Vehicle Segment:
Dual-sport/Off-road Motorcycle
Key Competitors:
Yamaha WR200, Suzuki RM200 (specific years), Honda CR250R (dual-sport variants).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive factory-level service and repair information for DIY mechanics and professional technicians, enabling in-depth maintenance and troubleshooting.
Vehicle Appeal:
Known for its strong off-road performance, versatility as a dual-sport, and relatively simple, tunable two-stroke engine.
Model Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically 300+ pages for a full factory-style service manual)
Manual Classification:
Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Primary Language:
English
Engine Systems:
Top-end overhaul (cylinder, piston, rings), bottom-end rebuild (crankshaft, bearings, seals), cooling system (if applicable), lubrication system, carburetor tuning and rebuild, exhaust system, ignition system (CDI, spark plug), starting system (kickstarter).
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission service (clutch operation, gear inspection, shift mechanism), final drive (chain and sprockets).
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (forks, shock absorber – including seal replacement and oil levels), steering system (headset bearings), braking system (front and rear calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, pads), wheels and hubs, frame inspection and repair.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlight, taillight, turn signals if equipped), battery maintenance, charging system components.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine inspections, lubrication points, filter changes (air, fuel), spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, brake bleeding, suspension adjustments.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step disassembly and reassembly for all major components, troubleshooting guides, component replacement instructions, torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common problems, identifying causes of performance issues, diagnostic steps for electrical faults.
Diagnostic Level:
Comprehensive diagnostics for engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
Rebuild Level:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and carburetor rebuilds, suspension overhaul, and brake system servicing.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identifies necessary special tools for specific procedures (e.g., flywheel puller, clutch holding tool).
Engine Type:
2-stroke, Liquid-cooled, Reed valve induction, KIPS (Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System)
Bore X Stroke:
66.0 x 58.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
7.6:1 (approx.)
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 35-40 HP (varies by year and tuning)
Torque Est:
Approximately 20-25 lb-ft (varies by year and tuning)
Carburetor:
Single Mikuni VM29SS (or similar specification, consult manual for exact model year)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Length:
Approx. 87.2 in (2215 mm)
Width:
Approx. 33.3 in (845 mm)
Height:
Approx. 48.0 in (1220 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 56.7 in (1440 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 249 lbs (113 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 262 lbs (119 kg) (with fluids, unladen)
Fuel Capacity:
2.6 US gal (9.8 L)
Crash Test Data:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings typically not applicable in the same manner as cars; manual focuses on mechanical safety).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. Front: Dual piston caliper. Rear: Single piston caliper.
Suspension Features:
Adjustable front forks (preload, compression, rebound damping on some models) and adjustable rear shock absorber (preload, compression, rebound damping on some models).
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light. Turn signals may be optional or standard depending on market.
Oil Change Engine:
Every 10-15 hours of operation or annually, depending on usage. Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on riding conditions.
Air Filter Cleaning:
After every few rides, especially in dusty conditions. Service or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 15-20 hours or as per manual. Consult manual for correct plug type (e.g., NGK BR8ES or equivalent).
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and adjust chain tension every 500 miles (800 km) or more frequently as needed. Check for wear.
2-Stroke Oil Mix:
Use high-quality 2-stroke synthetic or semi-synthetic oil. Mix ratio typically 20:1 or 32:1 (oil to gasoline) as specified in the manual.
Coolant:
Mixture of distilled water and ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix). Capacity approx. 0.8 L.
Transmission Oil:
SAE 80W or 10W-30 API GL-4 gear oil. Capacity approx. 0.7 L. Kawasaki Genuine Transmission Oil or equivalent.
Fork Oil:
SAE 10W fork oil. Specific capacity and level (e.g., 100mm) detailed in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Power Valve Sticking:
The KIPS system can accumulate carbon and stick, leading to poor power delivery. Regular cleaning is essential.
Carburetor Clogging:
Fuel residue and dirt can clog the small jets in the carburetor, requiring frequent cleaning and proper fuel storage.
Suspension Seals:
Fork and shock seals can wear over time, leading to oil leaks. Regular inspection and maintenance are important.
Kickstarter Engagement:
Issues with the kickstarter mechanism can arise from worn gears or springs.
Kawasaki Motorcycles:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries is a major manufacturer with a long history in motorcycles, particularly known for performance-oriented models and off-road prowess.
Kdx Series:
The KDX line has a long lineage of successful off-road and dual-sport motorcycles, evolving from earlier models to incorporate advancements like KIPS and improved suspension.
Second Generation Updates:
This generation (1989-1994) saw refinements in engine performance, suspension, and chassis design compared to earlier KDX200 models.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primary)
Production Period:
1989-1994 for this specific generation/manual coverage.