Kit Palmer | June 18, 2019
Kawasaki has introduced two new off-road motorcycles to its 2020 fleet and one of them is the all-new Kawasaki KLX230R. It joins the new KLX300R to the stable and is basically the off-road-only version of the KLX230 dual sport motorcycle which was also just introduced as a new model.
2020 Kawasaki KLX230R First Look
2020 Kawasaki KLX230R
The following is from Kawasaki:
Kawasaki’s all-new KLX230R off-road motorcycle has been purpose-built for serious fun in the dirt; with priority placed on both its engine and frame design. Taking cues from the KX line and Kawasaki’s racing heritage, the 2020 off-road motorcycle has been designed to ensure that there is an affordable, capable, and durable motorcycle in the KLX lineup for every rider in the family, to get out and enjoy the trails with confidence.
- ALL-NEW 233cc fuel-injected, air-cooled, four-stroke engine
- ALL-NEW steel perimeter frame
- ALL-NEW long travel suspension
- ALL-NEW large diameter wheels (21”/18”)
The KLX230R was designed and built to be a lightweight and easily maneuverable motorcycle for a wide range of riders. Utilizing a simple, air-cooled engine design, along with an easy handling perimeter frame, the KLX230 is compact and balanced resulting in optimal trail performance and fun.
The powerful 233cc fuel-injected, air-cooled four-stroke engine and compact steel perimeter frame are matched with full-size wheels, long-travel suspension, ample ground clearance, and large diameter front and rear disc brakes, all contributing to the off-road capability of the KLX230R. The motorcycle also features KX-inspired styling and ergonomics for agile handling in a variety of conditions.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
- ALL-NEW 233cc fuel-injected, air-cooled four-stroke engine
- ALL-NEW electric start
- ALL-NEW six speed transmission
The four-stroke air-cooled single cylinder engine offers smooth, reliable and durable performance in a compact package. The engine has a bore and stroke of 67.0 x 66.0 mm, with a displacement of 233cc. The long-stroke offers robust low-mid range torque for smooth and easy handling. A simple SOHC two-valve design was chosen for an easy-to-use power character and reliability.
Fuel injection ensures consistent fuel delivery regardless of outside air temperature or elevation. It also enables the use of an electric starter, for easy starting at the push of a button, whether the engine is hot or cold, and contributes to clean emissions. The fuel injection system utilizes a 32 mm throttle body, which delivers precise response. Exhaust pipe length was selected to contribute to the engine’s low-mid range performance. To match the aggressive off-road look of the KX-inspired bodywork, the exhaust features a tapered silencer with an oval cross-section.
A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission offers a gear for every type of condition on the trails, while also allowing for more comfortable cruising on long open straightaways. A short final gear ratio (46/13) was selected, enabling riders to continue moving forward even when navigating challenging trails.
CHASSIS
- ALL-NEW steel perimeter frame
- ALL-NEW 37 mm telescopic long travel fork
- ALL-NEW Uni-Trak long travel suspension
Built from the start for dirt-riding, the all-new high-tensile steel perimeter frame offers the optimal handling needed for enjoyable trail riding by a wide range of riders. By designing the engine and frame together, engineers were able to achieve a low engine height, ideal chassis rigidity balance, and a low center of gravity, all in a compact chassis. The short 53.5” wheelbase combined with the high 11.8” ground clearance contributes to the bike’s maneuverability, allowing riders to more easily navigate the trail.
A large, 37 mm diameter telescopic fork handles suspension duties up front; equipped with 9.8” of travel suspension offers more rider control in a variety of terrain. At the rear, new Uni-Trak rear suspension with 9.9” of wheel travel provides great road holding ability and bump absorption. The single rear shock absorber with pressurized nitrogen gas is adjustable for preload, allowing riders to set the bike up for their weight.
2020 Kawasaki KLX230R Off-Road
2020 Kawasaki KLX230R
WHEELS & BRAKES
- ALL-NEW large diameter wheels
- ALL-NEW large diameter disc brakes
- ALL-NEW KX-type rear master cylinder
Full-size aluminum wheels, measuring 21” at the front and 18” at the rear, help riders navigate trails, greatly contributing to trail-riding performance.
The KLX230R motorcycle comes equipped with petal disc brakes, front and rear, which provide sure stopping power. A 240 mm front disc gripped by a twin-piston caliper offers strong, easy-to-control braking. Slowing the rear, a lightweight, KX-type, rear master cylinder with a unitized reservoir and single-piston caliper grips a 220 mm disc.
ERGONOMICS
- ALL-NEW low seat height
- ALL-NEW KX-inspired ergonomics
The frame, seat, and tank of the KLX230R motorcycle were designed with a combination of form and function in mind, making the frame easy to grip with the legs, offering superior chassis control. Thanks to the compact design of the KLX230R, a seat height of 36.4” was achieved.
Similar to the KX lineup of motorcycles, the flat design of the tank and seat give the rider greater freedom of movement when changing riding positions, and facilitates sitting farther forward. In addition to trail riding, comfort was also a consideration when deciding the seat shape and thickness. The seams between the shrouds, seat, and side covers all fit flush, making it much easier for the rider to move around on the bike.
STYLING & INSTRUMENTATION
- ALL-NEW KX-inspired styling
- ALL-NEW instrumentation
The KLX230R takes its styling cues from Kawasaki’s line of KX motocross motorcycles, which gives the bike an agile, aggressive look to match its trail-riding prowess. A 1.9 gallon fuel tank allows the good times to keep rolling over the course of a long day.
An easy-to-read instrumentation dash is mounted at the center of the handlebars, which includes an ON/OFF button, indicator lamp, low-fuel warning lamp, and FI warning lamp.
The California model is Green Sticker compliant, allowing it to be ridden off road year round. Instead of an ON/OFF button, California models feature a key-type ignition cylinder and an on ON/OFF indicator lamp. The steel fuel tank has a 1.98 gallon capacity and is equipped with a lockable cap and meets strict environmental regulations.
ACCESSORIES
Riders can personalize their KLX230R motorcycle to meet their needs, with numerous Kawasaki Genuine Accessories to choose from, such as: skid plate, frame covers, hand covers, fat-type handlebars, handlebar pad, and black alumite rims.
KAWASAKI KLX230R
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: $4,399
Availability: Late Summer 2019
