debating on KX front end swap

Questions and comments about converting to beefier forks..
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javjacob
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debating on KX front end swap

Post by javjacob »

I have read a LOT about the KX front end swaps and am thinking of doing it to my 2000 KDX220R.
From what I have gathered a 1996-2004 KX500 is a bolt on front end so I would prefer to do that. I also see RB shows a service for the KX swap... I assume that's for the 125 and 250? Not sure what years.
The hard part seems to be finding an entire front end with the wheel and everything. I am also very hesitant with my limited knowledge.

I found a KX500 front end that says its a 96-04 for $350 but doesn't come with the front wheel or anything. Would I just need to buy a KX500 wheel? Will the KDX220 brakes work or would I also need the KX500 brake caliper and rotor? Here is a link... http://www.ebay.com/itm/96-04-KAWASAKI- ... 3641.l6368
2000 Kawasaki KDX220R
1996 Kawasaki KDX200
javjacob
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by javjacob »

From a quick search it looks like I can buy a front wheel with rotor in the ballpark of $60 or so. Brake calipers look to go for $30 ballpark. Should I buy this KX500 front end?
2000 Kawasaki KDX220R
1996 Kawasaki KDX200
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KDXohio
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by KDXohio »

Where are you located I have a 90 kx125 roller that Ive been saving in case I aquire another kdx but would be willing to part with it for the sake of getting more garage space. Front end is a direct swap would need to service the forks before installing as I don't know if they leak or not. Also I believe its missing the caliper but I think the 220 caliper will work? Someone else will have to chime in on that one.
1990 KDX200 FMF Fatty, Answer VFC silencer, VForce 3 Cage, Wiseco Piston, KX125-J series KYB USD fork conversion, Race tech goldvalves, J series front brake assembly, air-box snorkel removed, Acerbis Headlight, KX450F Front fender, Pro Taper RM bend bars, ASV front Brake lever, MSR Clutch perch and lever, RB Head mod, 36mm PWK carb, Trail Tech Kickstand.
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KDXohio
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by KDXohio »

Here is the thread from way back when we I did my swap it may be able to help out some

http://www.kdxrider.net/forums/viewtopi ... 04&t=14226
1990 KDX200 FMF Fatty, Answer VFC silencer, VForce 3 Cage, Wiseco Piston, KX125-J series KYB USD fork conversion, Race tech goldvalves, J series front brake assembly, air-box snorkel removed, Acerbis Headlight, KX450F Front fender, Pro Taper RM bend bars, ASV front Brake lever, MSR Clutch perch and lever, RB Head mod, 36mm PWK carb, Trail Tech Kickstand.
javjacob
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by javjacob »

I am located in Missouri. I'm not sure if I would want to go through a frame swap like that, the front end swap sounds like a lot easier of a project.
2000 Kawasaki KDX220R
1996 Kawasaki KDX200
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KDXohio
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by KDXohio »

javjacob wrote:I am located in Missouri. I'm not sure if I would want to go through a frame swap like that, the front end swap sounds like a lot easier of a project.
The 90 kx125 front end is a direct swap like the kx500 I just meant you have to take the whole thing so its out of my garage!
1990 KDX200 FMF Fatty, Answer VFC silencer, VForce 3 Cage, Wiseco Piston, KX125-J series KYB USD fork conversion, Race tech goldvalves, J series front brake assembly, air-box snorkel removed, Acerbis Headlight, KX450F Front fender, Pro Taper RM bend bars, ASV front Brake lever, MSR Clutch perch and lever, RB Head mod, 36mm PWK carb, Trail Tech Kickstand.
javjacob
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by javjacob »

KDXohio wrote:
javjacob wrote:I am located in Missouri. I'm not sure if I would want to go through a frame swap like that, the front end swap sounds like a lot easier of a project.
The 90 kx125 front end is a direct swap like the kx500 I just meant you have to take the whole thing so its out of my garage!
I thought the 89-94 KDX was completely different from the 95-06 KDX? Mine is a 2000 model. I'm not sure how I would be able to get it anyway since it would be hard and expensive to ship an entire bike.
2000 Kawasaki KDX220R
1996 Kawasaki KDX200
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KDXohio
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by KDXohio »

They are very different but the steering stem is the same.
Bolt on complete front ends
kx500 USD front ends
90-91 kx125, 250
93-94 kdx200
Kdx250
The KLX front end I do not know the years that work here

Yea it wouldn't be worth it I was hoping you'd be closer by and we'd just meet up.
1990 KDX200 FMF Fatty, Answer VFC silencer, VForce 3 Cage, Wiseco Piston, KX125-J series KYB USD fork conversion, Race tech goldvalves, J series front brake assembly, air-box snorkel removed, Acerbis Headlight, KX450F Front fender, Pro Taper RM bend bars, ASV front Brake lever, MSR Clutch perch and lever, RB Head mod, 36mm PWK carb, Trail Tech Kickstand.
javjacob
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by javjacob »

Yeah if we were closer that would be a good deal
2000 Kawasaki KDX220R
1996 Kawasaki KDX200
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G22inSC
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debating on KX front end swap

Post by G22inSC »

It's really not that big a deal. Pick your front end up with wheel and axle. Send both the KDX and KX stem/triple trees (along with a new bearing) to Ron black for his swap and bushing service. Bolt KX triple tree with KDX stem on your KDX frame then mount the KX forks, KX wheel and axle while probably being able to use your KDX brakes.

The hardest part is shopping for the best deal online, unless someone on here hooks you up.
'05 Kaw KDX200 ('00 KX125 forks / '02 RM125 Showa "K2" shock)
'14 Yam YZ125(x) (oldest boy's)
'22 Yam YZ125X (youngest boy's)
'17 Yam YZ85 (soon to be FOR SALE)
'10 Honda Recon (wife's)
'08 Kaw KX65 (Sold)
'07 KTM 50SX Sr. (Sold)
'09 Yam PW50 (retired)
'97 Kaw KX250 (Sold)

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2005 KDX200 Bike Profile
javjacob
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by javjacob »

I bought the 96-04 KX500 front end. I wont have to send it to RB and it comes with a set of fat bars. I just need to get a front wheel. Will only the 96-04 KX500 front wheels work?
2000 Kawasaki KDX220R
1996 Kawasaki KDX200
javjacob
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by javjacob »

I also bought a front wheel off a 96 KX250 which is the same as what the 500 used. Should have it all this week. I would like to have it revalved and whatever else it needs like lowering it to match the rear. Not sure of who is a good suspension shop yet though. I also bought a 1.125" kouba lowering link for the rear so I will need the front lowered more than what the forks will slide up in the triple clamps.
2000 Kawasaki KDX220R
1996 Kawasaki KDX200
Kdxgreg
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by Kdxgreg »

I am also considering fork conversion I have a 05' ' kdx 200 is this mod worth the effort ??
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KDXohio
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by KDXohio »

Kdxgreg wrote:I am also considering fork conversion I have a 05' ' kdx 200 is this mod worth the effort ??
Really depends on your riding but it's not much effort and typically not too much more expensive than rebuilding valving and springing you're stock Forks it also eliminates some overhang
1990 KDX200 FMF Fatty, Answer VFC silencer, VForce 3 Cage, Wiseco Piston, KX125-J series KYB USD fork conversion, Race tech goldvalves, J series front brake assembly, air-box snorkel removed, Acerbis Headlight, KX450F Front fender, Pro Taper RM bend bars, ASV front Brake lever, MSR Clutch perch and lever, RB Head mod, 36mm PWK carb, Trail Tech Kickstand.
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G22inSC
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Re: debating on KX front end swap

Post by G22inSC »

Best mod I ever did was suspension and especially a Scott's steering damper. Makes a world of difference.
'05 Kaw KDX200 ('00 KX125 forks / '02 RM125 Showa "K2" shock)
'14 Yam YZ125(x) (oldest boy's)
'22 Yam YZ125X (youngest boy's)
'17 Yam YZ85 (soon to be FOR SALE)
'10 Honda Recon (wife's)
'08 Kaw KX65 (Sold)
'07 KTM 50SX Sr. (Sold)
'09 Yam PW50 (retired)
'97 Kaw KX250 (Sold)

Gallery

2005 KDX200 Bike Profile
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