'03 KX125 KDX Hybrid Build 2018

[rexemouse]

Hello,

I finally finished my winter project, a 2003 KX125 hybrid build.
Similar builds have been well covered, so I just added a couple build pics like the swingarm modificication and airbox. This site had all the info i needed for this project and this bike came out perfect.
This is my second hybrid, the first was a '95 CR125. Its hard to only build one of these, KDX-MX bikes are the ballz.

Open forum for any questions.

Thanks,

JB


2003 KX125
1998 KDX200 Engine Rebuilt
FMF Gnarly Pipe and Powercore Silencer
2007 KX250F Showa 47mm Forks & Triple
2001 KX125 Rear Shock
Fasst Flexx Handlebars
GPI Oversized Radiators
Clarke 3.1 Gal Oversized Tank
SDG Tall Seat
Tusk Impact Front Rim w/ Pirelli MT16
Tustk Impact Rear 18" w/ Shinko 525 Cheater
WER Steering Dampener
Polisport MMX Head Lamp
Polisport Plastics
Fastway Pegs
Probillet Kickstand

[bufftester]

Nicely done! I have to agree that the KX/KDX is a great bike to ride, really takes the best of both bikes and works well.

[KDXGarage]

Looks great! Congratulations. If you want, a KX cable guide can be bought that fits on the triple clamp bolts.

[bufftester]

It's on there, just not bolted on but hanging down at the bottom at the top of the fork protector.

[KDXGarage]

Ah, OK. I see it now. I was wondering if it was an "almost ready to ride" pic.

[doakley]

What fork protectors did you use? I see you have the brake hose attached to the fork guard with a KDX style clamp.

[B737driver]

Nicely done from a fellow hybrid owner/builder...get the suspension set up right for your riding conditions and the orange bikes will be jealous.

[rexemouse]

The fork guards are either UFO or Polisport, but im not totally sure. The forks and guards were a freebie from a friend. The clamp is from a kdx, but i got it to work well. The top cable guide is from the 03 KX, and i just made a bracket to mount it. The brake line seems to stay put and defects well with the forks.

I serviced the suspension, but haven't touched the valving. I think the forks are going to beat me up a bit this season, but i doubt its gonna wipe the smile off my face. Hoping to dial in the suspension next year, along with some RB mods.

[chkdx]

How do you like the Shinko 525 Cheater? I'm thinking of trying one?

[doakley]

Do the suspension. You won’t believe the difference no matter how much I tell you. More important than the RB mods IMO.

[KDXGarage]

at least go full soft on the compression

[rexemouse]

I finally yook the bike out this weekend, covered about 60+ miles of trail with a good mix of rocks, roots, sand, mud, and some very choppy logging trails. This bike is perfect, and the suspension felt great all around, rear shock feels glorious, and the front forks must have aligned a bit because they softened right up. The suspension is definitely at its best with speed, especially over rocks. Overall, I felt much more in control than the kdx when going fast over trail junk, and it's waaaay easier to move around on the bike. This bike seriously handles better than anything I ever rode, it tracks so well coming hard into turns and I can pretty much lay my nutsack on the handle bars. I find it much easier to control the rear wheel, and weight he outside peg when turning tightly. I also find the kx frame to be easier to grip with my legs, but this might be more from the grippy fastway pegs. Overall, thebbike exceeds my expectattions. I have a big trip planned at the end of June, and I'll be able to really push it on some shale ridden hill climbs and ugly whoop sections.

As far as the shinko, it's definitely a strange tire. It's super gummy and elasticky, i can push the knobs aroudneaily with my fingers. So far, it feels awesome on the rocks, but I feel like it's not hooking up as well in the Sandy stuff, and wasn't really great in the mud sections. But for me, if the tire wears well and performs well till then end, I'll take that trade off. I'll post up a trip pic later.

[bike4500]

how do you like the handlebars? I have carpel tunnel and i'm thinking they would help with the vibrations. Thanks

[rexemouse]

I bought the fasst flexx bars because I have sensitivity to vibration causing numbness in my hands. I bought the bars on eBay to save some money, but I wouldn't hesitate to get these new because they are so worth it. They really do eliminate the problem, even in long periods of rough terrain where it's hard to keep a loose grip. They are build really well and can take a good spill. They do have some flex which takes getting used to, but ive actually grown to like flex. The flex gives I nice little spring back when compressing the front end, and makes it easier to pop the front wheel up over obstacles, and slow standing wheelies. I'd suggest a steering damper too. It will give you some confidence in the rough stuff, and help keep a loose grip, which is the best thing you can do to prevent numb hands.

[bike4500]

what shifter did you use. I'm starting to put my bike together.

[Tyl3r]

Very nicely done!