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Written/Tested By: Eddie Laret
In 2024 Kawasaki released their new model KX450 with an all-new frame design. This meant the engine had a few different parts to them as the radiator hose kit was a major change for the 2024/2025 models. They relocated the water temperature sensor and jacket in the middle of the upper radiator hose to the head. The second change was that Kawasaki removed the lower radiator hose from the water pump to the left side lower radiator. It was replaced with a metal tube and a small hose that connected the water pump to the left side radiator. I am sure the design passed all of Kawasaki testing with no issues but the new design has a lot of extra parts compared to the older model.
With our latest 2025 Kawasaki KX450 Garage Build we had the chance to test the Moto Hose “works” silicone Y radiator hose kit. Moto Hose offers this kit in four different colors in blue, red, purple and green. The works style hose kit eliminates the water temperature sensor jacket in the upper hose and the metal tube from the water pump to the left side radiator. Moto Hose uses two solid Y hoses to complete the upper and lower hose kit. The kit also includes two billet aluminum water jackets that connect the hose to the head and water pump. MH also includes a complete hose clamp kit to replace the stock KX crimp style hose clamps.
The installation was a very simple installation as everything fit correctly with no major adjustments needed. You will want to use some seal and o-ring grease when you install the new billet aluminum hose jackets into the head and water pump. This just helps keep the o-ring in place and makes a better seal. After connecting the Y hose kits, tighten up the radiator hose clamps as needed. I don’t recommend cranking the clamps too tight, there is a possibility of smashing the radiator jacket so just make sure the tension is snug. Make sure to fill your coolant back up after your done! I know sometimes us vet riders get excited after a colorful mod, but we have to calm down a bit. After the first couple rides double check the coolant level is full.
The first few rides I noticed a coolant smell when the bike was cooling off. I didn’t find any leaks and the coolant level didn’t go down. Let’s be honest, the look is what makes this kit totally worth it. I felt like I was installing a factory part on my bike. The performance might be that I get a little better flow and safer way to connect the hoses but I will take that and the looks of the kit. The works Y hose kit eliminates a few hose clamps that could potentially cause a failure, so this is a safer purchase. You can order yours on Motohose.com but note that the retail value is $399.99 so this isn’t a cheap mod.
