Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto: Unleash The Street Racer Within!

Hey guys! Ever looked at a dirt bike and thought, "Man, that would be awesome on the streets?" Well, you're not alone. The Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto is exactly that – a thrilling blend of dirt bike agility and street bike performance. This article dives deep into everything you need to know about building, riding, and maintaining a KX85 Supermoto. Buckle up, because we're about to transform your ride into a corner-carving beast!

Building Your Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto: The Transformation Begins

So, you've got your hands on a Kawasaki KX85, and now you want to turn it into a Supermoto. Awesome! This is where the fun really begins. The beauty of a KX85 Supermoto is its lightweight and nimble nature, making it a blast to ride on twisty roads and even the track. Building one isn't rocket science, but it does require some key modifications. Let's break down the essential steps, shall we?

First things first: wheels and tires. This is the most significant change. You'll need a set of 17-inch wheels, typically made from aluminum for their strength and reduced weight. Look for a reputable brand like Warp 9, Excel, or similar, known for quality and durability. You'll also need the right tires. Supermoto tires are designed to provide maximum grip on asphalt, so you'll want something sticky. Popular choices include Pirelli Diablo Rosso II, Michelin Power Supermoto, or Bridgestone Battlax. Choosing the correct tire size is also crucial. A common setup is a 120/70-17 front and a 150/60-17 rear. Make sure the tires you choose are suitable for the street and meet the necessary safety standards.

Next up: brakes. The stock KX85 brakes are designed for dirt riding, which means they might not be up to the demands of street riding. Upgrading your brakes is highly recommended for improved stopping power and feel. Consider a larger front brake rotor (around 320mm) paired with a better brake caliper. You can also upgrade your brake lines to stainless steel braided lines for more precise braking performance. This helps to eliminate that squishy feeling you sometimes get with the stock rubber lines. Don't forget to bleed your brakes properly after making any changes – safety first, always!

Now, let's talk about suspension. Supermoto riding involves a lot of cornering, so your suspension needs to be dialed in. The KX85's stock suspension can be improved with stiffer springs and a re-valve to handle the increased forces of street riding. Many suspension specialists offer custom setups tailored to your weight and riding style. Proper suspension setup will drastically improve handling and confidence. Make sure your suspension is serviced regularly, and the oil is changed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Don't forget the little things! You will need a speedometer and lighting. Many states require your bike to have a working speedometer, headlight, taillight, turn signals, and a horn. You can find aftermarket kits that make this process relatively easy. Ensure that the lights are bright enough to be seen in traffic and that the turn signals are clearly visible. Also, consider adding a rear-view mirror for added safety.

Finally, for the engine, you don’t need much. If you are going to ride on the street, it is recommended to replace the exhaust with a new one that is road legal, if you want a lot of power consider a big bore kit. Also, consider upgrading the air filter. This way you will enhance your engine's ability to breathe properly. Now, you should be good to go. The fun part begins when you start riding your Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto, remember to wear all of your safety gear.

Boosting Performance: Making Your KX85 Scream on the Street

Alright, so you've built your Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto, but you want to take it to the next level, right? Let's talk about boosting performance! There are several modifications you can make to get more power and improve the overall riding experience. However, keep in mind that with any modifications, you will need to monitor how the bike feels after each modification and adjust if needed.

Engine upgrades are a great place to start. A pipe and silencer upgrade can significantly improve horsepower and torque. Many aftermarket exhaust systems are available for the KX85, offering improved flow and performance. You may also want to consider a new jetting kit. When you change your exhaust, you'll need to re-jet your carburetor to match the new airflow characteristics. Correct jetting is critical for optimal performance and engine longevity. Don't skimp on this step – get it right! If you're feeling adventurous, you can explore big bore kits to increase the engine's displacement. This will give you a noticeable bump in power, but it also increases the stress on the engine components, so make sure to do your research before going down this route.

Next, focus on handling upgrades. Lightweight components are key. Consider upgrading to a lighter clutch for quicker acceleration and reduced rotating mass. Some riders also opt for a lighter flywheel, which can improve throttle response. Suspension upgrades are crucial for improving handling. Invest in a re-valve or a suspension upgrade for your forks and shock. This will improve handling and confidence on the road. You can also consider using a steering damper, which will help to stabilize the front end and reduce headshake.

Don't neglect the little things! Proper gearing is essential for optimizing performance. Experiment with different sprocket combinations to find what works best for your riding style and the roads you ride on. Be sure to check your chain and sprockets regularly to ensure they are in good condition. Also, make sure that your air filter is clean and well-maintained. A clean air filter is essential for the engine to breathe properly and perform at its best. Also, always use high-quality fuel and oil for optimum performance. Use fuel with the recommended octane rating for your engine's compression ratio. Use the oil recommended by the bike manufacturer.

Suspension Setup: Dialing in Your KX85 Supermoto

Your suspension is the backbone of your KX85 Supermoto's handling. Getting it right is crucial for a smooth, controlled ride. The stock KX85 suspension is designed for motocross, so it will need some adjustments to perform well on the street. It is highly recommended to do suspension adjustments with a professional, in any case, if you want to dial in your bike. Let's get into it.

Spring rate is the first thing you need to consider. The stock springs might be too soft for street riding. Choose springs that match your weight and riding style. If you're heavier, you'll need stiffer springs. A suspension shop can help you determine the correct spring rate. Damping controls the rate at which your suspension compresses and rebounds. This is crucial for controlling the bike's movement. You'll need to adjust the compression and rebound damping to get the right balance. Adjust your suspension based on the road condition. On smooth roads, you can have a stiffer setting, while in rougher roads, softer settings should be used. This way you'll ensure that you have maximum control over your bike.

Ride height also plays an important role. Adjusting the ride height can affect the handling characteristics of your bike. Lowering the front end will make the bike turn in quicker, while raising the rear will make the bike more stable in a straight line. Experiment with different ride heights to find what works best for you. Check your sag regularly. Proper sag ensures that your suspension is working effectively. Measure the rider and static sag and adjust the preload on your springs to get the correct settings. Be sure to do this regularly, because the sag could vary with the load.

Also, adjust the suspension based on your riding style. If you ride aggressively, you may want to have stiffer suspension settings. If you prefer a more relaxed ride, you can soften the suspension settings. Make small adjustments and test the bike after each adjustment. It may take some time to find the perfect setting for your riding style. But after a little bit of time, you will find a setting that is perfect for you. Always be safe when riding. Adjust your suspension based on your weight and riding style.

Brakes and Wheels: Essential Supermoto Upgrades

Brakes and wheels are two of the most critical upgrades for your Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto. Upgrading these components will significantly improve your bike's performance, safety, and overall riding experience. Let's break down the essential upgrades for your brakes and wheels.

Brakes: The stock brakes on the KX85 are decent for dirt riding, but they can feel inadequate for the demands of street riding. Upgrading your brakes will give you more stopping power, improved feel, and increased confidence. Start by upgrading the front brake rotor to a larger size (typically around 320mm). This will increase the leverage on the brake, giving you more stopping power. Pair the larger rotor with a high-quality brake caliper, such as a radial-mount caliper. This will provide more braking force and a better feel at the lever. Replace the stock brake lines with stainless steel braided lines. These lines will eliminate the spongy feel of the stock rubber lines and provide a more direct and precise feel. Also, consider upgrading the brake pads. Select brake pads specifically designed for street use. These pads will provide improved braking performance and durability.

Wheels: Your wheels are critical for handling, grip, and overall performance. Upgrading your wheels will make your bike look better and ride better. Supermoto wheels are typically 17 inches in diameter, both front and rear. Choose high-quality wheels from a reputable brand like Warp 9, Excel, or Talon. These brands are known for their durability and performance. If you want to ride in the street, you need street tires. Install Supermoto tires. These tires provide incredible grip on the asphalt. Make sure to balance your wheels after installing the tires to ensure a smooth ride. Keep an eye on your wheel bearings. Check them regularly and replace them if they are worn or damaged.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your KX85 Supermoto in Top Shape

Maintaining your Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto is key to ensuring its reliability, performance, and longevity. Regular maintenance will also help you identify potential problems before they become major issues. Let's delve into the essential maintenance tasks.

Engine Maintenance: First, change your engine oil and filter regularly. Follow the manufacturer's recommended service intervals and use high-quality oil. Inspect the air filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed. A dirty air filter will restrict airflow and reduce engine performance. Check your spark plug regularly and replace it as recommended. A worn spark plug can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency. Also, regularly check your cooling system. Check the coolant level and look for any leaks. Ensure that the cooling system is clean and free of debris. Always use the right fuel grade. If you do this regularly, your engine will last a lifetime.

Chassis and Suspension Maintenance: Check your suspension components regularly for wear and damage. This includes the forks, shock, and linkage. Also, inspect your brake pads and rotors regularly. Replace them when they are worn. Check the tire pressure before each ride and adjust it as needed. Check your chain and sprockets regularly. Ensure that the chain is properly lubricated and adjusted. Also, inspect your wheel bearings for wear and damage. Replace the bearings if they are worn. Clean and lubricate your swingarm pivot regularly. This will ensure that the swingarm moves freely.

General Maintenance: Wash and wax your bike regularly to keep it looking its best. Use a quality cleaner and wax designed for motorcycles. Inspect your controls regularly. Check the throttle, clutch lever, and brake lever for proper operation. Check your lights and signals regularly to ensure they are working properly. Ensure that all the nuts and bolts are tight. Vibration can loosen nuts and bolts, so it's essential to check them regularly. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance intervals. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your KX85 Supermoto in top condition.

Riding Tips and Techniques for Your KX85 Supermoto

Now that you've built your Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto, it's time to hit the streets! Here are some riding tips and techniques to help you make the most of your Supermoto experience and stay safe out there. Riding a Supermoto is a blast. Let's get to it!

Riding Position: Maintain a balanced riding position. Keep your weight centered on the bike and use your legs to grip the tank. This will improve your control and stability. Focus on keeping your eyes up. Look where you want to go. Don't stare at the ground! Look ahead through the corners and anticipate the road ahead. You'll naturally steer the bike where you are looking. Use the throttle smoothly. Avoid abrupt throttle movements, especially in corners. Learn to modulate the throttle to control the bike's speed and maintain traction. Practice smooth cornering techniques. Lean into the corners. Use your body weight to help steer the bike. Look through the turn, and keep the throttle steady. Remember to brake smoothly and efficiently. Use the front brake for most of your stopping power. Avoid locking up the front wheel.

Cornering Techniques: Enter corners with the right speed. Adjust your speed before entering the corner. Don't try to brake hard mid-corner. Use body positioning to lean into the corners. Lean into the corner with your body, keeping your head up and looking through the turn. Look for the apex of the corner. The apex is the point where you are closest to the inside of the turn. Focus on hitting the apex and then accelerating out of the corner. Use the throttle to control your speed and balance. Gradually roll on the throttle as you exit the corner.

Advanced Techniques: Practice drifting. This is a fun and challenging technique that involves sliding the rear wheel. Practice in a safe, controlled environment. Braking while leaning is also a challenging technique. If you brake while leaning, do it gradually and gently. Practice, practice, practice! The more you ride, the better you'll become. Practice these techniques in a safe, controlled environment. Remember, safety always comes first. Wear the appropriate gear and ride within your limits. Always obey the traffic laws and be aware of your surroundings.

Conclusion: Embrace the Supermoto Life!

Building and riding a Kawasaki KX85 Supermoto is an incredibly rewarding experience. It combines the thrill of dirt bike riding with the practicality and accessibility of street riding. With the right modifications, maintenance, and riding techniques, you can transform your KX85 into an exhilarating street machine. So, get out there, ride safe, and enjoy the ride. Embrace the Supermoto life, and enjoy the journey!