Kawasaki is already revving up for the 2012 motocross season with substantially revised and updated MX1 (KX450F) and MX2 (KX250F) contenders - including the first launch control on a production motocross bike!
The new KX450F also has three switchable maps for standard, hard and soft conditions, each of which can be modified or rewritten using the KX Fi calibration kit.
New too are a four-position adjustable handlebar and two options for footpeg position, making the biggest KX one of the most ergonomic in the paddock.
The outstanding feature on the quarter-litre bike is the dual-injector set-up; the downstream injector ensures smooth, instant response while the upstream injector is responsible for top-end power.
As the throttle opens and the revs rise the emphasis switches from the downstream injector to the upstream unit and, depending on which gear the bike is in, the transition between the two is either progressive or almost instantaneous.
A new, progressive linkage allows fine throttle modulation at small opening and instant response when full power is called for - and you can use all that power all the way down the longest, bumpiest straight, thanks to a works-style bridge bottom piston.
The 2012 KX250F is also the only production MX2 machine that comes standard with Showa's SFF front suspension that separates damping and shock absorption duties to offer both smooth operating action and firm damping performance - and the rear Unitrak linkage has been updated to match.
As soon as we know when the 2012 Team Green MX'ers will be available in South Africa, so will you.