Yamaha Yz 450 F vs Kawasaki Kx 450
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Yamaha Yz 450 F
Kawasaki Kx 450
Horsepower (hp)
62 hp
55 hp
Torque (Nm)
52 Nm
52 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
145 km/h
145 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
110 kg
110 kg
Type
Motocross
Motocross
Horsepower
~62 hp @ 9,500 rpm (note: figure based on modern 2020+ models; earlier models ranged 55-60 hp)
~55 hp @ 9,000 rpm (estimated; Kawasaki does not officially publish power figures — note: dyno results typically range 53–58 hp)
Torque
~52 Nm @ 7,500 rpm (note: estimated based on published dyno data for recent models)
~52 Nm @ 7,500 rpm (estimated; official figures not published — note: best estimate based on dyno data)
Top Speed
~145 km/h (note: estimated under optimal conditions on a straight; varies by rider and terrain)
~145 km/h (estimated; gearing and terrain dependent — note: best estimate, not manufacturer-specified)
Weight
110 kg (wet/curb weight, based on 2020+ models)
110 kg (curb weight, 2023 model)
Fuel
Estimate: ~6-8 L/100km under typical motocross/off-road riding conditions (note: highly variable depending on riding intensity; not designed for road use)
Estimated 6–9 L/100km (note: highly variable depending on riding intensity; off-road/motocross use is not standardized for fuel economy testing)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Yamaha Yz 450 F
8.5/10
"An unforgiving elite machine that rewards experienced, mechanically-aware riders only."
Pros
+Bulletproof engine when maintained
+Reverse cylinder improves balance
+Electric start on later models
Cons
−Brutal for inexperienced riders
−Maintenance intervals are short
−Suspension wears quickly hard use
Kawasaki Kx 450
8.5/10
"A brilliant 450 that rewards experienced riders who buy smart."
Pros
+Factory suspension genuinely excellent
+Explosive yet manageable power
+Strong resale value retention
Cons
−Unforgiving if neglected
−Steep learning curve
−Consumables burn fast
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
