Overwhelming basic performance | Lightweight and powerful
The 450 ENDURO Re, a road-legal enduro model developed by the emerging Chinese motorcycle brand KOVE, is scheduled to be released in Japan in August 2026. It is an ambitious model that takes the company’s technology, which has been based on the MX450 motocrosser and pursued competitive performance, and applies it directly to public roads. A key point for its Japanese release is that it meets Europe’s strict environmental regulations, EURO5+, while also achieving both high off-road performance and a lightweight body. We will take a closer look at the appeal of this new enduro model, which has been attracting attention since its announcement, from four perspectives.
At the heart of the 450 ENDURO Re is a water-cooled, four-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder, 449cc engine that produces a maximum output of 47.5PS. This engine meets EURO5+ regulations, while also achieving a high level of ease of handling on public roads and the power required for off-road riding. At first glance, the exhaust has a chamber similar to that of a two-stroke, but this is actually designed to house a catalyst for purifying exhaust gases, and O₂ sensors are installed before and after it. Another notable feature is that this achieves a high level of balance between environmental performance and power output.
With a semi-dry weight of just 120kg, this bike has been thoroughly lightened, achieving the nimble handling you expect from a competition-based bike. This combination of weight and power has the potential to easily surpass the conventional wisdom of road-legal enduro bikes. The light weight not only improves off-road maneuverability and road-holding performance, but also contributes to reducing fatigue during long rides.
High-spec suspension | Performance approaching that of a competition vehicle
The body is constructed with a double cradle frame made of HC700 high-strength steel combined with an aluminum subframe, achieving both rigidity and lightness. The front and rear suspensions are fully adjustable, with a large stroke of 310mm in the front and 290mm in the rear, improving the bike’s ability to absorb jumps and bumps off-road. These figures are on the same level as those of pure enduro competition machines, making it a suspension that can compete not only on paved roads but also on full-scale forest roads and trails.
The wide range of suspension adjustment means that it is possible to fine-tune the settings to suit the rider’s weight, riding style, and riding surface. This allows for both comfort on paved roads and high stability off-road, making it a design that can be used by a wide range of riders, from those trying their hand at full-scale enduro for the first time to those who are already intermediate to advanced riders.
Equipment and design concept for road use
The 450 ENDURO Re is not just a bike with improved off-road performance. In order to be made road-legal, it is equipped with features such as lighting and braking systems in addition to complying with exhaust gas regulations. It also features ABS brakes and a design that enhances stability when riding on paved roads, providing a safe and secure ride not only on forest road touring but also when traveling in the suburbs and suburban areas.
The fuel tank capacity is set at 9.5L, which is an increase from the typical small capacity of a motocross bike. This is intended to increase the cruising range and improve convenience when riding on public roads, and is also highly praised for its practicality, which is conscious of everyday use such as riding around town and touring.
Also, when it was announced at EICMA 2025, it was previously introduced as “DUAL SPORT”, but the name of this official model has been changed to “ENDURO Re”, and this name change is said to imply the meaning of “Regular” (general, easy to use on public roads).
Expected market evaluation and expansion in Japan
Although the price in Japan has not yet been officially announced, it is widely expected to be around 1,000,000 to 1,100,000 yen (tax included). This is a competitive price for a high-performance enduro that meets European standards, and is also thought to help differentiate it from competing models.
The 450 ENDURO Re is sure to make a big impact in the Japanese market as a model that combines the high performance of a motocross base with the flexibility and practicality to meet the diverse needs of riders. Lightweight and easy to handle, yet equipped with full-fledged enduro performance, this bike is ready to provide a new riding experience in a variety of situations, including public roads, forest roads, and touring.
In the growing market for road-legal enduro bikes, the KOVE 450 ENDURO Re will maximize its potential and will surely make its presence felt as a new option for riders. With the launch of sales fast approaching, we’d like to keep an eye out for detailed specifications and impressions.
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