2022 KAWASAKI KX112 : TWO-STROKE TUESDAY
Kawasaki has just dropped a bomb on the mini racing world with the introduction of their 2022 KX112. On this week’s Two-Stroke Tuesday we take a closer look at the new model that will be available on dealership floors later this year. Below is the information we received directly from Kawasaki about the KX112.
KAWASAKI KX™112
- NEWclass-leading 112 cc two-stroke engine
- NEWstronger 6-speed transmission
- NEW factory-inspired styling
- NEWradiator shroud design
- NEWDunlop MX33 tires
All-new for 2022 is the KX112 supermini racer that bridges the gap to full-size motocross bikes and boasts a powerful 112 cc displacement engine, the largest in its class. The increased displacement on the 2022 two-stroke, single cylinder KX112 comes by way of a 5.8 mm longer stroke and now features a bore and stroke of 52.5 x 51.6 mm. The new engine paired with the powervalve system delivers strong low-end torque that translates to holeshot performance out of the starting gate and a stronger drive when exiting corners. Power and torque are improved across the rev range with peak power significantly greater. Updated intake and exhaust port timing help contribute to the KX112’s stronger low rpm torque, while a revised piston profile improves durability a redesigned contact surface for the piston ring improves the initial bedding-in performance.
In order to reduce the lateral force placed on the piston, and generate more efficient power, the connecting rod was increased by 7 mm. A 4 mm greater crankshaft web offers increased strength to match the greater offset of the crank pin with the new longer stroke engine. The carburetor settings have been fine-tuned to match the all-new engine and contribute to sharp response across the rev range.
Complementing the more powerful 112 cc engine is an all-new 6-speed transmission and stronger bearing retainers for the small-end needle bearings, and big-end needle bearings with greater load capacity to help harness the increased engine output. Larger gear dogs improve durability and thrust washers have been added for to improve durability and reduce friction.
Similar to the larger KX™models, petal disc front and rear brakes can be found and are used to achieve strong braking performance. A large-diameter 220 mm front brake is gripped by a dual-piston caliper, while the 184 mm rear disc is held by a single-piston caliper. The KX112’s large 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels nicely bridge the gap between minibikes and full-sized race bikes, accommodating larger youth riders and helping to navigate over the bumps and ruts commonly found on motocross tracks. The wheels are fitted with new Dunlop MX33 tiresthat offer enhancedgrip and control. .
A sturdy high-tensile steel perimeter frame was designed in order to harness the engine’s power, offering advantages of strength and torsional rigidity that allows riders to push hard on the track. The chassis is matched with 36 mm inverted front forks that offer excellent damping and bottoming resistance, enabling the all-new KX112 to be ridden hard while maintaining comfort. Riders can fine-tune their settings through 20-way adjustable compression damping. On the rear, Uni-Trak® rear suspension offers preload, 24-way compression and 21-way rebound damping adjustability in order to allow each rider to tailor their settings based on size and skill level.
Kawasaki continues its unmatched commitment towards providing riders with unmatched comfort with class-leading ERGO-FIT® adjustable components like an adjustable handlebar mounting system that allows riders to tailor fit their riding style and size by selecting from among six possible handlebar positions. Collars offer a choice of three heights (STD, +5 mm, +10 mm), while reversible handlebar clamps allow two forward/rearward positions (STD, +10 mm FWD).
The bodywork of the KX112 follows along the lines of its bigger KX counterparts by forming a slim ergonomics package that facilitates rider movements and contributes to strong factory looks. The top of the fuel tank design is flat in order to facilitate sitting farther forward to weigh the front wheel when cornering and a slim, flat seat design makes it easier for riders to adjust their riding position. A new shroud design accommodates a wider range of young riders and makes it easier for taller riders to find a good fit on the bike. The minimalist side covers were made as small as possible and the seams between the shrouds, seat, and side covers are flush in order to allow the rider to move around on the bike with ease.
The new aggressive looks, paired with the ergonomic fit that facilitates control, moves the styling of the KX112 closer to Kawasaki’s full-sized motocrossers. In addition to the new aggressive shroud styling, the rims are coated in black alumite just like the vehicles used by Kawasaki’s factory racing team. A green alumite finish on the fork and shock adjusters strengthens the KX family resemblance, while the brushed aluminum swingarm completes the high-quality image.
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