How to Change the Oil in a 2016 Kawasaki KX85 – A MotoSport.com Proprietary Guide

Shop parts for a 2016 Kawasaki KX85 Dirt Bike.

  • Time to Complete: About 20–30 minutes
  • Skill Level: Beginner–Intermediate

Tools & Supplies You’ll Need

  • Oil Drain Pan – To capture used oil and prevent spills
  • 14mm Socket and Ratchet – Fits the drain bolt
  • Torque Wrench – For proper drain bolt tightening (torque spec: 11 ft-lbs)
  • Funnel – Helps pour oil without mess
  • Measuring Cup or Beaker – For precise oil volume
  • Clean Rag – To clean surfaces and handle spills
  • New Oil – 10W-40 Four-stroke Motorcycle Oil or recommended alternative
  • Gloves (optional) – For cleanliness and safety

Oil Change Frequency for 2016 KX85

  • Kawasaki recommends changing the gear/transmission oil every 3 to 5 hours of riding, or after particularly hard sessions.

Unique Call-Outs for the 2016 Kawasaki KX85

  • This is a two-stroke engine, so the oil being changed is transmission (gearbox) oil, not the engine oil as found in four-strokes.
  • The transmission case capacity is 700 milliliters (ml).
  • Do not overtighten the drain bolt—thread stripping is common if overtightened due to the small size and soft metal of the case.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions

  • Start & Warm the Engine
    • Idle the bike for 1–2 minutes. Warmer oil drains more quickly and thoroughly.
  • Stabilize the Bike
    • Secure the KX85 upright on a stand or level surface. This ensures complete draining and proper refill.
  • Locate the Drain Bolt
    • Underneath the right side of the engine case is the oil drain bolt. Use your 14mm socket to identify it. Have your drain pan ready underneath.
  • Drain the Old Oil
    • With the engine off and cool to the touch, use the 14mm socket and ratchet to loosen and remove the drain bolt. Allow the oil to fully drain into the pan. Be patient to ensure a complete drain.
    • Inspect the oil for metal shavings or debris, which could indicate internal wear.
  • Clean & Reinstall the Drain Bolt
    • Wipe off the drain bolt and the sealing surface on the case with a clean rag.
    • Thread the bolt in by hand until it seats, then use a torque wrench to tighten to 11 ft-lbs. Overtightening can strip the threads—be gentle.
  • Measure and Add New Oil
    • Measure 700 ml of fresh oil using your measuring cup or beaker.
    • With the bike level, pour the oil slowly into the oil fill hole using a funnel.
    • Replace the fill cap once done.
  • Check the Oil Level
    • Remove the KX85 from the stand so it is standing perpendicular to the ground.
    • Look at the oil check notch (view hole) on the side of the engine: the oil should meet the edge of this notch. Top off slightly if necessary, avoiding overfill.
  • Finish Up
    • Wipe up any oil spills and check for leaks around the drain bolt and fill cap.
    • Start the bike, idle for a moment, and re-check oil level after shutdown; top up if needed.

Tips & Reminders

  • Always use motorcycle-specific oil. Automotive oils may not provide the proper clutch and gearbox protection.
  • Inspect your drained oil for cloudiness, foaming, or strong burnt smell—these indicate it’s well past time for a change or there could be issues to investigate.
  • Dispose of old oil responsibly at a certified recycling center.
  • This procedure also applies to KX85 models in the 2016 series. For KX100, follow the same steps and volume.

Conclusion

  • Changing the oil on your 2016 Kawasaki KX85 ensures smooth shifting, clutch longevity, and overall transmission health. Consistent maintenance is the single best investment you can make for your bike’s performance and reliability.
  • MotoSport.com is your source for oils, filters, tools, and expert guidance to keep your ride in peak shape.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Motor Oil for a 2016 Kawasaki KX85 Dirt Bike.

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Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 2016 Kawasaki KX85 Dirt Bike.

Shop Tools for a 2016 Kawasaki KX85 Dirt Bike.

Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2016 Kawasaki KX85 Dirt Bike.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.