Kawi Goes Enduro!

KAWI GOES ENDURO!

Another off-road Thumper

The 450cc Thumper enduro wars are heating up. Kawasaki’s new KLX450R is designed to take on Yamaha’s WR450F and Flonda’s all-conquering CRF450X. Despite being based on the KX450F, this is much more than just a motocrosser with lights. The new alloy-framed KLX features different cams, smaller exhaust valves, electric start (but retains the kick lever), a wideratio five-speed transmission, an 18-inch rear wheel, side-entry air filter and a kickstand. It also is equipped with a digital dash that includes an odometer, a trip meter and a speedo. The same Kayaba suspension as on the motocross version is used, minus the low-friction carbon fork coating. It is also, of course, valved for trail use. All the extras are said to add just 22 pounds to the dry weight, which should put it in the 245-pound range. The new KLX also meets off-road emissions and sound requirements for all 50 states, making it green-sticker legal in California. As an early-release 2008, the bike isn’t expected in dealers until early next year.

Ryan Dudek