Kawasaki KX250F gets Launch Control for 2014

Publish Date: 

Jun 21, 2013

IRVINE, Calif. - The 2014 Kawasaki KX250F features the Launch Control system found on its larger sibling.
Kawasaki has updated both the KX250F and (less so) the KX450F for 2014. The motocross models will hit showroom floor in mid-July, when Kawasaki will announce pricing.
Launch Control is a first for a 250-class motocross bike. The system maximizes available traction, increasing a rider’s ability to get good starts.
The KX250F’s technology also includes a plug-and-play adjustable ECU, a Separate Function Fork (SFF), new motor mounts, revised suspension tuning and an upgraded transmission.
KX250F improvements, according to Kawasaki:

• The high-tensile steel front-engine mount plates are 29 percent thinner than last year’s steel plates and offer a better mix of chassis rigidity, improved feedback and front-end grip.
• The KX250F’s transmission gears feature four dogs instead of three, for enhanced shift smoothness.
• The shift-fork grooves are more direct to enhance feel at the shift lever.
• The counter-shaft and sprocket retainer design now uses a nut and washer instead of a clip, for a more positive sprocket-to-countershaft interface and simplified sprocket swaps.
• An upgraded crankcase oil jet delivers a stream of oil to the underside of the piston, for enhanced cooling.
• Revised throttle body tuning improves airflow from a closed-throttle, for a smoother idle and enhanced low-end response.
• Revised piston tuning in the left fork leg enhances damping performance through the initial and midstroke.
• Revised rear shock settings provide a more comfortable “baseline” for a wide range of riders.
• Grips feature shorter barrels and are made from a softer material to enhance rider comfort.

The 2014 KX450F is equipped with narrower grips that Kawasaki claims are softer and more comfortable. In addition, the model’s intake cam features slightly less lift, to promote better low-rpm throttle response. The bike's front master cylinder features a knocker-style lever-to-piston interface for improved brake feel and more consistent performance compared with the old piston-type unit