Kawasaki's KLX Family Affordable Fun!

Kawasaki has entered another contender into the field of entry-level dual-sport bikes with the sporty KLX230. Simplicity and approachability are the name of the game with this bike from almost every angle. As more and more new riders join the sport, the need for bikes like this is increasing. We recently tested this and two other new offroad additions to the KLX family in beautiful southern Oregon. And, we were not disappointed!

- Candice Griffin

KLX230 The KLX230 joins Team Green as the intended next step up from the KLX140. The seat height comes in at 34.8", making it the tallest of the most comparable bikes, with the XT250 at only 31.9" and the CRF250L at 34.4". The wheelbase of 54.3" (1" longer than the KLX140) keeps it nimble and maneuverable on trails. The 230 comes with a 21/18" wheel set-up and IRC Trails GP tires, which performed fine on pavement, but a more trail-forward rider would likely want to upgrade to something more dirt friendly.

The large petal disc brakes (front and rear) are surprisingly strong, which should inspire confidence in newer riders both on the trails and in the busiest of traffic. The brakes are similar to those on the XT250 and CRF250 but leave the DR200 with its drum brakes in the dust.

On trails, this bike was a blast. With 10.4" of ground clearance, suspension travel of 8.7" (front) and 8.8" Uni-Trak rear suspension, the 230 handles almost everything you throw at it on beginner to intermediate trails. It did bottom out a couple of times over some more aggressive whoops, so a skid plate might be a good add-on at the dealership if you’re planning on riding more than just gravel and fire roads. Other than being able to adjust the rear shock for preload, the suspension is otherwise nonadjustable, which will be a detractor for some bigger riders.

Coming in at about 291 pounds curb weight, the bike is not exactly light, but it’s right in the range of similar bikes, almost the same as the XT250 and over 30 pounds lighter than the CRF250L. With the low center of gravity and the slim ergonomics, the 230 has a lightweight feel on both street and dirt. The stock two-gallon tank limits the range but should be sufficient for most rides.