Kawasaki KLX230 Review
In recent years, Kawasaki Motors Corporation has dedicated time and resources to revamping the KLX lineup, debuting new models in the U.S. market for 2020, such as the KLX300R and KLX230R motorcycles and the dual-sport KLX230. The following year, Team Green took the KLX300R and introduced a dual-sport version with the KLX300.
For 2022, the Japanese manufacturer is offering three street-approved KLX models that vary in intended use, overall size and price. From most expensive to most affordable, the supermoto KLX300SM costs $6,199, the KLX300 costs $5,799, and the KLX230 is priced at $4,799.
Kawasaki also offers the KLX230 in three trim levels. The one tested here is the standard KLX230 model. There's also the KLX230 S, where "S" refers to the bike's lower seat height and shorter suspension. Last but not least, the KLX230 SE has the same specifications as the standard model, but features a number of accessories such as handguards and frame guards. The SE model is also available in two colour combinations, Oriental Blue and Firecracker Red, exclusively for this model.
A note before we begin: the KLX230 reviewed here is a 2021 model, as Kawasaki did not have any test bikes available from 2022. However, aside from the protection charts, the '21 and '22 KLX230 models are identical, so current and prospective KLX230 owners can apply this information to both.
2021 Kawasaki KLX230 Engine
The KLX230 is powered by a 233cc SOHC fuel-injected, four-stroke, cooled engine mated to a six-speed transmission. This engine is identical to the one on the KLX230R. However, meeting emissions requirements to make it legal ends up making it produce slightly less power than its motorcycle-trailer counterpart. On the Dirt Rider dyno, the 233cc Team Green engine is rated at 17.3bhp at 7,800rpm and 13.3lb-ft of torque at 6,300rpm.
Like many smaller bikes, the KLX230 is tuned for comfort in more ways than just suspension settings. From power delivery to clutch pull, the KLX230 inspires confidence, allowing the rider to focus less on the machine beneath him and more on the terrain in front of him.
Thanks to its extremely linear powerband, this green machine proved to be very predictable on gas. Although it never produces a big burst of power, the KLX230 engages smoothly and builds power continuously and evenly. This provides extreme ease of use in all conditions, both on and off-road.
As you would expect, the first gear is very short. I found myself using it just to pull away from a stop, before immediately entering second gear. On most of my off-road trips, I found myself abusing second, third and fourth gears. The KLX230 certainly rewards precise footwork, but the power is definitely worth it.
With little power relative to its 290-pound weight measured on the Dirt Rider scale, the 233cc engine doesn't produce enough torque to put you in third gear and leave you there, as you might on a larger-displacement bike. However, the KLX230 still has enough power to lift the front wheel, slide into a turn, break a curb and more. It simply takes precise gear shifting and rider IQ to know how to get the most out of this ambitious bike.
2021 Kawasaki KLX230 Suspension
Encountering more familiar terrain, the KLX230 benefits from the same suspension components as the off-road model, though the travel is about 2.5 inches shorter front and rear. Those components are a 37mm non-adjustable Showa telescopic fork with 8.7 inches of travel and a Showa Uni-Trak linked shock that offers 8.8 inches of travel and is adjustable for spring preload.
I immediately felt comfortable both on and off pavement while riding the KLX230, thanks to its suspension. Both the fork and shock provide a nice ride, soft enough in the first part of the ride to provide comfort on bumps and rocks. I felt the suspension softened on the course and made the bike feel well seated and predictable, especially during turns.
When the speed picked up, this green machine revealed its hidden dirt bike DNA. Offering good attack and bottom end resistance when encountering obstacles or rough areas at speed, the KLX230 continued to deliver confidence and the desire to push the bike much further.