KX65 Suspension Setting Questions

Start with stiffer springs.

My son races a 105cc Unlimited Mini and weighs less than 118. I believe the maximum weight Kawasaki recommends on the KX65 frame is 123. Get a bigger bike.

deadhead

If memory serves me, the 65 is sprung for 70-80lbs.

Interesting plan. How tall is he? My son wanted to race his KX65 "just one more season" a few years ago when he was pushing about 80 pounds. I got heavier springs, a one millimeter shorter pair of link bars to raise the rear end, dropped the forks all the way down in the triple clamp, and added the handlebar riser kit that puts the bars an inch higher and further forward. I even went with heavier weight fork oil. After five races he admitted the bars still hit his knees. We were finally done with 65s, but not after a big layout of time and cash.

Although I understand the plan, at 118 pounds the stock suspension won't properly carry him. If he starts jumping even a little, he'll be bottoming out, and that's when stuff breaks. Also, you need to be careful of frame cracks, especially near the motor mounts and the subframe tubes.

They're great bikes, don't get me wrong, but they're small for a reason.

deadhead

I think we hear what your son and you are trying to accomplish but for the sake of staying competitive in a class and track that he is "use" to he may be in danger of getting hurt riding a bike that really isn't for him anymore. My son is 4'8" and 90 lbs and I am looking at having to move him up from the kx65 now too. Instead of getting just a little more time and spending a lot more money I would encourage him to make the transition now. I'm looking at the KTM 105, the Honda CRF150R(the new racing 4stroke from honda) and of course the 85cc 2 strokes. It's driving me crazy too so I feel your pain but your boy really should move up. good luck. :blah: :blah: