Built around Kawasaki's cross - motocross motorcycle platform, the 2008 Kawasaki KX450F relies on a 449 cc (27.4 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, maximum torque reaches 40 Nm (29.5 lb-ft) at 11,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. 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 KX450F measures 99.8 kg (220 lbs) dry. Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 965 mm (38 in) seat height — reflecting a long-travel chassis stance that favors ground clearance and off-pavement control, combined with a 1,486 mm (58.5 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 7.19-liter (1.9 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2008 to 2009, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Standover Height
965 mm (38 in)
Engine
Displacement449.0 ccm (27.40 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Torque40.0 Nm (4.1 kgf-m or 29.5 ft.lbs) @ 11500 RPM
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)
IgnitionMulti-map digital CDI with throttle position sensor (K-TRIC)
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeAluminum perimeter
Rake27.1°
Front Suspension48mm inverted, Kayaba AOS with DLC coated sliders, 22-position compression and 20-position rebound dampening adjustment / 12.4 in.
Rear SuspensionUNI-TRAK® linkage system with 22-position low-speed and variable high-speed compression dampening, 22-position rebound dampening and fully adjustable spring preload / 12.4 in.
Wheelbase1486 mm (58.5 inches)
Ground Clearance345 mm (13.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre90/70-21
Rear Tyre120/80-19
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø250 mm (9.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø240 mm (9.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight99.8 kg (220.0 pounds)
Seat Height965 mm (38.0 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.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
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.
