I think the answer is, 'It's normal.'
The kdx does NOT disengage with the lever pulled/in gear to the extent of having the trans in neutral. In gear and clutch engaged, it IS harder to start, harder to push.
It just is.
re: º of clutch actuator
That adjustment is accomplished by adding/removing shims under the push rod in the clutch. As skipro sez...if it's greater than 90º to the cable, remove a shim. If it's less than 90º, add one. Likely that is not your problem, cuz the bike should be set up correctly when new. Doesn't hurt to check, though.
..or is it greater/add, less/remove? Well..it's one of 'em! ;) Correct answer is in your service manual. You do have one on the way, right?
Actually the figure is something like 85º, but you get the idea? The largest amount of movement of the clutch is going to happen when the start of the pull and the end of the pull has the 90º angle right in the middle. After a clutch rebuild on my kdx using the XR plates (vesrah from frp), I ended up with more thickness, and the angle isn't perfect.....but it still works fine.
Oh..re: 'extra' play. You do have some, right? Having none wouldn't cause this problem...but you might as well have it right to start with.
Enjoy your new bike! Been to CDave's site to check out 'new bike prep'? They do not come 'ready to ride' off the showroom floor. Well, you won't be riding it for long that way. You'll be replacing suspension parts real soon if you don't service them now!