Kawasaki KX112 Review: A Powerful Mini Motocross Bike

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Kawasaki KX112 Review: A Powerful Mini Motocross Bike

Hey guys! If you're looking for a serious mini motocross bike, you've probably heard about the Kawasaki KX112. This little beast is designed to bridge the gap between the 85cc class and the full-sized machines. So, is it the right bike for you or your young rider? Let’s dive into a comprehensive Kawasaki KX112 review and break down everything you need to know.

Overview of the Kawasaki KX112

The Kawasaki KX112 is a two-stroke motocross bike that's built for competitive racing. It boasts a powerful 112cc engine, a robust chassis, and race-ready components. Unlike some of the more recreational mini bikes, the KX112 is a high-performance machine that demands respect and skill. It's designed for experienced young riders who are looking to take their racing to the next level.

Key Features and Specifications

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the ride, let's take a look at some of the key features and specifications of the Kawasaki KX112:

  • Engine: 112cc two-stroke single
  • Bore x Stroke: 52.5 x 51.6 mm
  • Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 (low speed) / 8.2:1 (high speed)
  • Fuel System: Keihin PWK28 carburetor
  • Ignition: Digital CDI
  • Transmission: 6-speed, manual
  • Front Suspension: 36mm inverted telescopic fork, 275mm travel
  • Rear Suspension: Uni-Trak single shock, 275mm travel
  • Front Brake: Single 220mm disc
  • Rear Brake: Single 186mm disc
  • Wheelbase: 1,285 mm
  • Seat Height: 870 mm
  • Weight (claimed): 77 kg (without fuel)
  • Fuel Capacity: 5.0 liters

These specs tell a story of a bike built for performance. The 112cc two-stroke engine is the heart of this machine, providing a significant power boost over smaller bikes. The high-quality suspension components ensure that the bike can handle rough terrain and big jumps, and the powerful brakes give riders the confidence to push their limits.

Engine and Performance: Unleashing the Beast

The heart and soul of the Kawasaki KX112 is its 112cc two-stroke engine. This engine is designed to deliver a punchy and responsive powerband, making it a blast to ride on the track. Unlike four-stroke engines, two-strokes are known for their explosive power delivery, and the KX112 is no exception. The Keihin PWK28 carburetor ensures that the engine gets the right amount of fuel and air for optimal performance across the rev range.

Power Delivery

The power delivery of the KX112 is definitely geared towards experienced riders. It has a strong hit in the mid-range, which means you need to be ready to hold on tight when the power comes on. This isn't a bike for beginners; it requires a rider who knows how to manage the power and keep the bike under control. However, for skilled riders, the KX112 offers thrilling acceleration and the ability to clear jumps with ease.

Transmission and Gearing

The 6-speed manual transmission allows riders to make the most of the engine's power. The gearing is well-suited for motocross tracks, providing a good balance between acceleration and top speed. Shifting is smooth and precise, allowing riders to focus on the track ahead. The manual clutch gives riders full control over the power delivery, which is essential for getting good starts and navigating tight corners.

Two-Stroke Advantage

One of the key advantages of the KX112's two-stroke engine is its lightweight design. Two-stroke engines have fewer moving parts than four-strokes, which translates to less weight and quicker acceleration. This makes the KX112 incredibly nimble and responsive, allowing riders to flick it around the track with confidence. The two-stroke engine also produces a distinctive sound that many motocross enthusiasts love.

Handling and Suspension: Riding on Rails

The Kawasaki KX112 isn't just about raw power; it also boasts excellent handling and suspension. The bike's chassis is designed to be both lightweight and strong, providing a stable platform for aggressive riding. The high-quality suspension components ensure that the bike can soak up bumps and jumps without losing composure.

Front Suspension

The KX112 features a 36mm inverted telescopic fork with 275mm of travel. This suspension system is designed to provide excellent damping and control, allowing riders to tackle rough terrain with confidence. The inverted design reduces unsprung weight, which improves the bike's responsiveness and handling. The fork is also adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension to their weight and riding style.

Rear Suspension

At the rear, the KX112 uses Kawasaki's Uni-Trak single shock system, which also offers 275mm of travel. This system is known for its progressive damping characteristics, which means it gets stiffer as the suspension compresses. This helps prevent bottoming out on big jumps and provides a smooth ride over smaller bumps. Like the front fork, the rear shock is adjustable, allowing riders to dial in the perfect suspension setup for any track conditions.

Frame and Chassis

The KX112's frame is constructed from high-tensile steel, providing a strong and durable foundation. The frame geometry is designed to provide a balance between stability and agility, making the bike easy to handle in a variety of situations. The lightweight chassis contributes to the bike's overall nimbleness and responsiveness, allowing riders to change direction quickly and easily.

Brakes and Wheels: Stopping Power and Control

Having a powerful engine and great suspension is only half the battle; you also need to be able to stop effectively. The Kawasaki KX112 is equipped with powerful brakes that provide excellent stopping power and control.

Brakes

The KX112 features disc brakes at both the front and rear. The front brake is a single 220mm disc, while the rear is a single 186mm disc. These brakes provide plenty of stopping power, allowing riders to brake late into corners and maintain control in slippery conditions. The brake levers are adjustable, allowing riders to customize the reach to their hand size.

Wheels and Tires

The KX112 rolls on lightweight wheels that are designed to withstand the rigors of motocross racing. The bike comes standard with knobby tires that provide excellent traction on dirt and other off-road surfaces. The tires are sized to provide a good balance between grip and maneuverability, allowing riders to lean the bike over in corners with confidence.

Ergonomics and Comfort: A Rider-Focused Design

The Kawasaki KX112 is designed with the rider in mind. The bike's ergonomics are tailored to suit young riders, providing a comfortable and confidence-inspiring riding position.

Seat Height and Riding Position

The seat height of the KX112 is 870mm, which is relatively tall for a mini bike. This seat height is designed to accommodate taller young riders who are transitioning from smaller bikes. The riding position is upright and aggressive, allowing riders to maintain control and balance in a variety of situations. The handlebars are adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune the fit to their preferences.

Controls and Levers

The controls on the KX112 are designed to be easy to use and intuitive. The clutch and brake levers are adjustable, allowing riders to customize the reach to their hand size. The throttle is smooth and responsive, providing precise control over the engine's power. The footpegs are wide and grippy, providing a secure platform for the rider's feet.

Who is the Kawasaki KX112 For?

The Kawasaki KX112 is not a bike for beginners. It's a high-performance machine that's designed for experienced young riders who are looking to take their racing to the next level. This bike is ideal for riders who have outgrown their 85cc machines but aren't quite ready for a full-sized 125cc bike.

Skill Level

The KX112 requires a rider who has good throttle control, clutch skills, and overall bike handling abilities. It's a powerful bike that demands respect, and riders who aren't ready for its performance may find it challenging to control. However, for skilled riders, the KX112 offers a thrilling and rewarding riding experience.

Age and Size

The KX112 is typically suited for riders aged 12-16, depending on their size and skill level. The bike's seat height and overall dimensions are designed to fit young riders who are still growing. However, it's important to consider the rider's experience and ability when deciding if the KX112 is the right bike for them.

Pros and Cons of the Kawasaki KX112

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the Kawasaki KX112:

Pros

  • Powerful engine: The 112cc two-stroke engine delivers impressive power and acceleration.
  • Excellent handling: The lightweight chassis and high-quality suspension provide precise handling and control.
  • Race-ready components: The KX112 comes equipped with features like disc brakes, adjustable suspension, and a manual transmission.
  • Good ergonomics: The bike is designed to fit young riders comfortably.

Cons

  • Not for beginners: The KX112's power and performance make it unsuitable for novice riders.
  • Two-stroke maintenance: Two-stroke engines require more frequent maintenance than four-strokes.
  • Fuel mixing: Two-stroke engines require the rider to mix oil with the fuel.

Final Verdict: Is the Kawasaki KX112 the Right Bike for You?

The Kawasaki KX112 is a fantastic mini motocross bike for experienced young riders who are looking for a competitive edge. It offers a potent combination of power, handling, and race-ready features. However, it's not a bike for beginners, and riders should be prepared for the maintenance requirements of a two-stroke engine.

If you're a skilled young rider who's ready to take your racing to the next level, the Kawasaki KX112 is definitely worth considering. It's a thrilling machine that can help you improve your skills and have a blast on the track. Just remember to respect the power and ride within your limits!

So, what do you guys think? Is the KX112 the right bike for you? Let me know in the comments below!