Team Green’s stepping stone between mini and full-sized off-road machinery


The gap between minibike and full-sized machine has traditionally been a wide one. And for novices, making that jump can be difficult indeed. But now there’s a motorcycle that bridges the gap nicely – Kawasaki’s KLX™140L. Featuring 19” front and 16” rear wheels fitted to the standard-spec KLX140, the L-model is the ideal machine for more experienced or longer-limbed fans of smaller displacement machines. And with its more performance-oriented, reservoir-equipped rear shock, there’s plenty of performance for everyone. As always, the standard KLX – with 17” front / 14” rear wheels – is a first-rate option for novices and smaller riders.


Start-ups are simple: just press the power switch and thumb the KLX’s start button and you’re off and running. Because dead batteries are a drag, the power switch contains an internal LED that illuminates, alerting riders whenever the ignition is on. Power from the KLX’s air-cooled SOHC 144cc engine is plentiful yet easy to manage via the manual clutch and five-speed close-ratio transmission. The clutch design promotes an easy learning curve via its spring damper system; the design provides progressive, two-stage engagement and easy half-clutch use during slower speed riding, just the thing for those learning the machinations of manual shifting. Additional benefits of this system are a more direct lever feel and increased clutch durability.


The KLX’s high-revving, smooth and surprisingly quiet engine is wrapped in a high-tensile steel perimeter frame covered by KX™-like shrouds, a two-tone seat cover and sharp, aggressive body work. The 140’s roomy cockpit, overall control layout and narrow footpeg/frame relationship – including wide, comfortable footpegs – make it easy for riders to move around with minimal effort.


A 33mm telescopic fork featuring custom-tuned spring rate and damping settings handles suspension duty up front. In back, a UNI-TRAK® linkage equipped rear shock featuring 5-way preload adjustability and a remote reservoir provides a high degree of wheel control, and is adaptable to the smaller-wheeled, standard-spec KLX140 for added performance.


RK EXCEL aluminum rims and advanced braking components are another sign this is a serious off-road motorcycle. A large 220mm front disc and 27mm twin-piston caliper at the front and 186mm rear disc provide serious stopping power. Both utilize petal shaped rotors, which help clean the brakes and reduce unsprung weight for better wheel control.


Bottom line? The KLX140L delivers an ideal blend of size and performance, all of which equals Big Fun for kids and adults alike.


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