FIRST LOOK! 2023 KAWASAKI KX450 SPECIAL RACER—NOW WITH SHOWA SUSPENSION
10/04/2022 10:50 AM
The KX450SR makes its highly anticipated return for 2023. The KX450SR is Kawasaki’s version of the KTM Factory Edition, Kawasaki Rockstar Edition and Honda Works Edition. The KX450SR (Special Racer)features elite-level racing components, special tuning and design elements to further elevate the stock KX450’s performance. ENGINE: The KX450SR features polished intake ports that provide smoother airflow, contributing to increased engine performance. A close-ratio five-speed transmission is paired with a high-capacity, Belleville washer activated, hydraulic clutch for a consistent feeling even under heavy use.Just like the Monster Energy factory KX450s, a Pro Circuit Ti-6 Pro titanium exhaust has been fitted to increased engine performance. The ECU mapping is exclusive to the KX450SR. FRAME: The KX450SR frame is identical to the stock KX450 frame and swingarm. Both the KX450 and KX450SR are constructed of forged, extruded, and cast parts, while the engine is used as a stressed member. FORKS: For 2023, this high-performance, limited edition Special Racer (SR) is now equipped with Showa front and rear suspension components. Last year, it its first year of production it came with Kayaba forks. The new Showa forks titanium oxide inner fork tubes that resist wear and reduce friction. Large 49mm inner fork tubes are the same size found on Kawasaki’s factory racing team and allow for the use of large 39mm compression damping pistons and a 25mm cartridge cylinder. The inner surface of the outer fork tubes feature Showa’s Dimplush texture, which has a wave-like finish to help retain an oil film for smoother action. The Dimplush texture also has a Kashima coating to create a low-friction surface that helps prevent wear so the sliding surfaces remain smooth for a long time. Holding up the Showa front forks are XTrig ROCS triple clamps outfitted with XTrig’s PHDS (progressive handlebar dampening system) handlebar mounts. This system also helps to dampen the forces acting on the handlebars in both horizontal and vertical directions.The handlebar can be adjusted to 12 different positions for total rider customization. The 22mm front axle enhances front end traction. SHOCK: A Showa rear shock replaces last year’s Kayaba unit rear shock offers high- and low-speed damping dual-compression adjustability so that can be tuned separately. Utilizing feedback from Kawasaki’s factory race teams, the 22mm front axle enhances front end traction. The New Uni-Trak® rear suspension linkage ratios have been selected to suit the chassis. WHEELS: Adorning the KX450SR is a pair of D.I.D. DirtStar wheels, improving the strength and durability under the most challenging conditions on the racetrack. The black coating on the rims emulates the looks of a factory race machine. Further adding to the attention grabbing appearance on the KX450SR is the championship proven combination of a D.I.D. 520ERT3 gold chain fitted to a black Renthal Ultralight aluminum rear sprocket. BRAKES: Stopping duties are handle by an oversized 27mm, petal-shaped, front brake rotor from Braking. The rear rotor is a less than popular 250mm petal-shaped Braking rotor. ERGOS: Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit components feature footpegs that offer 5mm of up or down mounting to go along with the 1q different bar positions STYLING: The 2023 Kawasaki KX450SR showcases special colors & graphics that resemble those found on the Monster Energy Kawasaki team bikes. There is also a Hinson Billetproof clutch cover featuring the Kawasaki race team logo. However, there is no Hinson clutch behind the cover. RETAIL PRICE: $12,699 ($300 more than the 2022 KX450SR and $3100 more than a stock 2023 KX450)) The post FIRST LOOK! 2023 KAWASAKI KX450 SPECIAL RACER—NOW WITH SHOWA SUSPENSION appeared first on Motocross Action Magazine.
