2025 Kawasaki KLX 230R

Notes:

The Kawasaki KLX 230 lineup is a series of off-road motorcycles designed for a range of riders, offering a balance of power, performance, and versatility. First introduced in 2020, the KLX 230 series is aimed at riders who want a trail bike that’s capable yet still accessible, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced riders. The KLX 230 models come with a larger engine than the KLX 140, providing better performance for more challenging terrain, while maintaining Kawasaki’s reputation for durability and ease of use.

Here’s an overview of the KLX 230 lineup:

The base model of the KLX 230 is powered by a 233cc, air-cooled, four-stroke engine that provides a good balance between power and controllability. The engine features a long stroke, which helps with low-end torque, making it ideal for trail riding. The bike's lightweight design and 6-speed transmission give it solid off-road capabilities while still being manageable for less experienced riders.

The suspension is a long-travel, telescopic fork in the front and a Uni-Trak rear shock, designed for trail performance and providing comfort over rough terrain. The seat height is manageable at 34.8 inches, and the bike has a low curb weight (around 291 pounds), making it easy to handle.

The KLX 230R is a more off-road-focused version of the standard KLX 230. It shares the same 233cc engine but is tuned for even more trail performance. The bike features improved suspension with longer travel to handle more demanding off-road conditions, making it better suited for serious trail riding and technical terrain.

The KLX 230R has a slightly higher seat height (about 36.2 inches), providing more ground clearance for rougher paths. It’s designed to be a more specialized off-road bike, giving more experienced riders an improved setup for off-road trails and moderate jumps.

The KLX 230 S is a lower version of the KLX 230, designed for shorter riders. It has a reduced seat height (around 32.7 inches) and lower suspension travel, making it more accessible for riders who find the standard KLX 230 too tall. Despite the changes, it still features the same 233cc engine and similar performance characteristics.

In some markets, Kawasaki offers the KLX 230 with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), turning it into a more street-friendly model. This version is typically aimed at dual-sport riders who want a capable off-road bike that can also be legally ridden on the road. The addition of ABS enhances safety on the street while retaining the bike's off-road capabilities.

• Engine: 233cc, air-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine
• Suspension: Long-travel front fork and Uni-Trak rear shock for trail comfort
• Weight: Lightweight chassis for better handling and ease of use
• Brakes: Disc brakes front and rear, with the option for ABS on some models
• Seat Height: Varies between models (32.7 inches for the S model to 36.2 inches for the 230R)
• Electric Start: Standard across the lineup for ease of use.

The KLX 230 lineup is perfect for riders looking for a solid, dependable off-road motorcycle that can handle everything from casual trail riding to more challenging off-road adventures. With a variety of models to suit different rider sizes and skill levels, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a balance of performance, comfort, and fun on the trails.