The EN450, also known as the EN450 "A", represents the First Generation of this model, produced from 1985 to 2004. Designed as a mid-size cruiser, it draws styling inspiration from American V-twin cruisers but features a parallel-twin engine for a more compact and cost-effective package. With a 454 cc liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel-twin engine, this motorcycle offers a comfortable and accessible riding experience, making it a popular choice for riders seeking stylish aesthetics and relaxed cruising. Its engineering quality and reliability have made it a dependable option in its segment, often praised for its comfortable ride and custom cruiser appeal.
This workshop service manual provides comprehensive guidance for the EN450. It covers essential maintenance procedures, including oil changes, valve clearance checks, and spark plug replacement, along with detailed troubleshooting guides for common issues such as carburetor performance and charging system potential. The manual delves into the engine, fuel, ignition, lubrication, cooling, transmission, drivetrain, chassis, suspension, brakes, and electrical systems, offering step-by-step instructions for disassembly, reassembly, inspection, adjustment, and repair. With high-resolution diagrams and technical specifications, this manual serves as an indispensable resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians aiming to maintain and repair the EN450 effectively.
Generation Designation:
First Generation EN450
Generation Years:
1985-2004
Vin Code Digit 5:
A (for EN450-A1 through A3, and subsequent models without significant chassis changes)
Market Segment:
Mid-size Cruiser / Custom Motorcycle
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow 500/600, Yamaha Virago 400/535, Suzuki Intruder 400/750
Design Philosophy:
Styling inspired by American V-twin cruisers, but with a parallel-twin engine for cost-effectiveness and compact design. Focused on comfortable cruising and custom aesthetics.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a stylish, accessible cruiser with a focus on comfortable, relaxed riding.
Geographic Coverage:
Global (primarily North American and European markets based on typical Kawasaki distribution)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Wheels & Tires, Bodywork, Specifications, Troubleshooting, Maintenance
Procedures Included:
Disassembly & Reassembly, Inspection & Adjustment, Troubleshooting Guides, Repair Procedures, Maintenance Schedules, Torque Specifications, Component Testing, Electrical Diagnostics, Carburetor Tuning, Engine Overhaul
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance and adjustments to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical troubleshooting)
Print Quality:
High Resolution (suitable for printing all diagrams and text)
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, Liquid-cooled, DOHC, Parallel-twin
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 x 52.0 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 40-45 HP @ 7,500 RPM (varies slightly by year and market)
Torque:
Approx. 27-30 lb-ft @ 5,500 RPM (varies slightly by year and market)
Carburetion:
Dual Keihin CVK34 carburetors
Fuel Tank Capacity:
12.0 L (3.2 US gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Oil Capacity With Filter:
2.6 L (2.7 US qt)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-40 (API SG or higher)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual
Final Drive:
O-ring sealed chain
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil (API GL-4)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
0.7 L (0.7 US qt)
Overall Length:
2200 mm (86.6 in)
Overall Width:
800 mm (31.5 in)
Overall Height:
1150 mm (45.3 in)
Wheelbase:
1500 mm (59.1 in)
Dry Weight:
187 kg (412 lbs)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 202 kg (445 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Not Specified (typical for motorcycles)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically rated by agencies like NHTSA in the same way as cars)
Braking System:
Dual hydraulic disc front, Drum rear (some later models may have rear disc option)
Front Brake Disc Diameter:
272 mm (10.7 in)
Lighting System:
Halogen Headlight, Incandescent Taillight and Turn Signals
Infotainment System:
None (Classic motorcycle technology)
Driver Assistance Systems:
None
Connectivity Features:
None
Instrument Panel:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, coolant temperature gauge, indicator lights for turn signals, neutral, high beam, oil pressure.
Initial Oil Change:
1000 km (600 miles) or 6 months
Subsequent Oil Change:
6000 km (3750 miles) or 12 months
Valve Clearance Check:
12000 km (7500 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
12000 km (7500 miles)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-40, API SG or higher
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Chain and sprockets, brake pads, fork seals, clutch plates (depending on usage)
Carburetor Issues:
Potential for gumming if fuel sits for extended periods; requires periodic cleaning and synchronization.
Charging System Potential:
Older models may have stator or regulator/rectifier issues; regular checks of charging voltage are recommended.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Regular coolant flushes are important to prevent corrosion and maintain cooling efficiency.
Kawasaki Motorcycle History:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries Motorcycle & Engine division has a long history of producing innovative and performance-oriented motorcycles across various categories, from sportbikes to cruisers.
En450 Design Intent:
Introduced as Kawasaki's entry into the burgeoning mid-size cruiser market, offering a more accessible and user-friendly alternative to larger V-twin cruisers.
En450 Updates:
While the core design remained consistent, minor updates in styling, color schemes, and potentially some component refinements occurred throughout its production run.
Production Span:
1985-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Primary)
Industry Awards:
Not applicable for this model's segment and era; focus was on market entry and styling.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally positive for its styling and comfortable ride, often praised as an accessible entry-level cruiser.
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and relevant regional emissions standards for its model years.