2024 Kawasaki KX450: Lake Elsinore IV Track

Intermediate track laps on the 2024 Kawasaki KX450 - Great new package for 24' and beyond. Fast forward to around 7:30 for some faster pace; Always a good idea to learn a new track slow and analyze where the lines are before really opening it up! Of all the tracks at Lake Elsinore MX, this one's probably the most big bike beginner/novice friendly. Even the dirt is a touch more forgiving than the Vet track. Good day, good flow, and good times on the all-new Kawasaki.
Bike Specs:
2024 Kawasaki KX450
80/100-21 MX34 front at 13.5 PSI and 120/80-19 MX34 rear at 12.5 PSI
Showa suspension
Brembo front brake, Nissin rear with 240 mm rotor
ODI clamp on grips
Stock (zeros) map
Optional airbox insert removed
105 mm sag and 2.5 mm fork height, all clicker positions stock
#kawasaki #kx450 #kx450sr #teamgreen #gopro #motocross #lakeelsinore #ridedunlop #2024

[@stevesmith756]

Thanks for the video I learned more here than any of the magazine videos 👍

[@mxengineer1]

Thanks for the video! You've ridden the 2023 KX450 so what are your thoughts on this 24 KX450: Suspension/chassis/engine/handling/chassis compliance/steering compared to the 23 KX450?

[@CasMoto]

I'm always skeptical with new models, but Kawasaki really did a GREAT job on this new bike! Feels just like a Kawi, stable chassis/good Showa suspension (with firmer forks than the soft 2019-2023's)/with proper 450 power character that's even easier to ride at low rpm's and small throttle openings. With intuitive no tools air filter changes, the Rideology app for more tuning options than ever before, a strong yet controllable Brembo front brake, all-new chassis and shock design that really hooks up with positive action - This is the best 450cc option for over 90% of new bike buyers. That other 10% either A) Get their bikes for free (i.e. factory racers) or B) Love their air forks and constant upkeep... Short answer: I like it, I like it a lot!

[@mxengineer1]

@@CasMoto Thanks for the detailed insights! Seems like lately "all new" is not better - just different (KTM and Yamaha to some extent). It sounds like Kawasaki made some nice improvement - wonder why it gained 4~5 lbs?

[@CasMoto]

@@mxengineer1 Nice improvements for Vet riders and those who think 450's can be too much indeed. Regarding weight: Had to add some electronics to communicate with the Bluetooth activated Rideology app (extra wiring, CCU, etc), the cylinder/head got taller with more material for center port exhaust, longer (+5mm) rod and stronger/thicker main bearings, and the air box has a new over the shock snorkel that was noticeably heavier when Kawasaki laid out a parts table with both 23' and 24' pieces...Don't forget the 120/80-19 Dunlop MX34 rear tire that weighs around a pound more than the outgoing MX33 and also the 120/90-19 MX34 alternative size! Lots of little things, but they all add up.

[@mxengineer1]

@@CasMoto Sounds like it is fairly easy to account for the added weight. Over the upper shock mount "downdraft" intake design like Honda now (along with center exhaust port). Still pulling in heated and dirty air from the rear of the bike - wonder if any other OEM will switch to cool clean air front intake/downdraft like Yamaha? Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

[@victorgailums6784]

@@CasMoto I have seen reviews saying the bike is very slow (how slow can a 450 be anyway?). Anyway, seems like a great bike for a slow C rider like me just doing mx practices for fun. Drawback? It is expensive and heavy so I am looking at getting a leftover 250. either Kawi or Honda.

[@rustypistol8599]

Is this track easier than the vet track? I didn’t ride this last weekend as I’m trying to learn track better being a desert rider mostly and am not very good at track. The vet track was pretty forgiving but this track looks like it has less peaky jumps. Maybe it just appears that way on camera but let me know!! Maybe I’ll ride this one next time. They just said it was harder than vet track so I stayed away this turn.

[@CasMoto]

Not sure about 'easier' than the vet track, but it is more forgiving on the jumps and when bouncing/casing obstacles (in my opinion). I have more fun on this track as it has a good flow and usually a shorter lap-time, which is better when chasing bike setup or making tuning changes. One of the good things about Lake Elsinore MX is the variety: Lots of tracks for every ability. Good question and have fun out there!

[@a_gill242]

Jumps on this track shoot you up a bit more than the vet. I find it way more fun than the vet, it flows extremely well.