VOLUME 63 ISSUE 23 JUNE 9, 2026 P67
T
he secret is out. Kawasaki fi-
nally revealed its long-awaited
two-stroke
mystery: a KX327X
off-road bike and a KX327 moto
-
cross bike. Kawasaki has released
some
information on both bikes
but no photos yet of the motocross
KX327 model, which is based on
the off-roader. Usually, it is the other
way around. The 327 is the first
new two-stroke model in nearly two
decades. Both models are expected
to be available in "late 2026."
At the heart of the all-new KX327X
and KX327 motorcycles is a com
-
pletely new fuel-injected 327cc
two-stroke
single-cylinder engine,
"designed to deliver strong, control-
lable performance across a wide
range
of off-road riding conditions,
to combine the lightweight simplicity
and exciting character of a tradition-
al two-stroke with the advantages
of
modern technology. The engine
delivers a flat torque curve with
exceptional controllability, especially
in the ultra-low to mid-rpm range, al
-
lowing riders to confidently navigate
technical
terrain, obstacles, and tight
lines without constantly worrying
about engine speed," says Kawasaki.
The engine features a six-speed
transmission (a close-ratio five-
speed in the motocross model),
electric starting, a hydraulic clutch, a
newly designed exhaust power-valve
system, and two engine modes ac
-
cessible via a handlebar-mounted
switch. It also offers smartphone
connectivity via Kawasaki's Rideol
-
ogy The App KX2. For lubrication,
the engine
uses premix rather than
oil injection.
The KX327X and KX327 feature an
aluminum perimeter frame derived
from the KX450F. (Kawasaki has rein
-
troduced the "F" into its 2027 four-
stroke
motocross range now that its
two-stokes have returned.)
Suspension is supplied by a KYB
"factory style" 48mm AOS coil-spring
fork and fully adjustable KYB shock.
With off-roading in mind, the
KX327X features a 2.2-gallon semi-
transparent fuel tank, handguards,
a skid plate, a linkage guard, a rear
disc guard and a kickstand.
The KX327X will have a $9699
MSRP, and the KX327 will have a
$9099 MSRP.
CN
The KX327X sells for $9699 and
will be available in late 2026.
OFF-ROAD
