The 2026 model "KX112" comes in at ¥583,000! Equipped with a sprocket that weighs 390g less than the previous model and a large-diameter disc, it will go on sale on February 21.

Kawasaki has announced the 2026 model of the KX112, a racer for serious kids and young riders. While inheriting the engine from the previous model, the KX112 has undergone major updates, mainly to the chassis. The KX112's specs are comparable to those of a full-size machine, including a larger-diameter inverted front fork and a rear suspension with increased stroke.

Newly designed chassis and reinforced suspension close to those of full-size machines

To embody Kawasaki's "build-to-win" philosophy, the 2026 KX112 features a radically improved chassis. One of the most significant changes is the front suspension. The Kayaba-made inverted front fork has a significantly enlarged inner tube diameter, from 36 mm to 43 mm. This ensures high rigidity and enables the forks to withstand heavy riding. The outer tube is coated with Kashima Coat, which enhances lubrication and durability, for improved quality and operability. In addition to the conventional compression damping force adjustment, a new rebound damping force adjustment function has been added to the fully adjustable damping force adjustment mechanism.

Overall view of the KX112

Improved front suspension

Adjustable handlebar position

Rear suspension has also evolved significantly

The shock rod diameter has been increased to 14 mm and the cylinder length extended to enhance damping characteristics and bottoming resistance near full stroke. Rear wheel travel has been increased from 275 mm to 305 mm, which is equivalent to that of a full-size motocrosser. The range of adjustment has also been expanded, with the addition of a new high-speed compression damping force adjustment function that allows adjustment of all low-speed and high-speed compression, rebound, and preload settings. The steering head pipe length has also been extended by 25 mm to further enhance frontal rigidity and chassis stability.

Comparison of front and rear wheel travel in 2025

Rear suspension and swingarm area

Improved braking performance to support driving and weight reduction pursued down to the smallest detail

The braking system has also been strengthened in order to fully exploit the engine's performance. The outer diameters of the front and rear brake discs have been increased from 220 mm to 240 mm and from 184 mm to 220 mm, respectively. The front brake uses the same master cylinder as on the KX250, and the caliper bodies are the same. The 25 mm piston diameter provides both high braking power and excellent controllability. The rear brake master cylinder has also been re-set, with a reduced stroke for a more direct feel with less play.

Front

Rear

Thoroughly lightweight model change

The rear sprocket has been changed to lightweight aluminum, reducing the weight by 390g compared to the previous model. The reduction in unsprung weight and rotational inertia contributes to improved dynamic performance. In addition, the steering stem has been changed from steel to aluminum, resulting in a weight reduction of 190g, and the handlebar has been changed to a Rensal aluminum fat bar, resulting in a weight reduction of 80g. Underfoot, the latest Dunlop Geomax MX34 tires are mounted to provide high grip performance regardless of road conditions.

View of the handlebar

Flexible riding position and latest racer style

The ergonomics have also been revamped to allow for settings that match the rider's physique and preferences. The handlebar position has been moved forward by approximately 50 mm and widened by 35 mm. The step position is 10 mm lower, providing a position that is more adaptable to a wider range of rider physiques. The adjustable handlebar has triple clamp mounting slots and reversible mounts, combined with collar height adjustment, for a total of 8 different positions. The handlebar grips feature screw-fastening ODI lock-on grips for easier maintenance.

Riding position change diagram

Exterior Design

The new KX is strongly reminiscent of Kawasaki's full-size KX models. The license plate, front fender, and fork guards have a new design, transforming the bike into a more authentic and up-to-date racer look. The steps have been widened from 40mm to 48mm in width, with a flat wide step shape for better mud evacuation and to help hold the machine steady. The shape of the air intake ducts was also revised in conjunction with the rear shock changes, and other details were also taken into consideration in order to improve performance.

Modified wide steps

KX112

Eat the full-size, 112cc. ø43mm inverted fork and 305mm stroke, here's the strongest "winner" of all.

The scheduled release date is February 21, 2026, and the price is 583,000 yen.