With a combination of race-proven performance, durability and value, the KX85 is a great starting point for young racers and their families to begin their relationship with motocross.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2025 Kawasaki KX85: A GREAT STARTING POINT FOR YOUNG RACERS.
Introducing the 2025 Kawasaki KX85…
The KX85 motorcycle brings Kawasaki’s proven performance to the amateur ranks. Proportionate power of the 84cc engine and race-ready technology grant young racers the championship-winning advantage they need to sharpen their skills.
Built using much of the same race-winning technology as that found on the KX112, the KX85 motorcycle defines a “big bike in a small package” and returns as strong as ever in 2025 with the goal to provide young racers the championship-winning advantage they need to sharpen their skills. The KX85 relies on its instantaneous power, nimble handling, and factory-race-inspired styling to reach the checkered flag first.
The two-stroke, single-cylinder 84cc engine is equipped with a highly advanced power valve system that generates an easy-to-use wide-spread powerband. Just like the KX112, it features a 6-speed transmission, Dunlop MX33 tires, a slim ergonomics package, aggressive KX styling and excellent cooling performance. Championship performance requires power, which is exactly why the KX85 stands above the competition.
With a combination of race-proven performance, durability and value, the KX85 is a great starting point for young racers and their families to begin their relationship with motocross.
2025 Kawasaki KX85 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
-
- STRONG 6-SPEED TRANSMISSION
- RADIATOR SHROUD DESIGN FOR OPTIMAL ERGONOMICS AND COOLING PERFORMANCE
- FACTORY-INSPIRED STYLING
- DUNLOP MX33 TIRES
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIQUID-COOLED 2-STROKE ENGINE
- KAWASAKI INTEGRATED POWER-VALVE SYSTEM
- 6-WAY ADJUSTABLE HANDLEBAR MOUNTS
- SOPHISTICATED SUSPENSION COMPONENTS
- AGGRESSIVE STYLING
- OPTIONAL CARBURETOR TUNING JETS ARE INCLUDED TO OPTIMIZE PERFORMANCE BASED ON RIDING CONDITIONS
ADDITIONAL VEHICLE FEATURES:
- High tensile steel perimeter frame
- Adjustable 36mm inverted cartridge forks
- Front and rear disc brakes
- 17-in front wheel and 14-in rear wheel
- ERGO-FIT sizing system with 6-position adjustable handlebar mount
- Team Green contingency race rewards
ENGINE
PROVEN PERFORMANCE
The high-performance, 84cc, 2-stroke engine produces crisp, responsive power and offers proven durability to finish each ride with confidence. A 6-speed transmission and manual clutch allow aspiring racers to hone shifting skills for maximum performance.
SUSPENSION
EXCEPTIONAL CONTROL
The 36mm inverted cartridge fork features adjustable compression damping and enables excellent tuning throughout the impressive 10.8-in of travel. The Uni-Trak rear suspension is just as versatile with a fully-adjustable KYB shock that also features 10.8-in of travel. Dunlop MX33 tires offer excellent grip, slide control, bump absorption and durability.
ERGONOMICS
BUILT TO FIT
The ERGO-FIT sizing system, featuring 6-position adjustable handlebar mounts allows for an ideal ride position, and enables the bike to grow with your young rider. From tall to small, the radiator shrouds accommodate a wide range of rider heights, making it easy to find a comfortable fit on the bike.
PROPORTIONATE PLATFORM
GREEN BEGINNINGS
We’re bringing Kawasaki’s proven performance to the amateur ranks. Proportionate power on a championship-winning platform grants young riders the advantage they need to sharpen their skills.
2025 Kawasaki KX85 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
ENGINE
High-Performance 2-Stroke Engine
• Cylinder head squish area and combustion chamber height designed to help boost power.
• Single-ring piston reduces friction for quick engine response.
• Resin blocks in the crankshaft boost primary compression pressure for more power, while the crankshaft is weighted for maximum rigidity and durability.
• The cylinder is Nikasil plated for increased durability.
• Exhaust and scavenging port shapes help boost power.
• Large radiator for optimum cooling performance.
• Strong bearing retainers for the small-end needle bearings, and big end needle bearings with high load capacity contribute to durability.
• Light weight, simple design that is relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain.
• Lightweight flywheel with rare-earth magnets enhances low-end engine response.
• The bridges between the intake and exhaust ports are machine finished to resist seizure.
• The exhaust port window is designed to boost port velocity and the outlet increases flow for more mid-range and top-end power.
• The piston has four lubricating holes at the wrist pin for added durability.
• Carbon fiber reeds aid throttle response. The direction of the fibers is at a 45° angle to tune the flexibility of the reeds for precise response.
• Optional carburetor tuning jests are included so the user can optimize performance based on riding conditions.
6-Speed Transmission
• Transmission shaft splines are designed to both enhance durability and help make shifting smooth.
• Thrust washer system enhances lubrication and reduces friction.
• Strong gear engagement dogs and contribute to positive shift feel.
• The ends of the shift forks are hard-chrome finished for durability.
Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System (KIPS)(KP)
• Two-piece exhaust valve improves sealing performance and contributes to engine performance.
• The KIPS system varies exhaust port height for increased horsepower and torque.
• Breather in KIPS cover relieves exhaust pressure for more precise KIPS valve action and improved high rpm performance.
• KIPS lever stopper spring absorbs governor “over stroke” for added durability.
• The KIPS governor has a long stroke to open the cylinder valves more fully. A governor spring and 8mm bearing boss add durability.
High Tensile Steel Perimeter Frame
• Sturdy perimeter frame, designed to harness the engine’s power, provides strength and torsional rigidity so that riders can push hard on the track.
Roomy, Adjustable Ergonomics
• Radiator shroud design efficiently directs air to the radiator, contributing to cooling performance. The shrouds are also designed to accommodate a wide range of riders and make it easy for taller riders to find a good fit on the bike.
• Handlebar is held by six-way adjustable clamps. Rotating the clamps allows 10mm movement forward, and the height can be raised five or 10mm by installing one or two 5mm shims between the clamp and triple clamp.
• Flat seat fits atop fuel tank to allow the rider freedom of movement.
• Shroud and side number plates also help provide freedom of movement.
• The gas tank is positioned to improve handling and lower the center of gravity.
• Wide footpegs for excellent control. Made of cast steel for strength and use 10mm pivots for durability.
• Petal discs reduce unsprung weight and help clean the brake pads for more efficient braking performance.
• Dunlop MX33 tires provide excellent grip, slide control, bump absorption and durability
BRAKES AND TIRES
Uni-Trak Rear Suspension(KP)
• Rear shock compression damping adjuster has 24 positions and allows damping force to be generated at a slower stroke range for a more stable
feel.
• Shim-type valving for optimum damping control and feel.
• Aluminum swingarm has a brushed finish to match the appearance of the KX250/450.
• Rear suspension settings provide a progressive ride to better resist bottoming and accommodate larger, more aggressive riders.
36mm Inverted Cartridge Fork(KP)
• Shim-type valving for optimum damping control and feel.
• Front fork settings provide a progressive ride to better resist bottoming and fit larger and more aggressive riders.
• Inverted forks are more rigid to provide better steering response and control.
• Compression damping is 20-position adjustable and the cartridge design means better action.
• The aluminum upper fork tubes measure 49.5mm in diameter for flex free performance.
Black Alumite-Coated Aluminum Rims
• Aluminum rims reduce unsprung weight and their strength adds durability.
2025 Kawasaki KX85 – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $4,949 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ NA GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine Type 2-Stroke, Liquid-Cooled, Reed Valve, Single with KIPS
Displacement 84cc
Bore & Stroke 48.5 x 45.8mm
Compression Ratio Variable 9.0-10.9:1
Carburetor Keihin PWK28
Ignition Digital CDI
Transmission 6-Speed
Rake/Trail 29°/3.8 in.
Front Wheel Travel 10.8 in.
Rear Wheel Travel 10.8 in.
Front Tire Size 70/100-17
Rear Tire Size 90/100-14
Front Suspension 36mm Inverted Cartridge Fork with 20-Position
Compression Damping Adjustment
Rear Suspension Uni-Trak with Adjustable Preload, 24-Position
Compression & 21-Position Rebound Damping Adjustment,
Wheelbase 49.8 in.
Front Brake Type Disc
Rear Brake Type Disc
Fuel Tank Capacity 1.3 gal.
Ground Clearance 11.4 in.
Seat Height 32.7 in.
Curb Weight= 165 lb.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Ask about Kawasaki’s Team Green amateur rider support program.
(KP) = See Kaw-Pedia section for more details.
*
= Changes from previous model year.
= = Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
2025 Kawasaki KX85 – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
POWER
Engine 84cc, liquid-cooled, 2-stroke single with KIPS
Bore x Stroke 48.5 x 45.8 mm
Compression Ratio 10.9:1 (low speed), 9.0:1 (high speed)
Induction Piston reed valve
Fuel System Carburettor: Keihin PWK28
Ignition Digital-CDI
Starting Primary kick
Lubrication Pre-mix (32:1)
Transmission 6-speed, return
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
Final Drive Chain
PERFORMANCE
Frame Perimeter, high-tensile steel
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel ø36 mm inverted fork with adjustable compression damping / 275 mm (10.8 in)
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel Uni Trak with adjustable compression and rebound damping and adjustable spring preload / 275 mm (10.8 in)
Rake / Trail 29.0° / 97 mm
Steering Angle (L/R) 45° / 45°
Front Tire 70/100-17 40M
Rear Tire 90/100-14 49M
Front Brake ø220 mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper
Rear Brake ø184 mm petal disc with single-piston caliper
DETAILS
Dimensions (L x W x H) 1,825 x 765 x 1,100 mm (72.0 x 30.1 x 43.3 in)
Wheelbase 1,260 mm (49.8 in)
Road Clearance 290 mm (11.4 in)
Seat Height 830 mm (32.7 in)
Curb Mass** 74.6 kg (164 lb)
Mass Without Fuel 70.9 kg (156 lb)
Fuel Capacity 5.0 litres
2025 Kawasaki KX85 – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
