2025 Kawasaki KX85

A powerhouse in the amateur ranks, the KX85 is popular with young MXers.

2025 Kawasaki KX85.Kawasaki

Overview

The 85cc two-stroke divisions cover some of the most competitive classes of amateur youth motocross. The 85cc two-stroke comes in many forms in the amateur ranks, from limited to modified, big wheel to standard, and even into the supermini classes. The 85cc divisions span age groups from 10-years-old to 15, covering a big chunk of growing riders. Despite only coming in the standard (17-inch front, 14-inch rear) wheel sizes, the Kawasaki KX85 is a powerhouse model in the AMA Amateur National Motocross circuit.

But junior doesn’t need to be a top-ranked amateur to find a fun time aboard the KX85. With a lightweight chassis, capable long-travel suspension, and a powerful liquid-cooled six-speed engine, the KX85 is a real taste of full-size performance in a proportionate package for tweens and young teens. Due to its size, this may also seem like an ideal beginner bike for young adults, but make no mistake—the potent power of the KX85 (or any 85cc two-stroke for that matter) is not to be underestimated. Once into the midrange, the KIPS exhaust power valve delivers a snap of high-revving power that can be a handful for less experienced riders. The KX85 is better suited for young, competitive riders looking for fast acceleration, powerful braking, cornering agility, and tunable suspension that will allow them to tackle a full-size motocross track with confidence.

As mentioned, the KX85 is only available in the standard wheel size (17/14-inch). Many other manufacturers also offer their 85s in big wheel size (19-inch front, 16-inch rear), but rather than provide this option as a stock model, Kawasaki has created the KX112. Read more about this dedicated supermini weapon that can be a great option for your growing motocrosser.

2025 Kawasaki KX85.Kawasaki

Pricing and Variants

The 2025 Kawasaki KX85 is available in Lime Green for $4949.

Competition

News and Reviews

2025 Kawasaki KX85 Claimed Specs

MSRP: $4949
Engine: Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke single-cylinder
Displacement: 84cc
Bore x Stroke: 48.5 x 45.8mm
Compression Ratio: 9.0–10.9:1
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/chain
Fuel System: Keihin PWK28 carburetor
Clutch: Wet, multiplate
Frame: High-tensile steel perimeter
Front Suspension: 36mm telescopic fork, compression damping adjustable; 10.8 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Uni-Trak link-mounted single shock, preload, compression, and rebound damping adjustable; 10.8 in. travel
Front Brake: 2-piston caliper, 220mm disc
Rear Brake: 1-piston caliper, 184mm disc
Wheels, Front/Rear: Spoked; 17 in./14 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: Dunlop MX33; 70/100-17 / 90/100-14
Rake/Trail: 29.0°/3.8 in.
Wheelbase: 49.8 in.
Ground Clearance: 11.4 in.
Seat Height: 32.7 in.
Fuel Capacity: 1.3 gal.
Wet Weight: 164 lb.
Contact: kawasaki.com