Being able to restart an engine quickly during a race can mean the difference between keeping your lead or having to fight your way back through the pack. Electric start makes restarting the engine as easy as pushing a button.

A hydraulic clutch offers direct feel and light lever action. Less play as the clutch heats up during heavy use results in more consistent feeling. The use of coned-disc springs contributes to lighter clutch actuation when the lever has been pulled in, and a wider clutch engagement range, which facilitates control (especially when half-clutching).

Brake components include drilled Braking/Sunstar discs (ø270/240 mm) paired with a Brembo caliper and master cylinder at the front and a Nissin caliper and master cylinder at the rear. The high-performance system offers increased controllability on the brakes, contributing to enhanced corner entry.

Factory-style ø49 mm inverted coil-spring front fork and New Uni Trak rear suspension offer race-ready suspension performance and adjustability to let riders tune their settings to suit conditions. Spring rates and damping settings optimised for the cross-country scene offer increased feedback, especially when riding on challenging trails.

Already highly acclaimed for their slim ergonomics, the KX450X receives redesigned bodywork that offers an even smoother rider interface. Newly designed shrouds, side covers, and rear fender are firmer and eliminate hooking points, further facilitating rider movement.

A choice of four handlebar positions and two footpeg positions allows riders to tailor their riding position to suit body size and preference. Factory-style ø28.6 mm (1-1/8”) Renthal aluminium Fatbar helps reduce vibration and shocks transmitted to the rider, while a lower, closer grip position helps put the rider in a position that makes it easier to weight the front wheel.

Medium-compound ODI Lock-On Grips offer excellent grip feel, while their screw-type fastening system greatly facilitates the task of swapping grips.

Left side cover can be removed without tools, facilitating access to the air filter element. The element is now secured with quick-release hooks (previously a wing bolt), which makes changing the air filter a much simpler task—something that enduro or cross-country racers will especially appreciate.

Convenient side stand comes in handy when stopping away from the paddock area.

Using the Traction (T) button on the left handlebar, riders can quickly and easily select from two levels (Weak, Strong) of traction control to suit conditions and preference. Riders may also elect to turn the system off.

Factory-style launch control system increases the chance of getting a good start by helping riders maximise traction when starting on a low-traction surface.

Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX,” riders are able to access and adjust their bike’s engine maps. Functionality (adjusting fuel and ignition timing) is similar to that offered by the accessory KX FI Calibration Kit used with previous models.  Maintenance and setup logs are also available.