Market Segment:
Performance Sport ATV
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, racers, and owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge for their KFX450R.
Key Competitors:
Yamaha YFZ450R, Honda TRX450R, Suzuki LT-R450
Vehicle Focus:
High-performance, competition-ready sport ATV built for aggressive riding and racing.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical information required for maintaining and repairing the KFX450R, crucial for maximizing performance and longevity.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox maintenance, final drive unit, lubrication
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front and rear suspension systems (including shocks, A-arms, linkages), steering system, wheel bearings
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, rotor inspection and replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, starter motor, alternator, lighting system, ignition system troubleshooting, ECU diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, throttle body, fuel filter replacement, fuel pressure testing
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, fan operation, coolant type and capacity
Body And Trim:
Body panel removal and installation, seat, handlebar, fender maintenance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug service, brake fluid flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, electrical system troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for the complete disassembly and reassembly of all vehicle components
Technical Data And Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and specifications.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, Single Cylinder, DOHC, 4-valve
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 x 62.1 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 48-50 HP (stock, at crankshaft, varies by year and tuning)
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 40-42 lb-ft (stock, at crankshaft, varies by year and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (DFI) with Dual Keihin throttle bodies (32mm primary, 30mm secondary)
Ignition:
Digital CDI with electronic timing advance
Camshafts:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC)
Valves:
4-valve (2 intake, 2 exhaust)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh with reverse
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc, manual operation
Final Drive:
O-ring sealed chain, drive sprocket, rear sprocket
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific gear ratios. Designed for off-road performance.
Length:
Approx. 72.0 inches (1829 mm)
Width:
Approx. 45.1 inches (1145 mm)
Height:
Approx. 42.1 inches (1069 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 50.0 inches (1270 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 379 lbs (172 kg)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 403 lbs (183 kg) (with all necessary operating consumables)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
2.7 gal (10.5 L)
Safety Certification:
Not applicable in the automotive sense; designed for off-road use and competition.
Braking System:
Dual front hydraulic disc brakes, single rear hydraulic disc brake. Provides strong stopping power.
Suspension Design:
Long-travel, adjustable suspension for terrain handling and stability.
Chassis Construction:
Strong, lightweight chassis designed for durability and handling.
Display Features:
Digital instrument cluster displaying speed, RPM, trip meters, odometer, engine hour meter, and warning lights.
Engine Management:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for precise fuel delivery and improved throttle response.
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with ignition timing advance for optimal power output across the RPM range.
Diagnostic Port:
Diagnostic port for accessing ECU data and fault codes (requires specific Kawasaki diagnostic tools or compatible aftermarket readers).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 10 hours of operation or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 10 hours of operation or as needed based on riding conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically every 100 hours or annually.
Chain Lubrication And Adjustment:
Every 5-10 hours of operation.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically every 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified (e.g., Kawasaki Genuine Oil or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.8 L (1.9 US qt) without filter change; Approx. 2.0 L (2.1 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze (50% solution) with soft water. Kawasaki Coolant or equivalent.
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific transmission oil (often shared with engine oil for wet clutch applications, or a specific gear oil if applicable - consult manual).
Common Wear Items:
Wheel bearings, ball joints, tie rod ends, brake pads, chain and sprockets, swingarm bushings due to off-road use.
Engine Performance Notes:
Some users report potential for bogging under certain conditions; often related to air filter cleanliness, fuel quality, or ECU tuning.
Suspension Setup:
Requires proper setup and adjustment for optimal performance based on rider weight and terrain.
Kawasaki Motorsports:
Kawasaki has a long and successful history in motorsports, including motocross and ATV racing, lending credibility to the KFX450R's design.
Predecessors:
Successor to the highly popular KFX400 (based on Suzuki's LT-Z400 platform), the KFX450R was a ground-up redesign focused on performance and competition.
Key Updates During Production:
Minor updates across the model years, focusing on suspension tuning, ECU mapping, and component refinements. Notably, the 2008 model introduced the fuel injection system.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Motorsport Success:
While not an 'award' in the consumer sense, the KFX450R has been a platform for many successful privateer and factory-backed racers in professional ATV racing events.
Industry Reviews:
Generally well-received by ATV publications for its performance, handling, and competitive chassis, often praised for its power and suspension capabilities.
