2025 Kawasaki KX450X Preview

The KX series is no stranger to podium finishes in the off-road universe, and since the line underwent a fairly major redesign last year, the KX450 motocrosser, 450SR, and cross-country-focused 450X are back for 2025 with no changes. On the 450X, Kawasaki’s engineers updated the 449cc engine’s cylinder head and intake system, modified the aluminum frame, and beefed up the brakes as well as swapping in ODI lock-on grips in 2024. The bike’s previous EFI coupler system was also ditched in favor of power modes and traction control, thus keeping this dirt bike up to date in an ever-competitive class.

To recap, the 2025 KX450X retains the performance and aggressive styling of its KX450 motocrossing brother, but tweaks the setup via cross-country-specific suspension settings, 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels shod with enduro-type tires, and a sidestand to make the package competition-ready. The 21/18-inch wheel combo wears Dunlop AT81 tires exclusive to the X model, and pairs with the 49mm inverted coil-spring fork and fully adjustable Uni-Trak rear suspension inherited from its KX450 stablemate, though the 450X has softer spring rates and damping settings as well as shorter gear ratios to better navigate the cross-country landscape.

Ergos on the 450X were also addressed last year, resulting in new radiator shrouds, slimmer side covers, and a rear fender reshaped to minimize any hangups with riders’ knees and boots, while the handlebar and footpeg positions can be adjusted to fit rider preferences as well. The redesigned airbox now houses a new dome-shaped filter that slides out for easier maintenance thanks to a quick-release side cover, and we also see the returns of the handlebar-mounted Power mode button, allowing riders to quickly and easily switch between Normal and Mild engine mapping in the ECU (further fine-tuning is available via Kawi’s Rideology app). The bike’s selectable traction control (which can be turned off) and launch control features return on the 2025 KX450X as well.

Stopping power comes from the 270mm front petal disc, with a two-piston Brembo caliper and master cylinder arrangement, paired with a 240mm rear disc and single-piston caliper setup. The upgrade has been lauded for noticeably more stopping power than on the previous-gen bikes.

On the styling front, you’ll see no changes to last year’s sculpted bodywork, because it’s still pretty badass. Unfortunately the 2025 Kawasaki KX450X will be available only in the Lime Green color this year, but MSRP only goes up $100, with a starting price of $10,699. It’s in dealers now.