The 2026 Kawasaki KX112 supermini gets a broad range of chassis updates this year. Untouched is the 112cc two-stroke motor, so it’s all about making the most of the available power. Let’s look at what’s new.
- The new KYB fork is more sophisticated for 2026. The new 43mm inverted fork has fully adjustable damping this year, giving younger riders the ability to work on their chassis tuning skills. Also, the fork tubes get Kashima coating for smoother sliding.
- The fully adjustable KYB shock manages longer rear wheel travel. The back wheel now has a full 12 inches, putting it in the same class as adult KXes. The 1.2-inch travel increase comes courtesy of new linkage, though the shock has been upgraded accordingly. The shock is now 390mm long, a 10mm increase, and the unit also gets a 1.5mm-fatter shock rod, moving it up to 14mm. Damping has also been increased.
- The steel perimeter frame is more robust. Kawasaki has upped the torsional rigidity of the KX112’s frame, along with extending the steering head pipe by 25mm. The goal is greater confidence on rough tracks and at high speed, as well as more precise cornering.
- With more speed, more braking power is required. The front disc is now a 240mm unit, up 20mm compared to last year. The rear disc size enjoys even more growth, moving from 184mm to 220mm. The front Nissin caliper and master cylinder are new, and patterned after the KX250 system. The rear master cylinder gets a shorter throw for easier actuation.
- Dunlop Geomax MX34 tires are mounted to the 19-/16-inch black alumite-coated rims. This is the same rubber used by adult motocrossers.
- The Renthal Fatbar is new, and has more mounting options. The Fatbar has an all-bend that puts the ODI lock-on grips 50mm forward and 35mm wider than last year. The rider now has a choice of eight mounting positions for the Fatbar. Height can be standard or 5mm higher. In addition to the standard position, the Fatbar can be mounted 10mm back, 20mm back, or 10mm forward.
- Recognizing that racers are sticking with superminis at older ages, the ergonomics have been adjusted. Complementing the handlebar change, Kawasaki has widened the pegs by 8mm to 48mm. Also, the forward canting of last year’s pegs has been replaced by a flat mounting.
- Styling has been brought up to modern adult KX standards. The new bodywork package includes a shorter front fender that better follows the tire’s curve, a more compact front number plate, and new fork guards. Other highlights include suspension adjusters with green alumite finish, brushed aluminum swingarm, and new shrouds.
- The 2026 Kawasaki KX112 hits showroom floors this month. The list price is $5749, and Lime Green is the only color option. In the meantime, check out our last review of the KX112.
2026 Kawasaki KX112 Specs
ENGINE
- Type: Single-cylinder 2-stroke
- Displacement: 112cc
- Bore x stroke: 52.5 x 51.6mm
- Compression ratio: 9.9:1 to 8.6:1
- Carburetor: Keihin PWK 28mm semi-flat slide
- Intake: Carbon fiber reed valves
- Exhaust: Power valve
Cooling: Liquid - Starting: Kick
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Clutch: Wet multiplate
- Final drive: Chain
CHASSIS
- Frame: Perimeter high-tensile steel
- Handlebar: Renthal Fatbar w/ ODI lock-on grips
- Front suspension; travel: Fully damping-adjustable KYB inverted 43mm fork; 10.8 inches
- Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted, fully adjustable KYB piggyback-reservoir shock; 12.0 inches
- Wheels: Wire-spoke w/ aluminum rims
- Tires: Dunlop Geomax MX34
- Front tire: 70/100-19
- Rear tire: 90/100-16
- Front brake: 240mm petal disc w/ 2-piston Nissin caliper
- Rear brake: 220mm petal disc w/ single-piston caliper
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 51.6 inches
- Rake: 29.2 degrees
- Trail: 4.6 inches
- Seat height: 34.1 inches
- Ground clearance: 13.0 inches
- Fuel capacity: 1.3 gallons
- Wet weight: 173 pounds
- Color: Lime Green
2026 Kawasaki KX112 Price: $5749 MSRP
