Slaw Dog
The Kawasaki KX™ mini motocross lineup returns even stronger for 2022 with the all-new Kawasaki KX™112, an updated KX™85, and the KX™65. The entire lineup is ingrained with a long list of successes that have stemmed from building champions from the start.
All-new for 2022 is the KX112 supermini racer that bridges the gap to full-size motocross bikes and boasts a powerful 112 cc displacement engine, the largest in its class. It’s joined by the KX85, which shares several new features with its bigger KX112 counterpart, including a stronger transmission, increased cooling performance, Dunlop MX33 tires, and revised styling and ergonomics. The KX65 returns as the most compact bike in the Kawasaki KX™ lineup and the starting point for aspiring champions.
The Kawasaki Team Green™ racing team has been the dominant force in amateur racing for nearly four decades, providing contingency and an unmatched level of trackside support to racers across the nation. Under the Team Green racing program, a trackside support system consisting of local, regional, and amateur motocross and off-road events across the country has been put in place. There, Kawasaki technicians and race transporters can be found providing critical parts and technical assistance to all riders. Kawasaki’s efforts, matched with the input from aspiring young stars, have produced winning products across its lineup.
KAWASAKI KX™112
- NEW class-leading 112 cc two-stroke engine
- NEW stronger 6-speed transmission
- NEW factory-inspired styling
- NEW radiator shroud design
- NEW Dunlop MX33 tires
Building on the strengths of its predecessor, the all-new KX112 offers more race-winning potential in a highly competitive class. The increased power makes the KX112 feel faster everywhere on the track, especially where riders can take advantage of its stronger low-end torque.
The increased displacement on the 2022 two-stroke, single cylinder KX112 comes by way of a 5.8 mm longer stroke and now features a bore and stroke of 52.5 x 51.6 mm. The new engine paired with the powervalve system delivers strong low-end torque that translates to holeshot performance out of the starting gate and a stronger drive when exiting corners. Power and torque are improved across the rev range with peak power significantly greater. Updated intake and exhaust port timing help contribute to the KX112’s stronger low rpm torque, while a revised piston profile improves durability a redesigned contact surface for the piston ring improves the initial bedding-in performance.
In order to reduce the lateral force placed on the piston, and generate more efficient power, the connecting rod was increased by 7 mm. A 4 mm greater crankshaft web offers increased strength to match the greater offset of the crank pin with the new longer stroke engine. The carburetor settings have been fine-tuned to match the all-new engine and contribute to sharp response across the rev range. Complementing the more powerful 112 cc engine is an all-new 6-speed transmission and stronger bearing retainers for the small-end needle bearings, and big-end needle bearings with greater load capacity to help harness the increased engine output. Larger gear dogs improve durability and thrust washers have been added for to improve durability and reduce friction.
A sturdy high-tensile steel perimeter frame was designed in order to harness the engine’s power, offering advantages of strength and torsional rigidity that allows riders to push hard on the track. The chassis is matched with 36 mm inverted front forks that offer excellent damping and bottoming resistance, enabling the all-new KX112 to be ridden hard while maintaining comfort. Riders can fine-tune their settings through 20-way adjustable compression damping. On the rear, Uni-Trak® rear suspension offers preload, 24-way compression and 21-way rebound damping adjustability in order to allow each rider to tailor their settings based on size and skill level.
Similar to the larger KX™ models, petal disc front and rear brakes can be found and are used to achieve strong braking performance. A large-diameter 220 mm front brake is gripped by a dual-piston caliper, while the 184 mm rear disc is held by a single-piston caliper. The KX112’s large 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels nicely bridge the gap between minibikes and full-sized race bikes, accommodating larger youth riders and helping to navigate over the bumps and ruts commonly found on motocross tracks. The wheels are fitted with new Dunlop MX33 tiresthat offer enhancedgrip and control. .
Kawasaki continues its unmatched commitment towards providing riders with unmatched comfort with class-leading ERGO-FIT® adjustable components like an adjustable handlebar mounting system that allows riders to tailor fit their riding style and size by selecting from among six possible handlebar positions. Collars offer a choice of three heights (STD, +5 mm, +10 mm), while reversible handlebar clamps allow two forward/rearward positions (STD, +10 mm FWD).
The bodywork of the KX112 follows along the lines of its bigger KX counterparts by forming a slim ergonomics package that facilitates rider movements and contributes to strong factory looks. The top of the fuel tank design is flat in order to facilitate sitting farther forward to weigh the front wheel when cornering and a slim, flat seat design makes it easier for riders to adjust their riding position. A new shroud design accommodates a wider range of young riders and makes it easier for taller riders to find a good fit on the bike. The minimalist side covers were made as small as possible and the seams between the shrouds, seat, and side covers are flush in order to allow the rider to move around on the bike with ease.
The new aggressive looks, paired with the ergonomic fit that facilitates control, moves the styling of the KX112 closer to Kawasaki’s full-sized motocrossers. In addition to the new aggressive shroud styling, the rims are coated in black alumite just like the vehicles used by Kawasaki’s factory racing team. A green alumite finish on the fork and shock adjusters strengthens the KX family resemblance, while the brushed aluminum swingarm completes the high-quality image.
KAWASAKI KX112
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: $4,999
Availability: Now
KAWASAKI KX™85
- NEW stronger 6-speed transmission
- NEW factory-inspired styling
- NEW radiator shroud design
NEW Dunlop MX33 tires
Built using much of the same race-winning technology as that found on the KX112, the KX85 motorcycle defines a “big bike in a small package” and returns even stronger for 2022 with several new updates that continue to grant young racers the championship-winning advantage they need to sharpen their skills. The KX85 relies on its instantaneous power, nimble handling, and factory-race-inspired styling to reach the checkered flag first.
The two-stroke, single cylinder 84 cc engine is equipped with the highly advanced powervalve system that generates an easy-to-use wide-spread powerband. Just like the KX112, it receives a new, stronger transmission, new Dunlop MX33 tires for improved traction, and a revised shroud design that contributes to a slimmer ergonomics package, aggressive KX styling and increased cooling performance. Championship performance requires power, which is exactly why the KX85 stands above the competition.
KAWASAKI KX85
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: $4,499
Availability: Now
KAWASAKI KX™65
The 2022 KX™65 is the most compact motocross bike in the Kawasaki KX lineup, built to serve as the machine of choice for aspiring motocross racers driven to follow in Kawasaki’s championship footsteps. The durability and reliability the KX models are known for create a dependable platform for young racers. Featuring a six-speed transmission, race-ready engine, strong stopping power, and superb handling, the KX65 builds champions.
Its liquid-cooled, two-stroke 65 cc engine and lightweight chassis deliver strong controllable power and exceptional handling that results in the ultimate recipe for winning races. The 33 mm front forks and four-way adjustable rebound damping are capable of performing at the highest level in aggressive terrain, while the rear is fitted with Kawasaki’s Uni-Trak® single-shock system with adjustable rebound damping and fully adjustable spring preload.
KAWASAKI KX65
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: $3,799
Availability: Now
The Kawasaki KX™ motorcycle range returns stronger than ever for 2022 with its championship-winning packages, including its recently introduced off-road competition models.
Leading the way as the flagship model in the Kawasaki KX range is the KX™450 with a powerful 449cc engine, electric start, Showa A-KIT technology suspension, and a coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch that have proven to capture awards, accolades, and race wins.
All-new in 2021, the 2022 KX™250 remains the most powerful KX250 to date and features a slim aluminum perimeter frame, electric start, and coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch. The KX250 has more AMA motocross and supercross championships combined than any other manufacturer in its class, truly making it the bike that builds champions.
Powered by technology that hails from a legacy of champions, Kawasaki’s KX motorcycle range saw the addition of the KX™450X and KX™250X cross country models in 2021, bringing purposely tuned off-road competition models to the KX lineup. Developed to dominate off-road racecourses in both the woods and the desert, the cross-country KX lineup offers riders the required components for off-road competition straight from Kawasaki along with the dominant engine and chassis performance found on its KX counterparts right off the showroom floor.
KAWASAKI KX™450
As the flagship model in the Kawasaki KX lineup, the 2022 Kawasaki KX450 is built with race-winning components to help get Kawasaki riders to the top step of the podium. Tuned to best suit race-experienced riders, the 449cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine boasts an abundance of power along with a slim aluminum perimeter frame, Showa A-KIT technology suspension, coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch, and electric start to deliver the ultimate championship-winning package.
The 449cc lightweight engine package utilizes input derived directly from the Monster Energy® Kawasaki race team, producing peak power and a torque curve that makes it easy to get on the gas early. The potent KX450 engine features an electric start activated by the push of a button and powered by a compact Li-ion battery. A lightweight finger-follower valve actuation design comes by way of Kawasaki’s top-level road racing technology and World Superbike engineers, enabling larger-diameter valves and more aggressive cam profiles. A close-ratio five-speed transmission is paired with a high-capacity coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch that helps facilitate control and provide a consistent feeling even under heavy use.
A slim aluminum perimeter frame provides precise cornering through excellent front-end feel and agility when riding at high speeds. The frame’s lightweight construction is composed of forged, extruded, and cast parts, while the engine is used as a stressed member and adds to the frame’s rigidity balance. Engineers carefully selected the dimension of the swingarm pivot, output sprocket and rear axle locations to focus on the center of gravity and balanced handling.
High-performance 49 mm coil spring front forks with A-KIT technology can be found up front, featuring large diameter inner tubes that are the same size as those found on the machines of Kawasaki’s factory racing team. The forks enable the use of large damping pistons for smooth action and firm damping. In the rear, a new Uni-Trak® linkage system is connected to the Showa Compact Design rear shock that boasts A-KIT technology with large diameter compression adjusters.
An oversized 270 mm, petal-shaped front brake rotor from the renowned manufacturer, Braking®, is fitted to perfectly complement the powerful engine of the KX450. The rear is equipped with a 250 mm petal-shaped Braking rotor coinciding with the large front disc.
Kawasaki continues its unmatched commitment towards providing riders with class-leading ERGO-FIT® comfort thanks to its adjustable handlebar mounting system and footpegs to fit a variety of riders and riding styles. The factory-style 1-1/8” Renthal® Fatbar® handlebars feature four-way adjustable mounts with 35 mm of adjustability to suit different sized riders. The footpegs feature dual-position mounting points, with a lower position that reduces the standard setting by an additional 5 mm, reducing the knee angle when taller riders are seated.
Complementing the championship-proven technology, the 2022 KX450 maintains its aggressive styling along with in-mold graphics on the radiator shrouds that result in an ultra-smooth surface and racy look needed to finish at the top of its class. The sleek bodywork has been molded to match the V-mounted radiators and narrow chassis design, helping facilitate rider movement and making it easy to slide back and forth.
KAWASAKI KX450
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: $9,499
Availability: Now
KAWASAKI KX™250
With a championship heritage that boasts 18 AMA professional titles and 193 race wins since 2004, the Kawasaki KX250 is the ideal platform for mid-level to expert riders and continues as the best performing bike on track. Its high revving engine, electric start, coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch, and slim aluminum perimeter frame provide the power and handling needed to deliver quicker lap times.
The 249cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine delivers significant low-mid range performance while boasting top-end revs and impressive peak power thanks to its development through Kawasaki’s factory racing efforts. Its electric start system, activated by the push of a button, makes starting easy and convenient and is powered by a lightweight, compact Li-ion battery. The valve train utilizes a finger-follower valve actuation to help achieve a high rev limit and allows for the use of more aggressive cam profiles. A diamond-like coating on the finger followers helps protect against wear. Large-diameter, lightweight titanium valves and a high-performance piston with a dry film lubricant coating contribute to strong performance at all rpm.
A high-capacity coned disc-spring clutch offers a more direct feel and maintains a consistent feeling even as the clutch heats up under heavy use. The airbox construction features a tapered intake funnel for high rpm performance and dual injectors deliver a smooth, instant response, and contribute to engine output at high rpm.
The KX250’s slim aluminum perimeter frame is based on its KX450 counterpart and with lightweight, nimble handling, and slim ergonomics in mind. The lightweight construction is composed of forged, extruded, and cast parts and offers optimal rigidity balance. The addition of a KX450 swingarm delivers the rigidity necessary to match the frame and helps to increase traction at the rear wheel. The center of gravity and key dimensions such as swingarm pivot, output sprocket and rear axle locations have all been carefully selected so that the rear tire drives the bike forward.
Large-diameter 48 mm KYB coil-spring front forks offer optimum action at the initial part of the fork stroke and feature large-diameter inner tubes, enabling the use of 25 mm damping pistons and deliver smooth action and firm damping. A Kashima Coat on the fork’s outer tubes creates a hard, low-friction surface to help prevent wear abrasion on the inside of the tubes. On the rear, a KYB shock unit complements the front fork and features dual compression adjustability, which allows high-speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately. Kashima Coat on the tank cylinder helps prevent wear abrasion and reduces friction. A new Uni-Trak® rear suspension system mounts the linkage arm below the swingarm, allowing a longer suspension stroke and uses the same linkage ratios as that found on the KX450 motorcycle.
Adding to the numerous factory-style racing components on the KX250 are petal disc brakes, which include an oversized 270 mm Braking® brand rotor that delivers strong braking force and superb control. A 240 mm Braking brand disc can be found on the rear and contributes to controllability and optimized stopping performance.
Just like its KX450 counterpart, the KX250 continues with its class-leading ERGO-FIT® comfort thanks to its adjustable handlebar mounting system and footpegs to fit a variety of riders and riding styles. The factory-style 1-1/8” Renthal® Fatbar® handlebars feature four-way adjustable mounts with 35 mm of adjustability to suit different sized riders. The footpegs feature dual-position mounting points, with a lower position that reduces the standard setting by an additional 5 mm, reducing the knee angle when taller riders are seated.
Sleek bodywork with factory-style in-mold graphics help ensure it’s the sharpest looking bike in the paddock and further reflect its highly-tuned performance. The bodywork has been designed to facilitate rider movement with long, smooth surfaces that make it easy to slide back and forth. The fuel tank design allows for a flat progression from the seat to the tank, which gives the rider greater freedom of movement and facilitates sitting farther forward.
KAWASAKI KX250
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: $8,399
Availability: Now
