2022 Kawasaki KX450 Steering Owners Manual

2022 Kawasaki KX450 Steering

Steering

The steering should always be kept adjusted so that the handlebars will turn freely but not have excessive play.

Steering inspection

• To check the steering adjustment, raise the front wheel off the ground using a jack (special tool: 57001-1238) and attachment (special tool: 57001-1608).
• Push the handlebars lightly to both sides. If the handlebars continue moving under its own momentum, the steering is normal.
• Squatting in front of the motorcycle, grasp the lower ends of the front fork at the axle, and push and pull the front fork back and forth as shown. If play is felt, the steering is too loose and needs to be adjusted.
  • A. Push and Rock

Steering Adjustment

• Raise the front wheel off the ground using a jack (special tool: 57001-1238) and attachment (special tool: 57001-1608).
• Unlock the clamp of the number plate.
• Remove the bolt.
• Clear the projections and remove the number plate.
  • A. Clamp
  • B. Bolt
  • C. Projections
  • D. Number Plate
• Remove the handlebars (see Adjustable Ergonomics section).
• Loosen the left and right front fork clamp bolts (upper).
• Remove the steering stem head nut, and raise the steering stem head.
  • A. Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Upper)
  • B. Steering Stem Head Nut
  • C. Steering Stem Head
• Turn the steering stem nut with a stem nut wrench (special tool: 57001-1100 or 57001-1863) to obtain the proper adjustment.
  • A. Steering Stem Nut
  • B. Stem Nut Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1100 or 57001-1863)
• Install the steering stem head to the original position.
• Apply the specified torques to the steering stem head nut and front fork clamp bolts (upper).

Tightening Torque

• Steering Stem Head Nut
  • 100 N’m (10.2 kgf-m, 73.8 ftlb)
• Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Upper):
  • 23 Nm (2.3 kgfm, 17 ft:1b)

NOTE

• Tighten the two clamp bolts alternately two times to ensure even tightening torque.
• Install the handlebar (see Handlebar Position Adjustment), check the steering again and readjust it if necessary.
• Check the front brake for the proper brake effect, or no brake drag.
• Check the clutch lever and throttle for the proper operations.
• Install the number plate, and tighten its bolt to the specified torque.
• Tightening Torque
  • Number Plate Bolt
    • 8.0 Nm (o.82 kgf m, 71 in lb)