The KX85’s liquid-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder 84cc engine churns out an abundance of race-winning power. It’s equipped with high-tech features, such as an Electrofusion-coated cylinder with a narrow squish band and large volume to enhance top-end power. A machined finish to the bridges between the intake and exhaust ports helps prevent seizure and improves engine reliability.

Fuel delivery for the engine is provided by a 28mm carburetor that features a crescent-slide to position the needle closer to the intake ports. A Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS®) and exhaust pipe capped with a KX250-style muffler contribute to the KX85’s tractable powerband, which provides control for riders of varying skill levels.

A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission, hard chrome-finished shift fork ends, a thick base on the clutch basket housing and an additional bushing on the input shaft for extra durability are all features that make the KX85 shine.

The KX85 stands above the competition with its advanced chassis. It utilizes a high-tensile steel perimeter frame, and a specially designed gas tank sits inside the frame, lowering the fuel load and center of gravity for improved handling – yet another design borrowed from the bigger KX motorcycles.

Long-travel suspension at both ends helps to smooth out the roughest course for riders of every size and skill level. The 36mm inverted cartridge front fork has the capability of 18-way compression damping adjustment. Out back, the spring preload, compression and rebound damping are all adjustable on the UNI-TRAK® rear suspension system.

And for 2006, the KX85 features aggressive Kawasaki Lime Green and Black graphics and a two-tone seat, just like the other KX models.