2009Kawasaki KLX450R

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The 2009 Kawasaki KLX 450 R is a versatile enduro machine designed for intermediate to advanced off-road riders seeking a capable trail and competition bike. Powered by a liquid-cooled 449cc four-stroke single cylinder engine with 12.0:1 compression, it delivers strong low-to-mid range torque ideal for technical terrain. Its lightweight aluminum perimeter frame and responsive handling make it well-suited for both recreational trail riding and amateur motocross competition.

Capacity: 449.0 ccm
Engine: Single, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Wet weight: 126.0 kg
Seat height: 940 mm
Power: 35.4 HP (26.0 kW)

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What’s new for the 2009 Kawasaki KLX450R

vs the 2008

Spec	2008	2009
Front suspension	48mm inverted AOS-type cartridge fork with 22-way compression damping and 20-way rebound damping / 11.2 in.	48mm inverted AOS-type cartridge fork with 22-way compression damping and 20-way rebound damping / 12.0 in.
Rear suspension	UNI-TRAK® single shock system with 22-way low-speed, two-turn variable high-speed compression damping and 22-way rebound damping / 11.0 in.	UNI-TRAK® single shock system with 22-way low-speed, two-turn variable high-speed compression damping and 22-way rebound damping / 12.4 in.
Front brakes	Double disc	Single disc

Other years 2008 2009 2010 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail97%

Cornering55%

City riding20%

Daily riding20%

Touring15%

Two-up5%

Track20%

Best for: Built as a full-blooded competition enduro/motocross-style machine for trails, motocross tracks, and technical off-road riding rather than street use.
Built for: A high-revving, torquey big-bore thumper with long-travel suspension and razor-sharp handling, rewarding an aggressive, skilled riding style over technical terrain.
Not ideal for: Not suitable for new riders, commuting, passengers, or anyone seeking a comfortable, low-maintenance road or touring bike.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 940mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will not reach the ground comfortably on the 2009 Kawasaki KLX450R, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 449.0 ccm
Power: 35.4 HP (26.0 kW)
Engine type: Single, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2810 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke: 96.0 x 62.1 mm
Compression: 12.0:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric & kick
Ignition: Digital AC-CDI
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, semi and #8209;dry sump
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multiplate

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1481 mm
Overall length: 2179 mm
Overall width: 820 mm
Overall height: 1255 mm
Seat height: 940 mm
Wet weight: 126.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 7.90 litres
Ground clearance: 320 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Aluminum, perimeter design
Front suspension: 48mm inverted AOS-type cartridge fork with 22-way compression damping and 20-way rebound damping / 12.0 in.
Rear suspension: UNI-TRAK® single shock system with 22-way low-speed, two-turn variable high-speed compression damping and 22-way rebound damping / 12.4 in.
Front wheel travel: 305 mm
Rear wheel travel: 315 mm
Rake (fork angle): 27.7°
Trail: 122 mm