Honda and Kawasaki both are popular and trusted manufacturing brands for bikes. Honda and Kawasaki have a long-standing reputation for building durable and reliable motorcycles. Their dirt bikes are known for their longevity and ability to withstand tough off-road conditions.
Both these brands are very popular among beginners as well as experienced riders. They launched many popular dirt bikes, in which buyers are always confused about which model is suitable for them. Honda’s CRF450R and Kawasaki’s KX450F dirt bikes are among them.
The top speed of the CRF450R is around 80–90 mph (128–145 kph) and the top speed of Kawasaki KX450F is 143 kmph.
Engine
Both bikes have high-performance 449cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke, manual transmission engines.
Honda CRF450R produces impressive horsepower, typically around 55.2 horsepower, offering strong acceleration. KX450 engine churned out 51.9 hp and 32.6 lb. -ft.
| Honda CRF450R | Kawasaki KX450F | |
| Engine Type | 450cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder | 449 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Bore And Stroke | 96.0mm x 62.1mm | 96.0 x 62.1 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.5:1 | 12.8:1 |
| Valve Per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Transmission | Close-ratio five-speed, Manual | five-speed, Manual |
Honda CRF450R and Kawasaki KX450F typically feature a 5-speed manual transmission with close gear ratios, facilitating smooth and precise shifting.
Suspension
Both bikes come with top-notch suspension components. Honda CRF450R comes with 49mm inverted front forks and a Pro-Link rear suspension system, offering superb handling and control. On the other hand, the Kawasaki KX450F comes with a 49 mm inverted telescopic fork with adjustable compression.
These models are equipped with powerful front and rear disc brakes, ensuring precise and effective stopping power.
| Honda CRF450R | Kawasaki KX450F | |
| Front Suspension | 49mm inverted Showa fork with 13-position rebound and 15-position compression-damping adjustability; 12.2-inch travel | 49 mm inverted telescopic fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping |
| Rear Suspension | Pro-Link Showa single shock with adjustable spring preload, 11-position rebound and six-position high- and low-speed compression-damping adjustability; 12.4-inch travel. | New Uni-Trak with adjustable dual-range (high/low speed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping and adjustable preload. |
| Front Brake | Single 260mm disc with twin-piston caliper | Single 270 mm, disc |
| Rear Brake | Single 240mm, disc | Single 250mm, disc |
| Front Tire | Dunlop MX33 80/100-21 | 80/100-21 |
| Rear Tire | Dunlop MX33 120/80-19 | 120/80-19 |
Dimensions
The Honda CRF450R is designed to be lightweight, weighing in at approximately 106 kilograms (234 pounds), providing agility on the track.
The Honda CRF450R’s fuel tank capacity is typically around 6.3 liters (1.7 gallons), compared to the Kawasaki KX450F’s 1.6 gallons, allowing for extended riding.
| Honda CRF450R | Kawasaki KX450F | |
| Wheelbase | 58.3 inches | 58.46 inches |
| Rake/Trail | 27.1°/4.5 inches | 27.6˚/4.8 inches |
| Seat Height | 38 inches | 37.6 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 13.2 inches | 13.4 inches |
| Fuel Capacity | 1.7 gallons | 1.6 gallons |
| Curb Weight | 245 pounds (Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel) | 242.5 pounds |
The seat height of the Honda CRF450R bike is usually set around 960 mm (37.8 inches). On the other hand, the seat height of the Kawasaki KX450F is around 38 inches, which is not much of a difference. But for some riders, it matters.
Conclusion
So in the end I would like to say that both the dirt bikes can be a better choice. A Honda dirt bike is the best for trail and city riding. Honda is also the first choice for beginner riders as it is easy to handle. Kawasaki Dirt Bikes can be a choice for experienced riders who want a more powerful motorcycle.