For 2026, Kawasaki engineers have adopted a fresh approach to the ever popular KX85 incorporating a wide range of new components and technical upgrades to ensure it fights at the front of the pack.
While the tried and trusted two-stroke engine remains in place, changes to chassis, suspension, and front bodywork of the KX85 in both standard and big wheel (L) form create a new premier specification of podium placing potential.
Big news at the front end is the new larger fork adopted for 2026. The low friction Kashima coated assembly now features larger-diameter ø43 mm inner tubes including rebound damping adjustability plus higher rigidity. Complementing the current compression damping adjuster, a rebound damping adjuster has now been added, allowing more precise suspension setup.
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Up front, the news gets better still with a new, larger ø240 mm front disc paired with the same caliper body and master cylinder used on the KX250 offering stronger braking force, enhanced durability, and improved controllability. And, at the rear, a larger ø220 mm disc plus reduced pedal play contribute to more precise braking control. New Dunlop Geomax MX34 tyres increase traction, brake grip and cornering grip while offering better front-end feel.
Also at the rear, a new shock offers full adjustability plus the rod diameter has been increased from ø12.5 mm to ø14 mm while the cylinder length has been extended from 380 mm to 390 mm resulting in firmer damping and bottoming resistance. On the KX85 L (big wheel), a revised linkage delivers 305 mm of wheel travel— a figure on par with that of Kawasaki’s full-size KX models.
The much praised perimeter frame is also upgraded with a steering head pipe length extended by 25 mm. The resultant increased front-end rigidity delivers greater overall composure while items such as handlebars, steering stem and rear sprocket are now aluminium and lighter than previous iterations.
For the rider, a new upper triple clamp with two sets of handlebar mount slots and reversible handlebar mounts offers riders a choice of four positions: 10 mm forward, STD, 10 mm back and 20 mm back. These are complemented by two height choices using collars (STD, +5 mm) offering riders a total of ERGO-FIT positions to choose from, enabling a more personalised riding setup.
With a new aggressive and angular front fender and front number board plus fork shroud design – as well as ODI Lock-On Grips mounted on new Renthal fat bars – the rider also benefits from new flatter footpegs which have been widened to 48mm from 40mm. These feature a greater number of teeth for better grip while black wheel rims and green alumite finish suspension adjusters add to the overall “factory racer” look aligning these junior machines perfectly with their adult class siblings.
Redefined and Built to Win, the new 2026 KX85 models – in standard and big wheel form – are poised for action and podium ready.
The KX85 big wheel will cost £4,749, with the small wheel costing £4,649. Bikes will start arriving from the spring.
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Kawasaki is a Japanese multinational company that manufactures motorcycles, along with a wide range of other products like ships, aircraft, and industrial equipment. Its motorcycle division is known for high-performance and powerful models, and has its roots in the company’s aircraft manufacturing. Kawasaki is also known for the popular Jet Ski, which has become a generic term for personal watercraft.
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