2009 Kawasaki KX450F First Ride Photo Gallery

MotoUSA puts in some laps aboard the all-new 2009 Kawasaki KX450F at Muddy Creek MX Park in Blountville, Tennessee.

Monster Energy Kawasaki's Tim Ferry checks out the new tool of his trade.

Where the '08 KX-F sometimes struggled with front tire grip, the new bike bites into the dirt agressively.

This is the optional KX-FI calibration tool that attaches atop the ECU. It give you the ability to tune the fuel and ignition maps on your KX-F as well as store and view up to six hours of riding data.

A platoon of brand-new '09 KX450Fs.

A larger and lighter resin-skid plate offers more engine protection.

The only parts carried over onto the new bike are the wheels, tires and brakes.

Our 6-foot-plus tester said that the ergonomics weren't at all cramped for his size.

New for '09 is the Monster Energy KX450F with black bodywork and wheels, green hubs and silver frame; and of course Monster Energy graphics. MSRP is $7749.

Visually, the KX-F wears new body panels with the shrouds and side number plates being made from dual-injection-molded plastic. This allows multiple colors (green, black and white) to be used on a single plastic piece.

The 2009 Kawasaki KX450F at Muddy Creek MX Park.

Airing it out on the new KX450F.

Suspension compliance and balance has also been significantly improved. Specifically action through the entire stroke was far more responsive than the '08 machine.

A fresh DLC (diamond-like-coating) on the lower tubes and a new Kashima inner coating reduce stiction and increase fork action.

Footpegs have grown by 4mm and provide and provide a more stable base for your feet.

The 2009 KX450F got Tim Ferry's seal of approval.

Multi-time AMA Motocross Champion, Jeff Emig really dug the new FI-equipped KX450F.

Although the high level of grip provided by Muddy Creek's tacky soil certainly assisted rear wheel traction, the smooth power delivery and complaint rear suspension really gets the bike off the corner in a hurry.