Kawasaki Goes Overbored
KAWASAKI GOES OVERBORED
EVEN WHEN IT COMES TO lightweight dirtbikes, there's no replacement for displacement. Kawasaki followed that popular hot-rodding school of thought this year when it upsized its KDX200 and KLX250 to create two new larger-displacement models. The resulting KDX220 and KLX300 were originally offered only in Japan, but will come to America shortly as 1997 models.
As you’d expect, both new bikes are essentially identical to their forebears. The main difference between the KDX200 (which remains in the lineup) and KDX220 is the latter’s 1mmlarger bore and' 2mm-larger carburetor. The $4549 220 will be in dealer showrooms by the time you read this.
The KLX300 follows the same pattern, essentially being a KLX250 with a 6mm-larger bore and 2mmlarger carb. If Team CWs experience with our project KLX300 (CW, April, 1995) is any indication, the displacement boost equates to way more roost-especially in a package that weighs nearly 25 pounds less than a Honda XR400. Expect it to sell for $4699 beginning in October.
Though neither new model fits into existing stateside enduro classes, Team Green is hoping that their small size and agile handling, coupled with the added displacement, will appeal to recreational trail riders.
