Kayo 125 is one of the best-selling pit bikes on the domestic motor market, as well as the closest competitor to the Irbis TTR 125 model.
Light motocross motorcycles or pit bikes are gradually gaining popularity in our country. This is mainly due to Chinese manufacturers. In terms of price/quality ratio, Chinese models fully meet the expectations of their “riders”; this is confirmed by the Kayo series of motorcycles.
The Chinese company Kayo has been producing pit bikes since 1999. Having gained popularity and respect at home, the company entered the international market and is increasing production volumes every day. Currently, Kayo produces more than 30,000 motorcycles a year, and the model line includes more than 25 different modifications, designed not only for riding on regular roads, but also for participating in competitions.
Small, but smart
Incredible power and maneuverability are what distinguishes pit bikes from the fast enduro and motocross sport bikes, in addition to their small size. There are many people who want to try themselves as a racer, overcoming difficult tracks and rough terrain. At the same time, many novice pilots are wondering: with which model can they start mastering moderate off-road conditions and performing various stunts?
This is where the answer comes naturally: you can start with any model, but on a Kayo 125 pit bike or any similar model, you will be able to master the skills of motocross riding. In addition, the capabilities of “pits” have long been appreciated by stuntriders, since with a weight of about 70 kg and small dimensions, motorcycles of this class are capable of reaching speeds of 80-85 km/h in a matter of seconds. In addition, pit bikes, which belong to the class of lightweight motocross motorcycles, have a super-strong design, thanks to which athletes can easily perform various acrobatic elements.
Weight and dimensions of the Kayo 125 pit bike model
The lightweight Kayo 125 motorcycle can be produced in a Basic version, which is considered a basic model, as well as a Classic version. The latter is intended for more experienced pilots, as it is equipped with a modernized front suspension (fork with improved shock-absorbing characteristics). In addition, there is a headlight and a battery.
So, Kayo 125 model CRF-801-7L has a wheelbase of 1225 mm. The dimensions of the motorcycle are 1750×750×1130 mm, respectively, while the ground clearance of the vehicle is 350 mm. As you can see, the dimensions are not too large, and the weight is only 71 kg. The front wheel has a 70/100*17 tire, and the rear one has a 70/100*14 tire. Although this model of pit bike can often be equipped with 14- and 12-inch wheels (on the front and rear suspensions).
Kayo 125: technical specifications
The technical characteristics of Kayo bikes are different for each model. But a general idea of them can be obtained by considering, for example, one of them. Let's analyze the characteristics of the KAYO BASIC YX 125 17/14 motorcycle. You can learn about many indicators from the labeling of the model itself.
Thus, the motorcycle is equipped with a single-cylinder four-stroke engine and an air cooling system. Fuel is supplied according to the carburetor principle. At 8,000 rpm, maximum power is reached, which is 11 l/s. At 6,000 rpm the torque is 8Nm. Chain drive.
These characteristics are identical for different Kayo 125 models. They allow you to get a powerful, maneuverable, playful and reliable pit bike. Thanks to this, he is able to travel off-road and participate in various motocross events. This is a great option for beginners who like to ride like a breeze. Of course, it is not suitable for an extreme ride with high or long jumps and springboards. But the pit bike can cope with light off-road conditions without any noticeable difficulties.
Motorcycle engine of the Classic version. Fuel consumption
Thanks to the installed 11-horsepower four-stroke single-cylinder Lifan engine on the Kayo 125 pit bike, the technical characteristics of the model are very impressive. The engine displacement is 120 cm³. The maximum speed developed on the Kayo 125 motorcycle is 80 km/h. It has an air-type cooling system.
The power unit is able to produce high torque (8 thousand rpm), which largely contributes to the development of excellent maneuverability. As for the engine installed on the Classic Kayo 125 version (reviews from satisfied owners indicate this), there are practically no complaints about its operation.
A direct-flow type muffler is installed on the “pit”, so the exhaust sound is moderate. The motorcycle is equipped with a plastic 5.5-liter fuel tank, which has a special bleed valve. The fuel consumption of this model is about 2.5 liters per 100 km.
Classic 125 krz design compared to Kayo CRF 801-7l Basic
The front wheel is stock.
The rear wheel is stock.
Frame.
The Classic KRZ model is one of the most popular in the line. Low cost, good quality. The absence of an electric starter is more of a bonus for a simple pit bike. On rides there is no need for unnecessary details.
Since the models are almost identical, they will be described in parallel. Where there are differences, they will be indicated.
- The frame of both models is made of steel . Thanks to this, as well as a minimum of welded joints, good strength and durability . Shows very good resistance to rust thanks to good painting and fitting of parts.
- The front fork is telescopic, of the usual type. The working stroke is 735 mm , for the KRZ model, for the CRF - 800 mm .
- The rear part is made according to the motorcycle principle - mono-shock absorber + pendulum . Distance 360 mm at hole centers, mounting holes 10 mm .
The dirt protection has been removed. You can see the muffler, chain, and pendulum elements.
Pendulum.
Exterior
Front view. The headlight is off.
Side view.
The difference between the models can be seen upon first inspection. Both models have minimal body kit, but the KRZ does have a headlight. The second model does not have it.
Front end
Like an enduro, the front fender is tucked under the very front fairing. The last minimum is that there is enough space to attach a number at competitions. The KRZ has a little more space due to the headlights and several reflectors.
The square headlight of this model is not directed forward, like on motorcycles, but it illuminates a small area directly in front of the front tire.
- There are no mirrors or wind protection.
- The steering wheel is large and curved . The move is good, according to reviews it does not create problems.
- Behind the wheel there is a curve of the frame, the natural continuation of which is the fuel tank. For both models it is the same, holds 5 liters .
But low consumption will allow you to travel more than 200 km on one fill. Consumption is about 3 liters per 100 km.
Dashboard
We moved it to another place. It fell off while we were riding, so we had to secure it that way. Well, now I can’t get my hands on it.
The very concept of a pit bike does not imply a large amount of information that requires a bulky panel. But in these models the developers went even further. A small display is mounted on the handlebar stem . It displays information about the motorcycle hours, and when the pit bike is started, the engine speed is displayed.
Controls
There are almost no buttons. There is an emergency engine stop button and a lever for switching the headlights.
The grips are of poor quality, worn out in 19 hours of use.
Rear end
Even though there is dirt protection for the rear shock absorber, clay sticks to it and can break the rod.
As usual, there is no mudguard. All the dirt settles on the lower part of the subframe, fortunately, due to the extremely high seating, it is not difficult to care for it. There is a semblance of mud protection for the shock absorber , but when driving in slushy weather it is practically useless.
The saddle is sportbike style, there are no additional features. Interestingly, the KRZ model will have leather painted in the main color of the bike.
Specifications
Conventional air cooling. But there are regular places for installing an additional radiator.
take care of the user, everywhere on the picture suppressor - DO NOT TOUCH.
The user is offered a 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine with the following parameters:
- working volume - 124 cm3;
- power - 11 hp;
- maximum torque - 8.0 Nm;
- number of valves - 2;
- cooling - air;
- fuel supply - Mikuni carburetor;
- ignition - electronic;
- start - kick starter;
The muffler is assembled with a “flute”, which is installed from the factory, but can be removed at will to create a “forward flow”, which is very loud.
Pay attention to the carburetor. Mikuni VM 22 is installed here . This is a non-killable model, which is assembled with a normal “suction” . The carburetor is easy to set up and maintains the set parameters well. For example, we needed to adjust the mixture once, and we didn’t climb there again over the summer. But on RegulMOTO I had to tweak something once a week.
Some people praise it, some don't, but we like this carburetor model.
Transmission and clutch
Chain adjustment mechanism.
Unlike motorcycle transmissions, where neutral is the middle position between first and second gears, Kayo has it before first. All speeds up. Other parameters are unchanged.
- Sequential 4-speed gearbox .
The classic scheme for pit bikes is “all speeds up”! - Chain drive.
Drive unit. - Multi-disc clutch, oil bath .
Instructions for tensioning the chain.
Brakes
Front brake disc and fork protection from dirt.
Rear brake disc.
Rear brake machine.
Front brake fluid reservoir (there is an inspection window).
Both models use disc brakes.
Disc drive on both axles. The brake drive is hydraulic.
Gas tank volume
The side plastic has been removed, revealing the gas tank. Only plastic products are installed on the pit bike. Plastic allows you to lighten the weight, and it doesn’t hurt so much to kick your feet!
- Tank capacity - 5 l.
It makes no sense to use a reserve system with such a volume, so the user needs to remember about the reserve himself.
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption is 2 liters per 100 km in highway driving mode.
Depending on the conditions of use, it may vary, but should not rise above the 2.5 liter mark. If, according to observations, the indicators are higher, you need to look at the carburetor settings and adjust the engine.
Acceleration dynamics
The developers are silent about the acceleration dynamics, but you can’t accelerate a pit bike to 100 km. The maximum speed on stock stars will be no more than 80 km per hour .
A pit bike is not designed for fast riding, but for a sharp start.
Gearbox and brake system
The bike is equipped with a manual 4-speed gearbox. It should be noted that the inclusion is carried out from the first position, in which the neutral gear is installed, and subsequent speeds are switched upward. According to many users, this is not entirely convenient, since it is not always possible to engage neutral gear the first time. Although, having gotten used to it, no one pays attention to this shortcoming. On new Kayo 125 motorcycle models (reviews from bikers point to this small drawback) there may be some difficulties in the operation of the box. However, they disappear after a short break-in.
Great confidence is caused by the hydraulic disc-type brake system that is installed on the bike. Reinforced hoses add additional reliability. The brakes do not cause any complaints and work equally effectively both on light alloy wheels and with a pair of wheels (tires, discs) for driving on difficult roads.
Wheels and steering wheel
Budget pit bikes have steel rims and bushings. They are heavy and require frequent maintenance. More expensive and practical - aluminum. A thick-walled aluminum steering wheel is also recommended, which is lighter than steel, stronger, and straightens out after a fall.
Be sure to pay attention to the tires. Cross-country versions are intended only for driving on the ground
High-standing tires on asphalt roads wear out within a week. It’s better to install road tires or enduro tires - they are more durable.
For trail training, 12x14 wheels are recommended - they are universal, suitable for everything, ideal for the track. Thanks to their small size, they are durable and comfortable for drivers of short or average height. Large diameter wheels will turn your bike into something like a scooter.
The classics of this type are 10x10 or 10x12 wheels - this is exactly how the pit bike was conceived. The size is convenient for children's version, street, fan, camp. The most durable wheels, bikes with them are light and can withstand a normal weight of 100 kg.
17x14 wheels are made in Russia for driving in forests, wilds, swamps, fields. They bring pit bikes closer to cross-country motorcycles. They also make the pit comfortable for tall motorcyclists.
Design Features
The design of the Kayo 125 pit bike (photo above) is based on a very durable steel frame that can withstand heavy loads, including when performing various jumps. The front suspension is presented in the form of a telescopic fork (inverted), and the rear suspension is a pendulum-type monoshock absorber. If necessary, the pilot can always adjust the level of required rigidity.
Unlike most motorcycles, on this bike the facing elements and wing arches are made of impact-resistant plastic, which also return to their original position under various mechanical influences. In truth, the pit bike does not have a dashboard, but it does have a tachometer and a motorcycle meter installed.
Reviews from owners of Kayo pit bikes
Despite the fact that the model has very small dimensions, according to reviews from many owners, even a person with a height of 185 cm feels comfortable on it, while the load on the pit bike has virtually no effect on its mobility. Bikers note the high dynamics and agility of the motorcycle, as well as its adaptability to jumping, so it is ideal for mini-cross and stand riding.
In addition, most athletes focus their attention on its high reliability and ease of use. In addition, everyone notes the successful design of the front suspension, thanks to which the bike copes with small-radius turns without any problems. In general, the purchased bike will not make its owner regret the choice and is completely worth the money spent.
Pit bike Kayo YX-125 Basic
Speaking about the Chinese Kayo 125 motorbikes, the review should be continued with the basic version of the 2015 release, which is an equally attractive model. It is equipped with a new type of YX engine, which appears in its name. The model is not equipped with a headlight, which means that the rider can improve and customize his bike as desired. The car is equipped with an 11-horsepower 4-stroke 123 cc air-cooled engine and an electronic ignition system. A special feature of this engine is its two-valve cast iron head.
The motorcycle, like the previous Classic version, has no less agility and a maximum speed of 80 km/h. As for design features, the models are basically identical. The same front and rear suspensions, gearbox and its shift diagram and other main components of the car.
Choosing a pit bike
Now let's talk about how to choose a pit bike for a beginner and what to look for when buying a new pit bike from a motorcycle dealership
Wheel radius
The first thing you should pay attention to is the radius of the wheels. For a tall person and above average weight, a pit bike with wheel sizes of 17/14 inches is suitable, for an average height/weight 14/12
For a tall person and above average weight, a pit bike with wheel sizes of 17/14 inches is suitable, for an average height/weight 14/12 inches.
Engine power
Children's pit bikes are equipped with engines of 50-110 cc. 125-140 cc cm. Suitable for beginners and teenagers, but 150 and above is already a serious cubic capacity for a pit bike. This technique drives quite briskly and will provoke you to unscrew the throttle, so it would be good to have experience in handling such an engine.
Price
The cost of a pit bike consists of components. The most expensive parts are the engine, suspension and aluminum parts.
More expensive pit bike models have a more powerful engine and better suspension, as well as lighter weight. When purchasing, you should focus not only on the price-quality ratio, but also on the ratio of equipment and the feasibility of such equipment. Is it worth taking a powerful engine and adjustable suspension if you won’t be able to unleash the full potential of this combination at the initial stage?
And if you firmly decide that you need a “charged” pit bike, then look at the fork. It should be an inverted type, have stiffness and rebound adjustments, like the rear shock absorber. Trusted manufacturers DNM, FASTAGE, COPY MARZOOCHI.
Check out the aluminum parts:
- traverses,
- brake and clutch pads,
- radiator,
- disks,
- rear swingarm,
- frame.
What update did the motorbike receive?
Before presenting the updated cross-bike model to fans of motorcycles designed for cross-country riding and performing various tricks, the manufacturers subjected some components to modifications. For example, wheel hubs are now equipped with a completely new type of quality bearings that significantly improve maneuverability and dexterity. In addition, they are designed for long-term use and prolonged impact, which is important for the very agile Kayo 125 bike.
The rear part of the car is equipped with an elongated plastic wing and a special casing made of durable polymer, which protects the surface of the monoshock absorber from dirt, which significantly prolongs its functionality. The car's brakes are represented by improved petal-type discs, thanks to which braking has become even more confident.
Agile and very fast
The 123-horsepower engine certainly provides excellent speed and agility to the Kayo 125 pit bike. The performance of this machine would be incomplete without a reliable suspension, thanks to which jumps and acrobatic elements are performed. In Kayo Basic, as in the more advanced classic version, the front suspension is presented in the form of a telescopic inverted fork with a stroke of 735 mm. The rear suspension is made of a pendulum type, with a monoshock absorber with a travel of 360 mm.
The KMS-428 brand chain (Taiwan) ensures reliable operation of the drive of the Kayo 125 bike. By the way, this motorcycle is equipped with a chain catcher mechanism to prevent it from jumping off and possible damage to the articulated parts (sprockets, bushings). A special feature of these motorcycles is that the manufacturers have provided for possible modifications to the machine in the future, so the design has a number of seats and additional technological holes. For example, if a pilot wants to install an air filter, then the mountings and installation space are already provided for this.
Who can use a pit bike? Motorcycle cost
Kayo 125 pit bikes are suitable for absolutely everyone, as they are durable and maneuverable, as well as very easy to maintain and operate. They can be used for mini-cross training, cross-country riding and extreme riding skills training. Also, “Kayo” motorcycles will appeal to all motorcycle enthusiasts; moreover, they are very popular among teenagers, because pit bikes are full-fledged motorcycles with a sporty character. Their small dimensions allow you to store equipment anywhere. In addition, they can easily fit into the trunk of a car, which greatly facilitates transportation, so motorcycles can be transported to places of intended training and car rides.
Kayo pit bikes can rightfully be called universal machines, since by “changing” tires and changing wheels, you can get almost any type of motorcycle out of the box. It is necessary to highlight one more feature of this motorcycle: there is no need to register it as a vehicle, so you can ride it immediately after purchase.
As for the cost of Chinese Kayo pit bikes, used motorcycles 2 years old can be purchased for 35-40 thousand rubles. The Basic model in its basic configuration will cost the future owner 59 thousand rubles. Motorcycles of the Classic series can be purchased for 65.5 thousand rubles.
Kayo 125
The literal translation of the name of one of the types of motorcycles, “pit bike,” means a motorcycle for the field. Maintenance of sports tracks - initially this was the only purpose of the pit bike.
Modern pits continue to work in technical pits and on race tracks, having received a new, wider application among the average consumer as a mini-motorcycle for stunt, enduro and motocross. KAYO equipment successfully competes in the markets of Europe and Asia with famous brands, and in Russia Kayo 125 basic has become the most purchased. Russian buyers lovingly dubbed it “coyote”.
