GOING GREEN

We tested the KLX 230R S and KX 250 at Kawasaki's OffRoad Carnival. Here's what we discovered.

- KARAN MATHUR

There are few things in life as satisfying as tearing up a dirt track, with no limits on speed, endless space for your shenanigans, and the right kind of motorcycle between your legs. This exact thought raced through my mind as I swung my leg over the T relatively mild-mannered KLX 230R S for my second round at Yansh Adventure Motorsports. The best, however, was yet to come, as the crazy KX 250 awaited my command. As a relative beginner to off-road motorcycles but a fan of bikes that can scare the living daylights out of riders, the prospect of riding the KX 250 was enticing. So, which one would be my pick? Let's find out! 

WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL?

The Indian motorcycle landscape is experiencing an unprecedented boom. Not only is the 300-400cc category becoming the preferred segment for relatively new riders, but manufacturers are also introducing recreational-only motorcycles, something that was previously unheard of. A case in point is Kawasaki India's decision to launch its KLX enduro and KX dirt bike range. The KLX range includes bikes equipped with 110 300cc engines. The dedicated KX line of off-road motorcycles ranges from a modest 65cc to an insane 450cc.

With such a diverse range of motorcycles, Kawasaki aims to cater to not just different skill levels but also different age groups. This was also evident at the Kawasaki Off-Road Carnival, where the adults could test 110cc+ motorcycles on the regular track, while a separate section offered smaller motorcycles for kids to experience.

At the event, my primary goal was to try my hands at two specific motorcycles - the KLX 230R S and the KX 250. While the former is the perfect entry point into the sport, the latter is a downright intimidating machine - for me, at least - that requires some time and practice to master.

KAWASAKI KLX 230R S