2002 KAWASAKI KX85

Following its successful debut in 2001, the Kawasaki KX85 motocrosser returns with several engine, chassis and styling enhancements. Descended from the competitive KX80, the 85 is a strong, durable machine that provides the appropriate competitive edge for young racers who aren't quite ready to make the jump to a larger-displacement KX85 model.

The KX85 makes plenty of power, thanks to its liquid-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder 84cc engine. It's equipped with high-tech features, such as an Electrofusion-coated cylinder with a narrow squish band and added volume to reduce compression and enhance top-end power. Kawasaki added a machined finish to the bridges between the intake and exhaust ports to improve engine reliability and resist seizure.

Engineers also refined the smooth-shifting six-speed transmission. Improvements over last year include the addition of a hard-anodized shift fork, a thicker base on the clutch basket housing, and an additional bushing on the input shaft for extra durability.

Spent exhaust gasses exit the motor via a short, KX250-style muffler, which was fitted with a larger-diameter 0-ring and reshaped groove on the exhaust pipe for easier installation.

The snappy engine is supported by a high-tensile steel perimeter frame, similar to those on bigger KX machines.

The specially designed gas tank lowers the fuel load, and in turn the center of gravity, for improved handling.

This year, it has new square inset nuts to better secure the shrouds and seat base, and sports graphics that match the larger-displacement models.

FEATURES :

Liquid-Cooled Engine

• More even-running temperatures ensure consistent power output
• Electrofusion-coated cylinder improves heat transfer, and resists abrasion and seizure
• Bridges between intake and exhaust ports have machined finish

Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System

• KIPS system controls exhaust-port height for increased horsepower and torque
• Produces a broad powerband with more low-end torque and mid-range, while retaining excellent top-end power

Clutch

• 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
• Base of the clutch basket housing is thicker for improved durability

Six-Speed Transmission

• The fifth and sixth gears on the input shaft now ride on a bushing for added reliability
• Positive shifting action and rugged durability, with a gear for every situation
• Shift fork is now hard anodized to resist wear and seizing
• Provides oil-level window

28mm Keihin PWK Carburetor

• Large crescent slide carburetor positions the needle closer to intake ports for excellent throttle response
• Adjustable for various conditions

Airbox

• Large right-side cutout improves airflow for increased power

Exhaust System

• Features larger-diameter O-ring and reshaped groove on exhaust pipe for improved durability and easier installation

High-Tensile Steel Perimeter Frame

• Wide footpegs for better control, made of cast steel for strength, and use a 10mm pivot for durability
• Thick footpeg brackets withstand today's rigorous tracks
• Sidestand is detachable like larger KX models

Fuel Tank

• Emblazoned with new graphics to match the larger-displacement KX models
• Features new square inset nuts for more secure mounting for the shrouds and seat base

UNI-TRAK@ Rear Suspension

• The swingarm uses large cross-section beams for more rigidity and control
• The swingarm incorporates cast-aluminum drive chain adjuster sections like the big KX models for easy chain adjustments and swingarm rigidity
• Flanged collars are used at the swingarm pivot bearings to protect the seals from mud
• Shock is fully adjustable for compression and rebound damping and spring preload

36mm Upside-Down Cartridge Fork

• Upside down forks are more rigid, providing better steering response and control
• Compression damping is 18-way adjustable and the cartridge design means better action
• The huge aluminum upper fork tubes measure 49.5mm in diameter for flex-free performance

Front and Rear Disc Brakes

• Forged-aluminum rear brake pedal is strong, light and uses two seals at the pivot for smooth operation
• Offer strong braking power with minimal effort

Front and Rear Wheels

• Rear hub features two wheel bearings on the drive side of the hub for increased durability
• Thick spokes are used front and rear for stronger wheels requiring less adjustment
• Rear-axle diameter is large for more rigidity
• Front and rear hubs feature seals to better protect the wheel bearings

SPECIFICATIONS: