2018 Kawasaki KLX110/L

It’s hard to believe, but Kawasaki’s original two-stroke MT1 and MC1 minibikes are already some 45 years old. But their spirits live on in the current KLX110. With this contemporary four-stroke model, Kawasaki increased not only the engine size but also the dimensions so adults—and not just kids—can ride it. Its 112cc air-cooled engine drives through a four-speed transmission with an automatic clutch, permitting a top speed in the neighborhood of 50 mph (!) and good adaptability to everything from sand washes to fire roads. The compact 14-inch front and 12-inch rear wheels help keep seat height down to a friendly (for a dirt bike) 26.8 inches.

But as they say in the Ginsu knife commercials, there’s more! And that’s because the KLX110L adds 1.2 inches extra front and 0.9 inch more rear suspension travel, which ups the seat height by 1.9 inches. Translation: The KLX110L still has genial “mini” performance, but it is sized for larger riders. As such, it’s a great spouse’s learner bike, a pre-teen or early teen newbie’s bike, or even a pitbike for trackdays. We approve.

Likes: A bike for kids that grown-ups can enjoy

Dislikes: Hey, Kawasaki, how about a manual-clutch version?

Verdict: Minibike fun for everyone