K6 1991-92

Model Details

Frame No from: KH125K-008901; engine No from: KH125DE014293; original colour schemes: Ebony & Sunbeam Red. 6v electrical system.

Colour schemes remained the same with Ebony and Sunbeam Red staying as the colour schemes with no changes to the decals. While the K5 lasted four years the K6 lasted a just a year. There was a good reason for this, ... I won't spoil the surprise here, you'll have to read the K7 page!

As I mentioned on the page for the K5, my opinion is that Kawasaki were already showing a lack of commitment to the KH125 in the UK with little in the way of updating. Perhaps this was due to the ever increasing emission controls which was putting pressure on two stroke engines, after all, new road 2-strokes had been banned in the US in 1983, would Europe follow? I'm sure Kawasaki was carefully watching which way the wind was blowing and really didn't want to spend cash in the UK on something that may be gone any time soon; best to concentrate on South America and Asia?

Even the sales leaflet (front shown here) was treated with economy in mind as it describes both the K6 & K7 models (see K7 for the rear of the leaflet - models are noted on the top right). However, this shows that there was some forward planning by Kawasaki at this point, they knew that the 'upgraded' K7 was on the way so they wasted little energy and cash on promoting the K6.

The marketing focus was squarely aimed at the learner trapped by the 125cc regulations. The rear of the brochure is titled 'A Great Introduction' and promotes the K6 to the new rider. 'The Kawasaki KH125 is a great introduction to one of life's great experiences. The freedom of motorcycle riding. It's a great first bike because it has been built to make the learning experience enjoyable ...'.

Mmm, I suppose you could argue that as a learner, dodging cars and lorries on a British duel-carriageway, on a wet Monday evening rush-hour in Winter, on a little 125cc bike was 'one of life's great experiences' especially when you got home and changed out of your brown trousers.