First Look: 2010 Kawasaki KX85

By: ChrisWorden

Posted: 06/24/09

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For the growing, young rider ready to step it up to the next level or slightly older beginners looking to start racing, the Kawasaki KX85 is a youth racer's dream. Powered by a liquid-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder 84cc engine that generates race-winning power, the KX85 is packed with high-tech features such as an electrofusion-coated cylinder with a narrow squish band and large-volume combustion chamber to boost top-end power.

Its 28mm Keihin carburetor features a crescent-shaped slide, which permits positioning the needle closer to the intake ports, optimum fuel atomization and smoother fuel delivery throughout the powerband. Further enhancing the KX85's tractable power delivery are the Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS) and tuned exhaust pipe that provides better drive out of the corners and a linear power delivery for young riders of varying skill levels.

The KX85's six-speed transmission delivers smooth and positive shifting along with enhanced durability thanks to hard chrome-finished shift fork ends, a thick base on the clutch basket housing and an additional bushing on the input shaft.

A high-tensile steel perimeter frame, with a specially designed gas tank that sits inside the frame, keeps the fuel load and center of gravity low for improved handling – yet another beneficial feature borrowed from KX85's larger siblings.

Long-travel suspension at both ends helps to smooth out the roughest course for riders of every size and skill level. The 36mm inverted cartridge fork features 18-way compression damping adjustability, while out back, spring preload, compression and rebound damping are all adjustable on the proven UNI-TRAK rear suspension system.

The KX85 sports a black frame that is wrapped in lime green body panels, black shrouds, new lightweight black aluminum wheels, and aggressive graphics. The end result is a factory-look racer with factory-like performance.

Those who race their KX85 at designated events are eligible to receive support from Team Green, Kawasaki's amateur racing support program. Each year, Team Green provides regional support vehicles and highly trained technicians at more than 100 events 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.

Authentic Kawasaki Accessories are available through Kawasaki dealers. Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, personal watercraft, utility vehicles and recreation utility vehicles through a network of more than 1,475 independent retailers, with an additional 8,000 retailers specializing in Kawasaki general purpose engines and hand-held power products. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,300 people in the United States, with 400 of them located at KMC's Irvine, California headquarters.

Kawasaki's tagline, "Let the good times roll.", is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand has become synonymous with powerful, stylish motorcycles for over four decades. Information about Kawasaki's complete line of recreational products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.

Features and Benefits

Liquid-cooled, Two-stroke, Single-cylinder 84cc Engine

• Lightweight Electrofusion-coated cylinder improves heat transfer while resisting abrasion and seizure
• Bridges between intake and exhaust ports are machine finished for less wear and improved reliability
• Liquid-cooling means even-running temperatures and consistent power output
• Rotor comes with rare-earth magnets – the unitized piece is small, light and more efficient with low inertial moment to improve low-rpm response
• Connecting rod big-end bearing has more rigid cage for improved durability
• Intake port shape and cylinder skirt allow cooling air into the crankcase chamber
• Primary gear is secured using a lock-nut to help reduce mechanical noise
• Metafoam gaskets for the generator and water pump covers improve sealing

Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System (KIPS)

• KIPS system varies exhaust-port height for increased horsepower and torque at all rpm
• Produces a broad powerband with more low-end torque and mid-range, while retaining excellent top-end power
• Breather in KIPS cover improves high-rpm and overrun performance

Airbox

• Large right-side cutout improves airflow for increased power
• Reusable foam air filter

28mm Keihin PWK Carburetor

• Large crescent slide positions the needle closer to intake ports for ideal fuel atomization, providing quicker throttle response and a smoother power delivery
• Carburetor adjustable for various conditions

Exhaust System

• Features large-diameter O-ring and groove on exhaust pipe for improved durability and easy installation
• Aluminum silencer is re-packable like larger KX models

Clutch

• Thick base clutch hub rides on needle bearings for smooth action
• Large clutch plates are 119mm in diameter for durability and control
• Clutch-release lever ratio is designed for light clutch lever action
• Clutch plate service cover simplifies maintenance and utilizes a metal-carbon composite gasket

Six-speed Transmission

• Positive shifting action and rugged durability
• Fifth and sixth gears on the input shaft ride on bushings for added reliability
• Shift forks are hard chrome finished to resist wear and seizing
• Convenient oil level window
• Bushings on the second, third and fourth gears on the output shaft increase durability

High-tensile Steel Perimeter Frame

• Wide footpegs for better control, made of cast steel for strength
• Thick footpeg mounting brackets withstand today's rigorous tracks
• Engine and chassis bolts have rust-resistant coating

Fuel Tank

• Gas tank design lowers center of gravity for improved handling

UNI-TRAK Rear Suspension

• The swingarm uses large cross-section beams for improved rigidity and control
• Cast-aluminum drive chain adjuster sections for easy chain adjustments
• Shock is fully adjustable for compression and rebound damping and spring preload

36mm Inverted Cartridge Fork

• Inverted forks are rigid, providing better steering response and control
• Compression damping is 18-way adjustable
• Aluminum upper fork tubes measure 49.5mm in diameter for flex-free performance

Front and Rear Disc Brakes

• Front brake lever shape offers better feel
• Forged-aluminum rear brake pedal is strong, lightweight and features two seals at the pivot for smooth operation and increased durability
• Strong braking power is achieved with minimal effort

Front and Rear Wheels

• New black coated, lightweight aluminum rims offer a factory look
• Rear hub features two wheel bearings on the drive side of the hub for durability
• Large rear-axle diameter for optimum rigidity

Graphics

• Aggressive Kawasaki lime green and black graphics complement the black frame
• Black colored lightweight aluminum wheels