Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto: Build, Ride, And Dominate
Hey guys! Ever thought about transforming a dirt bike into a lean, mean, street-legal machine? Well, you're in the right place! We're diving deep into the world of the Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto, a thrilling combination of off-road agility and on-road performance. This guide will walk you through everything, from the initial build and necessary modifications to tips on riding, maintaining your Supermoto, and even making it street legal. So, buckle up, because we're about to turn your KX85 into a pavement-pounding powerhouse!
What is a Supermoto? And Why the KX85?
So, what exactly is a Supermoto, you ask? Think of it as the ultimate hybrid – a dirt bike chassis with street-focused modifications. Supermotos are designed for a unique blend of riding styles, allowing riders to experience the thrill of both the track and the streets. You get the lightweight feel and responsive handling of a dirt bike, combined with the grip and performance of street tires. The KX85, a legendary mini-moto dirt bike from Kawasaki, is an excellent base for a Supermoto conversion, because its size, powerful engine for its class, and readily available aftermarket parts make it the perfect platform for building a high-performance, compact street bike. It is a blast to ride on tight tracks and twisty roads.
The KX85 is known for its high-revving, two-stroke engine, which delivers snappy power and is perfect for the Supermoto style of riding, which involves a lot of quick acceleration, braking, and cornering. Moreover, the KX85's light weight (around 160 pounds) and agile handling make it incredibly fun to ride. Building a Supermoto on the KX85 platform is not only exciting, but also offers a cost-effective alternative to buying a dedicated Supermoto bike. This makes it an ideal project for enthusiasts who are on a budget, or simply enjoy customizing their machines. With the proper upgrades, the KX85 Supermoto can become an absolute blast on both the track and the streets, providing a unique and exhilarating riding experience.
The Allure of the Supermoto
The appeal of the Supermoto style is in its versatility. You can take it to the track and compete against purpose-built machines, or simply cruise the streets with a unique ride that turns heads everywhere you go. The Supermoto style offers a level of excitement, engagement and riding skill enhancement. Supermotos are all about pushing your limits and testing your skills. With responsive handling, powerful brakes, and sticky tires, these bikes encourage aggressive riding. Mastering techniques like controlled slides and wheelies on a Supermoto are incredibly rewarding experiences. Supermotos are known to be some of the most exciting bikes on the market, combining the thrill of off-road riding with the practicality of a street-legal machine.
Building Your Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto: Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, let's get down to business! Building a Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto involves a few key steps. First, you'll need a KX85, of course! Then, the real fun begins: modifications. Here’s a detailed breakdown to guide you through the process:
Wheels and Tires
This is where the magic happens. You'll need to swap out the dirt bike wheels and tires for Supermoto-specific setups. Look for 17-inch wheels, which provide better handling on the street. You will need to consider spoke wheels to maintain the durability and strength needed for street riding. Choose high-performance street tires like Pirelli Diablo Rosso IIs or Michelin Power RS for excellent grip and handling. Ensuring the wheels are balanced is also crucial for a smooth ride.
Suspension Upgrades
Next, the suspension. The stock KX85 suspension is designed for dirt riding, so it's a bit soft for street use. You'll want to stiffen things up. This can be accomplished with a few upgrades, starting with stiffer springs to match the street tires and riding style. If you want to take your build to the next level, consider a full suspension upgrade, including new fork internals or even a complete aftermarket shock. This will improve handling and allow you to push your machine even harder.
Braking System
Brakes are crucial. The stock brakes on the KX85 are decent for dirt riding but may need an upgrade for street use. Consider upgrading to a larger front brake rotor and a high-performance brake caliper. A steel-braided brake line will also improve braking performance by reducing flex. Make sure your brakes are always in optimal condition, as they are a critical component for both safety and performance.
Engine Modifications (Optional)
While the KX85 engine is already peppy, you can squeeze out even more power. Simple upgrades such as a performance exhaust, a re-jetting of the carburetor, and a high-flow air filter can give you a noticeable boost. Just remember to balance power upgrades with reliability and the overall performance goal of your build.
Bodywork and Aesthetics
This is where you can personalize your bike. While not essential, it adds to the Supermoto aesthetic. Consider different graphics, a shorter front fender, and maybe even a custom seat cover to give your KX85 a unique look.
Street Legal Considerations
If you want your KX85 Supermoto to be street legal, this is where it gets complex. Laws vary by location, so research your local regulations. You'll likely need to add lights (headlight, taillight, turn signals), a horn, a speedometer, and a license plate holder. You'll also need to ensure that your bike meets any emission standards and passes a safety inspection. This process can be time-consuming, but the reward of a street-legal Supermoto is worth it!
Performance Enhancements and Tuning
Now, let's talk about squeezing every ounce of performance out of your KX85 Supermoto. This is where your skills as a mechanic and rider start to shine. Here’s how to dial it in:
Suspension Tuning
Fine-tuning your suspension is critical. Adjust the preload, compression, and rebound settings on your forks and shock to match your weight, riding style, and the type of roads you ride on. Proper suspension setup will make a huge difference in handling and control. Try adjusting the suspension to stiffen it up for better handling on the street. A well-tuned suspension will help you feel more confident in corners, and you'll find that the bike performs better under braking and acceleration.
Engine Tuning
Jetting the carburetor correctly is crucial for optimal performance. This will affect your engine's power delivery. Based on your climate and elevation, consult with the mechanic to ensure the bike is getting the correct fuel-to-air mixture. Pay attention to how the engine responds when you twist the throttle. A properly jetted engine will start easily, accelerate smoothly, and have crisp throttle response.
Riding Techniques
Mastering Supermoto riding techniques will transform your KX85 into a weapon. Practice cornering, braking, and body positioning. Learn to use your body weight to steer the bike, lean into corners, and control slides. Practicing these techniques will greatly increase your riding confidence and enjoyment. Practice controlling the rear end, feathering the brakes, and accelerating out of corners. The goal is to maximize your cornering speed and create a smooth and efficient flow through corners.
Track Day Setup
If you plan to take your KX85 to the track, you will need to make some adjustments. For track use, you can adjust your suspension to have more aggressive settings. Experiment with different tire pressures to find the optimal grip. Consider adding a steering damper for better stability at high speeds. Track days are a great way to push your machine to its limits and refine your riding skills.
Street Legal Considerations for Your KX85 Supermoto
Converting a dirt bike into a street-legal machine involves navigating a maze of regulations. It is essential to ensure that your bike is in compliance with the local laws of your region. Here's a detailed view of what you'll typically need:
Lighting System
Headlight: You'll need a DOT-approved headlight, usually with high and low beams, to ensure visibility in all conditions. Select a bright headlight that provides both good illumination and a suitable beam pattern for street riding.
Taillight and Brake Light: A functional taillight is required, along with a brake light that activates when you apply either the front or rear brakes. Make sure the taillight is bright and easily visible from a distance.
Turn Signals: You'll need front and rear turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers. Select turn signals that are durable and visible, ensuring they meet the required size and brightness standards.
Gauges and Instrumentation
Speedometer: A working speedometer is crucial to know your speed and comply with speed limits. You will need to select a speedometer that is both accurate and easy to read.
Odometer: An odometer tracks your mileage, which is important for maintenance. Make sure you install one that works correctly and is easy to see.
Horn: A working horn is necessary to alert others of your presence. Make sure the horn is loud enough to be heard in traffic.
Safety Components
Mirrors: You will need mirrors to see traffic. Make sure your mirrors are adjusted correctly to give you the best possible view of traffic behind you.
License Plate Holder: A license plate holder is needed to securely mount your license plate. Ensure the license plate holder is visible and compliant with local regulations.
Chain Guard: A chain guard is necessary to protect the rider from the chain. A well-maintained and properly installed chain guard is essential for safety.
Legal Process
Inspection: You will need to take your bike for a safety inspection, which will make sure it meets legal requirements. Ensure that your bike is road-ready and meets all requirements prior to inspection.
Registration: Register your KX85 with your local DMV and acquire the necessary documents. Follow all registration steps to ensure your bike is street legal.
Important Considerations
Local Laws: Always check with your local DMV for the most accurate and up-to-date requirements. You'll need to know which of these components are required in your state or country. Regulations vary widely. Research is crucial. This will save you time and money, making sure you don't install unnecessary components or fail inspections.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Even the best-built Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto can experience issues. Here's how to troubleshoot common problems:
Engine Issues
Starting Problems: If your engine is hard to start, check the spark plug, fuel supply, and compression. Common issues include a fouled spark plug, a clogged fuel jet, or low compression. Replacing the spark plug, cleaning the jets, or addressing any issues with the top end of the engine will help in this situation. Ensure that the spark plug is gapped correctly and in good condition.
Poor Performance: If your engine isn't running as it should, check the jetting, air filter, and exhaust system. Improper jetting will affect performance, so get the jetting tuned. A dirty air filter will also restrict airflow. Replacing or cleaning the air filter regularly is essential for engine performance. A clogged exhaust will decrease performance. Ensure that the exhaust system is not restricted or damaged.
Overheating: Overheating can be caused by a lack of coolant, a faulty water pump, or a clogged radiator. Verify that the coolant level is correct and that the water pump is working correctly. Coolant leaks can cause overheating. Inspect the radiator for any obstructions.
Suspension Issues
Poor Handling: If your bike isn't handling well, check the suspension settings, tire pressure, and wheel alignment. If the tires are not at the correct pressure, handling will be affected. Make sure the wheels are aligned correctly. Adjust the suspension settings to improve the handling. Make adjustments to suit your riding style and the terrain.
Suspension Leaks: Suspension leaks can indicate worn seals or damage to the forks or shock. Inspect the suspension regularly for leaks. Have the seals replaced if you notice leaks. Have your suspension serviced at regular intervals, to avoid future issues.
Braking Issues
Poor Braking Performance: If your brakes feel weak, check the brake pads, brake lines, and brake fluid. Replace worn brake pads and bleed the brakes to ensure there is no air in the system. Use quality brake fluid. If there is a problem with the brake lines, have them inspected and replaced by a professional.
Brake Squeal: Brake squeal is common and can be caused by various factors. Check for dirt and contaminants on the rotors or pads. Clean and inspect the brake pads and rotors. Consider upgrading to better brake pads or rotors to reduce noise.
Electrical Issues
Lights Not Working: If your lights aren't working, check the fuses, wiring, and bulbs. Inspect the fuses to make sure they are not blown. Check all wiring connections. Make sure that the bulbs are working. Make sure all your lights are installed correctly and in good working order. Regular electrical checks are essential for road safety.
Battery Problems: If you're running a battery, check the charging system and the battery condition. If you notice any problems, test the battery and replace it if necessary. Test the charging system to ensure the battery is receiving the right charge.
Riding Tips for Your KX85 Supermoto
Now for the fun part: riding! Here's how to make the most of your KX85 Supermoto:
Cornering Techniques
Mastering cornering is key to enjoying your Supermoto. Learn to use your body weight to lean into turns, keep your head up, and look through the corner. Practice smooth throttle control and braking to maintain balance and control. Adjust your body position and lean into the corner, keeping your shoulders parallel with the bike. Look where you want to go. This will help you stay focused and maintain control.
Braking and Acceleration
Practice braking hard and accelerating smoothly. Use both front and rear brakes in a controlled manner. Learn to control your wheelies and stoppies for maximum fun and showmanship. Focus on smooth, consistent application of the throttle. Braking and acceleration can dramatically influence your speed through turns. Master these techniques for ultimate control.
Road Awareness
Always be aware of your surroundings, anticipate hazards, and ride defensively. The best defense is a good offense, so always be on the lookout for potential problems. Watch out for road imperfections, other vehicles, and pedestrians. Pay close attention to your mirrors. Remember, safety first! Riding in traffic requires careful attention.
Maintenance Routine
Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your KX85 Supermoto running smoothly and reliably. Get into a routine: check your oil, air filter, and tire pressure before every ride. Clean and lubricate your chain regularly. Inspect your brakes for wear and tear. Don't underestimate the importance of maintenance, which is vital for the safety and the overall lifespan of your machine. Following the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual is key.
Pros and Cons of a KX85 Supermoto
Before you dive in, let's weigh the pros and cons:
Pros
- Lightweight and Agile: The KX85's light weight makes it incredibly fun to ride and easy to handle.
- Affordable: Compared to dedicated Supermoto bikes, a KX85 conversion can be a cost-effective option.
- High Performance: With the right modifications, a KX85 Supermoto can deliver impressive performance.
- Unique and Fun: It's a head-turner and a blast to ride.
Cons
- Limited Top Speed: The KX85's small engine might not be ideal for highway riding.
- Street Legal Challenges: Getting it street legal can be complex and time-consuming.
- Maintenance: Two-stroke engines require more frequent maintenance.
- Comfort: Riding position may be uncomfortable for longer rides.
Comparison to Other Bikes
How does the Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto stack up against other bikes? Let's take a quick look:
Compared to a Dedicated Supermoto
A KX85 Supermoto is generally less expensive and more agile. Dedicated Supermotos, like those from KTM or Husqvarna, typically have more powerful engines, better suspension, and are ready to ride from the factory, but at a higher cost.
Compared to a 125cc Street Bike
A KX85 Supermoto offers a more raw, engaging riding experience, with its two-stroke engine and lightweight chassis. 125cc street bikes provide more comfort and are more suited for longer rides, but they may lack the thrill of the Supermoto.
Compared to a Larger Dirt Bike Supermoto Conversion
While larger-displacement dirt bikes provide more power, the KX85 Supermoto offers a great balance of performance, handling, and cost for a smaller package.
Conclusion: Embrace the Supermoto Life!
Building and riding a Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto is an incredibly rewarding experience. It combines the thrill of off-road riding with the practicality of a street-legal bike. By following this guide, you will be well on your way to dominating the streets! The transformation process is an amazing experience, and the joy of riding your own custom-built bike is unparalleled. So, get out there, start building, and embrace the Supermoto life. Ride safe, have fun, and enjoy the ride!