Kawa-Injected

KAWA-INJECTED

-AMP;LT;PRISM_INDUSTRY-AMP;GT;KAWASAKI-AMP;LT;/PRISM_INDUSTRY-AMP;GT; IS MAKING MX headlines for 2009 with a fuelinjected KX450F. The batteryless EFI system features a 43mm throttle body with a single 12-hole injector, an ultra-lightweight ECU and an in-tank fuel pump.

The engine fires within three rotations of the crankshaft; initial movement energizes the ECU then juices the fuel pump and injector.

A new piston and a reshaped combustion chamber result in a higher, 12.5:1 compression ratio. Crankshaft design uses a larger-diameter AC generator, increasing rotational inertia for improved traction and easier starting.

Chassis changes are many, with a new frame, a revised swingarm, a Kayaba Air-Oil Separate fork with Diamond Like Carbon coating, and a Kayaba shock with a larger, 50mm piston. MSRP is up $500 to $7549.

New, new and new, reads the list of changes to the $6499 ’09 KX250F. Fresh from the knobbies up, it features a lighter, Stifter frame, swingarm and subframe that shave more than 4 pounds off the overall weight of the bike. Engine updates include a new cylinder head, intake and exhaust valves, and a rebalanced crankshaft for reduced vibration, smoother power delivery and increased performance.

With Suzuki and Yamaha announcing minimal changes

to their respective MX lineups, and info on new Hondas not available as we went to press, it looks like Oh-Nine should be a good year to “Let the good times roll.” Ryan Dudek

KX450F

$500 to $7549

KX250F

$6499