2014 Kawasaki KX250F and KX450F: FIRST LOOK
Cycle News Staff | June 20, 2013
For 2014, Kawasaki made minor renovations to its already proven KX250F and KX450F motocrossers. Of the two, the KX250F received most of the changes.
The big news is the addition of Launch Control Mode to the new KX250F. The 450 has had LCM for a couple of years now, but the 250 gets it for the first time. When activated by a switch on the handlebar, LCM alters mapping, toning down the hit of the power a bit through first and second gears, letting the rider not worry so much about precise throttle control – just open it up and go! Click into third gear and mapping automatically returns to normal.
Changes to the transmission should make shifting easier and smoother under a load, which should also help out on the starts.
A new forward engine mount has been redesigned for rigidity purposes. The end result, Kawasaki says, is improved front-end feel and controllability.
The 250 also takes on revised suspension settings up front for a plusher feel, mainly while under hard braking.
The 2014 Kawasaki KX450F is pretty much the same bike as before. It retains its “air fork” but gets new graphics and softer (and shorter) handlebar grips.
Prices have not yet been announced.
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