Model Generation:
Second Generation (KDX200-E, KDX200-F Chassis)
Model Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Vin Designation:
Variable by chassis code (e.g., KDX200-E1 for 1989)
Segment:
Off-road motorcycle, Enduro/Trail segment.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners of the Kawasaki KDX200 (1989-1994 models) seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and understand the technical aspects of their machine.
Competitors:
Yamaha YZ series, Honda CR series (off-road variants), Suzuki RM series (off-road variants).
Vehicle Reputation:
Known for its potent 2-stroke power, nimble handling, and versatility in off-road conditions, making it a popular choice for trail riding and casual racing.
Engine:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the 2-stroke engine, including cylinder, piston, crankshaft, connecting rod, rotary valve induction, power valve system (KIPS), cooling system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni VM series) tuning, rebuilding, and specifications; fuel tank and lines.
Ignition System:
CDI ignition system troubleshooting, spark plug specifications, ignition timing.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, maintenance, and repair; gearbox disassembly, inspection, and reassembly; shift drum and forks; lubrication.
Drivetrain:
Chain and sprockets inspection and replacement; rear hub and bearing maintenance.
Suspension:
Front forks (conventional or USD depending on exact model year variant) disassembly, seal replacement, oil level and type; rear shock absorber maintenance and adjustment; linkage system inspection.
Brakes:
Hydraulic front disc brake system (caliper, master cylinder, fluid lines, pads); rear drum brake system maintenance and adjustment.
Electrical System:
Lighting system (headlight, taillight, brake light); wiring diagrams; battery maintenance; fuses; stator and regulator/rectifier (if applicable).
Chassis And Bodywork:
Frame inspection; body panel removal and installation; seat; handlebars; footpegs.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, lubrication points, chain adjustment, air filter cleaning, spark plug replacement, coolant checks (if applicable).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems (e.g., starting issues, poor running, clutch slip, suspension noise).
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection for wear, measurement of tolerances, and reassembly for all major systems.
Adjustment:
Carburetor idle and mixture adjustment, clutch free play adjustment, brake lever adjustment, suspension preload and damping adjustments.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine component clearances, fluid capacities and types, electrical system voltages and resistances.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians. Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder with KIPS (Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System).
Bore X Stroke:
66.0 x 58.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 6.5:1 to 7.2:1 (depending on specific year and model variant).
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Estimated 30-35 HP (at crank, depending on specific year and tuning).
Torque:
Estimated 18-20 lb-ft (at crank, depending on specific year and tuning).
Carburetor:
Mikuni VM28SS (typically)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended), mixed with 2-stroke oil (50:1 ratio typically).
2 Stroke Oil System:
Autolube oil injection system, with separate oil reservoir.
Overall Length:
Approximately 82.9 inches (2105 mm)
Overall Width:
Approximately 31.5 inches (800 mm)
Overall Height:
Approximately 47.4 inches (1205 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 12.6 inches (320 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 229 lbs (104 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 249 lbs (113 kg) (with all fluids)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 2.6 US gallons (10 Liters)
Seat Height:
Approximately 36.6 inches (930 mm)
Crash Safety:
N/A (Off-road motorcycle, not designed for road use or crash testing by regulatory bodies).
Braking:
Hydraulic front disc brake, Rear drum brake.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light.
Ergonomics:
Designed for off-road control and rider positioning.
Oil Change Interval:
Check and top-off oil injection reservoir as needed; 2-stroke oil is consumed during operation. Transmission oil should be changed every 10-15 hours or annually.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Recommended every 5-10 hours of riding, or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 10-15 hours, replace as needed or every 20-30 hours.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Lubricate and adjust chain tension before every ride or every few hours of use.
Engine Oil:
Kawasaki HPX 2-stroke oil, or equivalent high-quality JASO FD/API TC certified 2-stroke oil. Mix ratio: 50:1.
Transmission Oil:
Kawasaki Motorcycle Gear Oil API GL-4, SAE 80W-90. Capacity: 0.65 Liters (0.69 US qt).
Coolant:
Permanent type ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., Kawasaki Coolant Type 1), diluted 50% with distilled water. Capacity: 0.45 Liters (0.48 US qt).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Kips System:
Carbon buildup on the KIPS power valve system can lead to decreased performance and sticky operation if not cleaned periodically.
Carburetor Fouling:
Carburetors can be prone to clogging from debris or stale fuel if not maintained properly.
Suspension Seals:
Fork seal leaks are a common maintenance item on off-road motorcycles due to harsh operating conditions.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch plates can wear over time, especially with aggressive riding, leading to slippage.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance motorcycles, particularly in the off-road and motocross segments, with a strong engineering background.
Kdx Lineage:
The KDX line has been a staple for Kawasaki since the early 1980s, evolving through various displacements (125, 200, 250) and chassis designs, consistently focusing on trail riding performance and affordability.
Generation Changes 1989 1994:
This generation (often referred to by chassis codes like E1-E4 and F1-F2) saw significant updates including revised suspension (some models received upside-down forks), improved KIPS system, and chassis refinements for better handling and rider comfort.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily)