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Features a key-less ignition button with an LED indicator for power status.
Highlights the front and rear petal disc brake system for enhanced performance.
Air-cooled, single cylinder engine offering simple operation, high reliability, and usable low-end power.
Convenient keyless start system with an orange LED power indicator and digital CDI ignition.
Modified Keihin PB20 carburetor for improved performance in hard off-road conditions.
Close-ratio 5-speed gearbox enhances acceleration capabilities for spirited riding.
Features a spring damper for smoother two-stage clutch engagement at low speeds.
KX-based perimeter frame constructed from high-tensile steel for increased off-road capability.
Sturdy front forks and rear shock with specific tuning and adjustable features for superior performance.
Disc brakes on both front and rear wheels for superior braking performance and cooling.
Includes rubber-mounted handlebars, KX-style grips, and a dual-texture seat for rider comfort.
Features two-piece radiator shrouds from KX models and a box-shaped muffler for an aggressive look.
Highlights the new Lime Green and Black graphics, consistent with other 2011 KX and KLX models.
The Kawasaki KLX140L is a dirt bike designed for off-road riding, serving as an ideal transition model for riders moving up from smaller machines like the KLX110 and KLX140. It is engineered to provide a superior level of off-road fun, incorporating design elements and components derived from Kawasaki's championship-winning KX line, ensuring a racy continuity with its siblings in the Kawasaki lineup.
The KLX140L is powered by a 144 cm³ 4-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. This engine is designed for simplicity in operation and maintenance, offering high reliability. It delivers easy-to-use low-end power combined with a strong top-end that can rev up to approximately 10,500 rpm before hitting a rev limiter, which smoothly cuts power in the over-run for better control at high rpm. The bike features a 5-speed close-ratio transmission, with gear ratios specifically chosen to enhance the engine's acceleration capabilities. A progressive manual clutch, which utilizes a spring damper, provides two-stage clutch engagement, facilitating partial clutch use at extremely low rpm or idling speeds, and allows riders to master full control of shifting.
For starting, the KLX140L is equipped with an electric starter, making it quick and easy to get going. A keyless On/Off button is conveniently located in front of the handlebars, and an orange LED light activates when the button is depressed, indicating that the power is on. Digital CDI ignition ensures quick and reliable starting every time.
The bike's chassis is built around a KX-based perimeter frame made of high-tensile steel, which enhances its off-road capabilities. The frame's design, including the flat footpeg/frame rail relationship, provides an area for riders to grip the frame with their ankles, offering better control during aggressive riding.
High-level suspension components complement the rigid frame. The front features leading axle 33mm front forks with spring rates and damping settings tailored for the KLX140L. The rear suspension utilizes a Uni-Trak system with a gas shock, complete with a piggy-back reservoir, threaded preload, 4-way compression, and 22-way rebound damping adjustments. Both the shock body and reservoir are constructed from aluminum, contributing to lighter weight. An aluminum swingarm is used, which is both lightweight and strong, and incorporates KX racing-style chain adjusters for precise chain slack adjustment.
Braking performance is handled by petal disc brakes at both the front and rear, a feature that sets it apart from many playbikes that often use a disc/drum combination. The front brake consists of a large 220 mm petal disc gripped by a twin-piston caliper, providing strong and easy-to-control braking. The rear brake features a 186 mm petal disc gripped by a single-piston caliper. The petal disc design helps reduce unsprung weight, while its wave shape aids in cleaning the brake pads and increases cooling efficiency for more efficient braking performance. The rear brake master cylinder features a large unitized reservoir, similar to the larger KX models, for improved brake performance.
The KLX140L is designed with race-inspired ergonomics to enhance rider control and comfort. Rubber-mounted handlebar clamps help reduce vibrations transferred to the rider's hands. The handlebar clamps are separate from the upper triple clamp, simplifying the installation of aftermarket handlebars. KX-style handgrips, featuring a half-waffle design, improve grip and rider control. The dual-texture seat cover uses a slip-resistant top surface for added grip when seated, while smooth sides allow for excellent mobility.
Bodywork elements are also designed for functionality and aesthetics. The two-piece radiator shrouds are taken directly from the KX250/450F models and fit flush with the fuel tank cover, allowing for easy rider movement. The box-shaped muffler design provides an aggressive appearance while being well concealed behind the side panel.
The bike's design caters to youthful riders, with larger 17/19 inch wheels and tires and revised suspension offering a wider choice to find the ideal model in terms of rider's size and weight. The close gear ratios of the transmission enhance acceleration, and the gear change position lever features a ball bearing, similar to KX race models, for better shift action. A folding shift lever helps prevent damage from trail impacts or mishaps.
The air-cooled, single-cylinder engine is inherently simple, contributing to ease of maintenance. The Kawasaki-tuned 20mm Keihin carburetor has been modified for better performance during hard off-road use. Partitions in the float chamber and a main jet umbrella help minimize fuel sloshing, ensuring a more constant fuel supply and preventing engine bogging over rough terrain. Dual air vents ensure a stable air supply even when the bike is leaned at extreme angles. A rubber float with a higher specific gravity than plastic helps maintain a more precise float level, and a spring-loaded needle valve stays centered in the needle jet for better fuel flow and durability, all contributing to reliable operation and reduced maintenance needs.
The electric starter and digital CDI ignition system are designed for quick and reliable starting, minimizing troubleshooting. The use of robust components like the high-tensile steel perimeter frame and aluminum swingarm contributes to the bike's overall durability, reducing the frequency of repairs. The KX racing-style chain adjusters on the aluminum swingarm allow for precise and straightforward adjustment of chain slack, which is a common maintenance task. The petal disc brakes, with their design that helps clean brake pads, contribute to consistent performance and potentially longer pad life.
For those looking to customize or maintain their bike, authentic Kawasaki accessories are available, and information can be found on the Kawasaki website. The 2011 model features new Lime Green and Black graphics, aligning with the aesthetic of other 2011 KX and KLX models, which helps in identifying parts and accessories specific to the model year. The overall design philosophy emphasizes reliability and ease of access for routine checks and adjustments, making the KLX140L a practical choice for off-road enthusiasts.
General| Displacement | 144 cc |
|---|---|
| Bore x Stroke | 58.0 x 54.4 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel System | Keihin PB20 |
| Ignition | CDI |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Front Suspension | 33 mm telescopic fork |
| Front Tire | 70/100-19 |
| Rear Tire | 90/100-16 |
| Overall Width | 790 mm |
| Engine Type | 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve single |
| Rear Suspension | Uni-Trak |
| Front Brake | Disc |
| Rear Brake | Disc |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.8 liters |
| Wheelbase | 1, 280mm |
