Kawasaki KX85 (2012): Specs, Performance & More!

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Kawasaki KX85 (2012): Specs, Performance & More!

Hey motocross fans! Let's dive into the Kawasaki KX85 2012, a bike that’s been a stepping stone for many aspiring riders. If you're looking for a machine that blends reliability, performance, and a manageable learning curve, the 2012 KX85 might just be your ticket. This article will cover everything you need to know about this awesome bike, from its specifications and performance to its handling and overall value. Whether you're a young rider looking to upgrade or a parent searching for the perfect bike for your child, keep reading – we've got you covered!

Overview of the Kawasaki KX85 2012

The Kawasaki KX85 2012 is a legendary bike in the motocross world. It's known for being a reliable and high-performing machine that helps young riders develop their skills and confidence. This model year continues the KX85's tradition of offering a competitive package in the mini-motocross segment. It’s designed to bridge the gap between smaller beginner bikes and the full-sized motocross machines, making it an ideal choice for riders transitioning to more advanced levels of competition. The bike features a liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine, which provides a snappy and responsive power delivery, perfect for learning how to manage throttle control and power bands. Its robust chassis and adjustable suspension components further enhance its appeal, ensuring it can handle the rigors of motocross tracks while providing a comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride.

Moreover, the KX85's lightweight design contributes significantly to its nimble handling characteristics. This allows young riders to easily maneuver the bike through tight corners and challenging terrains. The ergonomics are tailored to fit smaller riders, ensuring they can comfortably reach the controls and maintain proper riding posture. Kawasaki has also incorporated durable components to withstand the inevitable crashes and bumps that come with learning motocross. This focus on durability, combined with readily available parts and relatively simple maintenance requirements, makes the KX85 a practical choice for both riders and their families. In summary, the Kawasaki KX85 2012 remains a strong contender in the youth motocross category, providing a balanced and capable platform for aspiring racers to hone their skills and chase their motocross dreams.

Key Specs and Features

Let's get into the nitty-gritty details! Understanding the key specs and features of the Kawasaki KX85 2012 is crucial for any potential buyer. This bike isn't just about looking cool on the track; it's about having the right tools to perform at your best. Here's what you need to know:

  • Engine: 84cc, liquid-cooled, two-stroke
  • Bore x Stroke: 48.5 x 45.8 mm
  • Compression Ratio: 10.9:1 (Low Speed) / 9.0:1 (High Speed)
  • Fuel System: Keihin PWK 28 carburetor
  • Ignition: Digital CDI
  • Transmission: 6-speed, manual
  • Front Suspension: 36mm inverted fork with 275mm of travel
  • Rear Suspension: Uni-Trak single shock with 275mm of travel
  • Front Brake: Single 220mm disc with dual-piston caliper
  • Rear Brake: Single 186mm disc with single-piston caliper
  • Wheelbase: 1295 mm (51.0 inches)
  • Seat Height: 865 mm (34.1 inches)
  • Weight (without fuel): 69 kg (152 lbs)
  • Fuel Capacity: 5.5 liters (1.45 gallons)

These specs highlight why the KX85 is such a great bike for young riders. The two-stroke engine provides a strong, responsive powerband that's perfect for learning throttle control and mastering different riding techniques. The adjustable suspension allows riders to fine-tune the bike to their weight and riding style, ensuring optimal performance on the track. The powerful brakes provide ample stopping power, giving riders the confidence to push their limits. All in all, the Kawasaki KX85 2012 is a well-engineered machine that's designed to help young riders reach their full potential.

Performance and Handling

When we talk about the performance and handling of the Kawasaki KX85 2012, we're really getting into what makes this bike so special. It's not just about raw power; it's about how that power is delivered and how the bike responds to rider input. The KX85's engine is designed to provide a broad and usable powerband, making it easier for young riders to control and manage. The Keihin PWK 28 carburetor ensures crisp throttle response, while the digital CDI ignition provides consistent and reliable performance.

The suspension system on the KX85 is another key factor in its excellent handling characteristics. The 36mm inverted fork and Uni-Trak single shock work together to absorb bumps and jumps, providing a smooth and controlled ride. Both the front and rear suspension are adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike to their specific needs and preferences. This is especially important for young riders who are still developing their skills and finding their comfort zone. The lightweight chassis of the KX85 also contributes to its nimble handling. The bike is easy to maneuver and responds quickly to rider input, making it a blast to ride on the track. The brakes are also top-notch, providing plenty of stopping power when needed. The combination of a powerful engine, adjustable suspension, lightweight chassis, and strong brakes makes the Kawasaki KX85 2012 a formidable machine on the motocross track.

Pros and Cons

Every bike has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons of the Kawasaki KX85 2012:

Pros:

  • Strong Engine Performance: The two-stroke engine delivers a punchy and responsive powerband, perfect for developing riding skills.
  • Adjustable Suspension: The adjustable front and rear suspension allows riders to fine-tune the bike to their weight and riding style.
  • Lightweight Handling: The lightweight chassis makes the bike easy to maneuver and control.
  • Reliable Brakes: The powerful brakes provide ample stopping power.
  • Durable Construction: The KX85 is built to withstand the rigors of motocross riding.
  • Readily Available Parts: Parts and accessories are easy to find, making maintenance and repairs a breeze.

Cons:

  • Two-Stroke Maintenance: Two-stroke engines require more frequent maintenance than four-stroke engines.
  • Aggressive Power Delivery: The snappy power delivery can be challenging for beginners to manage.
  • No Electric Start: The KX85 lacks an electric start, which can be inconvenient for some riders.
  • Vibrations: Two-stroke engines tend to vibrate more than four-stroke engines, which can cause fatigue on long rides.

Understanding these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision about whether the Kawasaki KX85 2012 is the right bike for you. While the two-stroke engine requires more maintenance and can be a bit aggressive for beginners, the bike's strong performance, adjustable suspension, and lightweight handling make it a top choice for young riders looking to improve their skills. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the KX85 is right for you is to take it for a test ride and see how it feels.

Potential Issues and Maintenance

Like any machine, the Kawasaki KX85 2012 has its potential issues and maintenance requirements. Being aware of these can save you time, money, and frustration down the road. Because it's a two-stroke, you'll be mixing oil with your fuel. Make sure you're using a high-quality two-stroke oil and mixing it at the correct ratio. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your KX85 running smoothly. This includes changing the oil, cleaning the air filter, and inspecting the brakes and tires.

Common issues to watch out for include: fouled spark plugs, worn-out piston rings, and carburetor problems. Fouled spark plugs can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all. Worn-out piston rings can lead to a loss of compression and reduced power. Carburetor problems can cause a variety of issues, such as poor idling, hesitation, and stalling. To prevent these problems, it's important to perform regular maintenance and address any issues as soon as they arise. It's also a good idea to consult the owner's manual for specific maintenance recommendations. With proper care and maintenance, the Kawasaki KX85 2012 can provide years of reliable performance.

Is the 2012 Kawasaki KX85 a Good Buy?

So, is the 2012 Kawasaki KX85 a good buy? The answer depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you're a young rider looking for a reliable and high-performing motocross bike, the KX85 is definitely worth considering. It offers a great balance of power, handling, and adjustability, making it an excellent choice for riders who are looking to improve their skills and compete at a higher level.

However, it's important to keep in mind that the KX85 is a two-stroke, which means it requires more maintenance than a four-stroke. If you're not comfortable performing regular maintenance, you may want to consider a different bike. Additionally, the KX85's aggressive power delivery can be challenging for beginners to manage. If you're new to motocross, you may want to start with a smaller, more manageable bike before moving up to the KX85. Overall, the 2012 Kawasaki KX85 is a solid choice for experienced young riders who are looking for a competitive motocross bike. Its combination of performance, handling, and adjustability makes it a top contender in its class. Just be sure to factor in the maintenance requirements and power delivery before making your final decision. Considering all these factors, the Kawasaki KX85 2012 holds its value well and remains a sought-after bike in the used market.