The new 2014 KX85 has more power and updated suspension.
The 2014 Kawasaki KX85 sees many changes, including getting a new motor and improved suspension. Kawasaki says the new KX85 has increased low-end and midrange torque and 20 percent more peak power because of a new cylinder head, piston and revised KIPs power-valve, among other things. There’s also a larger radiator said to have 52 percent more cooling capacity. And to improve durability, the crankshaft is now 2mm larger. The KYB shock is 150 grams lighter and has a new clicker-type compression damping adjuster for more precision adjustments. The 36mm cartridge fork has new shim-type valving and firmer damping rates. The new KX should feel a lot different in the ergo department. It has slimmer radiator shrouds, a flatter seat and fuel tank, a .4-inch lower seat height, and wider and more adjustable handlebars.
Designed to be that perfect stepping stone between the KX85 and the KX250F, the updated KX100 gets many of the same enhancements as the new KX85. Changes to its 99cc two-stroke motor result in what Kawasaki claims is a 17-percent increase in peak power, and it should maintain that power boost longer because of its 52-percent larger radiator. It also shares the same suspension and ergonomic upgrades as the KX85. Kawasaki has not yet announced an MSRP for either bikes or a release date.
Here’s what Kawasaki says about their new bikes:
2014 Kawasaki KX85
The KX85‘s new more-powerful 85cc two-stroke engine boasts numerous improvements to increase its already potent peak output by 20%, with better low-end and mid-range torque. No doubt, the KX will nab more holeshots than ever before, but the improved torque also makes it more suitable for riders whose motocross skills are still in development. Other race-proven features, such as an advanced perimeter-frame chassis package, 36mm cartridge fork up front with 20-way compression damping adjustability and a fully adjustable Uni-Trak shock out back provide excellent handling characteristics and superior tracking to tame the nastiest, most challenging racetracks.
The KX85’s engine bristles with performance- and reliability-improving changes that are sure to keep it ahead of the pack. Starting at the top, its cylinder head features a smaller squish band with a narrower angle and a shallower combustion chamber for increased power, while a new cylinder head gasket with a 1mm increase in bore surface height is held in place with an additional dowel pin to prevent detonation and increase engine reliability. The KX’s durable, Nikasil-plated cylinder also features a larger exhaust port that is optimally shaped for better flow, improving peak power at wide open throttle. A new piston with a longer piston pin improves durability, while the piston’s new single-ring design reduces cylinder wall friction for even better engine response.
All of this added power goes hand in hand with changes to improve the KX85’s factory-racer replica character, such as new carburetor jetting specs for its 28mm Keihin PWK carburetor, which features a crescent-shaped slide that positions the needle closer to the intake ports for optimized fuel atomization and smoother fuel delivery throughout the powerband. Further enhancing the KX85’s mid-range and top-end power is a revised Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS) with new independent slider valves for each port that replace the previous 3-piece design, reducing maintenance and further improving reliability.
More durability improvements can be found in the KX’s crankshaft, which is now 83mm, 2mm larger than the previous model, and features a precisely shaped resin block added to the crankshaft to close the gap around the machined area near the crank pin. The resin block reduces the volume of the bottom-end to increase intake transfer. The result? A design that not only boasts increased rigidity and durability but that also helps to further increase power to boot. More power usually generates more heat, but the KX85’s new radiator increases cooling capacity by nearly 52% to improve engine life and reduce the chance of engine overheating during grueling motos.
The KX85’s six-speed transmission delivers smooth and positive shifting along with extreme durability thanks to its hard chrome-finished shift fork ends, a thick base on the clutch basket housing and an additional bushing on the input shaft.
It takes a race-proven suspension package to put all the KX85’s horsepower to the ground, and the new Uni-Trak linkage equipped KYB reservoir shock and re-tuned inverted KYB 36mm forks are up to the task of tackling the roughest motocross terrain. Just like its big brothers, the KX85’s fork now features shim-type valving and firmer damping for faster riders while also offering superior bottoming resistance, but a wide range of adjustability allows it to be tailored for precise damping to fit a variety of riding styles as well as track conditions. Out back, the new shock’s black-anodized aluminum body is 150 grams lighter, while a new clicker-type adjuster makes fine-tuning the rear suspension damping quick and easy.
New petal-type brakes improve the KX’s stopping power, too. The 220mm front and 184mm rear rotors deliver strong, efficient braking performance while the shape of the petals helps clean the brake pads—a real plus in muddy conditions. The front brake hose is now routed behind the axle for better protection, and it also gets new hose guides that are just like the guides on the big KX models. The KX85 also wears new Dunlop Geomax MX51 intermediate tires that provide optimal grip over varying terrain and riding conditions.
The KX85’s high-tensile steel perimeter frame is reinforced in key areas to maintain Kawasaki’s legendary handling traits and work in perfect harmony with the more potent engine, improved suspension and more powerful brakes, but significant ergonomics and styling changes greatly improve the KX’s overall look and feel. Its 32.7” tall seat height is .4” lower than the previous model to best fit a wide variety of growing inseams. More adjustability than ever before is available on the KX85, thanks to a new wider and taller handlebar, three-position handlebar risers and two-position handlebar clamps that offer a total of six different handlebar positions to custom tailor rider ergonomics for a comfortable fit.
Of course, if you ride anything but a KX85, the only time you’re likely to see one at the track is when it is standing still, and the KX’s bold new styling gives it a championship-winning look even when it is parked. A new fuel tank with a 20mm lower fuel cap, slim radiator covers and side panels blend harmoniously with a new, flatter two-tone seat that features a seamless cover and gripper material to expand cockpit room and increase rider comfort. A new angular front fender, number plate and white rear fender not only match the big KX models, the front fender also help to reduce mud accumulation, while new wrap-around fork guards protect the inner fork tubes and seals. Last but not least, a new brushed finish on the aluminum swingarm matches the big KXs and helps keep the KX85 looking fresher longer.
Completing its factory-racer styling, the KX85 is finished off in Kawasaki’s signature lime green with eye-catching detail appointments such as blue alumite coatings on the adjusters and black alumite coating on the rims, just like Villopoto’s factory KX450F.
Those who race their KX85 at designated events are eligible to receive support from Team Green, Kawasaki’s amateur racing support program. For over 30 years, Team Green has provided regional support vehicles and highly trained technicians at more than 100 events per year throughout the United States, offering technical information and assistance to those who race Kawasaki products. Kawasaki also offers a comprehensive contingency program for amateur and professional riders who place well at designated events.
KX85 Specifications:
Engine: Two-stroke single with KIPS
Displacement: 85cc
Bore x stroke: 48.5mm x 45.8mm
Cooling: Liquid
Carburetion: Keihin PWK38
Induction: Crankcase reed valve
Compression ratio: 10.9:1 (low speed) –9.0:1 (high speed)
Ignition: Digital CDI
Transmission: Six-speed
Final drive: Chain
Frame: High-tensile steel perimeter design with subframe member
Rake / trail: 29 degrees / 3.8 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 36mm inverted telescopic cartridge fork with 20-way compression damping / 10.8 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: UNI-TRAK single-shock system with 24-way compression and 21-way rebound damping, plus adjustable spring preload / 10.8 in.
Front tire: 70/100×17
Rear tire: 90/100×14
Front brake / rear brake: Hydraulic disc / Disc
Overall length: 72.0 in.
Overall width: 30.1 in.
Overall height: 43.3 in.
Ground clearance: 11.4 in.
Seat height: 32.7 in.
Curb weight: 165.3 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 1.32 gal.
Wheelbase: 49.8 in.
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: TBD
2014 Kawasaki KX100
The new KX100 feature many of the same changes as the KX85.
The Kawasaki KX100 represents a natural step in the progression of any budding young motocrosser who has outgrown the 85’s, but could still stand to grow a few more inches, gain a couple more lbs. or simply put in a little more seat time before jumping aboard a powerful, full-sized KX250F. The new KX100 offers the perfect blend of a proportional power increase and a physically larger chassis for a more gradual learning curve en route to the big bikes.
The KX100’s liquid-cooled two-stroke engine delivers more power by virtue of its greater displacement. Its 99 championship-bred cubic centimeters deliver hard-hitting power and a broader power curve than the KX85, thanks in part to the proven Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS) which amplifies the KX100’s low-end torque and creates a more seamless transition to its furious top-end rush. Crisp throttle response is also assured through the KX100’s 28mm Keihin carburetor and carbon-fiber reed valve assembly, while a durable, smooth-shifting six-speed transmission offers the perfect ratios for tackling any obstacle on the track.
The KX100’s host of performance- and reliability-improving changes start at the top of its capable engine. A new cylinder head gasket with a 1mm increase in bore surface height is held in place with an additional dowel pin to prevent detonation and increase engine reliability. The KX’s durable, Nikasil-plated cylinder also features a larger exhaust port that is optimally shaped for better flow, improving peak power at wide open throttle. A new piston uses a single piston ring, rather than two rings, to reduce cylinder wall friction for even better engine response.
The power increase warranted changes to maintain the KX100’s bold yet flawless power character. Its 28mm Keihin PWK carburetor receives new jetting specs for optimized fuel atomization and smoother fuel delivery throughout the improved powerband. Further enhancing the KX100’s mid-range and top-end power is a revised Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS) with new independent valves for each port that replace the previous three-piece valve design, reducing maintenance and further improving reliability.
More durability improvements can be found in the KX’s crankshaft, which is now 83mm, 2mm larger than the previous model, and features a precisely shaped resin block added to the crankshaft to close the gap around the machined area near the crank pin. The resin block reduces the volume of the bottom-end to increase intake transfer to boost power as well as increasing rigidity and durability. More power usually generates more heat, but the KX100’s new radiator increases cooling capacity by nearly 52% to improve engine life and reduce the chance of engine overheating during grueling motos.
The KX100’s six-speed transmission delivers smooth and positive shifting along with extreme durability thanks to its hard chrome-finished shift fork ends, a thick base on the clutch basket housing and an additional bushing on the input shaft.
All of the engine improvements to bolster the KX100’s class-conquering horsepower would be worthless if the suspension couldn’t put that power to the ground, but a new Uni-Trak® linkage equipped KYB reservoir shock, and revised valving in the KYB 36mm inverted fork help ensure that the KX100 can thrive in the roughest motocross terrain. Just like its big brothers, the KX100’s fork now features shim-type valving and firmer damping for faster riders while also offering superior bottoming resistance, but a wide range of adjustability allows it to be tailored for precise damping to fit a variety of riding styles as well as track conditions. Out back, the new shock’s black-anodized aluminum body is 150 grams lighter, while a new clicker-type adjuster makes fine-tuning the rear suspension damping quick and easy.
New petal-type brakes improve the KX100’s stopping power, too. The 220mm front and 184mm rear rotors deliver strong, efficient braking performance while the shape of the petals helps clean the brake pads—a real plus in muddy conditions. The front brake hose is now routed behind the axle for better protection, and it gets new hose guides that are just like the guides on the big KX models. The KX100 also wears new Dunlop® Geomax MX51 intermediate tires that help provide optimal grip over varying terrain and riding conditions.
The KX100’s high-tensile steel perimeter frame is reinforced in key areas to maintain Kawasaki’s legendary handling traits and works in perfect harmony with the more potent engine, improved suspension and more powerful brakes, but significant ergonomics and styling changes greatly improve the KX’s overall look and feel. Its 34.3” tall seat height fits a wide variety of growing inseams. More adjustability than ever before is available on the KX100, thanks to a new wider and taller handlebar, three-position handlebar risers and two-position handlebar clamps that offer a total of six different handlebar positions to custom tailor rider ergonomics for a comfortable fit.
The KX100, also looks as fast as it runs, thanks to bold new factory racer styling that is virtually identical to the big KX models. A new fuel tank with a 20mm lower fuel cap, slim radiator covers and side panels blend harmoniously with a new, flatter two-tone seat that features a seamless cover and gripper material to improve cockpit room and increase rider comfort. A new angular front fender, number plate and white rear fender not only match the big KXs, but the front fender also help to reduce mud accumulation, while new wrap-around fork guards protect the inner fork tubes and seals. Last but not least, a new brushed finish on the aluminum swingarm helps keep the KX100 looking fresher longer.
Completing its factory-racer styling, the KX100 is finished off in Kawasaki’s signature lime green with eye-catching detail appointments such as blue alumite coatings on the adjusters and black alumite coating on the rims, just like Villopoto’s factory KX450F.
Those who race their KX100 at designated events are eligible to receive support from Team Green, Kawasaki’s amateur racing support program. For over 30 years, Team
Green has provided regional support vehicles, highly trained technicians and free technical support at more than 100 yearly events, offering technical information and assistance to those who race Kawasaki products. Kawasaki also offers a comprehensive contingency program for amateur and professional riders who place well at designated events.
KX100 Specifications:
Engine: Two-stroke single with KIPS
Displacement: 99cc
Bore x stroke: 52.5mm x 45.8mm
Cooling: Liquid
Carburetion: Keihin PWK38
Induction: Two-petal reed valve
Compression ratio: 10.2:1 (low speed) – 8.7:1 (high speed)
Ignition: Digital CDI
Transmission: Six-speed
Final drive: Chain
Frame: High-tensile steel perimeter design with subframe member
Rake / trail: 29 degrees / 4.3 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 36mm inverted telescopic cartridge fork with 20-way compression damping / 10.8 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Uni-Trak single shock system with 24-way compression and 21-way rebound damping plus adjustable spring preload / 10.8 in.
Front tire: 70/100×19
Rear tire: 90/100×16
Front brake / rear brake: Hydraulic disc / Disc
Overall length: 75.6 in.
Overall width: 30.1 in.
Overall height: 43.3 in.
Ground clearance: 13.0 in.
Seat height: 34.3 in.
Curb weight: 169.7 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 1.32 gal.
Wheelbase: 51.6 in.
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: TBD
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