KZ Motocrosser?

It's no secret here at Cycledrag.com we have a soft spot in our heart for the classic Kawasaki muscle bikes. (As evidenced by the Classic Kawasaki Thread in the Cycledrag.com Forums.)

After a very enjoyable weekend of trail riding on my 2002 KX 250, I got to thinking.  What would it be like to have a KZ-style engine in a dirtbike?  After some searching on the internet, sure enough it's been done.

After seeing this very cool machine I think I might have to consider an engine change on my KX. (not really, but I can dream can't I?) I think it's safe to say the other riders in the woods would have no idea what's about to come around the corner after hearing that classic inline four start to scream.

My two major concerns are, would this thing overheat in the tight trails (like my KZ 1197 street bike sometimes does in traffic) and also would this thing be way too heavy?  Anyone that's ever hoisted a KZ-motor out of a frame knows they aren't the lightest power plants in the world.

    

Hang on!  Perhaps this is one of the only bikes that could win Motorcycle ET at the local strip on Saturday and be pounding through the woods on Sunday. I would love to see the look on the other trail rider's faces after seeing or hearing this thing coming.

     

Maybe the Cycledrag.com KX 250 is due for an engine swap?

                        

Come to think of it I've got a few extra bullets.

   

I don't think the air-cooled KZ would like tight turns like this though.   The thing might overheat, or even worse, fall on my leg. Ouch!




Readers thoughts, state your  opinion here -   

6/1/2008