2011 Kawasaki Dirt Bikes

Call them dirt bikes, motocross or simply off road bikes, Kawasaki offers the KLX series and the KX series. For 2011 Kawasaki offers seven KLX dirt models along with the Stockman. The motocross department is covered by the five-model KX series range.

Entry level KLX110/110L
They say good things come in small packages and so it is with the KLX110. Along with the KLX110L, both these dirt bikes are designed for fun. They are perfect to introduce the younger rider to the sport, designed specifically for youngsters aged 13 and above, as well as mini-moto enthusiasts. They can handle rider weights up to 70kg. Both bikes share similar features, including the 112cc air-cooled four-stroke engine, which uses CDI ignition, specialised cam timing and Keihin PB18 carburettor to deliver smooth responsive power. There is a keyless (electric) on/off switch located on the left handlebar for quick and easy starting along with the option of kick starting.

The KLX110 has an auto clutch and 4-speed transmission, with the manual clutch in the KLX110L allowing riders to master full control of shifting the wide ratio 4-speed transmission. These models are track ready with sturdy front and rear suspension and a high tensile steel backbone frame built to tackle the rough stuff. The KLX110L has a slightly longer travel suspension, revised spring rates and damper settings to allow increased rider weight limits.

KLX140/140L
Moving up a notch, the KLX140 provides the ideal transition for riders stepping up from the KLX110 models. These KLX140 models are powered by a 144cc 4-stroke air-cooled SOHC engine that is easy to operate and maintain, and delivers a high level of reliability. It combines low end power with a top end that revs out to approximately 10,500rpm before hitting the rev limiter, which smoothly cuts power in the over-run for better control at high rpm. The 140L has an improved 5-speed transmission mated to a progressive manual clutch.

Further enhancing off road capabilities is the high tensile KX-based perimeter frame and flat footpeg. An aluminium swingarm provides both lightweight and increased strength. The high performance suspension features 33mm telescopic front forks matched to a 5-way preload adjustable rear shock absorber. Both KLX140 models feature Petal disc brakes at the front and rear for efficient braking performance.

Of course, all Kawasaki dirt bikes look the part with KX inspired race livery.

KLX250S
This dual-purpose machine is just as happy blasting down to the shops as it is tackling a fire trail. Sporting a 249cc 4-stroke liquid cooled DOHC engine, electric starter, 6-speed transmission and an all-digital instrument console, this is a robust bike for an experienced off roader or a learner, as it is LAMS approved.

It has a serious suspension with 16-way adjustable 43mm upside down cartridge forks combined with Unit-Trak shock rear suspension, a combination that delivers good road holding and outstanding off road performance. There is a new, more relaxed seating position, with a straighter handlebar that moves the hand position up and in, while footpegs are positioned closer to the bikes centreline for improved off road riding. A narrow 7.7-litre fuel tank contributes to the comfortable riding position, while KX style chain adjusters make for quick wheel changes and adjustments.

The 250S has distinctive styling. The front cowl and headlight are sharply designed and the rear tail light improves rear visibility, while the two piece rear fender is easily removed. Fairing is blunt and aggressive.

The Stockman
This is a uniquely Australian model, designed to perform in harsh conditions on the farm.

Featuring 50cc more engine capacity than any other ag-bike, the Stockman is a tough workhorse. A torquey 249cc 4-stroke OHC engine powers it. Like the KLX250S models, the Stockman features no-fuss electric starter and 6-speed transmission.

Farm friendly features include dual side stands, handy clutch lever lockout for quick dismounts, robust Uni-Trak rear suspension and rubber gaiters keep the debris away from the front fork seals, and there is a stainless steel exhaust.

The Stockman is also equipped with carry racks front and rear, which were integrated into the bike's chassis design. The front rack has a handy spring retaining clip for securing light loads, while the sturdy rear rack will carry up to 20kg.

KLR650
Better described as an adventure tourer than strictly an off road bike, Kawasaki classify the KLR650 as part of their dirt bike family. This is a powerful motorcycle with a 651cc 4-stroke, liquid-cooled single cylinder engine, with electric starter matched to a 5-speed transmission. It features a long travel suspension, large 22.1-litre fuel carrying capacity, and renowned reliability. It is capable of a long run, or for trail or desert fun, with a range of accessories to enhance its underlying touring capability.

Beefy 41mm front forks add rigidity, while Uni-Trak suspension and 5-way preload shock absorbers with stepless rebound damping sort out the rear. This bike offers the best of both riding worlds, whether on or off road.

KLX450R
Kawasaki brags that this bike is the fastest off roader ever! It is certainly Kawasaki's lightest, fastest and most powerful big-bore 4-stroke off road race machine ever. Its main components originate from the mighty KX450F motocrosser, adapting them for off-road racing. The KX450F's high-powered, lightweight 4-stroke engine has been tweaked for more low-end torque and is mated to a special wide ratio 5-speed transmission.

The lightweight all aluminium chassis is balanced to provide both quick turning and light handling over any terrain. The high-spec AOS inverted fork and rear suspension from the KX450F has been tuned for off-road competition.

The 449cc engine has been tweaked for low-end torque and has also received a number of enhancements, including a unique upright cylinder design, case hardened connecting rod and crankshaft, special crankcase breather system, twin oil pumps and oil lines built into the engine case to reduce weight and improve reliability.

The KLX450R is a fully road registerable enduro model designed for serious off-road competition.