A New 2-Stroke KX Built For The Wild

Amid global enthusiastic anticipation, details have now been revealed for Kawasaki’s re-entry into the off-road adult two-stroke category. And the big news is that it is not one bike but two that will make their debuts for 2027.

KX327

KX327X

Both the KX327X and KX327 feature Kawasaki’s first fuel-injected 2-stroke single-cylinder engine ushering in a new era of performance and delivering consistent torque in an incredibly lightweight package. 

The new engine offers a linear power character with crisp throttle response and strong traction at ultra-low RPMs. A lightweight KX aluminium perimeter frame, pairs with factory-style suspension and Nissin brakes to create the ultimate 2-stroke race machine, built to get you to the podium in either cross country and enduro environment for the KX327X, or motocross tracks for the KX327.

Featuring electric starting and meticulously designed expansion chamber style exhausts systems and a specially designed exhaust power valve prioritise not just power but smooth, uniform torque. Additionally, each machine has power mode selection via a handlebar mounted switch.

A specially designed dual-injection system delivers excellent throttle response and a flat torque character while automatic FI compensation eliminates the need for jetting adjustments to suit changes in altitude or weather conditions. For smoother power delivery and reduced vibration, a single-shaft primary engine balancer has been incorporated while the fuel/oil ratio of the simple yet effective pre-mix is rated at 32:1.  

The KX327X enjoys sleek and contemporary styling for its ergonomically focused bodywork which encloses an 8.5l fuel tank supported by a lightweight aluminium perimeter chassis. The six speed close ratio transmission – complete with ultra-low first gear – additionally benefits from hydraulic clutch actuation.

With a KYB 48mm coil-spring front fork and Kawasaki’s legendary Uni-Trak rear suspension physical fine tuning is available via Ergo-Fit multi adjustment of handlebars and footrests while mapping and other modifications are possible via Smartphone using Rideology the App KX2. Add ODI lock-on grips and quick-release side covers for easy air filter access and the performance and practicality of KX327X clearly reveals itself. 

For track riders in 2027, Kawasaki will offer the KX327. Sharing much of the specification of its sibling, the KX327 utilises one less ratio to make a five speed transmission plus the adoption of a 19 inch rear wheel compared to the 18 inch item of the KX327X. Both machines are equipped with Renthal handlebars and EXCEL wheel rims.

So the waiting is nearly over and the rumours are true, Kawasaki IS making two stroke adult enduro and motocross machines. The final question is “what colour?” – Lime Green, of course! Kawasaki KX, the Bike that Builds Champions.  

The KX327 and KX327X will be available from January, with pricing TBC.

2027 Kawasaki KX250F, KX450F And Youth Range Unveiled

Fresh from winning the 2025 MXGP World Championship with Romain Febvre and the KX450,Kawasaki has unveiled its duo of class-leading adult motocross machines for the2027 season, and the news is that “F is back”. In addition to the big bikes, Kawasaki has also revealed its extensive 2027 youth range.

KX450F

KX250F

Allocated the suffix F in 2027, the new racers are a formidable duo with an extensive list of changes and updates focused on maintaining their place at the front of the pack.

Reflecting feedback from current World Champion, Romain Febvre, the new KX450F is festooned with changes and updates, amongst which the most notable is a brand new frame and swinging-arm assembly. This creates a longer wheelbase, offering improved rear-end traction and controllability, plus enhanced stability thanks to revised front and rear suspension settings. Along with engine and other changes, the overall package contributes to improved all-round performance.

Speaking of the engine, thanks to revised intake and exhaust systems and optimised fuel injection settings, performance has improved with a more aggressive engine feeling.  Stronger low-end power feel is complemented by improved power in the mid-high range, such as when accelerating out of high-speed corners.

On the tech side, the Power Mode button on the left handlebar lets riders quickly switch between two engine map settings. Additionally, two traction control (KTRC) settings can be selected from a handlebar switch that, along with the Power Mode setting, can be fine-tuned via the updated RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX2. A factory-style Launch Control mode offers an updated system that includes a rev-limit control function, allowing riders to focus on the best possible start.

Making a 2027 debut is a Brembo front and rear braking package with both calipers and master cylinders being Brembo complemented by steel mesh brake hoses. Adding convenience, both the handlebars and footpegs are Kawasaki ERGO-FIT multi-adjustable, facilitating maximum control. Rounding out the larger machine is a new slim bodywork, boasting a colour scheme that maximises the Lime Green impact while adding blue to unify across Kawasaki’s performance motorcycle models.

Sharing that fresh new vibrancy is the 2027 KX250F, a machine that also enjoys an impressive slew of updates for the upcoming season, including refinements to the combustion chamber design, an increased exhaust pipe length, and an optimised, smaller-bodied silencer, which contribute to stronger power across the rev range. A smoother, more hemispherical combustion chamber profile allows the initial flame kernel to grow more rapidly after ignition, increasing combustion speed and improving combustion efficiency.  As a result, peak power increases by 0.5 kW and peak torque by 0.3 N?m.

Complementing these changes, updated FI settings offer sharper, more linear throttle response.  To cope with the upgrades, Kawasaki engineers have also added a larger-capacity hydraulic clutch assembly, with the clutch spring load increased by 15%, to deliver prodigious power to the ground smoothly and progressively.

Enjoying a bodywork refresh that includes the number plate and front fender boasting a new, simple and lightweight design that includes a blue accent in addition to the characteristic Lime Green, the quarter litre model also comes equipped with selectable Power Mode and KTRC Traction Control plus Launch control while look, feel and efficiency are on point with updated coolant hose and front brake hose routing plus internal setting revisions for both front and rear suspension components.  

In addition to the big bikes, Kawasaki has also unveiled its off-road youth range for 2027. With class capacities of 65cm3, 85cm3, 110cm3 and 140cm3, the impressive variety of machines makes it easier than ever to gain entry to the world of riding in the starter and leisure classes, laying the groundwork for future off-road and racing ambitions.

An entry-level motorcycle – but with the same attention to detail and build standards as adult machines – the 112cc KLX 110R is a rugged and reliable welcome to the Kawasaki off-road four-stroke stable with kick and electric starting plus a four-speed semi-automatic transmission. The addition of a parent or guardian throttle stop facilitates controlled speed learning in safe conditions, and like its KLX siblings, the KX racing looks are backed up by race-style suspension and full-on Kawasaki build quality.

Further up the scale in terms of engine size is the KLX140 range with no less than three models available in 2027 from the R with its 17inch front and 14-inch rear wheel set-up to the L (large wheel) at 19inch and 16inch respectively, and finally the F (full size) equipped with 21inch at the front and an 18-inch rear wheel.

In terms of youth racing, the water-cooled, two-stroke KX65 is nothing short of a legend. First across the line in thousands of Championships, the smallest KX comes equipped with front and rear disc brakes, Uni-Trak rear suspension, and KX race graphics.

When it is time, riders can move seamlessly up to the KX85, which is available for 2027 in both standard (17-inch front / 14-inch rear) and big wheel (19-inch front / 16-inch rear) versions, taking riders through a pivotal part of their racing journey. Enjoying up-to-date styling, bodywork, and radiator shrouds, the KX85 also benefits from Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit handlebar mount system, offering six possible positions.

Next on the capacity ladder for many riders will be the KX112, a classic two-stroke, water-cooled single-cylinder machine with a 865mm seat height and a 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheel combination.

The KX youth range will be available from July, the KX250F from August, and the KX450F from December. Pricing will be confirmed soon. 

KX112

KX85

KX85 L