2014 Kawasaki KX 100 PreviewFor those have outgrown the KX85 but are not quite ready for the KX250F, Kawasaki built an in-between motocross machine that bridges the gap – the KX100 two-stroke.
The KX100 arrived on the scene in 1996, replacing the KX80 “Big Wheel.” Though a potent machine, Kawasaki kept the MX bike relatively the same.But this changes for 2014. Kawasaki has revamped the KX100’s two-stroke engine, which produces 17-percent more horsepower over last year’s model. The engine features a host of improvements (listed below), including the use of new technology, such as Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS). The power band is wider due to the use of KIPS, “which amplifies the KX100’s low-end torque and creates a more seamless transition to its furious top-end rush.”Kawasaki also upgraded the KX100’s suspension, the motocrosser featuring revised valving in the KYB 36mm inverted fork up front, and a new Uni-Trak linkage-equipped KYB reservoir shock out back.Kawasaki says “just like its big brothers, the KX100’s fork now features shim-type valving and firmer damping for faster riders while also offering superior bottoming resistance, but a wide range of adjustability allows it to be tailored for precise damping to fit a variety of riding styles as well as track conditions. Out back, the new shock’s black-anodized aluminum body is 150 grams lighter, while a new clicker-type adjuster makes fine-tuning the rear suspension damping quick and easy.”To stop the lightweight two-stroke motocross machine, the KX100 uses 220mm front and 184mm rear rotors. The KX100 is also wrapped in new Dunlop Geomax MX51 intermediate tires, which provide optimal grip across a variety of off-road terrains.Ergonomics were also improved, from the 34.3-inch tall seat to a six-position adjustable wider and taller handlebar. And also, bolder graphics and unique styling were added to the 2014 Kawasaki KX100, such as blue alumite coatings on the adjusters and black alumite coating on the rims, just like three-time AMA Supercross Champion Ryan Villopoto’s factory KX450F.Kawasaki has yet to release an MSRP on the 2014 KX100, but is expected to soon. And as always, those who compete on the KX100 at designated events are eligible to receive support from Team Green, Kawasaki’s amateur racing support program.Following are the features and specs of the 2014 Kawasaki KX100.2014 Kawasaki KX Features:At a glance:
NEW Retuned liquid-cooled, two-stroke, 99cc engine produces nearly 17% more peak power than previous model
NEW Revised Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve increases more mid-range torque and top-end power
Uni-Trak rear suspension is fully adjustable for compression and rebound damping and spring preload
Rigid 36mm inverted cartridge forks are 20-way adjustable for compression damping, and provide better steering response and control
Revised jetting in the 28mm Keihin PWK carburetor promotes ideal fuel atomization, for quicker throttle response and a smoother power delivery
Six-speed transmission has chrome-finished shift fork ends to resist wear and seizing while bushings on the second, third and fourth gears on the output shaft increase durability
Industry-leading amateur racer support through Team Green
NEW Cylinder head gasket and gasket retention dowel prevents detonation, increasing reliability
NEW Piston with single-ring design (was two rings) reduces friction
NEW Lightweight Nikasil-coated cylinder features a new exhaust port shape for better flow, more power
NEW Larger outer diameter crankshaft is now 83mm (+2mm), increasing rigidity and improving durability
NEW Precisely shaped resin block added to crankshaft closes the gap around the machined area near the crank pin, reducing volume of the bottom-end to increase intake transfer for more power
Intake and exhaust port bridges are machine-finished for reduced wear and improved reliability
Rotor comes with rare-earth magnets; the unitized piece is small, light and more efficient; low inertial moment improves low-rpm response
Connecting rod big-end bearing has more rigid cage for improved durability
Intake port shape and cylinder skirt allow cooling air into the crankcase chamber
Primary gear is secured using a lock-nut to help reduce mechanical noise
Metafoam gaskets for the generator and water pump covers improve sealing
Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System (KIPS):
KIPS system varies exhaust-port height for increased horsepower and torque at all rpm
NEW independent valves for each port replace three-piece design, increasing reliability and reducing maintenance
Produces a broad powerband with more mid-range torque and excellent top-end power
Breather in KIPS cover improves high-rpm and overrun performance
Radiator:
NEW radiator increases cooling capacity by nearly 52% to sustain engine power during long motos
Radiator is 2.6mm wider, 40mm taller
Airbox:
Large right-side cutout improves airflow for increased power
Reusable foam air filter
28mm Keihin PWK Carburetor:
NEW jetting optimizes performance with new engine tuning specs
Large crescent slide positions the needle closer to intake ports for ideal fuel atomization, providing quicker throttle response and a smoother power delivery
Carburetor adjustable for various conditions
Exhaust System:
Features large-diameter O-ring and groove on exhaust pipe for improved durability and easy installation
Aluminum silencer is re-packable like larger KX models
Clutch:
Thick-base clutch hub rides on needle bearings for smooth action
Large, 91mm clutch plates add durability and control
Clutch-release lever ratio is designed for light clutch lever action
Clutch plate service cover simplifies maintenance and utilizes a metal-carbon composite gasket
Six-speed Transmission:
Positive shifting action and rugged durability
Fifth and sixth gears ride on bushings for added reliability
Shift forks are hard chrome-finished to resist wear and seizing
Frame: High-tensile steel perimeter design with subframe member
Rake / trail: 29 degrees / 4.3 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 36mm inverted telescopic cartridge fork with 20-way compression damping / 10.8 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Uni-Trak single shock system with 24-way compression and 21-way rebound damping plus adjustable spring preload / 10.8 in.
