Why does the RM125 turn better than the KX125

[dlbirch]

     

Hello,
I'm a new 2005 KX125 owner and ... I also own a 2016 RM-Z250. I love the way my RM-Z turns. And I'm finding that my KX125 doesn't turn as well as my RM-Z (the front wheel seems ... unweighted) ... And I'm wondering ... should I have purchased an RM instead of a KX 125 ...

But, I've heard that the RM and KX are virtually identical in frame geometry, etc. In all of the reviews I've read the RM 125 is called out as being better in the turns than the KX ... but how can that be if the frames are identical?

And how do I get my KX to turn better?

Thanks in advance.

[cowboyona426]

Generally speaking, RM's have been praised a lot over the years for their quick, nimble handling and turning ability. KX's have had good years and bad, but it seems like the other big 3 Japanese companies have often been chasing the RM in the handling department.
I don't know how similar or different the RM was from the KX in 05, but if memory serves me right (which it often doesn't...) the 2 strokes stayed separately designed, while the 250F's were basically identical for a year or two around 2005.
I'm no expert in bike setup by any means, but start by setting the sag on the shock and making sure you have the right tire (and tire pressure) for the conditions you are riding. Look up old shootouts to see if there are any setup tips for your KX.

[noonersracing]

Your RMZ has a more aggressive rake and trail than the KX does. To get the KX to turn faster you'll need to do what cowboyona426 is suggesting. You can also do 3 very inexpensive things to help as well. Fist, move the fork tubes up farther in the triple clamps. That will get the rake and trail closer to the RMZ. The next is to shorten the wheelbase. You can do that by cutting a link out of the chain or getting a bigger rear sprocket. Understand when doing this there is always a trade off. RMZ's are great turning bikes but because of that they have less high speed stability than other bikes. I found my RMZ's were the best turning bikes I ever had but hitting breaking bumps, acceleration bumps, and wash board type bumps at speed made the back dance around on me. Making those changes will do the same for the KX.