Some of this smooth , user-friendly power has come from the ‘ new downdraft intake that is at a 40-degree angle paired with the new symmetrically aligned intake and exhaust ports ’. That ’ s the tech speak ... from which I took that it creates a more optimised fuel intake flow . The ability to change the mapping with the new bar switch is great . With the click of a button you can swap between the two different maps . The two pre-loaded stock maps are what I ’ d call smooth and super smooth . Both maps encourage riding in a more smooth , consistent manner and leaning towards that more modern style of riding you see the Pro ’ s like Jett Lawrence using . Want the beast to come out ? Ride a gear lower and rev it some more - it hits and it hits hard ! I like that the bike is adaptable enough to cater to whichever way you want to ride . The new bike offers smartphone connectivity using Kawasaki ’ s Rideology App , which allows you to create custom maps for the bike . I didn ’ t get the chance to play around with creating new maps , and really didn ’ t see the need with the way the stock maps work , but it is something that would be super cool to play around with .
WHO ’ S IT FOR ? It ’ s a beast . There ’ s no doubt about that - it ’ s a 450 after all . But ... thanks to the flexibility of the new motor , it ’ s a machine that is suited to a wide range of riders . There ’ s a plenty of ergo ’ adjustment along with a great new engine and well-balanced chassis characteristics . The 2024 KX450 is a bike that most dirt riders will be able to get on board and , with maybe some ergo adjustments , feel like they have made a cracking purchase . Of course , you ’ ll also have bragging rights for one of the prettiest bikes at the track . True Story .
KIWI RIDER 47