Page 165 of Kawasaki Motorcycles by Kawasaki USA

To further increase the overall racing performance of the engine, we paid a lot of attention to small details in order to reduce engine weight, and increase reliability of its parts and systems. Putting the power to the ground When the gate drops your bike catapults forward with the horde of highly tuned machines. Jostling for position going into the first corner usually an experience just short of an all-out brawl, a quick glance shows that youre alone. The secret to winning races is traction; the combination of usable torque and a good rear suspension set-up. We tuned the engine so that the torque curve follows the limit of running resistance for as long as possible. Unchecked, engine torque can exceed this limit, resulting in wheel spin, which does nothing to help your forward momentum. When we first started developing the new aluminum perimeter frame, we set the centre of gravity and key chassis dimensions (swingarm pivot, output sprocket and rear axle locations) so that the rear tire would drive the bike forward instead of causing it to squat. The engine itself has a very upright orientation, which helps with mass centralisation. Then, with the help of extensive rider feedback, we determined the rear suspension settings (link ratios and rear shock absorber tuning) that would best complement the aluminium frames rigidity balance. Its all about balance Flying over the back triple you land next to another rider. But while his bike seems to freeze for an instant as if collecting its wits on impact, youre already shooting forward. With years of experience designing high-tensile steel perimeter frames for our KX racers, for the KX450F we combined this know-how with the latest technology to design an all-new aluminium perimeter frame: a slim frame composed of a combination of forged, extruded and cast parts. Once we determined the best balance of torsional and longitudinal rigidity for high-level riding, we added complementary front and rear suspension. The handling characteristics from the basic chassis and the settings we have chosen are targeted to allow fast riders ride faster. But we did not stop there. We added a number of works-style components, like highperformance petal disc brakes, a Renthal handlebar and an aluminium skid plate. Then we went over the whole bike, scrutinising each piece (no matter how small) to find ways to trim weight. Even the bodywork is purpose-built to put the rider in a position to ride fast not just in bursts, but for the entire race distance.

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