Kawasaki KX65 specifications

Kawasaki · Youth motocross

The 2027 Kawasaki KX65 is a 64cc liquid-cooled two-stroke youth motocross bike with a six-speed return-shift gearbox, a wet multi-disc manual clutch and a 33 mm leading-axle fork. It starts at $4,249 before a $315 destination charge, weighs 126.1 lb and has a 29.9 in seat. It is Kawasaki's entry-level race bike for children who have outgrown a 50cc machine and want to learn a manual clutch and to race.

Kawasaki describes instant throttle response and power throughout the rev range, and it is a bike for supervised racing.

Who the KX65 fits.

The KX65 is a manual-clutch race bike for a small child. Total Motorcycle says its high-tensile tubular steel semi-double cradle frame and low 29.9 in seat let riders gain experience and build skills on a dependable platform, and that the liquid-cooled 64cc two-stroke produces instant throttle response and power throughout the rev range, with the six-speed transmission creating broad power to satisfy an aspiring motocross racer.

The bike is a step up from automatic-clutch trail bikes like the KLX110R and a step down from the KX85.

Common issues and upkeep

MotoSport calls the KX65 known for a lightweight frame and responsive handling, with a solid reputation for performance and reliability that makes it an excellent entry-level dirt bike. Its owner-issue list includes engine stalling or loss of power, suspension that should be set to the rider's weight and skill, and clutch lever feel, which is adjusted at the cable.

The KX minibike ladder and using a KX65.

The KX65 is the bottom rung of a race ladder. Total Motorcycle lists Kawasaki's KX minibike lineup as the KX65, KX85, KX85 L and KX112, each designed to deliver race-ready performance across a range of rider sizes, with a shared emphasis on durability and reliability that make a dependable platform for young racers. Moving from a KX65 to a KX85 is the normal step as the child grows.

MotoSport adds that difficulty shifting gears is a common issue, often linked to clutch adjustment, that the model is well suited to young riders and beginners, and that suspension settings should be adjusted for the rider's weight and skill.

KX65 against the YZ65, KTM 65 SX and 50 SX.

Yamaha's YZ65 is the direct rival at $4,499 and 134 lb. So the KX65 is $250 cheaper and 8 lb lighter. KTM's 65 SX costs $5,899, and its 50 SX at $5,099 is the smaller step below.

Model-year range

2026–2027

Compared editions

2

Specification entries

24

Entries that differ

0

2027 Kawasaki KX65 questions

What age is the Kawasaki KX65 for?

The manufacturer’s age label and supervision instructions apply before the fit check. The KX65 has a 29.9 in seat, a 126.1 lb curb weight and a manual clutch. So it fits a child who has outgrown a 50cc bike and can manage a clutch lever.

Is the KX65 a two-stroke?

Yes. It is a 64cc liquid-cooled two-stroke with a six-speed transmission. Total Motorcycle says it produces instant throttle response and power throughout the rev range.