KDXRIDER.NET

We currently have a '87 kdx 200 and trail ride single track timber in the midwest. Really like the pull and light weight handling of the air cooled '87. We need another kdx so my 21 yr old son and I can ride together.
The question is: Do you gain much in performance and handling with a post, 1995 kdx liquid cooled version? Thoughts on differences? Thanks

H model 95-06's have the highest compression of all the KDX's. They do lack a bit of bottom end though apparently.

I made up a wikipedia article for the KDX last month. Have a look to compare model specifications

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawasaki_KDX200

you get TONS of parts availability and an extremely reliable bike with the H series (years 95+). It's a goat, it'll do just about anything. it's not as light as your 87, and it'll need front fork springs right away. other than that, maybe jet is right, and just ride. you can't go wrong.

H-series definitely has a slight lack in bottom end, but makes up for it everywhere else. I prefer it in the really tight stuff actually, it as the low-down torque to not-stall, barely require and clutch use and tractor up hill climbs, but I found my older KDX tries to lift the front wheel up hills and flip you off, where the H has a smoother power curve so it's a nice flat increment from low-torque into the top end power.

You gain all the improvements to handling that come with a perimeter frame, improved suspension lever ratios, improved fork internals (although not lots of improvement lol). Reliability is even better, parts availability is better, improved KIPS. From 95 on they didn't change so year is not as important as condition when shopping.