, lightweight ECU, located just in front of the steering head
(behind the number plate), was designed specifically for motocross use.
To help cope with the shocks and vibrations of motocross riding, the fuel
pump relay is built in to the ECU.
* The 43 mm throttle body makes use of a progressive throttle link to
deliver airflow in much the same way as would a FCR carburettor. Using
two linked shafts, the throttle body opens more quickly after the 3/8 open
position, delivering sharp response and excellent power feeling.
* Ultra-fine atomising injector with 12 holes sprays particles with a droplet
size of 60 µm for smooth power delivery and improved engine response
at partial throttle.
* The injector was set at 45o, the optimum angle for improved
mid-range power.
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* To ensure a stable fuel supply during vigorous motocross riding, the fuel
pump features a unitised plastic fuel filter cover that wraps around the
inlet port and acts as a fuel trap. (Unitising the filter cover, changing its
material from rubber to plastic and eliminating the fuel return hose from
the pressure regulator contribute to weight reduction.)
* The Launch Control Mode indicator lamp will light up to warn of a
problem with the FI system.
11
KEY FEATURES
Other performance-enhancing engine characteristics
* The engine was tuned such that the torque curve follows the limit of
running resistance for as long as possible. (Unchecked, engine torque
can exceed this limit, resulting in wheel spin, which does nothing to help
forward momentum.)
* Efforts were made to achieve the widest possible torque band, so that
traction efficiency would be maximised for a greater part of the rev
range.
* The engine is almost upright (forward lean angle is 3o) to help place the
bike’s centre of gravity in the ideal position for maximum traction.
* Asymmetrical high-acceleration cams yield high intake efficiency.
* During the cylinder head casting process, the cores for the intake ports
were given a special coating to make the intake ports smoother. The
extremely smooth surfaces that result increase intake efficiency at
all rpm.
* Lightweight titanium valves (IN: 36 mm; EX: 31 mm) reduce
reciprocating weight and offer high-rpm reliability.
* Aluminium valve spring retainers reduce reciprocating weight for reliable
valve control at high-rpm.
* Double valve springs also help ensure stable valve operation and allow
a short cylinder head height.
* The screw-type adjuster on the cam chain tensioner is equipped with a
pressure spring. Because the system automatically minimises the
vibration caused by a loose cam chain, it greatly reduces the chance of
a mishap during a race. (Non-automatic systems that are tuned
incorrectly can actually adversely affect valve timing by putting too much
pressure on the cam chain.)
* The combination of the smooth-shifting, close-ratio 5-speed
transmission with the KX450F’s low-rpm engine performance offers the
rider the option to shift to a higher gear when traversing rough sections.
This reduces the effect of sudden (unwanted) throttle input, allowing
focus to be given to racing rather than careful throttle control.
* In the event of a stalled engine during a race, getting it started again as
soon as possible is a racer’s first priority, so the KX450F is equipped
with an automatic compression release (ACR) system. The dual-weight
centrifugal decompression system fitted to the exhaust cam eases
starting in much the same way as a conventional lever-type system.
* Sprocket-style chain drive roller helps smooth engine braking by
reducing the effect of driveline lash when the rider gets off the gas
quickly and play in the lower side of the chain suddenly tightens. The
additional control facilitates corner entry.
* 32 mm thick, 127.8 mm wide radiators with wide fin and tube pitch offer
resistance to mud build-up while maintain cooling performance. The
radiators are strong enough that the reinforcing brackets could be
eliminated, resulting in lower overall weight.
* Large openings in the radiator shrouds promote airflow, contributing to
cooling performance.
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12
KEY FEATURES
Noise regulation counter-measures
A number of features on Australian/European models ensure that stricter 2mMAX 112 dB noise regulations are met.
NEW
* Holes added to the tail pipe and baffle plate create a bypass route for
exhaust air by providing an exit for air directed through the muffler’s
packing wool. The space inside the end cap acts as a resonating
chamber and provides additional silencer volume, both helping with
noise levels.
* Pinched cut-outs in the silencer chambers direct exhaust gases into the
glass-wool packing, helping to muffle exhaust noise.
NEW
* Eliminating the hole on the right side of the air cleaner box helps meet
the stricter regulations.
NEW
* Noise-absorbing pads added between the air cleaner and rear fender
also contribute to meeting the new regulations. (A rib on the rear fender
helps support the pad.)
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13
KEY FEATURES
FACTORY-STYLE CHASSIS COMPONENTS AND TUNING
The KX450F’s slim aluminium perimeter frame is a lightweight construction composed of forged, extruded and cast parts. Chassis balance
and settings were all set to suit race-experienced riders. The centre of gravity and key dimensions (swingarm pivot, output sprocket and rear
axle locations) were chosen so that the rear tyre would drive the bike forward (instead of causing it to squat). For 2013, chassis fine-tuning and
the motocross industry’s first mass-production use of a Pneumatic Spring Fork offers lighter weight, easier adjustability and a wider setting
range to complement the KX450F’s highly acclaimed high-speed stability, light handling and racer-friendly adjustable ergonomics.
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14
KEY FEATURES
Next-generation suspension: Pneumatic Spring Fork
The KX450F is the first mass-production motocross to feature KYB’s Pneumatic Spring Fork (PSF), replacing the main springs in each fork
tube with pressurised air. Compared to a standard fork, the PSF offers the following benefits:
- lighter weight
- easy adjustability
- wide setting range
- reduced friction
- increased bottoming resistance
- improved road holding
NEW * Eliminating the springs from the forks allows an unprecedented
NEW * Because main springs are not used, changing the fork character is much
reduction in weight. Total weight savings is approximately 750 g.
(Illustration B)
B
simpler on the PSF than changing the spring rate on a standard fork.
Adjusting the air pressure in the fork easily allows the PSF “spring rate”
to be adjusted – without the hassle of having to disassemble the fork.
Adjustments to suit rider and track can be accomplished on site, without
additional parts, and with minimal tools. (Illustration C)
C
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KEY FEATURES
NEW * Using a special adaptor (provided with the bike), air pressure can be
NEW * Friction generated between the springs and fork inner tubes in a
changed with any readily available bicycle tyre pump. (Using a pump with
a built-in air gauge and a flexible hose is recommended.) (Photos 6-7)
6
7
standard fork is especially apparent in the latter half of the fork stroke.
Eliminating the main springs alone reduces friction by approximately
20%. Replacing the pressure springs with free pistons further reduces
friction. The balance springs used in the PSF’s cartridges are equipped
with sliders to minimise friction. (Photos 8-9)
8
9
NEW * Simply changing the PSF’s air pressure covers the range of settings
offered by optional springs for a standard fork. (Illustration D)
D
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KEY FEATURES
NEW * Specially developed low-friction fork oil seals help ensure smooth initial
NEW * During the compression stroke, the pressurised air exerts a strong
fork action.
counterforce, contributing to bottoming resistance. However, during the
rebound stroke, the pressurised air offers little resistance, contributing to
increased road holding and a planted feel from the front.
NEW * With the elimination of the fork springs, internal construction could be
completely revised. The cylinders inside the fork tubes could be made
much larger (ø24 mm >> ø32 mm), enabling pistons with approximately
double the surface area for generating damping force. The result is
increased bottoming resistance and stable damping force character
(especially when changing from rebound to compression stroke).
(Illustration E)
E
NEW
* Revised fork oil has a reduced tendency to cavitate.
NEW
* Compression and rebound damping settings can be adjusted as on a
standard fork.
* A super-hard DLC coating (Diamond-Like Carbon) on the outer surface
of the inner fork tubes reduces sliding friction (and stiction) and gives
better action, contributing to the smoother ride. The coating is even
effective when the fork is exposed to lateral forces that would usually
hamper slide action, such as during cornering. The increased surface
hardness also minimises scratches and damage to the tubes.
* Friction-reducing Kashima Coat on the inside of the fork outer tubes
contributes to smoother suspension action (especially at the initial part
of the stroke) and a better ride feel.
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17
KEY FEATURES
Slim, adjustable rider interface
Race-oriented rear suspension
NEW * Revised rear damping settings complement the front fork.
The KX450F’s frame and minimalist bodywork, designed with rider
ergonomics in mind, offer a slim rider interface and racer-friendly
ergonomics. Complemented by adjustable handle and footpeg
positions, the natural riding position makes it even easier for racers
to go fast.
* The rear shock features dual compression adjustability, allowing
high-speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately.
* The rear shock also features the Kashima Coat on the tank cylinder.
The reduced friction smoothes suspension action.
* The New Uni-Trak rear
suspension system
mounts the
suspension arm below
the swingarm,
allowing a longer rear
suspension stroke.
The longer stroke in
turn allows more
precise rear
suspension tuning.
10
* Upper triple clamp with two sets of handle mount slots and reversible
handle mounts offer riders a choice of four handle positions to choose
from: 25 mm FWD, 15 mm FWD, STD and 10 mm BK. (Illustration F)
F
(Photo 10)
* Extensive rider testing was conducted to determine the ideal linkage
ratios and rear shock absorber damping settings to achieve maximum
rear wheel traction.
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18
KEY FEATURES
* Adjustable footpeg brackets enable riders to lower their footpeg position
5 mm. In the lower position, CofG is lowered as is the rider’s point of
view, adding to both physical and psychological stability. (Illustration G)
* The flat design of the tank and seat gives the rider greater freedom of
movement when changing riding position, and facilitates sitting farther
forward. (Photo 11)
11
G
* Minimalist shrouds were designed to be small and are slim where they
come in contact with the rider’s legs. 2-tone design was achieved using
a double-injection moulding process.
* Minimalist side covers were also made as small as possible.
* The seat uses a slip-resistant top surface for good grip when seated and
smooth sides for excellent rider mobility. Seat urethane helps maintain
the original shape longer.
* Using an optional rear suspension tie rod (1 mm longer than normal),
riders can lower their seat height by 4 mm (measured at the centre of
the seat). While 4 mm may not sound like much, on a race bike being
able to make ride position adjustments without any compromise to riding
performance is extremely beneficial.
* Seams between the
shrouds, seat and
side covers are very
flush, which facilitates
control as well as
moving around on the
bike. (Photo 12)
12
* The frame is narrow across the main pipes, contributing to a slim
package with good ergonomics. The slim riding position facilitates
control.
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19
KEY FEATURES
* The frame widens at the ankles to offer the rider better grip and narrows
near the bend below the seat to allow a slim riding position.
* Optimised exhaust pipe line also contributes to the racer-friendly
ergonomics.
* Wide (front-to-rear) footpegs designed to offer grip and superb feel at the
pegs.
* The clutch cable boot features a large quick adjuster, making it easier for
riders to adjust play in the clutch cable.
* Throttle grip has a unitised collar. The one-piece unit provides additional
stability during throttle operation.
NEW * Lightweight grips are 10 mm longer. The handlebar is the same length,
so with the new grips riders looking for a more compact riding position
are able to grab the bars closer to the centreline. Grips, which feature a
pattern designed to provide excellent grip, use a taller pattern and softer
material to provide greater cushioning for riders’ hands. (Photos 13-14)
13
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14
20
KEY FEATURES
Other race-oriented chassis components
* The KX450F features
petal brake discs front
and rear. (Photo 15)
NEW * A new pushrod-type
front brake master
cylinder and front
brake pads with a
higher coefficient of
friction result in
stronger braking force
and enhanced control
(especially for the
initial bite and
initial-mid stroke
characteristics).
15
NEW * A revised design for
17
the rear disc matches
the design of the front
disc. (Photo 17)
16
* Rear caliper guard protects the caliper from damage.
* A factory-style Renthal
(standard-type)
aluminium handlebar
is standard equipment.
18
(Photo 18)
* Rib-less rear hub and butted spokes reduce unsprung weight.
(Photo 16)
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KEY FEATURES
Factory styling
NEW * Complementing the
19
minimalist bodywork,
new fender and front
number plate designs
ensure the KX450F
remains the sharpest
looking bike in the
paddock. (Photo 19)
NEW
* For 2013, the rear
fender is white
(instead of lime
green), like on our
factory racers.
(Photo 20)
* Fork and rear shock adjusters have a blue alumite1 finish like our U.S.
factory racers. (Photos 21-22)
21
20
* Blue finish on the oil cap and the two plugs on the generator cover
further contribute to factory looks.
* Embossed design on the clutch cover designed to gradually appear as
contact from riding boots wears off the paint.
NEW * Engine covers are
* Factory-style graphics complement the KX450F’s highly tuned
performance.
22
finished in silver paint,
further reinforcing the
KX450F’s factory
image. (Photo 23)
23
* Rims are coated in black alumite1 – just like our factory racers.
2 0 1 3 M Y K X 4 5 0 F M O D E L I N F O R M AT I O N
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ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Engine
* Fast-idle knob on the throttle body allows riders to increase engine
speed when first starting a cold engine.
* The crankshaft and connecting rod received a carburising and
quenching treatment for additional rigidity.
* The camshaft lobes feature a soft-nitriding surface treatment for long
wear and high-rpm reliability.
Chassis
* The alloy swingarm uses a cast front section, tapered hydroformed
spars and forged chain adjusters.
* Large synthetic skid plate offers great protection with minimum weight.
NEW * Chain guide made of
harder urethane offers
increased durability.
24
(Photo 24)
* Tappet surfaces receive a carburising treatment for increased durability.
* A large flap inside the air cleaner case helps prevent the ingress of mud.
* The silencer uses long-fibre packing which is much more resistant to
being blown out of the tail pipe than standard length packing. As a result,
packing needs to be replaced half as often.
NEW
* On non-North American models, a greater (+3.5 mm) overlap between
the baffle pipe and tail pipe offers increased reliability when the parts
expand due to heat.
Other
* Optional engine parts include magneto rotors with different inertias
(8.5, 9.5 kg.cm2; STD: 9.0 kg.cm2).
* Optional chassis parts include handlebar holders for a ø28.6 mm bar
(STD: ø22.2 mm), aluminium and steel rear sprockets (48-52T; STD:
50T), solid petal brake rotors for wet races, and different springs for the
and rear shock (52, 56 N/mm; STD: 54 N/mm).
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COLOUR(S)
* Lime Green with factory-style graphics
1
Alumite: an anodic oxidation finishing treatment for aluminium resulting in a coloured, corrosion/scratch-resistant film coating.
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SPECIFICATIONS
KX450FDF
ENGINE
FRAME
Type
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single
3
Type
Perimeter, aluminium
Wheel travel: front
314 mm
rear
315 mm
front
80/100-21 51M
rear
120/80-19 63M
Displacement
449 cm
Bore and Stroke
96.0 x 62.1 mm
Compression ratio
12.5:1
Valve system
DOHC, 4 valves
Fuel system
Fuel injection: ø43 mm x 1 (Keihin)
Caster (rake)
26.9o
Ignition
Digital DC-CDI
Trail
113 mm
Starting
Primary kick
Steering angle (left/right)
42o / 42o
Lubrication
Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
DRIVETRAIN
Tyre:
SUSPENSION
Transmission
5-speed, return
Final drive
Chain
Primary reduction ratio
2.727 (60/22)
Compression damping
22-way
Gear ratios: 1st
1.750 (28/16)
Rebound damping
20-way
2nd
1.412 (24/17)
3rd
1.188 (19/16)
4th
1.000 (19/19)
5th
0.875 (21/24)
Front: Type
48 mm upside-down telescopic
Pneumatic Spring Fork (PSF)
Rear: Type
Compression damping
New Uni-Trak
22-way (low-speed),
2-turns or more (high-speed)
Final reduction ratio
3.846 (50/13)
Rebound damping
33-way
Clutch
Wet multi-disc, manual
Spring preload
Fully adjustable
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SPECIFICATIONS
KX450FDF
BRAKES
Front: Type
Rear:
Single rigid-mounted 252 mm petal disc
Caliper
Dual-piston
Type
Single 240 mm petal disc
Caliper
Single-piston
DIMENSIONS
Overall length
2,180 mm
Overall width
820 mm
Overall height
1,275 mm
Wheelbase
1,480 mm
Ground clearance
330 mm
Seat height
955 mm
Curb mass
112.5 kg
Fuel capacity
6.2 litres
The specifications mentioned here apply to and have been achieved by production models under
standard operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair description of the vehicle and its
performance capabilities but these specifications may not apply to every machine supplied for sale.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice.
Equipment illustrated and specifications may vary to meet individual markets.
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KX450F 2013 Questions
1.
Which gears does the 2013 KX450F Launch Control Mode work in?
2.
What does the Launch Control Mode do to the ignition timing?
3.
How do you activate the Launch Control Mode?
4.
How many maps does the ECU now feature?
5.
How many map presets and how many hours Data Logging are available
when using the Optional KX FI Calibration Kit?
6.
What is forward angle of the cylinder axis?
7.
What does ‘PSF’ stand for?
8.
Name 3 benefits the ‘PSF’ offers compared to a standard fork?
9.
What is total weight saving of eliminating the springs in the ‘PSF’?
10.
How do you change the air pressure in the ‘PSF’?
11.
By how much is the friction reduced by eliminating the main springs in the ‘PSF’?
12.
What is the black ‘DLC’ coating on the outside of the inner fork tubes?
13.
How many handlebar positions can you choose from on the KX450F?
14.
How far can the adjustable footrest be lowered?
15.
How much wider are the handlebar grips?
16.
What are the advantages of the ‘Petal Discs’?
17.
What brand of aluminium handlebars are standard on the KX450F?
18.
What color are the front number plate and rear fender on the 2013
model?
19.
What is the compression ratio?
20.
What is fuel tank capacity?
21.
What is the curb mass?
22.
What is the special coating on the inside of the outer fork tubes and inside the rear
shock tank cylinder?
23.
What are the advantages of this coating?
24.
What is the diameter of the new PSF?
25.
How many transmission gears on the on 2013 KX450F?
Answers next page.
KX450F 2013 Answers
1.
1st & 2nd plus neutral.
P7
2.
Retards the ignition timing.
P7
3.
Depress the LC button for 2 seconds or more, located on the left P7
4.
3 (standard, soft and hand) plus Launch Control, 4 in total.
P8
5.
7 preset maps and 6 hours data logging.
P9
6.
3° forward
P12
7.
Pneumatic Spring Fork
P12
8.
Lighter weight, easy adjustability, wide setting range, reduced
friction, increased bottoming resistance.
P15
9.
750 grams (approx)
P13
10.
Using the supplied special adaptor and an aftermarket
shock air pump with a suitable pressure gauge.
P16
11.
25% lower friction
P17
12.
DLC = Diamond Like Carbon Coating
P17
13.
4 positions, rearwards 10 mm, STD, forward 15 mm and
forward 25 mm (35 mm range)
P18
14.
5 mm lower
P19
15.
10 mm wider hand grips
P20
16.
Reduced weight and help clean the pads
P21
17.
Renthal.
P21
18.
White.
P22
19.
12.5:1
P25
20.
6.2 litres
P26
21.
112.5 kg
P26
22.
Kashima Coat
P18
23.
The Kashima Coat reduces friction and smooths the
suspension action.
P18
24.
48 mm
P25
25.
5-speed transmission
P25