Positioning:
Essential technical resource for owners and mechanics of the popular Kawasaki KX125 and KX250 motocross bikes from the early 2000s.
Competitors:
Directly competes with factory service manuals and other third-party repair guides for the same model years.
Features:
Covers both KX125 and KX250 models, detailed troubleshooting, comprehensive component diagrams, electrical schematics.
Primary Coverage:
Complete service, repair, troubleshooting, and maintenance for Kawasaki KX125 and KX250 motorcycles.
Secondary Coverage:
Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and procedures for all major mechanical and electrical systems.
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair (cylinder, piston, crankshaft, connecting rod, carburetor, ignition system, cooling system if applicable).
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair (clutch, shift mechanism, gear ratios, lubrication).
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber) disassembly, assembly, and servicing, steering system.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system (front and rear), brake caliper servicing, master cylinder servicing, brake pad replacement, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system troubleshooting, battery maintenance, charging system, CDI unit.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, carburetor adjustment and cleaning, jetting information.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and silencer inspection and replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, valve clearance (if applicable, though these are 2-strokes).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults.
Component Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine, transmission, and suspension component overhauls.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both home mechanics and professional technicians. Covers basic adjustments to complete engine rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Displacement:
124 cc (7.57 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
54.0 x 54.5 mm (2.13 x 2.15 in)
Carburetion:
Keihin PWK35
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Displacement:
249 cc (15.2 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
66.4 x 72.0 mm (2.61 x 2.83 in)
Carburetion:
Keihin PWK38
Power Delivery:
Typical aggressive, top-end focused powerbands characteristic of motocross bikes of this era.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Mixture:
2-stroke premix (e.g., 32:1 or 40:1 ratio depending on manufacturer's recommendation and oil quality).
Ignition System:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with electronic advance.
Transmission Type:
Constant-mesh, 6-speed, return shift
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc, manual operation
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for both KX125 and KX250 are detailed within the manual.
Transmission Oil:
Kawasaki motorcycle gear oil 10W-40 or equivalent API GL-4 specification.
Overall Length:
Approximately 2165 mm (85.2 in)
Overall Width:
Approximately 820 mm (32.3 in)
Overall Height:
Approximately 1235 mm (48.6 in)
Overall Length:
Approximately 2165 mm (85.2 in)
Overall Width:
Approximately 820 mm (32.3 in)
Overall Height:
Approximately 1235 mm (48.6 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 93 kg (205 lbs)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 98 kg (216 lbs)
Front Wheel:
21-inch spoke wheel
Rear Wheel:
19-inch spoke wheel
Front Tire Size:
80/100-21
Rear Tire Size:
110/90-19 (typical, check manual for variations)
Safety Ratings:
As a motocross bike, safety ratings are not applicable in the same way as street-legal vehicles. Focus is on structural integrity and component reliability under extreme use.
Braking System:
Powerful hydraulic disc brakes front and rear for superior stopping power.
Frame Construction:
Robust steel perimeter frame designed for high-impact absorption and rigidity.
Oil Change Frequency:
Depends on usage; typically after every 5-10 hours of off-road riding or as per manual recommendation.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Frequently, especially in dusty conditions. Daily check recommended for race use.
Chain Adjustment:
As needed, check slack regularly. Refer to manual for specific free play measurement.
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol-based) mixed with distilled water in a 50:50 ratio.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Piston rings, clutch plates, wheel bearings, fork seals, chain and sprockets, spark plugs.
Engine Top End:
Regular top-end rebuilds (piston, rings, cylinder inspection) are essential for maintaining performance in these 2-stroke engines.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetor clogging or jetting issues due to fuel quality or contamination.
Schedule Availability:
The manual provides a detailed maintenance schedule based on operating hours or mileage.
Heritage:
Kawasaki has a long and successful history in motocross, with the KX line being a dominant force in competition for decades.
Evolution Kx125:
The KX125 underwent significant development, moving towards more sophisticated engine designs, improved suspension, and chassis geometry to compete in the highly competitive 125cc class.
Evolution Kx250:
The KX250 has historically been a powerhouse, with Kawasaki investing heavily in performance enhancements, including cylinder porting, exhaust systems, and chassis refinements, to maintain its competitive edge.
Production Era:
These models represent a specific generation of the KX platform, known for their potent engines and race-bred handling.