2024 Kawasaki KX450 and KX450X

Sandusky26
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Eastern, NC US
12/17/2023 3:29pm

Anyone know if a vortex from a 23 will be able to be mapped for a 24?

Gary Duck
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4/16/2019
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CA US
12/17/2023 3:34pm
DB505 wrote:

Am I mistaken, arnt the KYB forks 48mm, & Showa 49mm ???

Cygrace74 wrote:

Nope, the Sr KYB is just a nicer version of the 250’s KYB set which 250 450 and SR are all interchangeable 

Yes, the KYBs are 48mm and the Showa are 49mm. That's the diameter of the lower tubes even though the clamping area of the uppers is the same to allow them to be interchangeable from each bike. 

1
DB505
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Location
Rowlett, TX US
12/17/2023 3:51pm
DB505 wrote:

Am I mistaken, arnt the KYB forks 48mm, & Showa 49mm ???

Cygrace74 wrote:

Nope, the Sr KYB is just a nicer version of the 250’s KYB set which 250 450 and SR are all interchangeable 

Gary Duck wrote:
Yes, the KYBs are 48mm and the Showa are 49mm. That's the diameter of the lower tubes even though the clamping area of the uppers is...

Yes, the KYBs are 48mm and the Showa are 49mm. That's the diameter of the lower tubes even though the clamping area of the uppers is the same to allow them to be interchangeable from each bike. 

Thanks for the clarification 

1
Saz
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E, FL US
12/17/2023 4:22pm Edited Date/Time 12/17/2023 5:39pm

Just got done riding my 450X in the desert here. Not sure how anyone thinks this bike is slow. Its so linear you're going much faster than you realize, and that's even with the AT81s in soft sand. Bike is amazing, definitely different from my 22SR but not slower. 

5

The Shop

alycium102
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USA, MN US
12/18/2023 8:05am

Don’t want to go through this entire thread and I’m sure this was already asked, buttttt…does the ktm front brake lever fit on the 24 kx450?

TooTallJason
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Denver, CO US
12/18/2023 8:08am

I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my KTM.

However, I'm pretty sure I've already blown a fork seal and I'm not stoked about that.  Forks are squeaking on compression and the right lower feels kinda damp. Is that common on these Showas? 

12/18/2023 8:23am
I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my...

I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my KTM.

However, I'm pretty sure I've already blown a fork seal and I'm not stoked about that.  Forks are squeaking on compression and the right lower feels kinda damp. Is that common on these Showas? 

Not at all.  If I were you, I’d get it back to the dealer ASAP to figure out what is wrong.  As new as that bike is, unless you scratched a fork tube, I’d bet something wasn’t assembled properly.

TooTallJason
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11/10/2020
Location
Denver, CO US
12/18/2023 8:28am
I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my...

I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my KTM.

However, I'm pretty sure I've already blown a fork seal and I'm not stoked about that.  Forks are squeaking on compression and the right lower feels kinda damp. Is that common on these Showas? 

Not at all.  If I were you, I’d get it back to the dealer ASAP to figure out what is wrong.  As new as that bike...

Not at all.  If I were you, I’d get it back to the dealer ASAP to figure out what is wrong.  As new as that bike is, unless you scratched a fork tube, I’d bet something wasn’t assembled properly.

I would do that if I hadn't already had the forks opened up and resprung. 

stax199
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3/7/2012
Location
Brooklyn, NY US
Fantasy
12/18/2023 8:31am
tylerp319 wrote:
Finally got my graphics on and the forks back from anodizing. 

IMG 8794 0Finally got my graphics on and the forks back from anodizing. IMG 8796.jpeg?VersionId=zSe6x7rxNBfhdqIMihiOmiQHH9

Great looking!!

alycium102
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11/14/2017
Location
USA, MN US
12/18/2023 8:45am
I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my...

I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my KTM.

However, I'm pretty sure I've already blown a fork seal and I'm not stoked about that.  Forks are squeaking on compression and the right lower feels kinda damp. Is that common on these Showas? 

Not at all.  If I were you, I’d get it back to the dealer ASAP to figure out what is wrong.  As new as that bike...

Not at all.  If I were you, I’d get it back to the dealer ASAP to figure out what is wrong.  As new as that bike is, unless you scratched a fork tube, I’d bet something wasn’t assembled properly.

I would do that if I hadn't already had the forks opened up and resprung. 

I’m thinking you might wanna be chatting with the guy that did your suspension then. 

2
12/18/2023 8:54am
I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my...

I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my KTM.

However, I'm pretty sure I've already blown a fork seal and I'm not stoked about that.  Forks are squeaking on compression and the right lower feels kinda damp. Is that common on these Showas? 

Not at all.  If I were you, I’d get it back to the dealer ASAP to figure out what is wrong.  As new as that bike...

Not at all.  If I were you, I’d get it back to the dealer ASAP to figure out what is wrong.  As new as that bike is, unless you scratched a fork tube, I’d bet something wasn’t assembled properly.

I would do that if I hadn't already had the forks opened up and resprung. 

Well, looks like we identified the culprit.  I’d get it back to whoever did that right away and tell them to make it right.

2
RGaede
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209
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1/10/2014
Location
Albuquerque, NM US
12/18/2023 10:06am
I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my...

I have about three hours on my bike now and I love it.  It turns so well, and I'm definitely turning faster laps than on my KTM.

However, I'm pretty sure I've already blown a fork seal and I'm not stoked about that.  Forks are squeaking on compression and the right lower feels kinda damp. Is that common on these Showas? 

For the squeaking, check if the brake line is rubbing the guide.   With where i run my levers on a 2019 (and it doesn't look like the guide was updated on the new bike) I actually wear out the guide every 40 hours or so.  If i don't lube up the brake line or guide with some silicone spray it'll squeak when compressing the forks. 

dancolvin633
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685
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6/28/2016
Location
Plumas Lake, CA US
12/19/2023 10:49am
Sandusky26 wrote:

Anyone know if a vortex from a 23 will be able to be mapped for a 24?

The box will work but will need to be re mapped. Also, depending on how old that box is will depend on if the map switch on the bars will work with it. 

1
alycium102
Posts
145
Joined
11/14/2017
Location
USA, MN US
12/19/2023 11:53am
Sandusky26 wrote:

Anyone know if a vortex from a 23 will be able to be mapped for a 24?

The box will work but will need to be re mapped. Also, depending on how old that box is will depend on if the map switch...

The box will work but will need to be re mapped. Also, depending on how old that box is will depend on if the map switch on the bars will work with it. 

Any idea on front brake lever? As in, will a ktm lever fit? 

Brosho
Posts
481
Joined
1/31/2011
Location
Los Angeles, CA US
12/19/2023 2:05pm
Saz wrote:
Just got done riding my 450X in the desert here. Not sure how anyone thinks this bike is slow. Its so linear you're going much faster...

Just got done riding my 450X in the desert here. Not sure how anyone thinks this bike is slow. Its so linear you're going much faster than you realize, and that's even with the AT81s in soft sand. Bike is amazing, definitely different from my 22SR but not slower. 

I have a 22 450SR also and plan on getting the 50th anniversary edition. Why did you choose the 450X?  And is the transmission the same as the non X?

Saz
Posts
249
Joined
7/27/2023
Location
E, FL US
12/19/2023 2:27pm Edited Date/Time 12/19/2023 6:29pm
Saz wrote:
Just got done riding my 450X in the desert here. Not sure how anyone thinks this bike is slow. Its so linear you're going much faster...

Just got done riding my 450X in the desert here. Not sure how anyone thinks this bike is slow. Its so linear you're going much faster than you realize, and that's even with the AT81s in soft sand. Bike is amazing, definitely different from my 22SR but not slower. 

Brosho wrote:
I have a 22 450SR also and plan on getting the 50th anniversary edition. Why did you choose the 450X?  And is the transmission the same...

I have a 22 450SR also and plan on getting the 50th anniversary edition. Why did you choose the 450X?  And is the transmission the same as the non X?

I chose the 450X because I plan to do more off road and desert racing, I was wanting the 18 inch rear wheel and kick stand.  Also since the wheels are interchangeable it essentially allows me to swap parts around if I want to use my 22SR for off road racing, or the 450x for MX. From what I've seen and read Kawasaki claims the 450X model runs softer suspension and shorter transmission gear ratios, but I haven't seen the actual numbers yet to prove whats different.  I've seen people say they have the same transmission but the 450x simply runs a 51t rear sprocket. My 450x came with a 50t rear sprocket, so I'll have to open up the owners manual or service manual and see.

The bike is fast, like really fast. The 22SR does have a harder hit off the initial turn of the throttle, but the 24 450x just goes and goes it puts the power to the ground and before you realize it you're flying. I was pulling from the hole in 3rd gear at times, only felt one or two times I had to fan the clutch a little. Also its extremely, extremely stable under braking, and just soaks up everything.  Part of this I'm sure is because of the 18inch rear wheel vs the 19inch rear wheel to. Were my 22SR is jarring if it hits something square or rocky, the new 450x is comfortable. 

Edit: I checked the 2022 KX450SR Owners manual, the 2024 KX450X Owner's manual, and the 2024 KX450 MX version. According to them the transmission gear ratios are all exactly the same. So I'm not sure what Kawasaki meant by shorter gear ratios or shorter gearing.

Edit 2: I was messing around with a spare set of 2022 OEM Engine mounts and referencing them on the new 2024. It appears the 2022 upper engine hangars will mount in the second set of frame holes. So if you guys have some aftermarket upper hangars from your old gen like FCP. It may be worth a shot to try and throw them on the new 2024 and see if they fit.

2
Nystrom7
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282
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8/17/2018
Location
SE
12/22/2023 1:53pm

Is it possible to read the bike hours from the app?

 

TooTallJason
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626
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11/10/2020
Location
Denver, CO US
12/22/2023 2:00pm
Nystrom7 wrote:

Is it possible to read the bike hours from the app?

 

No.  

Nystrom7
Posts
282
Joined
8/17/2018
Location
SE
12/22/2023 2:12pm
Nystrom7 wrote:

Is it possible to read the bike hours from the app?

 

No.  

Thank you. That would have been nice to be able to do.

12/23/2023 5:47am

I’ve always been a go up one tooth in the rear kind of guy so I rarely need to shift down to second in corners.  Has anyone tried this on the ‘24?  If so, how did it work?

alycium102
Posts
145
Joined
11/14/2017
Location
USA, MN US
12/23/2023 7:27am

Best Kawi I have ever ridden  just a dang ol blast of a good time!IMG 7156.jpeg?VersionId=O6ncI90wFFpbSeA64UaZTA

12
1
12/23/2023 7:39am
Got the first ride in today on the PC Pipe. Definitely has a little better bottom end but the mid range is really where I noticed...

Got the first ride in today on the PC Pipe. Definitely has a little better bottom end but the mid range is really where I noticed a difference. Not much difference on top from what I felt.

Tried 4 maps today. Stock, Chavez, Dirt Bike Mag, and Tickle. The Dirt Bike Mag map was actually really good on the bottom end but signed off early. Wasn’t impressed with the Tickle map. I know I’ll prolly get roasted here for this, but I think the stock map may be the best? Still have a few maps to try and going to build a few on my own.

Stock gearing but I may end up going to a 51 to make 3rd a bit more useable. Still blown away the pull 2nd gear has and how far it pulls on this bike. Definitely going to put a 116L chain on and get the rear axle pushed back. There is some instances where I do feel a little nervous feeling in the front end. I am at 105 sag and 3mm fork height. I haven’t touched a clicker yet to be honest, but the suspension seems to have softened up quite a bit from brand new. As soon as the screenless filter cage shows up I’ll try that as well. 
IMG 3068

Do you happen to have a part number for that exhaust system?  I can't find it through Pro Circuit.

alycium102
Posts
145
Joined
11/14/2017
Location
USA, MN US
12/23/2023 8:05am
Got the first ride in today on the PC Pipe. Definitely has a little better bottom end but the mid range is really where I noticed...

Got the first ride in today on the PC Pipe. Definitely has a little better bottom end but the mid range is really where I noticed a difference. Not much difference on top from what I felt.

Tried 4 maps today. Stock, Chavez, Dirt Bike Mag, and Tickle. The Dirt Bike Mag map was actually really good on the bottom end but signed off early. Wasn’t impressed with the Tickle map. I know I’ll prolly get roasted here for this, but I think the stock map may be the best? Still have a few maps to try and going to build a few on my own.

Stock gearing but I may end up going to a 51 to make 3rd a bit more useable. Still blown away the pull 2nd gear has and how far it pulls on this bike. Definitely going to put a 116L chain on and get the rear axle pushed back. There is some instances where I do feel a little nervous feeling in the front end. I am at 105 sag and 3mm fork height. I haven’t touched a clicker yet to be honest, but the suspension seems to have softened up quite a bit from brand new. As soon as the screenless filter cage shows up I’ll try that as well. 
IMG 3068

Do you happen to have a part number for that exhaust system?  I can't find it through Pro Circuit.

IMG 7188 1.png?VersionId=lsRF0WnsFlbXyRDfQTu6QbQ

3
crc245
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1325
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10/29/2007
Location
Yorba Linda, CA US
12/23/2023 9:55am
I’ve always been a go up one tooth in the rear kind of guy so I rarely need to shift down to second in corners.  Has...

I’ve always been a go up one tooth in the rear kind of guy so I rarely need to shift down to second in corners.  Has anyone tried this on the ‘24?  If so, how did it work?

13/51 with a 116L chain is a good combo on the 24'. Currently run 13/50 and 116L on our 2019-2023's but the new bike responds well to the 51T. Be sure to re-check sag and be willing to play with HS (stiffer) for even better shock action. This simple mod and getting more airflow into the rather closed-off airbox are good starting points for most of us.

12/23/2023 2:07pm

Rode a 24 at the track today. The power talk is extremely overstated. I rode my 19-23 gen kx450 and then rode the 24 and if anything the 24 has better recovery when out of correct gear. Trust me for 99.9% of us the kx has plenty of power. 

8
1
Bow977
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Location
Bakersfield, CA US
Fantasy
12/23/2023 2:27pm

Is the rubber grommet to remove the piece under the battery/at the top of the air box? 

Greenguy
Posts
128
Joined
9/1/2016
Location
Placerville, CA US
12/23/2023 3:20pm

Anyone know why the front brake disc has a different part number on the ‘24? Was hoping to use a ‘23 for a spare wheel set. 

crc245
Posts
1325
Joined
10/29/2007
Location
Yorba Linda, CA US
12/23/2023 3:23pm
Greenguy wrote:

Anyone know why the front brake disc has a different part number on the ‘24? Was hoping to use a ‘23 for a spare wheel set. 

New disc styling, same fitment and 270mm design. Rear needs to be 240mm from here on out, however. Your 23’ wheels fit right on as well. 

Greenguy
Posts
128
Joined
9/1/2016
Location
Placerville, CA US
12/23/2023 3:36pm
Greenguy wrote:

Anyone know why the front brake disc has a different part number on the ‘24? Was hoping to use a ‘23 for a spare wheel set. 

crc245 wrote:

New disc styling, same fitment and 270mm design. Rear needs to be 240mm from here on out, however. Your 23’ wheels fit right on as well. 

Thanks. Yeah I have a 240 rear from a previous conversion. The X model has a different part number from the Moto model too. Figured they would be the same. 

Nate_Z
Posts
206
Joined
12/9/2018
Location
Prior Lake, MN US
12/23/2023 3:46pm

Anybody confirm if the bolt spacing for the rear rotor is the same as previous years? Also, Twin Air has the air filter listed on their website to order!

1

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