5. Kawasaki KX60/65
If we hadn’t included Kawasaki’s smallest KX model in our list of 10 coolest mini bikes of all time, we’d deserve to be strung up by our toes. This hallowed model has likely been piloted by more future AMA National and World Champion motocross riders than any other model in history, thanks in part to being a kick-ass mini and also because of the company’s tremendous support of the sport through its Team Green amateur program.
The first KX60 was released in 1983, and it was an immediate hit with youngsters whose skills were well beyond those of pedestrian playbikes but who didn’t have the physical stature to ride an 80cc machine just yet. The KX60 started as an air hammer, but within two years the little green screamer boasted a liquid-cooled two-stroke for even more power and durability. It remained as a 60cc machine through 1999, but the reed-valved screamer received a slight displacement increase to 64cc, hence the name change to KX65 (would’ve been stupid to call it a KX64).
The KX60/65 is without a doubt the most prolific KX model in Kawasaki history, and it continues to be the anchor of the company’s grassroots motocross program. Hell, even older versions remain competitive in other disciplines. We know for a fact that current AMA pro flat tracker Jesse Janisch was winning amateur national flat track titles on a KX60 that was built before he was even born!
For more information on the 2018 KX65, visit https://www.kawasaki.com/Products/2018-KX65
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