The Kawasaki KX125 competition motorcycle has enjoyed tremendous success on the racetracks of America, especially in the capable hands of racing phenom James Stewart. The Team Chevy Trucks Kawasaki racer dominated the 125 Eastern Region 2004 AMA THQ Supercross Series, winning every race he entered on his KX125.

With this prestigious championship in hand - and more victories to come - the 2005 Kawasaki KX125 returns with refinements that promise to keep this two-stroke racer on the leading edge of power and performance.

The KX125 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 124cc, two-stroke single-cylinder engine and features a Mikuni TMX38x carburetor and the Kawasaki Integrated PowerValve System (KIPS®). KIPS varies the exhaust port height to broaden the useful rpm range for good low-end and mid-range power without sacrificing top end power. Transferring that broad range of power to the rear wheel is a six-speed transmission and chain final drive.

For 2005, the carburetor has been revised for improved low-end response after the throttle has been closed, then quickly reopened - a benefit when landing from jumps or twisting the throttle open after a tight, low-speed turn. The reed valve is also changed to help prevent heat-induced deformation under extreme racing conditions. Helping the rider to modulate the more accessible powerband is a new, low-friction throttle cable.

In addition to 2005 graphics, racers will note that the KX125 chain, clutch and generator covers feature an attractive grey stone color.

The KX125 utilizes Kawasaki's unique perimeter frame, UNI-TRAK® rear suspension and an inverted 48mm Kayaba fork to provide a superb combination of cornering agility and stability on rough stadium or outdoors tracks. To make this winning design even better, the front forks now have low-friction seals for smoother action throughout the stroke.

The KX125 seat is 10mm taller and flatter for improved rider mobility, and features a new high-grip top for good grip when cornering and smooth sides for transitioning from sitting to standing. It also uses urethane foam for improved comfort and durability.

The KX125 tires have a softer compound and a revised tread pattern for improved handling and rider feedback. Likewise, the front disc brake has new pad materials for better rider feel and performance.

Features and Benefits

Engine

• Lightweight, two-stroke engine provides exceptional power throughout the entire rpm range
• KIPS® varies exhaust port height to broaden the useful rpm range for good low-end and mid-range without sacrificing top-end power
• Fuel collection chamber added to the pilot jet for improved throttle response when accelerating from a closed throttle
• Redesigned reed valve air guide and holder help prevent heat-induced deformation
• Two-stage reed valve design increases low-end flexibility, prevents over-flexing at high rpm
• Stainless throttle cable wire with greater number of thinner strands delivers superb, low-friction throttle response
• Clutch, chain and generator covers features an attractive new grey stone color

Chassis and Suspension

• UNI-TRAK® rear suspension link is anchored on the swingarm, drastically reducing front-to-back movement of the shock, resulting in smoother, more stable action and improving traction at the rear wheel when accelerating
• Swingarm has increased spar wall thickness for enhanced stability and handling
• Upper cross tubes and engine mounts are modified to idealize stiffness balance for enhanced cornering performance and improved durability
• Semi-sealed cartridge fork provides excellent damping and fork action
• New, low-friction fork seals provide smoother action throughout the stroke
• Lighter fork and rear shock mounting bolts contribute to reduced weight
• Softer compound tires and new tread design offer better traction for medium to hard tracks
• New seat has high-grip top for good grip when cornering and smooth sides for transitioning from sitting to standing
• Durable urethane seat foam improves comfort and wear

Kawasaki Options (available through Kawasaki dealers)

• Flywheel rotors allow riders to alter the amount of engine inertia to suit riding style and track conditions
• 20-inch front wheel for various track requirements
• Different front and rear sprockets
• Solid brake disc for muddy race conditions
• Softer and stiffer fork and shock springs