Engineered by Kawasaki for the enduro - offroad motorcycle segment, the 1997 Kawasaki KMX 125 pairs a 125 cc (7.6 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 15 HP (10.9 kW) at 8,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 13 Nm (9.6 lb-ft) at 6,600 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 120 HP per liter and a 1,900 rpm working window between peak torque (6,600 rpm) and peak power (8,500 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the KMX 125 measures 96 kg (212 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.16 HP/kg (6.4 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 865 mm (34.1 in) seat height — reflecting a long-travel chassis stance that favors ground clearance and off-pavement control, combined with a 1,375 mm (54.1 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 9.3-liter (2.5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 1986 to 2001, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
120 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.16 HP/kg (6.4 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,600–8,500 rpm
Standover Height
865 mm (34.1 in)
Engine
Displacement125.0 ccm (7.63 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Power15.0 HP (10.9 kW)) @ 8500 RPM
Torque13.0 Nm (1.3 kgf-m or 9.6 ft.lbs) @ 6600 RPM
Compression7.8:1
Bore x Stroke54.0 x 1,093.0 mm (2.1 x 43.0 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor
IgnitionCDI
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Chassis
Front SuspensionTelescopic forks
Front Travel230 mm (9.1 inches)
Rear SuspensionSwing arm
Rear Travel230 mm (9.1 inches)
Wheelbase1375 mm (54.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre2.75-21
Rear Tyre4.10-18
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø230 mm (9.1 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø210 mm (8.3 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight96.0 kg (211.6 pounds)
Power/Weight0.1563 HP/kg
Seat Height865 mm (34.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
