The bike that was deemed as “unrideable, wild and violent” of bike reviews way back 1980s. This legendary bike has more power than one can imagine in a dirtbike.
Kawasaki was the first ever manufacturer to go the level of the 500cc at the time and not many were sure that it would be a wise choice to use in competitions or personal use.
Bike specs:
| Model | KTM 125 EXC Enduro |
| Year | 1983-2004 |
| Engine | Two stroke, single cylinder |
| Capacity | 499 cc (30.5 cu in) liquid-cooled two-stroke single |
| Bore x Stroke | 86 x 86 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 |
| Cooling system type | Liquid cooled |
| Induction | Carburettor. Keihin flat-slide |
| Ignition | CDI |
| Starting | Kick |
| Top Speed | 90mph |
| Transmission | Five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch |
| Wheelbase | 59 in |
| Frame | Steel |
| Front suspension | showa forks |
| Front Brakes | Single 260 mm disc,2 piston caliper |
| Rear Brakes | Single 220 mm disc,1 piston caliper |
| Front Tires | 90/90 - 21 |
| Rear Tires | 120/90 - 18 |
| Seat height | 37 in |
| Fuel capacity | 2.6 gal. |
Over the last 3 decades, any bike that has more power than the KX 500 is considered as impractical. The KX was seen as the borderline of insanity when it comes to power a man can handle on a bike.
One of the great things about used KX500s is that they are fairly indestructible. They could swallow dirt by the pound and keep running. The electrofusion-coated cylinder couldn’t be bored, but would wear for a long, long time. If it does get damaged, there are a number of companies than can recoat a KX cylinder.
So, what do you think? Do you want to own one? Do you think you have what it takes to ride this bike? Let us know in the comments!
