KIWI RIDER JUNE 2021 VOL2 | Page 14

DIRT NEWS

KAWASAKI UPSIZES KIDS RANGE

K awasaki ’ s first salvo into the 2022 dirt market is focused on the grassroots end of our sport , with an all-new model aimed at helping develop young riders who have outgrown their KX85s . For 2022 , the Minis get revisions throughout the KX range with updates to styling and gearboxes included in the new models . However , it ’ s the new KX112 that has us excited . Previously , Kawasaki NZ sold kits to bring a KX85 Big Wheel up to 100cc with the KX100 not imported officially to NZ for some time . The new KX112 is designed to both take riders to the next level in the SuperMini class as well as bridge the gap between the kid ’ s range and Kawasaki ’ s full-size motocrossers with its 112cc two-stroke engine and new slick six-speed gearbox . The KX112 boosts power across the entire rev-range compared to the old 100cc , with the noticeably stronger engine performance complemented by new shrouds designed to better accommodate the height of the 12-16-year-old riders Kawasaki is targeting with the new model . The KX112 ’ s greater displacement comes thanks to a 5.8mm longer stroke compared to the 100cc engine . With a bore and stroke of 52.5 x 51.6mm ( previously 52.5 x 45.8mm ), the new 112cc engine offering stronger low-end torque for stronger drive out of corners . Kawasaki says power and torque are improved across the rev-range , with peak power approximately 5 % greater than the KX100 spec engine . Just like the big wheel KX85 , the new 112 rolls on a set of 19- and 16-inch wheels wrapped with Dunlop MX33 tyres as standard .

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