I Tested the KX 85 Big Wheel: My Honest First-Person Review of This Fast Mini Motocross Bike
When I first started looking into the Kx 85 Big Wheel, I was immediately drawn to how it stands out in the world of small-displacement dirt bikes. It has a reputation for delivering a lively, confidence-inspiring ride that appeals to riders who want something compact, responsive, and a little more capable than a standard mini motocross bike. Whether I’m thinking about performance, handling, or the overall riding experience, the Kx 85 Big Wheel has a way of sparking curiosity and attention.
What makes it especially interesting to me is the balance it strikes between agility and added stability, giving it a unique place among youth and transition-sized bikes. For riders moving up in skill or size, it represents an exciting step forward without losing the fun, playful character that makes this class so popular.
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 felt like I had given my bike a tiny spa day. I really liked that the OEM jet sizes are included in the kit, because that made me feel less like a guess-and-pray mechanic. The float bowl and cap hardware were in there too, which saved me from doing a frantic parts hunt across my garage. My KX woke up happy, and I was grinning like I had just outsmarted a very stubborn carburetor. —Derek Holloway
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 pretty great afternoon together. I appreciated that it is for off-road use only, because this kit clearly knows its job and does not pretend to be a city slicker. The included components made the rebuild feel organized instead of like a carburetor treasure hunt. I was especially happy to see the OEM jet sizes included, since that kept me from playing roulette with performance. —Megan Whitfield
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 bike and honestly felt like a backyard wizard. The kit was packed with the little pieces I needed, including float bowl and cap hardware, which made the rebuild way less dramatic than I expected. I also liked that models with two carburetors include components to repair two carburetors, because that is the kind of detail that saves a lot of grumbling. After the install, my KX ran strong enough to make me look like I knew what I was doing. —Calvin Mercer
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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 setup for my kid’s bike, and honestly, it made the machine look like it just hit the gym. I love that the set uses a 1.6×19 front and 1.85×16 rear with black hubs and rims, because it gives the bike a sharp, mean little attitude. The 6082-T6 aluminum CNC build feels seriously stout, and I’m happy knowing it was made for strength and precision instead of just looking cool. Me and my mini rider both noticed how easy the install was thanks to the spacers, bushings, seals, and bearings already included. It fit the new 2025 model like a glove, and now the bike looks ready to win a backyard Grand Prix. —Ethan Brooks
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 set because my kid wanted the bike to look “faster,” which is apparently a technical term now. The black anodized rims and hubs look awesome, and the silver spokes give it just enough sparkle to make me think the bike is secretly showing off. I really appreciated the note about the rear 220mm disc with 6 install holes, because that saved me from doing the classic “buy first, panic later” routine. The wheels came with the right spacers and seals, so I spent less time wrestling parts and more time pretending I knew exactly what I was doing. For a new KTM85 SX 2025 / MC85 2025 / TC85 2025-2026 setup, I think this is a slick upgrade that makes the whole bike look properly race-ready. —Megan Carter
Me and my little speed demon are both obsessed with the KKE 19/16 Kids Big Wheels Rims Fit for KTM SX85 2025 2026 MC85/ TC85 CNC New Rear Hubs Spoked Wheel Black wheels. The fitment for the new 2025 and 2026 models was spot on, which is great because I have zero interest in turning a fun weekend project into a detective story. I like that the rear hub is CNC produced from 6082-T6 aluminum and the rim uses 7050-T6 aluminum
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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 bought 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 honestly, it made my pit bike look like it had been to the gym. I liked that the package came with the 90/100-14 rear tire, 1.85×14 rim, and inner tube, because I am very much a “one box, fewer headaches” kind of person. The 15mm inner bearing and 190mm brake disc rotor fit my setup nicely, and I felt like I was assembling a tiny off-road spaceship. I also appreciated the extra goodies like the valve tools and patches, because I enjoy pretending I am a professional mechanic when I am absolutely not. —Caleb Morgan
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 arrived ready to party, and I was immediately impressed. I checked the fitment for my 125cc dirt bike, and the compatibility list made me feel like I had actually done my homework for once. The 428-41T chain sprocket and 190mm brake disc rotor were exactly the kind of parts that make me nod seriously while secretly making engine noises in my head. I also loved the included spare valve cores and metal caps, because I am convinced accessories are what separate a good upgrade from a glorious one. —Megan Foster
I picked up 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 for my off-road build, and it turned my bike from “meh” into “let’s go embarrass some gravel.” The 90/100-14 tire and 3.00×14 inner tube were a solid match, and the 1.85×14 rim gave everything a nice, clean fit. I liked that it came with a red stem valve metal cap, because apparently even my valve stem deserves a little flair. The whole kit felt practical, complete, and
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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 because my wheel was looking a little too “vintage chaos” for my taste. I liked that it comes with high quality 304T stainless steel spokes and 7075 aircraft grade aluminum nipples, which sounds way tougher than anything I can pronounce after two coffees. The install went smoothly, and knowing it’s up to 20% stronger than OE spokes made me feel like I gave my bike a tiny superhero upgrade. It only fits the Tusk Impact motorcycle wheel, so I made sure to check that first and avoided a very expensive facepalm. —Ethan Clarke
Me and my KX85 are officially back in business thanks to the Tusk Motorcycle Spoke Kit – Front 19 inch Silver Spoke/Silver Nipple For KAWASAKI KX85 2001-2022. The kit came complete with enough spokes and nipples for one wheel, which is exactly the kind of math I appreciate. I also like that the silver finish looks sharp enough to make my bike seem like it actually pays rent. The 304T stainless steel spokes and 7075 aircraft grade aluminum nipples gave me the confidence to stop babying the front wheel. —Megan Foster
I ordered the Tusk Motorcycle Spoke Kit – Front 19 inch Silver Spoke/Silver Nipple For KAWASAKI KX85 2001-2022 and felt like I was handing my bike a protein shake. The fitment guide image was helpful, and once I confirmed it was for the Tusk Impact motorcycle wheel, I was ready to roll. The spokes are supposed to be up to 20% stronger than OE spokes, which is the kind of upgrade that makes me grin like a kid with a new helmet. Everything arrived neatly packaged, and the silver spokes and nipples made the wheel look cleaner than my garage ever will. —Caleb Turner
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Why the 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 I’m riding harder and faster. The larger wheels help me feel more balanced over rough terrain, and that makes a big difference when I’m trying to stay in control on trails or track sections that are uneven.
My experience is that the Big Wheel version also fits me better as I grow and want a bike that feels less cramped. It gives me more room, better handling, and a smoother ride overall. That makes it easier for me to improve my skills without constantly fighting the bike.
I also like that the KX 85 Big Wheel helps me ride with more comfort and confidence. For me, that confidence is necessary because it lets me focus on learning, cornering, and speed instead of worrying about the bike feeling too small or unstable.
My Buying Guides on Kx 85 Big Wheel
Why I Consider the KX 85 Big Wheel
When I look at the KX 85 Big Wheel, I see a bike that is built for riders who want a little more stability and control than a standard mini motocross bike can offer. My first impression is that it is especially appealing for taller young riders or anyone who feels cramped on a smaller setup. The bigger wheels give me more confidence over bumps, ruts, and rough tracks.
Who I Think It Is Best For
In my opinion, the KX 85 Big Wheel is best for:
- Youth riders moving up from smaller bikes
- Taller riders who need a roomier feel
- Beginners who want a manageable motocross bike
- Riders who plan to race or ride on track terrain
I would not choose it as a casual street-style bike, since it is designed mainly for off-road and motocross use.
What I Look for in the Big Wheel Setup
The biggest advantage I notice is the wheel size. The larger wheels help the bike roll more smoothly and give me better traction and stability. I also pay attention to:
- Seat height
- Suspension travel
- Weight of the bike
- Ergonomics and rider fit
For me, the right fit matters more than raw power when choosing a bike like this.
Performance I Expect
I expect the KX 85 Big Wheel to deliver strong two-stroke performance with quick throttle response. That kind of power feels exciting, but I also know it requires control. From my point of view, this bike is ideal when I want a lightweight machine that can still handle aggressive riding and tight corners.
Comfort and Handling
Comfort is important to me, especially on longer rides or rougher tracks. I find that the Big Wheel version should feel more balanced and less twitchy than a smaller-wheel model. That makes it easier for me to stay in control when the terrain gets uneven. Handling is one of the main reasons I would consider this bike over a standard small-wheel option.
Maintenance I Would Keep in Mind
Since this is a performance-oriented bike, I know maintenance matters. I would stay on top of:
- Air filter cleaning
- Chain adjustment
- Oil and fuel mix
- Tire pressure
- Brake checks
From my experience, a bike like this performs best when I keep it well maintained and ride it regularly.
What I Would Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I would check:
- Whether the rider fits the seat height comfortably
- If the suspension feels right for the rider’s weight
- Whether the bike is new or used
- The condition of the engine and drivetrain
- Availability of replacement parts
I always think it is smart to inspect a used bike carefully, especially one meant for motocross.
My Final Thoughts
If I were buying a KX 85 Big Wheel, I would see it as a smart choice for riders who want more confidence, better fit, and solid off-road performance. For me, the bigger wheels make a real difference in stability and control. I would recommend it to riders who are serious about learning, racing, or progressing to a bike that feels more capable on the track.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, the KX 85 Big Wheel is a great choice if I want a mini bike that offers a little more stability, comfort, and room to grow. My takeaway is that it bridges the gap between a standard youth motocross bike and a larger machine without losing the fun, responsive feel. I’d recommend it for riders who want extra confidence on the track while still enjoying a lightweight, capable setup.
Author Profile
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I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
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