Rumored "Kawasaki 2-Stroke" Finally Launched at Approx. 1,450,000 Yen! KX327 / KX327X" Announced in North America, Kawasaki's First Injection 2-Stroke to Hit the Market!

Kawasaki Motors has announced the KX327X cross-country model and the KX327 motocrosser for North America. The new model is the company's first model equipped with a fuel-injected 2-stroke engine, the existence of which had been hinted at in teaser videos and other media. With a displacement of 327cc, ERGO-FIT for greater positional freedom, and smartphone connectivity via the RIDEOLOGY app, the KX327X will be priced at $9699 (approximately 1,550,000 yen) and the KX327 at $9099 (approximately 1,450,000 yen).

327cc FI 2-stroke engine mounted on aluminum perimeter frame

It has long been clear from patents and other information that Kawasaki was developing a new type of two-stroke engine, and now the production model has finally gone on sale. Making its debut is the KX series of off-road racers, which will be available in two versions: the KX327X cross-country model and the KX327 motocrosser.

The engine is a fuel-injected two-stroke single-cylinder with a specially designed exhaust valve system for strong traction at low rpm and uniform torque throughout the range. The exhaust port timing is dynamically adjusted according to engine speed and throttle opening. A single-axis primary engine balancer is also installed to reduce vibration and improve throttle control. The lubrication system uses mixed lubrication without a separate oil pump, maintaining a simple and lightweight structure. Starting is by cell starter only, with no kick pedal. The KX327X cross-country model has a six-speed transmission, while the KX327 has a five-speed. The chassis for this engine uses a modified lightweight aluminum perimeter frame based on the 4-stroke KX450F, and also features new ERGO-FIT adjustable components. The footpeg and triple clamp mounting positions can be changed in stages, and the reversible bar mounts allow the handlebar position to be adjusted significantly to optimize comfort and maneuverability according to preference and riding conditions. For suspension, the front fork features a high-performance 48mm KYB front fork with KYB's proprietary Air Oil Separate (AOS) system and low-friction Kashima coating for smooth and stable performance damping. The rear shock is also equipped with KYB's new Uni-Trak. For wheels, the KX327X comes standard with 21-inch front/18-inch rear Excel rims and Dunlop Geomax AT82 tires.

GPS is utilized with a smartphone linkage function. Domestic introduction is yet to be determined.

A new feature is the RIDEOLOGY app, which allows riders to record their ride logs using GPS. This makes it possible to use GPS to record driving logs and create off-road course maps (based on satellite images from Google Maps). In addition, for competition use, it can track lap times, check speed, gear position, and engine speed, and watch telemetry data such as intake air temperature and coolant temperature in real time. An engine operating hour meter and maintenance reminder function are also conveniently included.

The new KX327X / KX327 will be available in the North American market in the second half of 2026, priced at $9699 for the KX327X (approximately 1,550,000 yen) and $9099 for the KX327 (approximately 1,450,000 yen). The main specifications will be announced later, and the timing of the Japanese launch has not yet been announced. The 2-stroke models have disappeared from public roads due to emission regulations, but their return for competition use is a situation that off-road enthusiasts cannot afford to miss.

KX327X (2027)

KX327 (2027)

To the gallery (8)