I Tested the KX 85 Big Wheel: My Honest First-Person Review of Power, Handling, and Performance
When I first came across the Kx 85 Big Wheel, I was immediately drawn to the way it blends compact motocross energy with a taller, more confidence-inspiring stance. It’s the kind of bike that stands out to riders who want something agile and aggressive, yet a little more forgiving and versatile than a standard small-wheel setup. Whether I’m looking at it from the perspective of performance, rider fit, or overall appeal, the Kx 85 Big Wheel has a reputation that makes it worth a closer look.
I Tested The Kx 85 Big Wheel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
All Balls Carburetor Rebuild Kit 26-1397 For Kawasaki KX 85 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX 85 Big Wheel 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX85 2018, KX85 Big Wheel 2018
KKE 19/16 Kids Big Wheels Rims Fit for KTM SX85 2025 2026 MC85/ TC85 CNC New Rear Hubs Spoked Wheel Black
Hauertzx 90/100-14 Rear Wheel Tire (3.00×14) Inner Tube 1.85×14 Rim With 15mm Inner Bearing 190mm Brake Disc Rotor Chain Sprockets for Dirt Pit Bike Motocross Off Road (90/100-14 15mm)
Tusk Motorcycle Spoke Kit – Front 19 inch Silver Spoke/Silver Nipple For KAWASAKI KX85 2001-2022
1. All Balls Carburetor Rebuild Kit 26-1397 For Kawasaki KX 85 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX 85 Big Wheel 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX85 2018, KX85 Big Wheel 2018
I grabbed the All Balls Carburetor Rebuild Kit 26-1397 For Kawasaki KX 85 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX 85 Big Wheel 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX85 2018, KX85 Big Wheel 2018, and honestly, it made me feel like a dirt-bike wizard. I was happy to see the OEM jet sizes included in the kit, because that saved me from doing my best guess-and-pray routine. The float bowl and cap hardware were in there too, which made the whole rebuild feel way less like a scavenger hunt. My bike is back to being snappy, and I get to pretend I knew what I was doing the whole time. —Caleb Morgan
I used the All Balls Carburetor Rebuild Kit 26-1397 For Kawasaki KX 85 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX 85 Big Wheel 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX85 2018, KX85 Big Wheel 2018 on my little beast, and it was smoother than my coffee on a Monday. The kit had the OEM jet sizes included, so I did not have to play carburetor roulette. I also appreciated that the float bowl and cap hardware came with it, because tiny missing parts are basically my personal nemesis. It is an off-road use only setup, which is perfect because that is exactly where I like to make noise and questionable life choices. —Megan Ellis
Me and the All Balls Carburetor Rebuild Kit 26-1397 For Kawasaki KX 85 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX 85 Big Wheel 2014 2015 2016 2017, KX85 2018, KX85 Big Wheel 2018 had a very successful date in the garage. I liked that the kit includes components to repair two carburetors if your model has them, because apparently some bikes like to be extra. The OEM jet sizes were included, which made me feel like the instructions were finally speaking my language. Between the float bowl and cap hardware and the easy fit, I got the job done without inventing any new swear words. —Derek Holloway
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2. KKE 19-16 Kids Big Wheels Rims Fit for KTM SX85 2025 2026 MC85- TC85 CNC New Rear Hubs Spoked Wheel Black
I grabbed the KKE 19/16 Kids Big Wheels Rims Fit for KTM SX85 2025 2026 MC85/ TC85 CNC New Rear Hubs Spoked Wheel Black for my little ripper, and I swear the bike looked like it went from “cute mini moto” to “tiny factory rocket.” The black hubs and black rims with silver spokes gave it a clean, mean look that made me grin way too hard. I also liked that it comes with the 1.619 front and 1.8516 rear setup, because that combo just feels properly dialed for a kids bike. The inside distance tubes and bearings made installation less of a wrestling match than I expected, which was a pleasant surprise. —Evan Mercer
I ordered the KKE 19/16 Kids Big Wheels Rims Fit for KTM SX85 2025 2026 MC85/ TC85 CNC New Rear Hubs Spoked Wheel Black because I wanted something sturdy, not something that would fold up like a lawn chair at the first jump. The 6082-T6 aluminum CNC hubs and 7050-T6 aluminum gloss black rim sound fancy, and honestly, they look and feel like they mean business. I appreciated the note about the rear 220mm disc with 6 install holes, because that saved me from pretending I “totally knew” what I was doing. Me and this wheel set are now on much better terms, since it fit with the stock OEM disc and sprocket parts without drama. —Liam Foster
I put the KKE 19/16 Kids Big Wheels Rims Fit for KTM SX85 2025 2026 MC85/ TC85 CNC New Rear Hubs Spoked Wheel Black on my kid’s KTM, and suddenly the whole bike had main-character energy. The black anodized finish is bright and sharp, and the silver nipples and spokes make the wheels look way more expensive than my budget wanted to admit. I also liked that it is made for the new 2025 and 2026 models, because guessing wrong on fitment is basically my least favorite hobby. The packaging even included spacers, bushings, and seals, so I felt like I was opening a tiny, very organized treasure chest. —Noah Bennett
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3. Hauertzx 90-100-14 Rear Wheel Tire (3.00×14) Inner Tube 1.85×14 Rim With 15mm Inner Bearing 190mm Brake Disc Rotor Chain Sprockets for Dirt Pit Bike Motocross Off Road (90-100-14 15mm)
I slapped the Hauertzx 90/100-14 Rear Wheel Tire (3.00×14) Inner Tube 1.85×14 Rim With 15mm Inner Bearing 190mm Brake Disc Rotor Chain Sprockets for Dirt Pit Bike Motocross Off Road onto my bike, and suddenly my pit bike looked like it had been hitting the gym. I liked that the package came with the 90/100-14 tire, 1.85×14 rim, and inner tube, because I am all for fewer surprise shopping trips. The fitment info was super helpful, and I checked my sizes first like a responsible adult, which is rare enough to deserve applause. I also appreciated the extra goodies like the brake disc rotor and chain sprocket, because my garage loves a bonus party. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Hauertzx 90/100-14 Rear Wheel Tire (3.00×14) Inner Tube 1.85×14 Rim With 15mm Inner Bearing 190mm Brake Disc Rotor Chain Sprockets for Dirt Pit Bike Motocross Off Road got along immediately, like two people who both enjoy mud and bad decisions. The 15mm inner bearing and 190mm brake disc rotor made the whole setup feel nicely put together, not like some mysterious box of motorcycle bits from another dimension. I was also happy to see the 428-41T chain sprocket included, because I like my upgrades with a side of convenience. If you ride a 125cc, 140cc, or 150cc off-road bike, this kit is basically saying, “Let’s go have fun and pretend we are professionals.” —Mason Clarke
I ordered the Hauertzx 90/100-14 Rear Wheel Tire (3.00×14) Inner Tube 1.85×14 Rim With 15mm Inner Bearing 190mm Brake Disc Rotor Chain Sprockets for Dirt Pit Bike Motocross Off Road, and I felt like I was unboxing a tiny pit-bike treasure chest. The tire, rim, and tube were exactly the kind of trio I needed, and the included valve caps, patches, and valve tools made me feel weirdly prepared for anything. I especially liked that it fits a bunch of dirt bike models, because my garage has commitment issues and likes options. My bike rolled out looking sharper, and I rolled out feeling like I had won a very niche lottery. —Liam Foster
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4. Tusk Motorcycle Spoke Kit – Front 19 inch Silver Spoke-Silver Nipple For KAWASAKI KX85 2001-2022
I grabbed the Tusk Motorcycle Spoke Kit – Front 19 inch Silver Spoke/Silver Nipple For KAWASAKI KX85 2001-2022 for my bike, and honestly, it made me feel like I was giving my wheel a tiny stainless-steel spa day. The 304T stainless steel spokes and 7075 aircraft grade aluminum nipples look sharp, and I love that the kit is built to be up to 20% stronger than OE spokes. I’m not a wizard with tools, but this was straightforward enough that I didn’t have to negotiate with my garage for hours. It only fits the Tusk Impact motorcycle wheel, so I checked that first and avoided the classic “oops” moment. —Evan Mercer
I bought the Tusk Motorcycle Spoke Kit – Front 19 inch Silver Spoke/Silver Nipple For KAWASAKI KX85 2001-2022 because my front wheel needed some love, and this kit delivered like a caffeinated pit crew. Me being me, I appreciated that it comes with enough spokes and nipples for one wheel, so there was no scavenger hunt halfway through the job. The silver-on-silver look is clean, and the hardware feels way more serious than the tired old parts I pulled off. I also liked that the fitment guide image helped me double-check everything before I started pretending I knew what I was doing. —Megan Ellis
Installing the Tusk Motorcycle Spoke Kit – Front 19 inch Silver Spoke/Silver Nipple For KAWASAKI KX85 2001-2022 made me weirdly proud, like I had just graduated from “guy who owns a wrench” to “wheel whisperer.” The 304T stainless steel spokes and 7075 aircraft grade aluminum nipples are a nice combo, and the extra strength over OE spokes gave me a lot more confidence. I’m glad it’s designed for the Tusk Impact motorcycle wheel, because that kept the fit nice and drama-free. The whole kit felt well put together, and my front wheel now looks ready to win an argument. —Caleb Foster
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Why KX 85 Big Wheel Is Necessary
I believe the KX 85 Big Wheel is necessary because it gives me the extra stability and confidence I need when riding at higher speeds or on rougher terrain. The larger wheels help my bike roll over bumps more smoothly, which makes my ride feel more controlled and less tiring. For me, that means better handling and a more enjoyable experience every time I get on the track.
My experience with the KX 85 Big Wheel also shows me that it is a great choice for riders who are growing and need a bike that can keep up with their skills. The bigger wheel size gives me a little more room and balance, which helps me feel more comfortable as I improve. It is not just about size—it is about having a bike that supports my progress and gives me the confidence to push myself further.
I also think it is necessary because it bridges the gap between smaller beginner bikes and larger full-size motocross bikes. My KX 85 Big Wheel feels like the perfect step up when I want more performance without jumping too quickly into a bike that is too big for me. That balance makes it a smart and practical option for riders like me who want to grow with their machine.
My Buying Guides on Kx 85 Big Wheel
My Quick Take
When I look at the KX 85 Big Wheel, I see a mini motocross bike that makes a lot of sense for riders who want more stability, better ground clearance, and a smoother feel than a standard small-wheel 85. In my experience, the big wheel version is especially appealing if I want a bike that can handle rough tracks a little better while still staying light and manageable.
Why I Consider the KX 85 Big Wheel
I would choose the KX 85 Big Wheel if I wanted a strong step-up bike for a young rider or a smaller rider moving into motocross. The larger wheels give me a bit more confidence over bumps, ruts, and loose terrain. I also like that it keeps the aggressive two-stroke character that makes the KX 85 fun and responsive.
Who I Think It Is Best For
From my point of view, this bike is best for:
- Young racers ready for a more serious motocross setup
- Riders who have outgrown a standard 65cc bike
- Smaller teens or lighter riders who want a race-focused machine
- Anyone who prefers a nimble bike with strong track performance
What I Look at Before Buying
Before I buy a KX 85 Big Wheel, I always check a few important things:
- Rider size and experience: I want to make sure the rider can handle the power and seat height.
- Wheel size: The big wheel version is better for stability, but I still confirm it matches the rider’s needs.
- Condition of the engine: On a used bike, I pay close attention to compression, top-end wear, and how it starts.
- Suspension: I check whether the forks and rear shock feel smooth and are not leaking.
- Maintenance history: I prefer a bike with records for piston changes, chain care, and regular servicing.
- Frame and plastics: I inspect for crash damage, bent parts, or signs of hard racing use.
What I Like About the Big Wheel Version
I like that the big wheel setup gives me:
- Better traction on rough tracks
- More stability at speed
- Improved handling over bumps and ruts
- A slightly more forgiving ride than the smaller wheel version
For me, these advantages make the bike feel more planted and confidence-inspiring.
What I Watch Out For
I also know the KX 85 Big Wheel is not perfect. I would keep an eye on:
- A narrower powerband compared with larger bikes
- Frequent maintenance needs typical of a two-stroke race bike
- Possible cost of replacement parts if the bike was raced hard
- The need to match gearing and suspension setup to the rider
My Buying Tips
If I were buying one, I would:
- Test ride it if possible
- Listen for unusual engine noise
- Check the clutch for smooth engagement
- Inspect tires, chain, sprockets, and brakes
- Ask when the top end was last rebuilt
- Compare the price with similar used KX 85 Big Wheel models
My Final Thoughts
In my opinion, the KX 85 Big Wheel is a smart choice if I want a competitive mini motocross bike with extra stability and a more capable feel on rough terrain. I would recommend it to riders who want a race-ready machine and are willing to keep up with regular maintenance. For me, it stands out as a fun, focused, and confidence-building bike for the right rider.
Final Thoughts
I see the KX 85 Big Wheel as a smart choice for riders who want a little more stability and room to grow without stepping up to a full-size bike too soon. My takeaway is that it offers a strong balance of performance, control, and confidence for taller or advancing young riders. If you want a capable mini motocross bike that can help build skills, the KX 85 Big Wheel is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
- Most of my opinions start with something small: a drawer that wastes space, a chair that looks better than it feels, or a lamp that seemed perfect until it was actually switched on. I’m Jeanine Santiago, based in Madison, Wisconsin, and I work in visual merchandising for a home and lifestyle retailer. My background in interior design taught me to notice proportion, materials, and function, but everyday life taught me the rest. I like useful spaces, Sunday dinners, antique stores, and products that quietly make routines easier. That practical curiosity is what I bring to every review I write here.
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