The mini ranks of motocross is often where the sport's future stars begin to shine brightly, and with so many young racers aspiring to become the Supercross champions of tomorrow, they must have leading-edge machinery that sets them apart from their competitors. The Kawasaki KX85 motorcycle provides the competitive edge these riders need.

Thanks to its liquid-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder 84cc engine, the KX85 provides plenty of race-winning power. It's equipped with high-tech features, such as an Electrofusion-coated cylinder with a narrow squish band and large volume to enhance top-end power. A machined finish to the bridges between the intake and exhaust ports helps prevent seizure and improves engine reliability.

Fuel delivery for the engine is provided by a 28mm carburetor that features crescent-slide to position the needle closer to the intake ports. A Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS®) and exhaust pipe capped with a KX250-style muffler contribute to the KX85's tractable powerband, which provides control for riders of varying skill levels.

A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission, hard chrome-finished shift fork ends, a thick base on the clutch basket housing and an additional bushing on the input shaft for extra durability are all features that make the KX85 shine.

The KX85 stands above the competition with its advanced chassis. It utilizes a high-tensile steel perimeter frame, and a specially designed gas tank sits inside the frame, lowering the fuel load and center of gravity for improved handling-yet another design borrowed from the bigger KX motorcycles.

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 front fork has the capability of 18-way compression damping adjustment. Out back, the spring preload, compression and rebound damping are all adjustable on the UNI-TRAK ?rear suspension system.

Features and Benefits

Liquid-cooled Engine

• Even-running temperatures provide consistent power output
• Lightweight Electrofusion-coated cylinder improves heat transfer while resisting abrasion and seizure
• Bridges between intake and exhaust ports have machined finish for improved reliability

Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System (KIPS®)

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

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

Six-speed Transmission

• The fifth and sixth gears on the input shaft ride on bushings for added reliability
• Positive shifting action and rugged durability
• Shift forks are hard chrome finished to resist wear and seizing
• Convenient oil level window

28mm Keihin PWK carburetor

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

Airbox

• Large right-side cutout improves airflow for increased power
• Foam air filter is reusable after cleaning

Exhaust System

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

High-tensile Steel Perimeter Frame

• Wide footpegs for better control, made of cast steel for strength
• Thick footpeg brackets withstand today's rigorous tracks
• Same strong, lightweight, high-tech material as used on bigger KX models

Fuel Tank

• Gas tank design lowers center of gravity for improved handling 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 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 Inverted Cartridge Fork

• Inverted forks are more 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

• Forged-aluminum rear brake pedal is strong, lightweight and features two seals at the pivot for smooth operation
• Strong braking power is achieved with minimal effort

Front and Rear Wheels

• Rear hub features two wheel bearings on the drive side of the hub for durability
• Rear-axle diameter is large for more rigidity
• Front and rear hubs feature seals to better protect the wheel bearings