DIRT NEWS
KAWASAKI LAUNCHES CROSS COUNTRY LINEUP
K
awasaki has unveiled its 2021 lineup of KX
models, with Team Green debuting a pair of
fresh new offerings in the form of the new
KX250XC and KX450XC.
Kawasaki New Zealand is yet to finalise pricing
on the 2021 KX models, but we can expect the
first examples of the bright green dirt machines
to roll into dealerships around August or
September this year.
Starting with the motocross line first, for 2021
Kawasaki has built on the successful base that
is the 2020 KX250 and KX450 to improve on
the formula.
In the MX2 machine, the KX250 builds on the
engine changes from the 2020 version to deliver
more power and a higher rev limit, plus an
electric start and hydraulic clutch to put the
cherry on the top of the power plant package.
A new frame based on that of the KX450
contributes to improved handling that Kawasaki
claims will enable quicker lap times. Helping to
achieve that claim is all-new KX450-style
bodywork which has been designed to
facilitate rider movement and control.
Just like in the Vulcan cruiser line, Kawasaki
has enabled the ergonomics of the new KX250
to be easily adjusted to suit the rider with a
choice of four handlebar positions.
With electronics becoming more prevalent in
the sport Kawasaki hasn’t left the KX250 in the
dark ages.
In addition to the three standard engine maps
(switched by the traditional physical DFI plugs)
Big Green is also offering the ability to further
tailor the engine mapping using the optional
KX FI Calibration Kit.
The handheld KX FI Calibration Controller,
which enables riders to adjust engine
characteristics (by rewriting actual data maps)
to suit their preference.
For 2021 the Moto1 KX450 also sees a host of
upgrades. Engine-wise there wasn’t much
Kawasaki needed to change moving into 2021
after the heavy update of the 2020 model year.
In fact, the most noteworthy change is the
adoption of a dry film lubricant coating on the
piston skirt which reduces friction between the
piston and cylinder wall and contributes to
increased performance.
16 KIWI RIDER