With the countdown to Motorcycle Live on, Kawasaki UK is delighted to announce the latest part of its 2024 plans with the launch of the FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure. The exciting new element will provide an opportunity for youngsters between 7 and 12 the chance to get their first ride on two wheels.

At the annual celebration of all things two-wheeled, Kawasaki UK and Team Green partner FUCHS Silkolene are giving young riders attending Motorcycle Live 2024 a chance to experience the joys of riding for the first time. The all-new FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure area is a unique chance for youngsters to ride the Kawasaki Elektrode, a 20-inch wheeled electric-only off-road bike. 

Open to attendees between the ages of 7 and 12 (height dependent), every child will be under the watchful eyes and tuition of experienced trainer Craig Chamberlain, who runs the Kawasaki MX Experience days. Children interested in experiencing the Elektrode and having fun on two wheels for the first time should stop by the Kawasaki stand in Hall 4 on any of the nine show days. Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department:

“We are always striving to provide customers visiting the Kawasaki stand with an interactive experience alongside showcasing our range of new and exciting machines. The “FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure” will be a great opportunity for parents to give their children the chance to try two wheels for the first time in a controlled and safe environment. The Kawasaki Elektrode is the perfect tool to start your biking journey on at that age and we are confident there will be a lot of smiling faces throughout the nine-day show.” Natasha Moore – FUCHS UK Sales Manager, Motorcycle Division.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Kawasaki UK on the FUCHS Silkolene Green Adventure, which aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting the next generation of riders. At FUCHS Silkolene, we are passionate about providing innovative and sustainable solutions for motorcycling, and this event gives young riders the opportunity to explore the excitement of two wheels on the all-electric Kawasaki Elektrode. It’s a fantastic initiative that we are proud to be part of, and we can’t wait to see the enthusiasm it will inspire in these future riders.”

Mathis Valin joins the Kawasaki Racing Team

Current leader of the 250 European motocross championship, Mathis Valin will join the Kawasaki Racing Team next season to compete in the FIM MX2 World Championship. The French youngster, who is enjoying an impressive first season on a KX250 with Bud Racing Kawasaki, will lead the factory effort in this class.

After a successful career in the 125 class, in which he won the Junior World Championship and collected a silver medal in the European Championship last year, Mathis, who celebrated his eighteenth birthday recently, started his rookie season in the 250cc class with Bud Racing Kawasaki by racing to victory in the Junior category of the famous Enduropale du Touquet; since then he has added the French Elite title and is leading the European EMX250 Championship after seven rounds. 

Trained by Thierry Van den Bosch, a former Supermoto World Champion, Mathis has already won two rounds and five motos on a variety of different surfaces such as hardpack at Madrid, the mud of Saint Jean d’Angely and the deep sand of Lommel. 

For his official entry to the MX2 World Championship next season with factory KX250 machinery, the Kawasaki Racing Team has reached an agreement with Team Bud Racing to allow the young prospect to enter his new challenge in the best conditions. Mathis will move to Belgium at the end of the season to start working with the KRT staff and to prepare his first attempt in the highly-competitive MX2 GP class. 

Mathis Valin:

“It's a dream came true! If anyone had told me earlier this year that I would be joining the Kawasaki Racing Team at the end of the season I wouldn’t have believed them. I’m happy and proud to join the team; I think that my results helped me to earn this position and now the goal will be to carry on working hard to continue getting good results. It’s a big change for me but already this season I have left my parental home so moving to Belgium, in a team where there are already some French guys, will be OK. When I was offered this opportunity to join KRT there was no hesitation; initially the plan was for me to stay two years with Bud in the European Championship, but, as I’m currently leading the series, it’s already time to move up to the MX2 World Championship next year and I will do my best to end this current season with some more successes.” 

Shigemi Tanaka (General Manager, Marketing & Sales Division, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd):
“In Mathis we have a great example of the Team Green principle of nurturing talent and developing it within a structured and sympathetic environment. We are super excited to be re-entering the MX2 class with a factory team in 2025 and all the parts of a complex jig-saw are gradually falling into place. Mathis is a crucial part of this emerging team structure, and we hope that Kawasaki fans and young riders across the globe will both follow his progress on the new KX250 complete with the very latest engine and chassis technology identifying with him while he demonstrates the core values of our Team Green philosophy.” 

Antti Pyrhonen (KRT Team Manager):
“We are very excited about this new opportunity with Kawasaki to enter the MX2 class and for sure it will be a different challenge. We will work next year with a young rider; it’s always interesting to educate them in training, riding and race tactics as well as everything else outside of racing; we need to support them with their living situation, travelling and so on. We are really excited about that, we have the experience to do it plus it’s a great compliment that Kawasaki give us the opportunity to enter the MX2 category because this way we can build the Team Green spirit from a young age all the way through to the premier MXGP class. 

Mathis has impressed us; if you watched his career in recent years he already showed incredible speed in the 125 class, was successful in that class and immediately won races in the EMX250. He’s a young rider but he has already the winning mentality and that opens even greater opportunities to continue in the future. And it's nice that he’s coming from the Kawasaki family; it’s been a great effort from everyone and I want to thank not only the Kawasaki factory in Japan for this opportunity but also Steve Guttridge at KME and Stephane Dassé from Bud Racing for their big efforts behind the scenes to make this possible.” 

Steve Guttridge (Race Planning Manager, Kawasaki Motors Europe):
“Bud Racing does a  fantastic job of bringing up the young pilots and has a famous history of developing French talent through to their professional career. So to join up all the dots and bring Mathis through into KRT at the first opportunity as we establish an MX2 seat within the factory team is perfect. All the young riders can now see that there is a ladder into a factory team with Kawasaki when they achieve their targets. Mathis gets on very well with the KX250 and is leading the EMX. He likes the base bike so there is one less thing for him to get used to as he moves to a different team set-up.” 

Stephane Dasse (Bud Racing Team Manager):
“For sure it’s a great opportunity for Mathis to move to KRT next season, even if our plan was to keep him with us for another year. He adapted so well to the 250 that he immediately achieved top results, and Kawasaki will now give him the chance to move to the MX2 World Championship so we let him move on! For sure it’s great to see that our work with him is paying off, and to see that there’s a strong connection between Bud, KRT and Kawasaki.”

GASGAS ANNOUNCES CUTTING-EDGE MC 85 FOR 2025

NEW 2-STROKE MOTOCROSS BIKE SET TO CHANGE THE GAME IN THE HIGH-REVVING 85CC CLASS

When it comes to building high-performance 2-stroke dirt bikes, GASGAS sure knows a thing or two! So, for model year 2025, our super-popular MC 85 has undergone a complete overhaul – maximizing power from the motor while introducing an all-new frame and new WP XACT shock, to deliver confidence-inspiring handling and better stability. Not one component on the bike was overlooked by our engineers during the development process of this new generation model. The end result? A super-fun dirt bike that’s easy to ride fast for guaranteed good times!

  • GASGAS comes out swinging with an all-new generation MC 85!
  • New frame, all-red bodywork, and an updated motor headline the improvements
  • Find the awesome new MC 85 this July at a GASGAS dealer near you

For youngsters aged between 11 and 15 years old, we know there are a few options out there when it comes to moving up to the 85 class. But at the top of everyone’s list, thanks to a long list of serious updates for 2025, should be the awesome MC 85!

The new generation model has been developed with serious input from a global team of young test riders, with their feedback allowing our highly skilled team of engineers to build what may well be the best production 85cc motocross bike ever made! And just like before, there are two options to choose from with the MC 85 – one with 17”/14” wheels for smaller riders and another with 19”/16” wheels for those kids who grow just that little bit quicker!

The main objective for everyone involved in building the new MC 85 was to make it much easier to ride and control, compared to the outgoing model. There’s an all-new frame that maximizes stability and creates a lighter feel through the turns. A new WP XACT shock for better traction when getting on the gas. A new, lighter swingarm, and new footpegs, too. But wait up, that’s not everything…

Our already awesome MC 85 motor wasn’t overlooked when it came to developing this new bike! Top-end performance was already super impressive for an 85cc dirt bike, so the focus was put on squeezing out more low to mid-range power and boosting torque. And with a new cylinder head, ignition, exhaust, spark plug, and settings inside the KEIHIN carburetor, in addition to the revised airbox for increased airflow, we can safely say it is mission accomplished. Then, to make sure the MC 85 runs at the perfect temperature at all times for maximum power, new radiators, made by PANKL, keep the motor running cool.

And, on top of all that, the motor is repositioned in the frame to help balance the bike out even more. Plus, there’s new, all-red bodywork and new graphics to match the big bikes. The side panels are now even slimmer than before too, so kids can move around much more easily to emulate their GASGAS Factory Racing heroes!

Overall, the new MC 85 is designed to look just like our full size bikes, which lets kids do their thing on a scaled down version of what they can expect to ride when they get a bit older. Trust us, little rippers from around the world are going to love everything about the 2025 GASGAS MC 85. The post-ride smiles will tell you everything you need to know about how good it really is!

Technical Highlights
New frame – All-new for 2025 to improve cornering and stability, especially when getting on the gas out of turns. Frame protectors keep it looking fresh, too.
New WP XACT shock – A new mounting point on the frame and slight reduction in travel creates a more balanced and planted feel for improved traction and control.
Updated motor – A new cylinder head, ignition, spark plug, and carburetor settings boost low to mid-range power and torque.
New exhaust system – Designed in line with the motor updates for maximum performance.

New bodywork and graphics – Mirroring the full size bikes for a sweet new look with slimmer side panels improving control.
New shift drum – Finished with a new coating for strength and smoother shifting.
New swingarm – Lighter in weight by 300g and positioned a little more level than before thanks to the shorter shock and new frame. This leads to a lower back end for easier movement on the bike.
New footpegs – Redesigned to prevent mud from building up for total control in all conditions.
New radiators – Made by PANKL so you just know they’re up to the job of keeping the motor cool!
Redesigned airbox – With improved airflow for maximum performance.
Hour meter – Records time spent on the bike to help you keep on top of routine servicing

GASGAS ADDS TWO HIGH-REVVING 2-STROKES TO 2025 MOTOCROSS LINE-UP!

NEW MC 150 AND MC 300 MODELS COMPLETE THE IMPROVED RANGE OF MOTOCROSS MACHINES

One year on from launching an all-new generation of motocross machinery, GASGAS is spicing things up once again with a revitalised line-up that includes two new 2-stroke models for 2025. Existing bikes across both ranges now feature revised frames, engine mounts, swingarms, suspension settings and linkages to make sure each one is even more fun to ride.

  • New and improved GASGAS dirt bikes revealed for 2025
  • Huge choice of models means there’s something for everyone
  • Available in dealers from July onwards

Riders ask, GASGAS delivers! That’s right 2-stroke fans, GASGAS has introduced an MC 150 and an MC 300 to its motocross line-up! By expanding the offering, GASGAS really does now have a bike for everyone – from beginner to pro and every rider in between. The little MC 150 uses the foundations of the super-popular MC 125 but takes power – and more importantly – torque to a crazy new level for such a small capacity dirt bike.

The same can be said for the MC 300, which is based on the versatile MC 250. Offering up plenty of power, it’ll be the super useable torque curve that 2-stroke fanatics are going to love most about the MC 300! Both bikes are built using the same high-quality components found on all GASGAS motocross models for 2025. Such as the revised frame design…

Removing a little material around the upper shock mount and reducing thickness at the front end of the frame has resulted in the new motocross range shedding some weight for 2025 – 300 grams in total. These revisions significantly improve handling – especially when entering corners – without sacrificing any straight-line stability. New engine mounts further refine the frame’s flex characteristics, with revised suspension settings introduced to complement the chassis changes and help elevate the riding experience.

A stronger air intake sleeve prevents flex to maintain maximum airflow. At the rear of each bike, the swingarm is updated to enhance the durability of the chain slider, which is made from a more hard-wearing material to boost longevity. The suspension linkage now uses new, lower friction SKF seals to allow the WP Suspension rear shock to perform at its best, with a smaller linkage bolt reducing weight and playing a part in delivering the refined flex characteristics from the updated chassis.

Technical Highlights
Revised frame – Re-engineered for improved cornering while remaining stable at speed
New engine mounts – Now with cut-outs for improved chassis flex
New SKF linkage seals and smaller bolt – Leads to a smoother shock performance and saves weight
New suspension settings – Adapted to complement all of the chassis updates
New graphics – With GASGAS in bold black letters for a fresh twist on usual signature styling
New intake snorkel – A stronger design prevents air deformation for maximum power at all times
New fuel tank support – Holds the tank securely in place and prevents frame wear
Updated die-cast aluminum swingarm – Low in weight, strong and lightly machined to improve the durability of the chain slider
Updated rear brake pedal and caliper – Improving durability for continued performance
WP XACT front fork with AER technology – Adjustable by hand and features a hydrostop to take the sting out of heavy landings
WP XACT rear shock – Light and offering 300mm of travel, the WP XACT shock is designed for maximum comfort and performance
Aluminum subframe – Strong, reliable and plays a vital role in improved ergonomics and handling All-red bodywork – Featuring large contact areas allowing improved grip and ultimate control
Hour metre – Helps to make sure all riders stay on top of maintainence
Forged triple clamps – Featuring a steering stem engineered to offer the perfect amount of flex for maximum comfort
High-performance BRAKTEC hydraulic clutch system – As close as you can get to maintenance-free, ensuring consistency and performance at all times
BRAKTEC brakes – Brake discs and calipers unique to GASGAS
NEKEN handlebars – Made from high-strength aluminum for durability and comfort, featuring large bar pad and bar bend unique to GASGAS
Footpegs – Bigger is better, keeping feet planted in all conditions
Throttle Body Injection with pre-mix for 2-strokes – Throttle Body Injection means the motors run clean, crisp and create strong power throughout the rev range
Electronic exhaust control for 2-strokes – Controlling how the exhaust ports open, the electronic powervalve helps create maximum power
Unified motor position – All 4-stroke models have the motor mounted in the same position to ensure each bike handles like a dream
Map Select Switch – With the simple press of the corresponding button, launch control, traction control, quickshifter and a choice of two maps can be engaged to customise performance. Two different maps available on MC 250 and MC 300. Standard fitment on MC 125, optional on other models
Connectivity Unit Offroad and GPS sensor – Available as Technical Accessories for all 4-strokes, once paired with a smartphone and the GASGAS+ app, riders can easily personalise engine performance and so much more

Full 2025 motocross model line-up: MC 125, MC 150, MC 250, MC 300, MC 250F, MC 350F and MC 450F.

2025 Kawasaki KX250: Be Next

For 50 years (and counting), Kawasaki’s KX motocrossers have been built to dominate the racetrack and push racers toward the top step of the podium.

The next step in that progression is the new 2025 KX250, which receives upgrades in a number of key areas for better racetrack performance while equipping it for its factory KRT MX2 Championship debut in the coming season.

In terms of the radically updated spec, the engine power feeling at low speeds and throttle control when exiting corners are both improved for 2025 as a result of a symmetrically aligned intake and exhaust and optimised downdraft intake.

Already known for being a nimble, well-handling machine, the KX250 is now even more agile with updates to the frame and suspension, many of which are similar to those that the KX250’s older sibling, the flagship KX450, received for 2024. These updates – combined with new features such as ODI Lock-On grips and smoother new bodywork – allow the rider to move around on the bike more easily and are destined to translate into faster lap times.

Racers will be delighted with the new tech features, including Power Modes and Kawasaki Traction Control, which are easily selectable from a new switch box located on the left handlebar. Additionally, smartphone connectivity allows riders to connect with their machine to adjust engine mapping directly from their smartphones using Kawasaki’s unique Rideology App tuned specifically for the KX.

Of course, an “attention getter” is the new engine configuration. Finger-follower valve actuation stays, as does a downdraft-style intake, and dual injectors but these are now joined by a new design of piston plus a revised intake and exhaust layout (with the silencer moved further forward for better mass centralisation) and a single-shaft primary balancer for an all-around stronger package with enhanced control and greater low to mid-range urge.

The symmetrically aligned intake and exhaust deliver a strong over-run and smooth low-rpm torque characteristics.  A redesigned intake offers a much straighter route for air-fuel mix to enter the cylinder, while a centrally positioned exhaust port lines up with the intake for high airflow efficiency; both contributing to increased performance.  The optimised downdraft intake also adds to low-end performance while a single-shaft primary engine balancer contributes to smoother power delivery and reduced vibration.

There is even a completely redesigned airbox to maximise the potential of the KX250’s dual injectors and match the new downdraft intake.  Complementing the significantly increased low-end torque and the smoother power delivery, throttle response is more linear.

In terms of gear changing, a hydraulic clutch offers more direct feel and lighter lever action plus less play as the clutch heats up during heavy use. The single-shaft primary engine balancer contributes to the smooth power delivery and reduced vibration, which improves throttle control, especially when exiting slower-speed corners.

Chassis-wise, the KX250’s new frame is based on that of the 2024 KX450, and updates for 2025 to suit the new intake and exhaust layout help to deliver improved handling.  The smooth bodywork is designed to facilitate rider movement and control plus fine-tuned suspension and brake components further contribute to the KX250’s light, agile handling thanks to its optimised rigidity balance.

High-performance Showa ø48 mm inverted coil-spring forks and New Uni Trak rear suspension offer race-ready suspension performance while the Ergo-fit choice of four handlebar positions and two footpeg positions allows riders to tailor their riding position to suit body size and ergonomic preference.

Kawasaki is as focused as ever to create and provide the most rider friendly, race winning package possible. It was a tough call to make the best better but we are confident that the 2025 KX250 moves the class to the next level allowing aspiring and time served riders the unique ability to fulfil their ambition to “Be Next”.  

The KX250 will be available late summer with pricing TBC. 

Elektrode charges to next level for 2025

Following in the silent wheel tracks of the original Elektrode, the latest and larger model in the expanding family will be available in Europe for the 2025 sales season.

The Elektrode 20 is a variant of Kawasaki's first electric balance bike, the Elektrode 16, following the development concept of “My First Fun to Ride”.  Now with 20-inch wheels, the target age range has also increased to include adults allowing more riders to experience the off-road fun that powered two wheelers can bring while delivering Kawasaki's 'Fun to Ride' spirit.

Targeted at those is not yet ready to ride an off-road motorcycle or do not have the environment locally to ride one in, the Elektrode 20 is ideal for use at suitable off-road parks or campgrounds with the necessary facilities and permissions.

In its striking characteristic Kawasaki lime green and black livery, the Elektrode 20 is powered by a combination of a 48 V/10.2 Ah (489.6 Wh) battery linked to an in-wheel motor rated at 750w; a substantial increase over the Elektrode 16’s motor which is rated at 250w.  With the facility to charge – via the charger and charging lead plugged into the battery housed on the frame diagonal tube – zero to full charge in four hours with 90% of charge delivered in just three hours.

Offering three selectable speed modes riders can “tune” the performance to suit their skill and requirement from Low, Mid and High with the comfort of long riding sessions. A full hour of riding is possible in High mode and longer periods at the lower speed ratings are possible according to rider weight, terrain and usage.

The large MTB type tube frame accommodates a telescopic front fork, manual cable type front and rear brakes (operated by left and right handlebar levers) and 20 inch (50.8cm) front and rear tyres. And, in order to accommodate as many rider heights as possible, the seat offers a generous 143mm of height adjustability. It even has a front KX style “number board” to further reinforce its off-road looks and personality!

Thanks to its KX off-road inspired design – coupled with the use of the evocative Kawasaki lime green colourway – the Elektrode 20 is sure to set the pulses racing of not only those who are ready to leave the smaller Elektrode behind but also parents and family members who won’t be able to resist the ease of operation, performance, endurance and fun offered by Kawasaki’s latest all electric off-road offering.

2025 model year colour: Lime Green

THE BEST GETS BETTER AS GASGAS REVEALS ITS 2025 TRIAL LINE-UP

TECHNICAL UPDATES AND A FRESH NEW LOOK FOR ALL 2025 TXT GP AND TXT RACING MODELS

Still red, still awesome, and still so much fun to ride. The 2025 line-up of GASGAS trial bikes is officially here! Updated with better and stronger components, all six models across the TXT GP and TXT RACING ranges are designed to deliver unrivalled fun and performance in equal measure. Which is exactly what they do…

  • 2025 line-up of GASGAS trial bikes break cover
  • All six models enhanced with new components
  • See them in person at the 2024 Scottish Six Days Trial

Besides the awesome TXT RACING 125, all 2025 bikes benefit from a new cylinder head to ensure improved cooling. Something super fresh is the fact GASGAS has made sure riders are still able to swap the cylinder head insert for one from its Technical Accessories range, allowing for customisation and an increase in power.

For 2025, all bikes feature revised transmissions for improved shifting and reliability. What’s more, the TXT RACING models now feature the same gear lever as found on the TXT GP models for added strength and smoother shifts. However the upgrades to the TXT RACING range don’t stop there! The bikes are now equipped with the same wavey GALFER discs as found on TXT GP models, allowing riders to benefit from a heightened level of brake control through every section. These discs meet the regulations of the highest FIM race series, ensuring no change is needed.

Exclusive to the TXT GP bikes are slightly reworked hubs for even better strength, which in parallel results in a weight reduction in the front. The lighter hubs are just as strong as before, still anodised in black and finished with two GASGAS laser etched logos. Also, TXT GP models look the business with the latest GASGAS Factory Racing inspired graphics.

Even though each bike in the 2025 line-up is built to perform at the highest level of trial, that doesn’t mean they can’t be ridden for fun by those who simply want to enjoy time with their riding buddies at the weekends. By being so easy to ride, maintain and customise, it’s pretty clear why GASGAS trial bikes are loved by so many enthusiasts around the world.

To highlight all the technical details and list what’s new for 2025, here’s a handy rundown of the components found on each model.

Technical Highlights – TXT GP 250/300

  • New cylinder head improves cooling and allows for optional inserts to be installed
  • New CNC-machined hubs are 40g lighter in the front and just as strong
  • New GASGAS Factory Racing replica graphics applied to all red, ergonomic bodywork
  • Revised 6-speed transmission for improved shifting and durability
  • GALFER brake discs front and rear (FIM approved)
  • AKRAPOVIC exhaust pipe boosts power and is low in weight
  • TECH TJ3 shock absorber is fully adjustable and offers consistent damping
  • TECH front fork with 174.5mm of travel and a KASHIMA coating for enhanced sensitivity
  • Lightweight steel frame made from cast and tubular parts with aluminum front hangers
  • NEKEN handlebars and RENTHAL grips
  • BRAKTEC hydraulic clutch and brakes
  • CNC-machined, black anodised aluminum triple clamps
  • MICHELIN Trial X11 tyres front and rear for maximum traction

Technical Highlights – TXT RACING 125/250/280/300

  • New cylinder head improves cooling and allows for optional inserts to be installed (except TXT RACING 125)
  • New GALFER brake discs front and rear (FIM approved)
  • Revised 6-speed transmission for improved shifting and durability
  • Ergonomic bodywork is now all red and features updated graphics
  • Lightweight steel frame made from cast and tubular parts with aluminum front hangers
  • Adjustable TECH forks offer 174.5mm of travel
  • TECH shock allows for a personalized rebound and spring preload set up
  • NEKEN handlebars and RENTHAL grips
  • BRAKTEC hydraulic clutch and brakes
  • MICHELIN Trial X11 tyres front and rear for maximum traction
  • Footpeg design boosts control in tough conditions
  • Silencer features a super-durable end cap
  • Strong and lightweight wheels with CNC machined hubs

All six 2025 models will be available from June 2024, full model price list below.

TXT RACING 125 2025 £7,699
TXT RACING 250 2025 £7,799
TXT RACING 280 2025 £7,899
TXT RACING 300 2025 £7,999
TXT GP 250 2025 £8,399
TXT GP 300 2025 £8,599

Kawasaki factory MX2 team for 2025

The Kawasaki Racing Team will extend its remit in 2025 by entering the MX2 category as well as competing in the MXGP Championship.

Based at its impressive workshop near the Lommel track in Belgium, the new enterprise will come under the responsibility of existing KRT Manager, Antti Pyrhönen, while team staffing will evolve and expand according to the extra demands of an additional championship.

Initially utilising the direct relationship that the team has with the KMC factory engineers in Japan – including their wealth of design knowledge and engineering insight relating to the production KX250 machine – the KRT MX2 team will be working on an all new specification across the coming months gearing towards a fully developed race machine for 2025 season.

With no decision at this time being made on who may ride for the team, KRT are targeting those with both podium potential allied to the skill to provide accurate feedback during the important pre-season testing phase. 

Speaking of the new challenge, Antti Pyrhönen, KRT MXGP Manager, was in characteristically optimistic mood.
“When I discussed with our Team Principle, Kimi Räikkönen, the possibility to raise our game to another level and enter MX2 he immediately saw the potential and agreed this was our next logical step. We have built up an incredible working relationship with Kawasaki in Japan and we are determined to repay their trust in us by making an impact with this new project”.

For Kawasaki Motors Europe, Race Planning Manager, Steve Guttridge, emphasised the potential of the new initiative in terms of guiding young talent to the very top.
“Having both MXGP and MX2 run by our factory team offers Kawasaki the opportunity to offer young, very talented riders a dream seat in MX2. Being inside KRT means they can also be well prepared for future MXGP duties within a familiar team environment. We want to win World titles with home grown talent; the structure that Antti and Kimi have built alongside our factory staff offers just that”.

Concluding, Shigemi Tanaka, General Manager, Marketing & Sales Division, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. commented.

“This is an important step for Kawasaki and it reflects our long established ethos of growing and encouraging talent from green shoots to green wins. It is fundamental to our off road philosophy to provide not just hardware in terms of competitive KX machinery but also the “software” historically manifested by our legendary Team Green race and rider support programme.

The best way to lead is by example, so the establishment of this factory attack on MX2 honours within the highly professional and proven race-winning structure of the Kawasaki Racing Team will provide a stable base for rider and championship success. We hope youth riders will see this as something to aspire to and, in turn, to graduate from MX2 experience and success towards MXGP, the very pinnacle of motocross.”      

Grow with Kawasaki – new KX112 available for 2024

As riders grow and progress in their riding ambitions, their bike – and its size – is of great importance. Kawasaki can now offer a new capacity option for young riders with the introduction of the KX112.

A classic two-stroke, water-cooled single cylinder machine with a 19inch front and 16inch rear wheel combination, the KX112 is destined to make a great practice or track day bike for younger riders getting to grips with precise machine control and practicing their race craft.

Thanks to a sturdy six speed transmission, allied to tried and trusted Kawasaki KX engineering, the KX112 enjoys factory inspired styling and Dunlop MX33 tyres.  Additionally, unique Kawasaki “Ergofit” functionality delivers an adjustable handlebar mounting system allowing riders to tailor fit their riding style and size by selecting from six different possible handlebar positions.

With an 870mm seat height and weighing in at just 77kg, the new KX112 will for sure be an exciting new practice and track day option for discerning young riders in 2024.

BillyAskew and Bobby Bruce join Dixon Racing Team!

Afteran incredible 2023 season that saw him win every race he finished, Billy Askewwill remain with Kawasaki for next year, joining fellow new recruit Bobby Bruceand Jack Chambers in the Dixon Racing Team. The signing completes an excitinglineup for Team Green in the UK for 2024 that includes Tommy Searle, MelPocock, Joel Rizzi, Carlton Husband and Charlie Cole.

As one of the hottest new talents in UK motocross, and after a dominant year in 2023, Kawasaki is excited to retain Askew for the 2024 season, where he will compete in the EMX250 and British MX2 Championships. The youngster will be able to learn from teammates Bobby Bruce, who will be competing in the MX2 GP and British Championships, and Jack Chambers, who will fight for MX2 honours in the MXGP series. The three-rider dream team will all be utilising the race-proven Kawasaki KX250 and will once again work with Bike It as their title sponsor, their 30th year of working with the team!

Mark and Sam Yates from Revo Developments have helped orchestrate the signing of Billy, and everyone at Kawasaki is sure he will have a fantastic year and a bright future in the sport. His signing completes a fantastic lineup for Team Green, who enjoy a growing presence in the British motocross class, with the previously announced Dirt Store Kawasaki trio of Searle, Pocock and Rizzi all tipped for success, while the Phoenix Tools Evenstrokes Kawasaki duo of Husband and Cole are also working hard over the winter ready to come out swinging when the season gets underway.

Steve Dixon, Team owner of Dixon Racing Team:

“We are pleased to welcome Bobby and Billy to the team for next season alongside Jack. We have a long history of taking on young talented riders and bringing them through to eventually become GP winners as part of Team Green. So we are hoping that our 2024 line up can emulate our historic success with riders such as Paul Malin, Carl Nunn, Billy Mackenzie and Max Anstie! And with the 2024 Motocross of Nations back in the UK, we strongly believe that either of these young British riders can be a contender for the MX2 spot! Next year is my 35th year of running a GP team and my 10th year with Kawasaki and I remain just as passionate about the sport and achieving results, I can’t wait to get on track!”

 Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki UK:

We are very pleased to see Billy back on a green machine for 2024. He was phenomenal this year, and we’re confident he will continue to progress quickly in MX2 under the Dixon Racing Team awning. The return of Bobby to Team Green also brought a smile to our faces, and we believe that with the right bike underneath him and the right team around him, he will be capable of very strong results. We have a fantastic lineup of riders and teams across the whole of Team Green for 2024, and I’m personally very excited to see how it pans out on track both in the UK and in the MXGP series!”