Built around Kawasaki's enduro - offroad motorcycle platform, the 2012 Kawasaki KLX450R utilizes a 449 cc (27.4 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke layout. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 96.0 x 62.1 mm (3.8 x 2.4 inches) with a 12.0:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the KLX450R measures 126 kg (278 lbs) wet (curb). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 935 mm (36.8 in) seat height — reflecting a long-travel chassis stance that favors ground clearance and off-pavement control, combined with a 1,480 mm (58.3 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 8-liter (2.1 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 9 indexed model years from 2012 to 2023, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Standover Height
935 mm (36.8 in)
Engine
Displacement449.0 ccm (27.40 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Compression12.0:1
Bore x Stroke96.0 x 62.1 mm (3.8 x 2.4 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin FCR40
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionDigital AC-CDI
LubricationForced lubrication, semi and #8209;dry sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypePerimeter, aluminium
Rake28.0°
Trail122 mm (4.8 inches)
Front Suspension48 mm upside-down AOStype telescopic fork with
Front Travel305 mm (12.0 inches)
Rear SuspensionUni-Trak with 22-way low-speed, 2 turns or more high speed compression damping, 22 way rebound damping and adjustable spring preload
Rear Travel315 mm (12.4 inches)
Wheelbase1480 mm (58.3 inches)
Ground Clearance315 mm (12.4 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre80/100-21
Rear Tyre120/90-18
Front BrakesSingle disc. Semi-floating petal disc, dual piston caliper
Front Brake Ø250 mm (9.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Petal disc, single piston caliper
Rear Brake Ø240 mm (9.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.126.0 kg (277.8 pounds)
Seat Height935 mm (36.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
