Kawasaki KLX 230 S: 5 Things That Will Make You Want to Buy It

The Kawasaki KLX 230 S is set to launch in India on October 17, 2024. Here are the top 5 things that will make you want to buy it

The Kawasaki KLX 230S, a lightweight dual-sport bike from the Japanese manufacturer, is set to launch in India on October 17, 2024. It is known for its lightweight yet rugged design, capable engine, and exceptional off-road performance, it’s a bike built for off-road enthusiasts who also want to ride it daily. This exciting news from Kawasaki has made even grown-ups like us jump around like children in a toy store! Here are five key things about the Kawasaki KLX 230S that will make you want to buy it:

Proper Dual-Sport Design

The Kawasaki KLX 230S has a true dual-sport design, it camouflages its off-road prowess with a simple and practical design. It has a compact frame, rugged styling, and purpose-built ergonomics making it ideal for both trails and daily commuting. Its raised fender, long single-piece seat and long-travel suspension with fork gaiters add to its adventure-ready look. That said, with a seat height of 830mm, shorter riders might struggle with getting their feet down. But hey, that’s the compromise you have to live with if you want a proper dual-sport machine.

Lightweight

Weighing in at just around 133kg, the KLX 230S should offer a light and nimble ride. This should make it ideal for both beginner riders getting into the world of offroad riding and seasoned riders who want a dual-sport bike for some off-road shenanigans. The lightweight build not only should make handling the bike easier on technical off-road terrain but should also make manoeuvring through traffic a piece of cake. However, its weight might increase with the addition of the saree guard and other bits to meet Indian regulations.

Tractable Engine

The KLX 230S is powered by a 233cc 4-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that’s known for its tractability and smooth power delivery. It produces 19PS and 19.8Nm and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. That puts it in the same ballpark as the Hero Xpulse 200 4V. That said, the Kawasaki does make a little more torque, and that should help it overcome off-road challenges while maintaining smooth power delivery for daily rides. Hopefully, with such sedate power figures, this engine should be able to deliver good fuel efficiency.

Plush Suspension Setup

Being a dual-sport bike, the KLX 230S is equipped with a long-travel plush suspension setup. It features a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. Together, these two should absorb bumps effortlessly, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride over rocks, gravel, or potholes. This should make the KLX a good option for anyone starting their journey with off-road bikes, or maybe even for more experienced off-road riders who just want a chilled-out trail bike.

Impressive Ground Clearance

With 205 mm of ground clearance, the KLX 230S should be able to clear uneven terrain and obstacles with ease. The bike's high ground clearance will help on rough terrain, letting riders go over rocks and hills without worrying about scraping the underbody.

BikeDekho Says

This upcoming dual-sport bike from Kawasaki has a rugged design, an uncomplicated engine, plush suspension and high ground clearance, making it an extremely attractive package if you’re a trail riding enthusiast. The KLX 230 S will be produced at Kawasaki's Chakan plant in Pune, which is expected to significantly lower its price compared to importing it as a CBU (Completely Built Unit). The anticipated price is likely to be around Rs 2 lakh (ex-showroom). This bike will be a true rival to the Hero XPulse 200 4V.