2013 450 MX Shootout: Kawasaki KX450F

As part of the 2013 450cc motocross shootout, the Dirt Rider crew is breaking down the finer points of each machine and giving you an inside look at what our testriders really think. Next up: The 2013 Kawasaki KX450F. With a host of revisions for 2013, the Kawasaki is a true performance-based bike; taking several design cues from the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team, this stock motorcycle is a reflection of the tricked-out KX-Fs that you see the pros racing. A new air fork is the highlight of the package, with test riders buzzing about the adjustability and performance of the front suspension. The rest of the package is solid as well, with strong motor performance that impressed a wide range of riders.

Here, Dirt Rider Editor Chris Denison chats with Associate Editor Kris Keefer and Test Rider Ricky Yorks about the performance of the green machine. If you like what you see, click on http://www.dirtrider.com/videos/2013-450-mx-shootout-video-part-1-honda-crf450r/ for the video breakdown of the Honda CRF450R, and stay tuned to www.dirtrider.com for three additional video breakdowns of the other bikes in this shootout: the Suzuki RM-Z450, the Yamaha YZ450F and the KTM 450 SX-F. To read the full 2013 450 motocross shootout, pick up a copy of the February 2013 issue of Dirt Rider Magazine, on newsstands now. Enjoy!