BREAKING: Motocross Racing World Buzzing as Kawasaki Announces New 2026 KX450 2-Stroke Series — U.S. Retail Price Set at \$8,997
May 17, 2025 — Tokyo, Japan / Anaheim, Cus
In a major announcement that has electrified the motocross community, Kawasaki has officially unveiled its long-awaited 2026 KX450 2-Stroke Series, marking the brand’s powerful return to high-performance 2-stroke motocross engineering. The new model, which many have dubbed a “game-changer,” is now in mass production and set to hit selected European dealerships starting May 27, 2025, before making its way to the U.S. market in June
Kawasaki confirmed today that the U.S. retail price will be \$8,997, making it one of the most competitively priced premium 2-stroke motocross bikes in its class. The first batch will land in top-tier American dealerships with limited availability to maintain exclusivity and build anticipation.
“A New Era for 2-Stroke Enthusiasts”
After years of fan speculation and industry rumors, the KX450 2-Stroke is finally real — and it’s built to deliver both nostalgia and innovation. The bike combines the lightweight, aggressive powerband that made 2-strokes legendary, with updated technology and durability that align with modern racing demands.
In an official statement from Kawasaki Racing, Product Development Lead Hiroshi Tanaka said:
> “We listened to the riders. The KX350 2-Stroke is not just a revival — it’s a reimagination. We’ve engineered this bike from the ground up to dominate the mid-size class. It’s fast, light, and ready for the gate.”
The KX450 comes with a host of new features, including:
Fully redesigned 349cc 2-stroke engine with power valve technology
Advanced KYB suspension system tailored for competitive racing
Hydraulic clutch and Brembo brakes for better control and responsiveness
Aluminum perimeter frame for rigidity and reduced weight
Optional ECU tuning kit and app-based diagnostics system
Early test riders from Europe and Japan have already praised the bike’s balance of raw power and control, calling it “a perfect mix of classic aggression and modern finesse.”
Global Rollout Begins May 27 in Europe
Kawasaki has confirmed that European dealerships in key markets — including Germany, Italy, France, and the Netherlands — will receive the first shipments of the KX450 on May 27, 2025 European riders will benefit from region-specific incentives and attractive financing options aimed at both amateur racers and professionals.
Distribution in the United States is scheduled for mid-June, with California, Florida, and Texas being the initial states to receive the first inventory. Kawasaki USA representatives have indicated that demand is already exceeding early forecasts, with pre-orders flooding in from local dealerships and online motorsport retailers.
> “We haven’t seen this kind of excitement in years,” said Tim Renshaw, a sales manager for Kawasaki Motors USA. “This is more than a launch — it’s a statement. Kawasaki is back in the 2-stroke game in a big way.”
Global Expansion to Follow
Following the U.S. rollout, Kawasaki plans to expand distribution to Canada, Australia, South America, and parts of Southeast Asia throughout late 2025 and early 2026.A dedicated global marketing campaign will support the launch, with appearances at major motocross events, demo days, and international exhibitions.
In addition, Kawasaki is reportedly working on a limited-edition KX450 Factory Edition that could feature race-spec parts and exclusive graphics — though that model has yet to be officially confirmed.
As the motocross world watches closely, one thing is clear: the return of the 2-stroke to Kawasaki’s mainstream lineup is not just a revival — it’s a revolution.
