🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kawasaki

Model:

EN450

Nickname:

EN450 "A"

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)

👋 Introduction

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.

📋 Manual Details

Geographic Coverage:

Global (primarily North American and European markets based on typical Kawasaki distribution)

Page Count:

206

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

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)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High Resolution (suitable for printing all diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Four-stroke, Liquid-cooled, DOHC, Parallel-twin

Displacement:

454 cc

Bore X Stroke:

74.0 x 52.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

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

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)

📐 Dimensions

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 Features

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

💡 Technology Features

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.

🔧 Maintenance

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.

📚 Vehicle History

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 Launch Year:

1985

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)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

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.