In the second year after Kawasaki`s debut to the 450 class the Japanese engineers decided it was time for some changes. Nothing you can see at the first view but a new frame with modified main tubes, new forks and some engine mods could mean a big difference on the track.

We took the green thumper for some nice rides to Southern France and Italy so check out what we found out right here.

[ T e c h ]
After some good results in sales and on the racetracks worldwide the second KXF450 edition received some news.
The bike received a new, tighter aluminum frame and a modified linkage. A new suspension setup was developed and the Kayaba forks now have a nice factory look thanks to dark coated lower legs. This is the first time a stock bike has this feature.

With the titanium foot pegs and -mounts next an all titanium exhaust pipe and nice shaped Renthal bars Kawasaki offers an valuable all around package.
[ C h a s s i s ]
The chassis with it’s new shaped Aluminum perimeter frame feels good on the track. Cornering is easy and the bike has a light and quick feeling. The riding position is on the high side compared to the competition so taller riders might feel more comfortable on the big KXF.
A special feature on the bike is a two-piece radiator shroud. But we still had to take care of mounting bolts as they came loose several times. A healthy dose of tread locker (Loctite, etc.) is the solution to that problem.<br> The rear shock setup is improved too also thanks to the different linkage setup.

The new suspension setup feels well balanced and bottoming resistance is good. The harshness of last years forks is gone so no complaints from the suspension dept.

The brakes are really good and especially the front brake is strong and seems to be one of the best ones in its class.
The Renthal handlebar still feels a little narrow.

[ E n g i n e ]
The engine is strong enough in every situation. It’s equipped with a nice linear powerband the control is easy. Due to the quick throttle response the engine never tends to get out of control and offers a secure feeling.
Useful power can be found at all times, no matter where you hit the powerband. The motor starts with good power at the bottom and pulls strong in the middle. Top end is strong also and good over rev capability. We could find no weak points in this section.
The new 5-Speed transmission works pretty well and you can change the gears smooth and quick.
The clutch work is easy and precise. A nice on-the-fly clutch lever is an up to date feature.

[ On the track ]
The improvements are noticeable and the 2007 KXF450 is a winner. A well balanced chassis and suspension package makes riding fun all the time.

The one extra gear and a nice and smooth powerband are worth to think about buying the big green thumper.
Both engine and chassis are still close to the leading performance on the track. And for a bike in its second year of life we are still amazed.

[ Technical Data ]
Engine
Type: 449 ccm 1-Zyl. 4-stroke DOHC 4 Valve
Bore x Stroke: 96,0 x 62,1 mm
Compression Ratio:12,0:1
Carburetion: Keihin FCR40 with hot start circuit
Ignition: Digital AC-CDI
Transmission:5-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch

Chassis
Suspension/Front: 48mm inverted, cartridge-type telescopic fork
Suspension adjustments, front: 22-way comp. and 20-way rebound damping
Suspension/Rear: UNI-TRAK® single shock system
Suspension adjustments rear: 22-way comp. and rebound damping, spring preload

Brakes/Front: Single semi-floating 250mm disc, dual-piston
Brakes/Rear: single 240mm disc, single-piston

Tires/Front: 90/100-21 51M
Tires/Rear: 120/80-19 57M

Dimensions
Length: 2185 mm
Width: 820 mm
Height: 1280 mm
Wheelbase: 1485 mm
Seat Height: 965 mm
Rake (Caster Angle)/trail: 27,1°/117mm
Dry Weight: 105 Kg
Fuel Capacity: 7,2 Liter
Color: Kawasaki Lime Green