Segment:
Performance Off-Road Motorcycles (Motocross)
Competitors:
Honda CR125R/CR250R, Yamaha YZ125/YZ250, Suzuki RM125/RM250, KTM 125 EXC/250 EXC (early models).
Model Characteristics:
Known for potent two-stroke power delivery, agile handling, and competitive performance in motocross racing. These models were a significant part of Kawasaki's off-road racing heritage.
Manual Utility:
Essential resource for owners and mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair these performance-oriented machines, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Main Systems:
Engine, Chassis, Electrical, Bodywork, Suspension, Brakes, Drivetrain
Specific Components:
Carburetor, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System (Radiator), Fuel Tank, Swingarm, Linkage, Forks, Shock Absorber, Wheels, Tires, Clutch, Transmission, Kick Starter, Shift Lever, Brake Rotors and Calipers, Handlebars, Seats, Fenders, Plastics
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine tear down and rebuild, piston, connecting rod, crankshaft, cylinder, cylinder head, valves, seals, gaskets, bearings, lubrication system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni VM series), jetting, needle settings, float levels, pilot jet, main jet, mixture screw adjustments, throttle cable, intake boot.
Ignition System:
CDI ignition, stator, flywheel, spark plug, ignition timing, troubleshooting no spark.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gear shifting mechanism, transmission gears, primary reduction gear, output shaft, chain drive, sprockets.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork (telescopic) disassembly, assembly, oil levels, spring rates, damping adjustments, rear shock absorber service, linkage maintenance, steering stem bearings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brake systems (front and rear), caliper service, master cylinder rebuild, brake fluid specifications, pad replacement, rotor inspection, bleeding procedure.
Electrical System:
Lighting (headlight, taillight), horn, CDI unit, rectifier/regulator (if applicable), wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Chassis Bodywork:
Frame inspection, swingarm removal and installation, wheel bearings, steering stem, seat, fenders, plastics, graphics.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, oil changes (pre-mix or oil injection for some), filter cleaning/replacement, chain adjustment, general lubrication, tightening checks.
Repair Rebuild:
Complete engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component repair, brake system overhaul, carburetor rebuild.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, no-start conditions, poor running, overheating, electrical issues, clutch slip, suspension leaks.
Diagnostics:
Systematic fault finding based on symptoms, including engine performance, ignition, and fuel delivery issues.
Installation:
Instructions for component replacement, such as exhaust systems, handlebars, plastics, and brake components.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to full engine and chassis rebuilds, including detailed diagrams and specifications.
Visual Aids:
Includes numerous photographs, illustrations, and part diagrams to aid in identification and procedural understanding.
Data Specifications:
Provides critical technical data including torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, and measurement tolerances.
Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Displacement:
124 cc (approx.)
Bore X Stroke:
56.0 x 49.2 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (approx.)
Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Displacement:
249 cc (approx.)
Bore X Stroke:
66.4 x 72.0 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
8.9:1 (approx.)
Power Delivery:
Aggressive, peaky powerband characteristic of performance 2-stroke motocross bikes of this era.
Carburetor Kx125:
Mikuni VM29SS
Carburetor Kx250:
Mikuni VM34SS
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (octane rating as specified in manual), mixed with 2-stroke oil (pre-mix, often 20:1 or 32:1 depending on application).
Ignition Type:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Air Filter Cleaning:
After each ride or as needed, depending on conditions.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 10-20 hours of operation.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Lubricate every 300-500 km (180-300 miles) or as needed; adjust tension every 1000 km (600 miles).
Engine Oil Change Transmission:
Not applicable (2-stroke, pre-mix or oil injection system if equipped).
Coolant Change:
Every 12 months or as per manual recommendation.
Engine Oil:
High-quality 2-stroke motorcycle oil (e.g., API TC, JASO FD rated). Specific viscosity recommended in manual (e.g., SAE 20W-50 for transmission oil if separate).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil:
Specific grade and volume as detailed in manual (e.g., SAE 10W fork oil).
Common Wear Items:
Piston rings, spark plugs, clutch plates, chain and sprockets, wheel bearings, swingarm bushings, fork seals, carburetor jets.
Engine Performance:
Carburetor jetting sensitivity to altitude and temperature, potential for carbon buildup in exhaust port and powervalve, kickstart mechanism wear.
Suspension:
Fork seal leaks, shock absorber damping degradation over time, linkage bearing wear.