2014 Kawasaki KX85 now available

With two available sizes to suit different sized and aged junior riders, the KX85 is equipped with a 17-inch front and 14-inch rear wheel, while the KX85II features a 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheel.

Completely revamped in virtually all areas, the most notable feature on the 2014-spec KX85 is a more powerful two-stroke engine. The 84cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke single features a new low-friction piston, new KIPS valve, and new cylinder head amongst numerous other updates. Kawasaki claims more power at all RPM, with peak power 19.6 percent greater than the 2013 model, with torque increased, too.

On the rider's side of things, new ergonomics make the KX85 easier to ride, with reduced plastic bodywork, a flatter tank and slimmer, flatter seat. Additionally, the handlebars have been reshaped, and are now six-position adjustable to allow riders to tailor the bar position to suit their size and riding style.

Suspension changes include revised damping and bottoming resistance on the 36mm inverted front forks, which have shorter bottom cases on the axles brackets for 2014, improving front wheel clearance for turns and deep ruts. 20-way compression damping adjustability is standard.

Rear suspension is a revised, lighter Uni-Trak single shock unit, which offers a more stable ride feel and increased adjustability - 24-way adjustable for compression damping, and 21-way adjustable for rebound damping

Braking for the 2014 KX85s has taken a leaf out of the bigger KX motocrossers, with petal disc brakes now fitted as standard. In the same vein, styling and colours is more in line with the factory MX machines, with black alumite rims on both KX85 and KX85 II, as well as black fork guards and blue alumite caps on the suspension adjusters.

Pricing for the KX85 is $6,199 RRP, with the big wheel KX85 II retailing for $6,699. See your Kawasaki dealer for further details, or go to www.kawasaki.com.au

Images: Kawasaki