First Mx Class of 2012
FIRST MX CLASS OF 2012
Honda, Kawasaki and KTM show off new motocrossers
BLAKE CONNER
Kawasaki
KX450F
KX250F
Kawasaki
$7399
$8399
Kawasaki KX450F and KX250F
In the capable hands of Ryan Villopoto, the KX450F won the 2011 AMA Supercross championship, and the 2012 model promises to keep the good times rolling. Headlining the list of new features is a Launch Control Mode that allows the engine’s electronics to optimize traction out of the starting gate for improved sprints to the first turn. A switch on the left handlebar arms the system, which then regulates ignition timing in first and second gears to enhance rear-tire grip by reducing wheelspin. A host of comparatively small but meaningful improvements to the engine, suspension and chassis (including two-position-adjustable footpegs) should give Kawasaki a shot at continued MX supremacy.
Meanwhile, the KX250F gets one major change for ’12: the addition of a secondary fuel injector upstream of the throttle body near the airbox. Kawasaki claims that the second injector gives the engine a wider spread of power and produces a stronger top-end hit. MSRP for the 250 is $7399, $8399 for the 450.
KTM
SX Two-Strokes
KTM SX Two-Strokes
KTM hasn’t given up on its lightweight, simple and low-maintenance two-strokes, which remain a very popular sector of KTM’s U.S. sales (5000 of its two-strokes sold here last year, including off-road and motocross models, according to KTM’s media-relations manager). So, the Austrian onand off-road powerhouse continues to develop this segment, which includes the 250 SX, 150 SX and 125 SX, the latter of which returns after a two-year absence. Like all of KTM’s 2012 MX models, the three two-strokes now have linkage rear suspension, along with a new frame, swingarm and WP
piggyback-reservoir shock. Up front, the 48mm WP closedcartridge inverted fork gets new seals, bushings and valving specs. The reinforced rear fenders, airboxes, rear numberplates and crossbar pad for the Renthal handlebars all are new round out changes the SX smokers. Prices have yet to be set for 2012.
Honda
CRF450R
CRF250R
Honda CRF450R and CRF250R
i'~7J i71' / Updates for the 2012 CRF45OR include changes aimed to , 4J better s handling. A new Pro-Link rear-end linkage combines revised shock valving to improve rear-end behavior, and the nas new valving, as well. More-rigid fork stanchions are said to improve steering precision, and stiffer fork springs should reduce bot toming and improve front-to-rear balance approaching and landing from jumps. The CRF25OR gets a new third-generation Unicam engine, a fine-tuned cylinder head with revised port shapes, plus a more durable camshaft mated with new exhaust valves for better low-end and midrange rideability. Chassis refinements include a new Pro-Link shock linkage and recalibrated suspen sion valving front and rear. As of presstime, pricing of the 2012 CRFs had not been finalized.
