2020 Kawasaki KLX230 First Ride Review
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- Опубліковано 26 лис 2019
- Kawasaki's all-new budget-friendly dual sport has piqued the interest of both entry-level riders and those looking for a fun, easygoing adventure bike. The new machine features fuel injection, on-road/off-road ABS, a 6-speed transmission, a flexible powerband and more. After testing the new KLX230 on and off-road, we have answers to all your burning questions. Check out the full review at www.advpulse.com/adv-bikes/20...
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Check out the full review at: www.advpulse.com/adv-bikes/2020-kawasaki-klx230-review/
Hey man im 6ft 220 no experience just want a kick around town bike little off road i like 230 but is 250 better
So compared to the ride on the Yamaha XT250, which would you choose if you could only have one. Thanks..
As a tall rider, I watch on internet reviews of these mean-looking, lightning fast screamers, and when I go in the shop to sit on one, I end up on bikes like this lol
I took the KLX 230 to st Claire PA with a buddy who had a ktm 450f and I’m a newer rider. It’s super tough terrain and following my buddy (him being a super experienced rider) I was nervous for a ton of reasons but the KLX 230 crushed it. The terrain was honestly insane even for an experienced rider and the bike performed incredibly. I’m talking big creek crossings, 30 degree downhills with huge rocks, hill climbs, single track on a ridge with huge rocks, fallen trees, through dense woods with large roots... absolutely insane terrain. TBH I had no business being there, and it did better than I would have ever expected. I did destroy the shifter on a rock like 8 times and had to bend it back so get a collapsible after market shifter. Otherwise this bike will hold it’s own on incredibly challenging terrain.
Open trail riding with a 450 isn’t fun with a 250 2 stroke your waiting too pass and your eating rocks that said I had a ttr225 that looked street legal as a kid and I’m horny for this KLX230R that’s been registered locally with aftermarket parts/lights
Finally a proper review on this bike! Good stuff guys!
Glad it was helpful. Thank you!
I've cycle toured across Europe 3 times. Heres how you ride this bike long distance . You take it easy, take your time 80 km per day, then camp and talk to girls, maybe get lucky! NO RUSH . its a little beauty GREAT VIDEO
OK, I ordered the bike.
Now how do I get the girls?
80 km a day, thats a short ride wtf?
Wow, thank you for the great reviews! I was wondering Klx230 vs xt250 vs dr200 and you answered a lot for the dr.
I'll go watch your full review next!! Keep up the good work!
Really enjoyed the article and comparison against the xt250. Tough choice! Thanks again!
XT250 is an older/aged design yet is usually like $1000 more than this. Weird.
Just bought this bike and did 50 miles the other day. I 2nd this review all the way I have a ninja 750 and have been riding for a couple years. This thing is awesome for someone wanting to get off road and doing some trail riding. Youre not gonna be able to take it to a motocross raceway or climb 60° hills. But this is a great bike for anyone who's not an experienced off road rider.
I bought one, I've had a lot of fun on it so far.
Just got this bike as my first bike and so far I really like it. Hopefully suspension upgrades come out soon as I am a heavy guy but for now it’s great to ride around the farm.
I’ve been riding over 25yrs now and this bike has been a huge amount of fun. Great decision to buy one. Very impressed. Simple fun bike.
I rode this bike on the trails this weekend and I fell in love with it. I'm a NEW dirtbike rider and this thing felt so smooth and forgiving compared to my ktm 250sxf. Riding both on the same day has me really considering getting one!
The sxf definitely isn’t meant for the trails, it’s a motocross only bike.
watching this in Australia and enjoying a pragmatic, sensible to the point review on what appears to be a great fun, first bike, teenagers or girlfriend/wife or just for an old guy like me who wants to potter with a bit of capability as well off road..thumbs up!
Nice review. I want to ride this a fair bit on the streets and good to know it can serve dual duty. I may buy one because of this review. Thanks..
jut bought this bike yesterday for my birthday. Thanks for this
Happy Birthday! Enjoy the new machine!
Excellent review!
I have taken this bike on some serious rides. I have the ABS version - my buds were riding KTM 500 excf and a Yamaha 250f on very tough terrain and this bike performed phenomenally (hill climbs, 30 degree downhills on boulders and large rocks, multiple deep stream crossings, etc... it is like a tractor. It just goes.). I did bust the gear shifter so be ready to replace it if you are going over very rough terrain but contrary to what the opening 30 seconds of this video claims - I def held my own on technical terrain with this bike matched up against buddies riding KTM 500’s and straight up dirt bikes. Definitely won’t perform as well as the aforementioned but it will perform extremely (and surprisingly) well on difficult terrain. I’m 5’10” 195lbs. Could be more powerful but it has low end power for trails and is great on the roads for cruising or commuting. Hard to beat the bike for the price point.
Another great perspective by Kamrad
Great review, not just because it was pretty positive, but the way you explained it.
Great job, good stuff.
inexpensive, capable, nimble, efficient, low maintainence, air cooled, high mpg, 6 speed, all around great bike.
Also it comes with a liscence plate on it
I'm loving the 6 speeds
What is the mpg
@@TheReal_ a lot. Like 60+
Disc brakes, EFI, modernized display design
Just got one 5 days ago. Im in love with something green! Ive been riding on and off for 9 yrs or so mostly street. 5'7" 210lbs. This thing is tall. Tip toes only. Even on lowest preload. Tons of fun but its bigger in person. At least for the shrinking elderly... Sincerely Mr. Buttons
I looked at a 2021 today, but am pre-ordering the 2022. I’m 6’1” and 190 lbs. I am a beginner, and this bike did look quite tall even for me.
i been waiting for a good review of this bike. i have a dr 200 atm, maybe i might jump on this one.
I also have a dr200. Check my video "the 1000 dollar enduro bike" this thing is soooo much better
Bought one of these as my first bike ever and I love it! She's got plenty of power for what I need and I'm the first one in my family to have bought a new vehicle! Lol I'm happy with her
It's a female?
I’m thinking about this for my first also! What do you not like about it so far, or needs improvement, if any?
What’s a good cruising speed on the roads without pushing it to its limit? Say you’re cruising down a backroad, can it go 45mph with ease?
Laugh-in-your-helmet-fun is where it’s at!
Dude it really is
This bike looks awesome, I’m a beginner beginner and definitely looking into one of these in the summer.
Thanks for being so informative
Good bike for exploring the great outdoors without killing yrself
I have it for two weeks, ~300KM on it but it's winter now. Amazing motorcycle.
@Calamity it is electronically limited to 110 kmh, I feel it can keep top speed for ages without tiring the engine, great torque on the whole rev band, but overall I would say its a slow bike designed for city or trail use, not for long roads.
Ch what’s your height and weight and inseam? 5’8/175 is that too short?
Just bought one this is my first bike ever! I have the 20 first miles I have ever put on a motorcycle on the 230. I think it’s super easy to operate for a total noob thanks for the help
do you need to have a motorcycle license to buy this from a dealership?
do you need to have a motorcycle license to buy this from a dealership?
like a class a
@@BrandonGomez-mi7tj no not in my state, just a regular license and insurance. My insurance is like $115 a year full coverage
@@TheFF4Cast do you live in California?
Excellent video with from an experience rider with a clear, vast experience riding DualSport style motorcycles! This bike is not trying to be anything else other than what it is....., an honest, lower to midsized DualSport Motorcycle that does many tasks very well! I have owned enduro style motorcycles from a 2 stroke Kawasaki (KE100) to Yamaha XT500’s! I can honestly tell you I’ve far more enjoyed riding a midsized enduro on and off road far more than the larger, top heavy larger displacement motorcycles! DualSport and straight dirt bikes are completely different animals! Dual sport style motorcycles are much better at performing both tasks in the mid weight category.
I bought this bike a few months ago as my first bike, really easy to learn on and really fun to ride. Only problem i had is finding a skid plate or the cause there doesnt seem to be a way for me to get them in israel. But overall an amazing bike
Not sure if it's the same where you are at but here in the US our Kawasaki website lists a plastic skid plate. Might want to check with the dealer you bought it from. Aftermarket ones will surely come along as it seems like this is going to be a popular option.
Good review
Hi, I love your review on this bike, you make it look like alot of easy fun! I'm only 5'3" tall and find I'm on the very tips of my toes to sit on it. The other bike I'm considering is the xt 250 as I feel more comfortable on it - feet touch the ground. But the klx 230 just appeals to me more. I've heard about shaving some of the seat height out. Do you think either bike is particularly better?
I tested the SM version and was pleasantly surprised with the motor. Quite a bit of torque that should be enough for most applications.
Really good and informative review, thank you! Now if I can just get my wife to sign off on a KLX 230 for myself... :-)
Same here!
LOL you're King of your castle, but live in a monarchy!
😉😁
@@TK-cl1jm LOL!
I’d really like to see a comparison between this and the 250. I’m looking at entry level dual sports, and despite the price difference, I’m leaning toward the 250. The are almost the same weight, but liquid cooled and what appears to be better suspension seems to justify the added cost. I’d certainly like to hear your opinion . It will be an extra bike to just tool around locally and back roads.
Just got mine today!
How do you like it? What would you change or improve?
Sweet Vid.💪😎🇺🇸
Thanks for the review. Thinking about a play bike to take out on camping trips and run forest service roads/trail ride. Think the R model might do the trick with a light kit to make it street legal. Do you happen to know if the charging system/stator is common across the two? Is the lighting harness in place with the R model? Thank you in advance.
I do not know but the R is significantly lighter with an aluminum swing arm, no smog equipment. Higher suspension, slightly stiffer suspension too. The R doesnt have a key either. Push to start.
My buddies have 450s and I can hang all day with them on my wife's 230R, granted we did do front fork work but the rest completely stock,super fun bike!!
It keeps up with them
Nicely done
Hey @steve_kamrad ! Love your work. You actually have a personality unlike some of the big name online motorcycle mag writers...
So for mostly off road use in lots of sand, would you pick this baby klx or a stock crf250l?
Klx250 is nice but the dealers locally want6k+. Lots of used crf''s so can get one at a more reasonable price.
I've done some dirt riding and want a bike with a plate that us reliable and has good enough suspension for whoops and sand.
Any thoughts?
Thanks Dude! Man the 230 will be light for sand. The crf250L is HEAVY. If it were me. Klx250 or klx300r when they make em street legal.
I tracked down a used one with only 00130 Kilometres (80 Miles) on the clock - only issue its an 8hr drive away n we got a snap lockdown for 5days, so next weekend interstate road trip ;-)
Yea this bike has the DNA of a true trail/dirt bike is why it capable off road
I'll be buying this after 4 months
you lucky bastard
Hi Steve. Great review.
I tested the bike on a road and really impressed. It reaches the speed limit 115km easily. I suppose that this could be removed. Also did you test with a passenger. I mean, could a ride of 1 hour be easy or hard with a second person behind?
Thank you very much in advance.
We took a photo with 3, 220 pound grown men
Ty will get one of these!
may be my daughter's first street legal bike.. A++
thanks! great video! have You get some overheating issues, when long sandy track or so?
I have read of no issues with overheating on all of the forums I could find. Most seem to love it, even more than the 250.
Such a good bike, 3 gallon fuel tank like the dr200 would make it near perfect for a smaller adv bike.
Which is better, the KLX230 or the XT250? Does the KLX have the street handling of the XT?
Your review was a large part of my change of decision;
I had looked pretty hard at the CRF 250L, and sat on it enough to eventually drop a deposit down on the new CRF300L. Then I started looking into this little air-cooled 230. Lot's of chatter about it being quicker, more nimble, and more fun than it's big brother the KLX250. I watched this review, several times, and finally had to make a trek to see one in the flesh. Just sitting on it told enough of the story that I was/am converted. Although I didn't ride it, just standing over it tipping it side to side I could feel how much lighter and less top-heavy when compared to the CRF. That, coupled with shaving about a grand off the cost made the decision simple. I'll be picking up my 2021 KLX230 ABS in April!
Still liking it?
Congrats nigga
@@chase5224 It was awesome while I had it, but I sold it. Just wasn't riding it enough, I have a street bike.
@@iRavenHD 😆😂
You should of bought the crf. Way faster and comfortable. I love my crf 300l this bike is for driving in your backyard or for a kid.
Is this bike "all new" or is it the same as the 230cc that has been available in other countries for the past few years?
Buying it for trail riding instead of the 230R. I’m 5’10 and the R’s extra 1.5 inches in seat height made the bike uncomfortable for me (I’m a new rider). Going to remove mirrors, reflectors and rear black fender to bring it back to dirt bike look
Love your video. I've had a gold wing. To big, heavy and to much plastic to worry about scratching. I owned a Harley Davidson sportster. To low and more of a cult following bike than real pleasure. Kawasaki versy 650 etc. Problem with all the bikes I've owned was. When riding for the just joy of riding, smells of nature and stress relief. My back would start cramping and I couldn't stretch it out! I bought a Suzuki dr 650 dual sport new in 2013. Great, great. Did I say great bike? While riding. When my back started cramping. I could stand up like on a horse. Perfect straight up and cramp was gone. I sold the dr 650 8yrs later. Regret selling it. But, to be honest. It had more torque than I really needed. Hp and torque means more fuel consumption. I'm going Tuesday to pick up the Kawasaki klx 230. I've read enough reviews and believe it's all I need to enjoy nature, explore new roads and enjoy life. I'll let you know if I like it soon.
Did you get one? Still have it? Like it better than the other bikes you had?
@@jt3366 I did buy it. Rode it, enjoyed it greatly. Still have it. It has less than 900miles on it. I also bought a 2021 Honda xr650l. I'm 230lbs in weight. The xr650l is a horse. If you wanting a dualsport. Or your first bike. You'll love the kawasaki 230! Where are you located? If your close by. I might sell my kawasaki 230 being I really wanted my son to get into motorcycles as I have over the years. He's not! My bike is in immaculate condition. Let me know.
The old saying is true. It's more fun to ride a small slow bike hard than riding a high power bike hard.
Would you recommend this bike for a first time dirt bike purchase ?! I learned on a 110 w/ no clutch and then the same day learned on a Kawa450 lol. Never took it out of first gear, was just too scared..
Imma get this for my first bike ever
No ignition key? If so, how does one lock it while one gets a sandwich?
No gear indicator?
Please advise'
Enjoyed the review
Yes, it has an ignition key. This is the dual sport version, so it has all of that street stuff. No gear indicator, but that shouldn't bother anyone much. If it really is desired, an aftermarket one could be easily fit.
Do you happen to know where the speed sensor is located on these bikes. My speedometer stopped working
What kind of mileage does this get? I'm torn between something like this, or a Sur-ron Ultra. If this gets 60 to 70 mpg, I might consider this over the Ultra. Thanks!
Is thisa good beginner bike or should I just go with a 250 I'm 6' 250lbs
Was looking at this, but I want to be able to ride a little harder as I'm around 220 right now,(I'm working on it) so I think I'm going to buy the klx230r and grab a street legal kit.
I was just riding some trails behind my house on my mountain bike, its nearly 100 degrees and I run into some dirt bikers. I immediately wanted one haha.
Looked like a blast! I just bought a used Kawasaki KlX250S . Where were you riding in this video? Looked like some nice trails
@John Kramer mines a 2009. I love it and have ridden quite a bit about 80% off-road and 20% on. I’ve added exhaust, jet kit and air box mod for a little more low end torque and added bark busters brand hand guards for riding single track. I’m extremely happy with mine so far
@John Kramer is yours red by chance? I feel I have the only factory red one in existence haha
Medford Oregon
Does it have a kickstart?
Where are you guys riding at?
Wait there’s a klx 230?!?! I thought it was only the klx140
Hey I have a crf 150 r and I want to get in street riding will this be a good bike or not if not what will be
How would you say the power is for it? Power level is pretty good to rip in open field?
Yes has a lit more power than I thought test drive 1 and was Sold on it.
Nice review...this bike caught my attention as I'm in the market for another dual sport. I had a XT250 for years and it was ok.
One question...you said the seat height feels different than the listed specs but didnt say if that means it feels higher or lower...I'm guessing lower due to the suspension but I didnt want to assume.
you are correct
Nice bike
I got the same bike I love it and I send jumps and all that and the it’s pretty good
do you need to have a motorcycle license to buy this from a dealership?like a class a?
Great review, I like this little bike even as an owner of a 2018 klx250. The klx230 really is a better choice than the Yamaha xt250. Cheaper, more modern, and actually looks to be the same or even better performance than the xt250 even though it's engine is a tad bigger
The XT250 has more power, less weight, lower seat height and yet more ground clearance than the Kawasaki 230. Yamaha FTW.
@@johnman3272 I had a XT250 and those things are subjective...I'm 5'9" and usually I was ok with the XT's seat height but at times it felt too low. And with more ground clearance but less seat height it means the actual bike is more compact from seat to bottom of frame, which could make some riders feel cramped...kind of like sitting in a Toyota Tacoma vs Chevy Colorado.
Also, the really light weight of the Yamaha is another one of those love/hate things...great for if you dump it on yourself and you're alone...but did at times make it feel unsettled on rougher trails.
I have no doubts they're both great bikes and I definitely regret selling my XT...I'm actually in the market for another dual sport right now, which brought me here...as I knew nothing about this bike.
Scott Eger great insights thank you
I cross shopped the XT250 also. It was more expensive and seemed to offer less, on a more aged platform.
Hello,air cooling will be a problem over time?? Thanks
No. Air cooling is fine. No problems with my xr600r.
Spend an extra $250 on a used dr200 and you can match the performance of a new klx230. I've had my dr200 up to 75mph. It didn't like it, but it did it, and it'll do 60 mph all day.
Nope. I have dr200 and it's not even close
Different angle, beat up older rider with a 95 KDX 200 that s collecting cobwebs. Need something street legal but can still haul in pick up . It s heavier but fuel injected and soft suspension is good on beat up body.How dam old am I? Raced a Bultaco! (old)
Check out mxsouth, they sell street legal light conversion for a variety for the kdx200
www.mxsouth.com/baja-designs-dual-sport-kits.htm
Don,t street-legal your KLX! I had a Baha Designs kit on a klx and it was terrible on the road. Peaky, super close ratio gearbox, going down the road at 45 it was very close to the powerband and the throttle could only be used like an on-off switch. The engine really hated it.
The fact that it is a 6 speed is AMAZING AND I AM SOLD !!!!
Yeah and it's perfect too
Calamity it’s a good think because so many bikes are built with a 5 speed and to a rider like me who uses low gears to grunt through slow rough areas, and also goes highway speeds, I get a transmission that is more comfortable in a much more broad span of use. That make sense? It’s a 230cc engine and needs easier rations to accelerate in the higher gears
I found my KLX250 very intimidating and have test ridden a 230 around an MX track, it was fun and not intimidating at all
How is 20cc more intimidating? Please elaborate
grumpysquid for one it’s heavier
how does the abs effect when off road riding?? can you still brake on rear and slide it or will abs not allow?
We didn't get to ride the abs model as they were preproduction units but our ride leader was on one and i saw him doing controlled slides. So not full lock but the bike wouldn't free wheel out of control by any means. I think most people would have a hard time out breaking it off road.
@@steve_kamrad5216 so there's obviously pros and cons, but which would you say is the better one to buy? It seems pretty rare to see ABS on a bike this size.
@@scotteger6271 i like abs.
This or the ttr 230? I need help.
im 5`3". will this bike be alrighgt for me???
Crf250l or klx230?
Fuel gauge?
Hey don’t know if you will reply back to this but I ride a 125 Honda grom and really want into dual sport. I don’t know if I want a KLX 230 or DR 200, I don’t know if the 230 to is to much power or jumpy because I have never rode one so I would love if you would get back to me and give me an opinion on what I should do.
Either the KLX230 or DR200 would be a mellow jump in power compared to your Grom. The KLX230 is a more modern design than the DR200. For around the same price, you get fuel injection, rear disc brake and 6-speed. Although the DR is a little lighter and has a larger fuel tank.
@@ADVPulseVideos yeah true but I need a upgrade from my grom and I was think those are bikes that aren’t to powerful and are better for a intermediate or beginner rider like me.300 or 450 that’s to much power for me right now. I don’t want to make that big of a jump lol. Want something to ride on dirt and trails comfortably but also get on the road if I have to. Love to hear more opinion on what you think
Which is better for trails, this or the klx250?
It depends. The 230 is air cooled, so easier slightly less of a maintenance for that cooling system. And it’s lighter. Making it flickable. The 250 is also very flickable as well. It’s a toss up. But the 230 would ultimately be a great trail crawler.
👍🏻
What about service intervals?
First is 600 miles, then something like every 7,500 miles. Not too chablis.
Looking at this or the klx 250
Anon Nymous because...??
I like the old 150 klx compare it to this new one.
Anyone know if these would make a good commuter for like max 50 mph
Yes it's Fine
Klx 230. Or crf 250L???
I just a motorcycle to go to my job.
For commuting, you’d be better off with the CRF. The CRF is better on the road.
Sub 5K ? I was on EBay a dealer price was 6.1 K
Can someone tell me if I’m a good size for this bike? I’m 5’9 150 pounds
Very good I m 6ft just had 2 tighten the rear schock up a bit I weigh 210. Great power kawasaki geared this bike right. It needs nothing. For those of u who doubt go on YT WATCH the video kawasaki klx 230 vs 250 drag race. It's pretty quick it takes the klk 250 easily in a short race which is what u want on trails.
To me smaller bikes are more fun.
Agreed...the lower cost of initial ownership, easy maintenance and confidence inspiring rideable nature really makes them great fun
Is it street legal
You totally look exactly like Dan from Auditing Erie County or AEC. .
One thing that I don't like is the shape of headlight.. really weird
Yeah it's kinda weird
Hmmm, so why this over the klx250?
Way smaller, lighter feeling
The 230 is cheaper, lower seat?
1 it looks good. 2. The price cheaper even the ABS model. And 3rd. More power done low. It will beat the kid 250
New generation of parts. It will be hard to get if part had broken which is common on trail.
How did I miss this video? I'm thinking this would be perfect for my sweetums Ms Wolf. (And I'll swipe it all the time and have a howl in my helmet good time. ) ;)
Why is this so much heavier than an xt225 or crf230l?
Kawasaki using cheap oridnary steel
It's due to street legal smog stuff. The 230r is almost 40 pounds lighter
@@steve_kamrad5216 yes right add that but mostly really they using cheaper grade steels. As a kawasaki owner and fan . All there bikes when in accident always in terrible damage twist everything like swing arm even in small accidents
@@MrRGM10 i have no experience with that.
@@steve_kamrad5216 well thats good. We have owned multiple bikes from z1000 ninja 1000 zx10r made in japan ,250 300 ,650 not japan made. perception would be since its made in Japan its suppose to be sturdier but it isnt really. I guess times have changed