The 2024 Kawasaki KX450 is an all-new generation of Kawasaki’s flagship motocrosser, redesigned from top to bottom. It has a reworked engine, a new frame, revised Showa suspension, new bodywork, and new electronics, priced at $10,499.
The 449cc DOHC single gets reworked intake and exhaust ports, new valves, a downdraft intake, and a center exhaust port. Power is up over the previous model, yet delivery is smoother and more linear, with strong low-rpm torque and a steady pull through the overrev. The goal is a 450 for all rider levels, not just aggressive racers.
A handlebar map switch selects Normal or Mild engine modes, and two-level traction control and launch control are standard. The free Rideology The App KX smartphone app replaces the old coupler kit, letting riders fine-tune fuel and ignition maps, monitor engine data in real time, and keep maintenance and setup logs.
The aluminum perimeter frame is new to fit the revised engine. It gives the KX450 sharper turn-in than previous generations while keeping its high-speed stability.
Showa’s 49mm coil-spring fork uses inner tubes the same size as those on the factory race bikes, and new O-ring material reduces friction. The Showa shock is 32mm shorter to clear the downdraft intake, with the same stroke. Travel is 12.0 inches front and 12.1 inches rear.
The brakes are a four-brand mix—a Brembo caliper with a 270mm Braking disc up front, and a Nissin caliper with a 240mm Sunstar disc in the rear. Dunlop Geomax MX34 tires are standard.
New bodywork eliminates hook points, adds grip area, and narrows the shrouds. The air filter is accessible without tools, ODI lock-on grips are standard, and the footpegs and handlebar are adjustable. The KX450 weighs 248 pounds wet, has a 37.8-inch seat height, and comes in Lime Green.
Benda motorcycles are beginning to make a ripple on US shores with four intriguing and competitive models, courtesy of its partnership with Keeway Group. We were impressed with the Napoleonbob 500 and have now gotten our gloves on the persuasive, entry-level 2026 Benda Chinchilla 300, with its modest MSRP of $4999. It would be difficult to design a more welcoming entry-level cruiser than this easy-handling, visually appealing boulevard bobber. Editor Don Williams and Associate Editor Kelly Callan discuss the Benda Chinchilla 300 and how it actually rode for them.
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Our guest this episode is Jesse Merriman, Chief Technician for Jeremy McWilliams at the Arch Motorcycle racing project. Arch Racing was founded by Gard Hollinger and Keanu Reevs to compete in the Moto America Super Hooligan race series. Teejay Adams chats with Jesse about the Arch motorcycle and the challenges of extracting the absolute most from an air-cooled V-Twin racing engine and custom chassis.
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Here’s quick reminder to check out our monthly digital magazine. It’s filled with everything you want to read on motorcycling, including some things you’ve probably not seen elsewhere. It’s absolutely free and you will find it on the Apple App Store and of course on Google Play as well.
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