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2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R Overview
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 449 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Single cylinder, four-stroke engine running DOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.0:1. The bore and stroke measures 96 x 62.1 mm. 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R delivers 56.4 hp @ 8500 rpm of peak power and 50 Nm @ 7500 rpm of torque. From a practical standpoint, the 2008 KLX 450R tips the scales at 115 kg, carries an 8-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 940 mm and spans a 1480 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R compared with other bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category
Here is how the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R stacks up against other bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 1146 models.
- Seat height of 940 mm is taller than that of 852 of the other 1145 bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category.
- Only 284 of the other 799 bikes in the Enduro / Off-Road category have a higher power output than the 41.5 kW of the KLX 450R.
- Narrowing the field to the 480 models within five model years of it, the seat height of 940 mm is taller than that of 341 of the other 479.
2008 KLX 450R - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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⚡
Strong power output: 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R makes 56.4 hp @ 8500 rpm with 50 Nm @ 7500 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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🛑
Strong front braking: The disc front brake gives excellent stopping power and responds well to aftermarket braided lines.
Considerations
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📏
Tall seat height: The 940 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
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⛽
Modest fuel capacity: The 8-litre tank means more frequent fuel stops on longer rides, which is worth planning around on touring routes.
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Chain final drive upkeep: Chain final drive needs regular cleaning, lubrication and tension checks to get full life out of the sprockets.
Wear Points & Servicing Notes
Cooling system servicing
The Liquid cooled system on the KLX 450R needs a coolant change roughly every two years (or per the service schedule) - skipping it lets the coolant turn acidic and corrode the aluminium water passages over time.
Valve clearance checks
DOHC valve actuation on the KLX 450R means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.
Brake disc and pad wear
The disc front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.
Suspension condition on used examples
Up front, the KLX 450R runs 48mm inverted AOS-type cartridge fork with 22-way compression damping and 20-way rebound damping and Uni-Trak® single shock system with 22-way low-speed, two-turn variable high-speed compression damping and 22-way rebound damping at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.
Final drive maintenance
Final drive is by chain - expect to clean and lube it every few hundred kilometres and check tension regularly; a neglected chain wears the sprockets faster than the chain itself.
Frame & chassis check
The frame is Aluminum, perimeter Rake / trail: 27.1 degrees / 4.6 in. - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.
Low-speed handling
At just 115 kg, the KLX 450R is light enough to manhandle easily at a standstill - one of the practical advantages of its class.
KLX 450R - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R with its 449 cc enduro / off-road, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs chain final drive, so check chain slack and sprocket tooth profile specifically - a worn sprocket is a cheaper fix now than after it's chewed up the next chain. Now 18 years old, this enduro / off-road is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained KLX 450R should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the KLX 450R's 449 cc single cylinder, four-stroke. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. With a 12.0:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Carburetor upkeep
Keep the carburetors clean and free of deposits. If the KLX 450R has been stored, strip and clean the carb float bowls before attempting to start it. Pilot jets are the first to block and the last to be checked - always include them in any carb rebuild.
Valve clearance service
Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used KLX 450R. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.
2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R have?
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R uses a Single cylinder, four-stroke engine with 449 cc of displacement. It is liquid cooled.
How much does the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R weigh?
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R weighs 115 kg. This is the manufacturer's dry figure.
How much power does the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R make?
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R produces 56.4 hp @ 8500 rpm of power and 50 Nm @ 7500 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R?
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R has an 8-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 133-160 km between stops.
Is the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R suitable for shorter riders?
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R has a seat height of 940 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.
What brakes does the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R have?
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R uses single 250mm disc 2 piston caliper at the front and single 240mm disc 1 piston caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R use?
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R runs 80/100-21 front and 110/100-18 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R have?
The 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R is fitted with a 5 Speed transmission.
Kawasaki KLX 450R Spec Evolution
The Kawasaki KLX 450R was produced across 11 model years (2009-2023). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2009 |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2015 |
2016 |
2017 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2023 |
| Wet Weight |
- |
126.0 kg / 277.7 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
126.0 kg / 277.8 lbs |
| Seat Height |
940 mm / 37.0 in |
940 mm / 37.0 in |
940 mm / 37.0 in |
935 mm / 36.8 in. |
935 mm / 36.8 in. |
935 mm / 36.8 in. |
935 mm / 36.8 in. |
935 mm / 36.8 in. |
935 mm / 36.8 in. |
935 mm / 36.8 in. |
935 mm / 36.8 in. |
| Fuel Capacity |
8 Litres / 2.1 US gal |
8 Litres / 2.1 US gal |
8 Litres / 2.1 US gal |
8.00 litres / 2.11 gallons |
8.00 litres / 2.11 gallons |
8.00 litres / 2.11 gallons |
8.00 litres / 2.11 gallons |
8.00 litres / 2.11 US gallons |
8.00 litres / 2.11 US gallons |
8.00 litres / 2.11 US gallons |
8.00 litres / 2.11 US gallons |
| Ground Clearance (mm) |
320 mm |
320 mm |
315 mm |
315 mm |
315 mm |
315 mm |
315 mm |
315 mm |
315 mm |
315 mm |
315 mm |
| Ground Clearance (in.) |
12.6 inches |
12.6 inches |
12.4 inches |
12.4 inches |
12.4 inches |
12.4 inches |
12.4 inches |
12.4 inches |
12.4 inches |
12.4 inches |
12.4 inches |
| Fuel Control |
DOHC |
DOHC |
DOHC |
DOHC |
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
| Displacement (cc) |
449.00 cc |
- |
- |
449.00 cc |
449.00 cc |
449.00 cc |
449.00 cc |
449.0 cc |
449.0 cc |
449.0 cc |
449.0 cc |
| Frame Type |
Aluminum, perimeter Rake / trail: 27.1 degrees / 4.6 in. |
Aluminum, perimeter Rake / trail: 27.1 degrees / 4.6 in. |
Aluminum, perimeter Rake / trail: 27.1 degrees / 4.6 in. |
Perimeter, aluminium |
Perimeter, aluminium |
Perimeter, aluminium |
Perimeter, aluminium |
Perimeter, aluminium |
Perimeter, aluminium |
Perimeter, aluminium |
Perimeter, aluminium |
Key Specifications
Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
56.4 hp / 41.5 kW @ 8500 rpm
Torque
50 Nm / 5.1 kg-m @ 7500 rpm
Weight
115 kg / 253.5 lbs
Fuel Capacity
8 Litres / 2.1 US gal
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Full 2008 Kawasaki KLX 450R Specifications
Year
2008 - 09
Colours
Lime Green
Make Model
Kawasaki KLX 450R
Ground Clearance (mm)
320 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)
12.6 inches
Seat Height
940 mm / 37.0 in
Wheelbase
1480 mm / 58.3 in
Ground Clearance
320 mm / 12.6 in
Height
1255 mm / 49.4 in
Length
2180 mm / 85.8 in
Width
820 mm / 32.3 in
Dry Weight
115 kg / 253.5 lbs
Fuel Capacity
8 Litres / 2.1 US gal
Bore x Stroke (mm)
96.0 x 62.1 mm
Displacement (ci)
27.40 cubic inches
Bore x Stroke (in,)
3.8 x 2.4 inches
Displacement (cc)
449.00 cc
Engine Type
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Fuel Control
DOHC
Displacement
449 cc / 27.3 cu-in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel System
Carburettor. Keihin FCE
Bore x Stroke
96.0 x 62.1 mm
Compression Ratio
12.0:1
Cooling System
Liquid cooled
Fuel Induction
Keihin FCR
Ignition
Digital AC-CDI
Lubrication
Forced lubrication, semi and #8209;dry sump
Starter
Electric & kick
Valve System
4
Final Drive
Chain
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission / Drive
5 Speed
Frame Type
Aluminum, perimeter Rake / trail: 27.1 degrees / 4.6 in.
Suspension - Front
48mm inverted AOS-type cartridge fork with 22-way compression damping and 20-way rebound damping
Suspension - Rear
Uni-Trak® single shock system with 22-way low-speed, two-turn variable high-speed compression damping and 22-way rebound damping
Rake
27.1°
Trail
122 mm / 4.6 in
Wheel Travel - Front
285 mm / 11.2 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
278 mm / 10.9 in
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)
9.8 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)
250 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)
9.4 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)
240 mm
Brakes - Front
Single 250mm disc 2 piston caliper
Brakes - Rear
Single 240mm disc 1 piston caliper
Tyres - Front
80/100-21
Tyres - Rear
110/100-18
Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced
technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis.
Spot an error? Let us know.
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