Page 170 of Kawasaki Motorcycles by Kawasaki USA

The KX450F is equipped with a screw-type cam chain tensioner that incorporates a pressure spring. The advantage this unit has over tensioners with fixed tension, or tensioners without a pressure springs is that this system operates automatically to eliminate the vibration caused by a loose cam chain. Because the system is fully automatic, it greatly reduces the chance of a mishap during a race. Non-automatic systems that are not correctly tuned can actually adversely affect valve timing by putting too much pressure on the cam chain. KX450F is the first KX model to receive a low-friction coating on its piston skirt. Forged piston utilizes a single compression ring to further reduce friction. Aluminum cylinder with chrome composite plating provides rapid heat transfer, superb wear resistance and optimum lubrication retention for increased performance and durability.

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