2002 KAWASAKI KX125

The 2002 KX125 is the recipient of copious engine and chassis changes.

To remain competitive in the fast-paced world ofmotocross racing, the KX125's liquid-cooled two-stroke engine was almost completely refurbished. The combustion chamber was reconfigured to increase compression for better response and more power throughout the rev range.

The Electrofusion-coated cylinder houses a new tin-plated, "machine-streaked" piston, which is connected to a lighter-weight crankshaft for quicker engine response.

Fuel reaches the engine through a new Mikuni TMX 38mm carburetor that's 2mm larger than the old model and dramatically improves top-end power. Revised ignition timing ignites the fuel mixture. A new two-piece powervalve replaces last year's three-piece butterfly unit, and improves low-end torque while sealing better at high rpm. Complementing the other engine changes is a lightened crankshaft with revised moment of inertia for quicker engine response. Optional flywheel rotors are available in two different sizes for fine-tuning engine performance.

The KX125 has a compact, high-tensile steel perimeter frame with new footpegs that are designed to prevent mud build-up in the pivot area. Up front, the fully adjustable fork was increased in diameter, while tube thickness was decreased. The upshot is increased rigidity with less weight. The upper triple-clamp now has KX250-style bolt-on bar mounts with rubber dampers, so less vibration reaches the rider's hands and the handlebars can be positioned to suit different riding styles.

Rear suspension is handled by Kawasaki's highly acclaimed UNI-TRAK® linkage system that progressively increases damping and spring rates on the fully adjustable rear shock as the suspension is compressed. For '02, the system was revised with longer pull rods and new rocker dimensions for a new linkage ratio that improves performance, especially near bottoming.

Rounding out the KX125's enhancements are taller, straighter handlebars, an aluminum clutch-cable adjuster, reshaped saddle with thicker foam and a base that increases air flow around the airbox. The already-flat fuel tank is even flatter for '02, and incorporates new square inset nuts where the shrouds and seat base mount for more security. New side covers complement the new seat and tank, as do new thicker graphics.

FEATURES:

Liquid-Cooled Engine

• Reshaped combustion chamber for increased compression
• Reshaped exhaust and scavenging ports, and revised exhaust timing for better power at high RPM
• Piston tin-plated and "machine-streaked" to prevent scarring, especially during break-in
• New, lighter crankshaft for quicker engine response
• Revised ignition timing for more power at mid to high RPM
• Optional flywheel weight for more customer choices

Electrofusion Cylinder

• Improves heat transfer for consistent power output
• It's porous so it holds lubrication well
• It's hard so it resists abrasion and seizure
• Improved honing method allows more precise piston-to-cylinder clearances for more horsepower

Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System

• Revised governor bearings and springs stabilize operation and open quicker
• New, two-piece powervalve improves low-end torque and seals better at high RPM

Mikuni TMX38 Carburetor

• New carb significantly boosts top-end power
• Positions needle closer to intake tract

UNI-TRAK@ Rear Suspension

• Cast-aluminum section of the swingarm is designed for less weight and more rigidity
• The shock features both low- and high-speed compression damping adjustments
• Single-rate shock spring and matching damping settings

48mm Upside Down Cartridge Fork

• Bladder system helps control bottoming and smoothes outjolts
• Increased rigidity and reduced weight
• Straight-rate springs
• Polished internal surfaces for smooth action
• Upper triple-clamp now features KX250-style bolt-on handlebar mounts with rubber dampers, which can be rotated to change handlebar position

Front and Rear Disc Brakes

• Front brake caliper's twin pistons made from aluminum to reduce weight
• New push rods in rear brake master cylinder improves pedal position

High-Tensile Steel Perimeter Frame

• Compact and quick handling
• Removable aluminum rear sub-frame for easy access to the rear shock
• New footpegs designed to reduce mud buildup

Details

• U-shaped rims have no shoulder to prevent mud build-up in wet conditions
• New thicker graphics
• Thicker, reshaped seat designed to be more durable and increase airflow into the airbox
• Fuel tank is flatter and incorporates new square inset nuts to more securely mount the shrouds and seat base
• Optional 20-inch rim or wheel assemblies available

SPECIFICATIONS: