MORE Than Just a Beginner Dual Sport? Kawasaki KLX230 Test Ride, Off Road Test, First Impressions
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 ก.ค. 2021
- Kawasaki clearly designed the Kawasaki KLX230 to be the perfect dual sport motorcycle for beginners. Its unintimidating power, easy handling, low-ish seat height, and low price point all indicate that it's supposed to be a bike that appeals to brand new dual sport riders or new motorcyclists in general. After spending some time riding and doing a KLX230 test ride both on and off road, I'd have to agree that it is a very appealing option for new dual sport riders.
BUT...is that all it is? What about more experienced riders? My KLX 230 review and off road test also led me to believe that this bike could be something even intermediate dual sport motorcycle riders could enjoy. It's an easy to ride bike that is surprisingly capable on and off the road. The 2021 Kawasaki KLX 230 is a bike that anyone looking for the best first motorcycle, best first dual sport motorcycle, or just the best dual sport motorcycle out there.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time test riding the KLX 230. I didn't expect that would be the case. I was pleasantly surprised by how fun it is to ride on and off road, and I personally now consider it one of the best dual sport motorcycles for beginners out there. Go for a test ride yourself and you'll see what I mean.
HUGE thanks to Power Motorsports in Sublimity, OR for the opportunity to do an on and off road KLX230 test ride and review. Check out their website at www.powermotorsports.com
-SUBSCRIBE for more adventures, how-tos, gear reviews, and moto shenanigans!
bit.ly/dorkintheroad
Check out www.dorkintheroad.com for all your dorky motorcycling needs!
Want early access to videos and other perks? Become a channel member: / @dorkintheroad
Merch Store: teespring.com/stores/dork-in-...
Join The Oregon ADV Discord: / discord
Check me out on Twitch! / adorkintheroad
Instagram: / adorkintheroad
Twitter: / adorkintheroad
Support me on Patreon: www.patreon.com/user?u=26709234
Want to support the channel when you buy your dual sport or ADV gear and mods? Feel free to use the following affiliate links!
Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/3tYzpXq
Amazon: amzn.to/3aDkk4z
Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/4eMdJZ
MotoCamp Nerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork
DitR Storefront on Amazon: www.amazon.com/shop/dorkinthe...
Dork in the Road’s Riding Gear Picks on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3jU31Av
Dork in the Road’s Dual Sport Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/2SlulOH
Dork in the Road’s Adventure Bike Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3ga2zg4
Select music courtesy of Epidemic Sound. Use this link to get a free 30-day trial: www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
Suzuki DRZ400S Mods:
Kenda Trakmaster Front: bit.ly/37eYm75
Kenda Trakmaster Rear: bit.ly/2NqFriu
Motion Pro LiteLocs: bit.ly/3ajZkRs
Heavy Duty Tubes: bit.ly/2NqZ0Y0
Double Take Enduro Mirrors: bit.ly/3rX13Cl
Acerbis X-Factory Handguards: bit.ly/3aiCGZJ
Tusk Bar Risers: bit.ly/3aiSI5N
Devol Racing Radiator Guard: bit.ly/3rJSURA
Eline Accessories Skidplate: bit.ly/3daJDxI
Pro Taper Pillow Top Grips: bit.ly/2MVmQLV
Seat Concepts Seat: bit.ly/3jOiOkm
Canyon Dancer Tiedown Strap Rings: bit.ly/3db8iSV
IMS Racing Super Stock Footpegs: bit.ly/3qezcgp
Case Savers: amzn.to/3ipa5nA
Giant Loop Diablo Tank Bag: bit.ly/3jKN7Zj
Giant Loop Possibles Pouch: bit.ly/2ZdySCy
Giant Loop Mojavi Saddlebags: bit.ly/3pkT8Nt
Giant Loop Tail Rack: bit.ly/3rRCVRn
Giant Loop Mounts: bit.ly/3aiHKNV
Rhino Motorcycle Tie Down Straps: amzn.to/2AqRFSb - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
![[LIVE] ใครคุยเรื่องบอล "พ่องตาย" #คุยให้เด็กมันฟัง EP.43 (13/7/67)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/8bHYL8RuBqs/mqdefault.jpg)
![[UNCUT] ลูกหมี-ลิลลี่ เหงียน เปิดใจฟาด ปู มัณฑนา I คนดังนั่งเคลียร์ I 15 ก.ค.67](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FKQ60Y7bJ6s/mqdefault.jpg)
Want to support the channel when you buy your dual sport or ADV gear and mods? Feel free to use the following affiliate links!
Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/3tYzpXq
Amazon: amzn.to/3aDkk4z
Revzilla: bit.ly/3tvAsOg
MotoCamp Nerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork
DitR Storefront on Amazon: www.amazon.com/shop/dorkintheroad
Dork in the Road’s Riding Gear Picks on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3jU31Av
Dork in the Road’s Dual Sport Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3gdkK4x
Dork in the Road’s Adventure Bike Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3ga2zg4
hi im under the legal driving age do you think i could ride this bike with out getting in trouble like a normal dirtbike so i can grow into it so i have a bike once i can drive
This size also makes a great "Camp" bike that is light enough to have on the front of a motorhome and is more capable than a scooter.
Great point
That's a great idea
I’m looking for a bike for the back of my RV. A lot of great fuel injected bikes out there under 320ish pounds. I might get a Klx300sm and put a little more aggressive tires on it.
I live full time in a travel trailer, I looked at one today. Maybe a Honda Trail for my wife.
@mrkim5644 the sm has different suspension
I turned this in to a
Mini ADV touring bike I got the factory rack and put two rotopax petrol containers, add on screen, two brothers full exhaust system, fat bars and raises, barkbusters wider foot pegs and Tuffer hammer head controls Giant loop luggage I can do approximately 500km
I agree with you about the 230. I own a 2008 CRF230L and have to say I always like riding it. I have ridden it on the highway for 160 miles and it was not all that bad. I was 62 years old at the time so if an old fart like me can do it any body can. It is a great bike for riding in the forest or any where off road. I have owned 6 different bikes over the years and only one is over 400 cc. When I was in my 20s my first bike was a Honda 175 SL and I rode it on I-90 for 250 miles across Montana so you don't need huge bikes to travel.
I just picked up a 2009 Crf 230l and I love it. I looked at the klx230 and liked it but after dealer fees it was going to be $7200 out the door. Saved some money with the Crf230l and it’s only got 2300 miles on it. Can’t wait to load it up and take off on a road trip.
@@cleckler2935 Congrats on the new to you bike. I think you will enjoy it a lot.
@@johnpagejr.7628 thanks!
I own a ‘21 KLX 230 and you really hit the nail on the head with the review. I’m a pretty experienced street rider, but wanted a well priced option to get into some dirt/woods/mild single track riding and this thing has really impressed. Feels light, good grunt, and as you mentioned you can just ring it out and have a blast in the dirt. Awesome review 👍
Finally got my 2023 klx 230 and it's a blast. I've been practicing on it before hitting the road and got my gear as well. Incredible little bike.
It chugs along like a tractor in first gear. You can just sit down an ride up insanely steep hills as long as the ground is not too loose or wet. Also does 1st and 2nd gear wheelies with ease. I've ridden mine in places you almost couldn't even walk. It's awesome! Perfect for playing around and exploring.
Was hoping to see a comment like this. I was interested in getting something brand new at a good price point. I live in Philly and bike life is huge here was I was hoping this had enough low end for wheelies.
I have this bike, and I've ridden this bike on hard trails. It goes up and over rocks no problem. It is pretty heavy to lift (as a woman) on a hill compared to an enduro. I have hill climbed with it, and I made it with my low level of skill. I started on this bike, and I love it
I've been watching your channel for a couple of years, lovin it.
I have had my KLX230 for a month now and I love the bike. I use it for exploring southern Missouri, lots of rocky trails, hills to climb, gravel thrashing, etc. The narrow frame makes it feel like a dirt bike when standing, the relatively light weight is easy to maneuver on tight trails, it carries the weight down low and rides like a lighter bike.
The engine makes its power in the bottom and mid-range so it lugs like a tractor. It's a damned Billy Goat is what it is! All it needs it off road capable tires and it'll just climb rocky hill trails like it's nothing.
Awesome. I appreciate the insight from an owner.
Like it on the road?
@@chase5224 I have my klk 230 for 6 months. It’s fantastic off road ok on road. It’s a little low on power for long rides on the road but is great for city riding.
My first bike was XT250. I first thought that I overgrew it and bought bigger bikes. Tried to trade it in but, it lost so much value quickly that it didn't make sense. So it stayed as it didn't cost much to keep. Now that I got bigger bikes out of system, I regained new love for that bike. It is air cooled. Lost count how many times I crashed it. It brought me back home no matter how stupid and cruel I was to it. One thing I learned, I will never be capable rider to use all that that bike can do. If anything, it may be only bike I can ride as I get older. There is something cool about air cooled bikes. Put some oil and gas and go. If it crashes and not get much hurt, straighten up couple things and ride back home.
I'm a 52 yr old beginner
I'm 5"1' and 130lbs, this my friend, is the perfect bike for MEEEE LOL
It’s funny how different dual sports are now from when I was a kid. I got my first motorcycle in 1982 when I was 14 years old. At my local Honda dealership, they had the following dual purpose bike options: XL100, XL125, XL185, XL250, XL350, and XL500 (all street legal). Haha how things have changed.
I chose the XL125 because in Texas I could get my motorcycle license at 15 years old on a 125 cc or smaller. My XL125 would do 60 mph easily. My friend had a Kawasaki KE100 (2-stroke) that would do 85 mph. I would have called a XL100 or XL125 a beginner bike. In 1986, I stepped up to a Kawasaki KLR250 which I still have. Now in 2021, a 230 or 300 is an entry level bike. Times do change. Haha
Thanks for all the awesome videos, Dork!
You say it,just sale my Honda Grom 125,I’m a small guy but this little bike hit easy 60 mph but not enough suspension. Anyway those small bikes are not made for hard work.
Well Dork, I took your advice and test rode the KLX230. First let me say I am an Africa Twin owner, sold my CRF250 last summer and I was in the market to add a KLX300 to my stable. At this time there are no KLX 300's or CRF 300 L's to be had anywhere. So, on my way to the Kawi dealer to see if they had a clue as to when the 300s would arrive. The word is late September maybe October. Bummer . . . . However they did have one, just one, KLX230 on the showroom floor. It was the ABS edition. So thinking to myself 'the Dork liked this bike. I wonder if they will let me take it for a test ride'. Well Dork, it's now in my garage. I've been riding it for three days and liking it more each day. The gearing is perfect and the little 230 pulls my fat ass up hills better than my 250 did. So fellow dual sporters, don't let that 230 lettering put you off. Test one . . . and by the way, bring your checkbook.
Dude that's awesome.
I’m almost 240 lbs. too heavy for one of these?
@@timotiheyeski8428 I don't think so. The Dork is a Plus size and I am certainly a Plus size (250LBS). Just remember what the bike is. It'll take you places that others won't and the price is right.
This is the perfect beginner bike. I haven’t rode since 2005 when I had a 110, I’m 5’6 and rode this 25 miles home with no issue other than remembering what gear I’m in lol. I was able to get up to about 68mph and felt just fine. Thanks for all of your videos helping me make my decision.
Thanks for the review. Been riding street bikes forever and wanted to get into some easy off road single tracks. Bought this beauty since I’m only 5’6 and man is it fun and flickable.
Thanks for this review. I'm just getting started (passed the skills test, DMV test is next)and this is exactly the type of bike I want.
It'd be a great bike to start on!
I've been riding all sorts of bikes for 45 years and I bought one. I really like it.
Thanks Dork, I’ve been riding since I was 12 but with all the bikes I’ve owned over the years big and small I always gravitate back to the smaller dual sports. My last was a 1981 KLR 250 that I bought cheap and got running again. Most fun ever had on a bike. Unfortunately I’m built like you and that bike didn’t have the power to get me over 45 miles an hour. now I’m 61 years old. I have a larger bike but I’m looking for a smaller full sport just to kick around town on. After watching your video on this particular bike, I feel more comfortable about making a purchase on one. I’ve been watching you since year old Honda 250 days just starting out, and always had a lot of fun watching. Thanks once again, my dorky friend and now I guess I’m going motorcycle shopping.
Looks like a great starter bike. And looks classic with the Kawi green plastics.
Dad just picked me up a grey 2023 klx230 and I rode it for the first time and I’m in love❤
Good stuff. I really enjoy how super lightweight these things are even if they're a little underpowered.
I use mine as a daily work commuter and get between 58 and 60 miles per gallon. Not a good tourer, but it does everything else wonderfully.
What speed does it cruise at comfortably without it revving out too much?
I just bought a 2022, I got it home today and have found out how easy it is to adjust to. Plenty of speed. My main purpose is to ride it in the state forest near my home. I rode for about an hour and loved it
Nice test ride! I was super stoked when I saw that Kawasaki came out with this model. Reminds me of back when the XT225 and CRF230L and other small-ish air-cooled dual sports were a thing. Most 230 engines make pretty good torque on the low end... I'd ride enduro trails on it. 😜
Man, nice I had a XT225 Serow, a blast to ride, it would go anywhere !
I am 55 and have ridden all my life just the same as many here. I have one of these that I keep in Indonesia as I spend a lot of time their. I bought as it was bare bones and cheap. I think its a great little bike and does everything I need it to do both on and off road. Even two up for onroad cruising on Indo roads you can not go wrong. Its a small bike ok....However I am 6ft 3" and 95 kilo and find it fine. Great bike for the price.
Good on Power. Nice to see a dealership this into the community.
Great review Dork !! Makes me want one just for the fun of it :)
It's a pretty fun little machine!
Great video. This bike was easy for me to learn on as a total beginner. The price and availability in my area (Mideast) also made it a good choice over the 250 and 300cc models.
You make an excellent point. Glad it worked out well for you.
There’s something great about an air-cooled fuel-injected single. Seems like a direct competitor to the xt250, but with a “modern” frame design.
that’s a honest and mature review 👍
Thank you!
Great video. Been looking hard at this model as a secondary (EFI) 230 to have in the garage.
It's definitely worth a test ride.
A++ Dork. That Lil Kaw is a cool machine. Take care, Clark
Thank you for the great review on the 2020 KLX 230 ! I love riding dirt bikes and have a 2004 Suzuki RM 250 for ripping but looking for something a little newer and milder for wood's & road riding and this KLX 230 sounds like the perfect machine .👍
Awesome review, thanks
I bought this bike in the S and the KLX 230R S as trail bikes. My dealer only had one KLX 230R S so I bought the dual sport and took the mirrors off and added better tires for the trail. I love them both and liked having a light so much I added one to my R. They are fun to toss around in the trails. Light, easy dependable. I bought two bikes and keep them at the cabin for fun times with friends and family. They are perfect for my needs.
great thorough review, with a good variety of footage riding the 230 on... thx for it for sure.. i now plan on getting this bike this year, though I'm def going for the se version as the klx230 se has a more appealing color scheme and the extra add ons, bash plate, handguards are items I would end up getting anyway.... your review def makes me look forward to when I get the bike even more. cheers.
edit* I see ppl complaining about the headlight and personally, I like the look of it, it makes it unique and is one of the things that initially caught my interest with the bike... so classic example of to each their own, just wanted to add that tidbit to put it out there that some of us are fans of the headlight design, it's not all against....
I personally want it because it's easy to transport due to the low weight. It's not very wide so it is easy to get around narrow spots on a trail. It's a great bike for taking on a camping trip when you want to explore some logging roads or take it to the store to grab some items you might need.
The reason why I went with the KLX 230 is because it is air cooled. Less things to break when I drop it. Less parts to have wear and tear. It's a great bike and I have gotten it everywhere that my buddy has gotten his Beta 500 to. It's an amazing bike, but I wish it could have just a slight bit more power to wheelie without popping the clutch.
Preach.I bought it for the same reason. i downgraded from a 450 to this, not becuase i suck, but becuase im more casual, and i wanted a light reliable bike that i can pick up after 10 hours of mountain goat climbing, and wont break. no radiators for me. nope.
I think there’s a 300cc big bore kit…
I absolutely love mine and it’s not my first bike or a first time rider. It’s my daily, I’m in no hurry, no freeway.
And I got it in Olive/Black ❤️
I purchased one of these for my son. Before I gave it to him, I put a few hundred miles on it. It did great on and off road.
They are surprisingly fun to just mess around on.
I'm new to the dual sport world. A year and a half ago I bought my first one, a 2021 Suzuki DR 200 (beginner bike, and cheaper to buy not knowing if I'd even like the sport) It was okay for a while, but would buzz the hell out of my hands, and feet. Being a 5 speed, if I was on the road, it seemed like it was screaming it's guts out even at 55-60mph. The fastest I could ever get it was about 65or 68. I will say that it was a tank on the small amount of trails I ran. A couple weeks ago I traded it in on a 2023 KLX 230. OMG, the difference in the ride (6th gear) is phenomenal. No buzz at all, and faster. (aprox75mph) The seat is like a brick, but expected. This sucker is a hoot. Thanks for the review. Be safe out there kids.
Thank you Dork In The Road, your great review helped me make up my mind between the Yamaha xt250 and the klx230. The Yamaha is an excellent bike, but at 6'3" I might be a bit cramped due to the lower seat height. I just ordered the klx230. I'll be riding the gravel roads in the Pennsylvania state forests and avoiding the highways whenever possible. Your reviews provide a useful service.
How has the 230 worked out for you? I’m a 6’4 230lb tw200 owner, but debating on a newer EFI dual sport. I’ll just add HD springs on the next bike I get.
@@ComfyDadShoes im similar size to you and it works fine, this winter im going to throw some sitffer springs in and thicker shock oil in, but if you keep it slow on the trails its fine stock, youll lose and inch or so of ground clearance with stock.
Very good points & nice to see you are hooked up with a dealer for these tests & good to see you doing test rides! Great unintimidating starter bike and commuter and air-cooled/simple. We use these in our Moto school fleet for beginners. I found it a little heavy for what it is. KLX300 is only 9lbs heavier & tons more power, but like you said, it would suit a beginner. Decent value & always the fun factor on a smaller bike you can flog.
I'm pretty stoked to have been able to set up this partnership with Power
Didn’t realize it’s only 9lbs lighter than the 300.
Is the 300 taller though?
I had a klx250s and it was an awesome little trail bike. It’s a lot like the TW200. It’s not the fastest machine in the 250 world, but it does what it was designed for very well.
just bought a klx230s 2023 ( the shorter version since i am not tall ) and you are right on all you said. Bike is amazing for starter ( the 6-speed transmissions helps a lot for highway and hill climb )
Looking for the best bike to haul up front on my F350 truck camper rig.
Nice work, thank you.
Good video man, with a few mods like the suspension, tires, bar risers, switch that massive heavy ugly headlight for a lightweight on, this would actually be a great hard enduro by pretty easily and for not too much money
Outstanding review. New subcriber.
100% agree with a dual sport being a GREAT 1st bike! Even if they never take it off road. (Sacrilege I know! 🤣 )
One BIG thing is......RESALE value! Ride one a couple years, and it's still pretty darn close to new pricing. IF well maintained of course.
Love the vid! Great job bro
😎👊👊
Thank you. Thanks for watching!
thinking about the offroad version for my wife, she wants to get back into riding again. This could be a great bike for LD as well!
Hey Dork! I wanted you to know that I was testing out how well the vibration dampener on my Quad Lock was working out. I was on a ride on my DRZ400, with the phone mounted up, and I played this video while riding around. It was pretty funny to look down at my handle bars and see another, smaller set of handlebars riding down the road! Haha, I thought you’d appreciate that Inception / Russian Nesting Dolls image.
Lol I love it!
Waiting for a 2024 KLX 300 to be available and then finding out all the local dealers add over $1,600 to the msrp…. I started to consider the 230 based on this review and how much fun you seemed to be having. thats all I’m looking for haha. A lightly used ‘22 now sits in my garage and wow is it ever torquey! Haven’t had a chance to get it past 40 yet because I only got to ride it twice, but I love it so far. it’s perfect. Way more fun and better suited to me than the sportster 1200 I use to ride. Thanks Dork!
Nice review I have open licence and have a vstrom 650 ATM looking at these for a fun light bike for commuting and trails .
Thanks Very interesting. I like the idea of mini adv starter bike, The dealer has racks, bash guards, a slip on exhaust and they changed the bars
Thanks for another great video. This bike looks great for beginners but also for people on a budget who want to add a dual sport to the garage (like me). (Tiny suggestion: “the suspension is better than the other bike in these three ways” may be more compelling than “this bike has a better suspension-that’s just true” because fans of the other bike are saying the same thing.) Thanks again.
My garage is missing one. Did you go get one?
@@chase5224 No, I found a gently used 2020 Yamaha WR250R for about the same money. I’ve always been a Honda guy, but more HP and better suspension swayed me. (And having a buddy who's a certified Yamaha mechanic was surely part of the decision.) Good luck in your search.
@@marcoluoma3770 there yah go! I'm scared to buy anything used. OCD I guess. I'm going to look at the 2021 klx 230 tomorrow
Kawi introduced their offroad bias ABS with this little guy. Love the light that's on it. Throw an led in and you probably don't need aux light. I've only got to sit on one. It fit me perfect.
Oh to have unlimited gold cheat✌
Bit of a different perspective about these bikes or additional info. I have been living in Asia for the past 10 years, this 230 is actually built in Indonesia (my current home). Here the entire motorcycle "environment" is very different. Asian market is very price sensitive, there is a 100% price increase (USA based prices) once displacement passes the 250cc limit. For example the updated crf300 is still 250 here. What you are riding is an Asian market bike, this might help to understand the choices manufacturers make and some of the short comings of such bikes. Here a month ago an updated 230 special edition was introduced, the ugliest headlight is replaced by led unit and better inverted forks are standard as well. Now the bike is also good looking.
I've been riding dual sports since I was a kid and got out of it for a while. Last June I bought one of these to get back into it and have been having a riot ever since.
At 200lbs with a 29" inseam its incredibly manageable and I love taring it to OHVs and cruising around town and even on 45 to 55 mph country roads. Put a seat cover on it and turn up the rear shock preload and you will have a really good time.
As an experienced rider I really like the bike, it's just a bunch of fun and it's low stakes, especially with handguards and a skid plate...
I bet it's super fun on the trails. I'd love to throw it around out there a bit.
@@DorkintheRoad it is a really good time for sure. I'm just north of you if you ever want to go ride and try it out, you're welcome to test mine.
Dual Sports are the best Bike to learn on imo. You have the upright seating position like a Bicycle so it's feels "normal", and you can learn your motorcycle skills offroad without being worried about traffic.
I have actually bought two motorcycles from that dealer! They are the only dealer I will ever buy from. I live about 6 hours away from that dealership. I have bought a 2020 KLX230 and a Ninja 400 from there.
I am an advance rider I rode that bike and it’s a lot of fun it’s a big adult mini bike good acceleration smooth engine adequate suspension I guess it to thumbs up for fun
Thanks so much! I enjoy your videos. I've had a Yamaha 175 Enduro, 1969ish, two Harleys and a Honda 50 mini that fit in the trunk of my 1967 Mustang! I now live in Farmington New Mexico, lots of 'rig' roads, some single track and a great country to explore. So, if I could ask some advice; I'm 77 yo, ride bicycles, MTB (not well), road (not fast), fat tire (I'm a grinder). I have not ridden a motorcycle in say 20ish years. I was thinking that a Yamaha TW200, looking like a motorized fat tire bicycle would be fun, but then saw this video. Any suggestions, other than get a motorized wheelchair! Merry Christmas to you and yours. Jim
I got to test ride a 230 with 100 miles and it’s great. At 6 ft tall, the height is ideal. I can basically flat foot it perfectly.
The speed is definitely dual sport, but it is surprisingly comfortable at 65 MPH with little hassle. The engine doesn’t feel particularly stressed. The vibration is surprisingly low for a thumper, it’s a really well tuned engine.
The 6 speed transmission is a big deal, that 6th gear really makes the highway bearable for longer distances.
I got to ride it a little bit on a trail, my off-road opinion doesn’t matter, I’m like a 95% street rider.
So, for the city, this dual sport does all the dumb stuff you want it to.
Stairs, jumping curbs, small jumps, y’know, the fun that you find rather than speed for.
Fuel economy is great, the handling is light and flickable, it reminded me that fun isnt always fast.
I wish dual sports were cheap where I live! They have such an inflated second hand market and the brand new market has shrunk considerably. The good news is that the bike will hold its value
Cool, and looks like you're about my same size(a little thick, lol) , that's what I was worried about on this smaller bike. I find a slightly used 21 model today. Think in gonna grab it. Like everyone else, I wanted the 300, but this bike is almost 3 grand cheaper than the new 300 he quoted me. Seems like a no brainer now that I watched your video. Just need something for the trails with my family.
I was turned on to dualsports after my MSF course where they put me on a TW200, but I couldn't find any new ones to buy around here (in fact, the dealership told me it would be a 6 month wait for a new TW if I put down a deposit). I liked all the options from Kawasaki, but the KLX230 was the only one they had in stock (and it was the cheapest option) so it's what I got; I specifically got the KLX230S which has factory lowered suspension. I might have gotten a KLX300SM if they had any, but those were back-ordered just like the Yamahas.
I really like the bike; I wish the fuel gauge was less pessimistic and that the speedometer wasn't 3-4 MPH off (high) from the factory, but otherwise it's great for a beginner like me.
Nice. I would probably go with the S model as well. How do you like it after a year? Still enjoying riding it?
@@KF1 Sadly I ended up trading it in after about 3.5 months for a Yamaha XSR700 because I wanted something with more power that was strictly road focused.
That being said, I regret doing so. I'll probably own another dual sport at some point because I like having them - it's the Swiss Army knife of bikes.
I bought one last year.They are a great first bike and good on fuel.The only issue is the seat height can't be lowered.
This is a good bike for what its worth just dont expect quality very good
These are cool little bikes, but the 250L, KLX230, and even KLX250 all felt just a little small for me at 6’2”. Ended up with a WR250R and love it. Just something to consider for taller people.
They didn’t have the 300L or KLX300 when I bought mine though, so idk how those feel in terms of size. The DRZ400 is a cool bike with a higher seat too, but it’s carbureted.
I am also 6'2", i bought the 230. it does feel small, but, with how small and light it is, id feel more confident riding insane trails on this little guy, pretty much impossible to lay on its side lol.
I chose the 230 over the 300 because of ease of maintenance..
Another person who'd buy this over the 300cc is the guy that can appreciate the simplicity and reliability of an air cooled engine. Far less to worry about or go wrong ,and quite a bit lighter too. Sure it loses some ponies to the 300cc, but it's a give and take. Not a total loss. Lots of people worry too much about horsepower. Of course you want a bike that has enough power, but the thing is for the vast amount of riders this bike does. Certainly enough to wrap you around a power pole 😂. Personally, I don't see the utility/usefulness of a bike that can literally kill you if you slip on the clutch. Fun? Whole other story I guess. Different strokes for different folks. I'm rambling now. Peace out.
What are your thoughts between the klx230, klx300 and the xt250? I’m a shorter rider at 5’6” and experienced on and off road. I want to get back into off road riding. I’m learning towards the Yamaha but wish there was a 400cc with low seat height. Unfortunately that doesn’t appear to be an option so I’m forced to lean back to 250-300cc power.
Please share your thoughts and recommendations.
I bought my KLX230 over the 300 simply for the air cooling instead of water cooled. Simplicity out in the forest, and the PNW is very mild as far as temperature goes.
+1 this bike is a great woods bike. love mine. simple, practical, fun.
I'm in the process of finding the right dual sport or ADV for my first motorcycle purchase and this review was super helpful. But, one thing I have trouble finding in most reviews is whether these bikes can be modded out with windscreens, panniers, protection, etc. So, can I add more stuff to this KLX 230 to turn it into a longer distance, camping type motorcycle? I'm really struggling finding the right first one. One day I'm all in on a Royal Enfield Himalyan, the next a KLT 650S, and then this one.
I want to get one of these and put some streety tyres on it as a gas saver for work. The fastest road I drive to work is 45. I think this would be a perfect pick up for current gas prices.
Thats what i use it for, i go to the rockies 2x a year for a big multi-day ride, then i commute 2miles a day at work. gas last.... forever.
I went with the 230 over the 300 for my first bike mainly because I couldn’t find the 300 in stock anywhere I went to 3 dealerships and found one 230 se so I had to jump on it.
Keep up the good content, I can not decide between drz400 or klx. I sat on both at the dealer and the klx suspension felt really soft, 220 pound guy and wondering if this would be a concern on the klx , could have been the factory setting was soft ? Thanks in advance
I am 225,i did a moto camping trip on it(+50lbs) it doesn't care what you weigh, it just goes. Don't be fooled by the cc, as long as your cruising 60 or under it will do everything. I will say i think i am going to measure the springs and get something stiffer, shocks are fine when slow but once your going 20 mph you will bottom out
Can you please do ride review on the yamaha xt 250. Thank you 👍
I'd love to, but they don't have any in stock. They're gonna let me know when they do.
Those are great bikes too. We have a 19 with 7500 miles on it. Absolutely zero problems.
Not a highway speed out west. 70mph.
I hope you get to tryout the new 2022 KLR650. I am really interested in your thoughts
I'd REALLY like to do an extended test ride on one of those.
I've missed mine since the minute I sold it. I'll have that new camo one!
What i love about the klx 230 is the price! The klx 300 and the crf300l are like 2k more expensive than a klx 230
It's nice to know that it can ride well enough at 65 mph but even on my DRZ400 60mph is about as fast as I feel comfortable riding my dual sport, especially with the knobby tires. This bike really looks like it fits the bill for affordability, trail riding, putting around town or even a tag along bike for camping like others have said.
I ride XT250 at 70-75mph on regular basis. Now and then it gets tiny wobble but no big deal. One time speedo showed 82mph but I was never able to reapeat it. Speedo is not too much off. Road radar told me I was riding 3mph less than speedo was showing in mid 40mph.
it maxes out at 76 but it js starts stuttering like crazy
I had an Africa twin 1000 and felt it was too much tbh. I want a bike I can throw around and thinking about this bike in the future.
The question is, for that price would it be better then the TW200 as far a fun factor?
I thought I wanted the 300 but now wonder if this would be a better choice. I'm a newer rider and I've got a KE100 2 stroke and a 125 four stroke but want something bigger. I'm 5'10" 245lbs and planning on staying on dirt road and trails 90% of the time. Saving money is good but prices are close enough it doesn't really matter to me. I also like the crf 300l for the gear indicator. Tw200 is nice but I want fuel injection
I’m around 5”9 how tall are you? When you rode the bike the bike looks very small but I’m not sure, I’m a beginner and I want to buy this bike!
Enjoyed your review. I'm thinking of getting myself into buying my first bike and I'm trying to decide between the KLX230 and the CRF 250L. How do you think the two of them compare?
You mentioned at some point in the vid, but does the KLX230 feel a bit more peppy and torqueish then the CRF 250L?
How do you think a tall person will sit on it? I'm 6'3" and 176 lbs.
im 6'2" 220lbs, i have a 230 and i have ridden the 250l, power feels the same, honestly. and if you look at the dynos, its pretty much the same aswell. couldnt go wrong with either in my opinion. the 230 its probably a bit better on gas. the 230 has a mid range power band, much like that 250l. not much beans until you give it a bit of gas and then your unstoppable on the trails.
Thanks a lot @@flamachiiman!
Side by side and the same price, which would you pick… Klx230 or CRF250L? I’m currently in this situation. Thanks.
Is it possible to add a kickstarter to this bike ?
Hey I need help I have a little pw 80 then I upgraded to a crf 150 r and I am trying to get in to street bike riding do you think I should get this one or another one if so what
who? i can say as a lady that's 5'6" 125lb, this bike just felt way more size appropriate for me than the 300. and the klx230s in particular was really a great fit for me!
the feature set on the 2023+ klx230s is actually very nice as well. they packed a lot into that little bike, it certainly looks very capable for its size.
now comes the lifestyle decision. the nimble pony that is the klx230s or steadfast donkey that is the tw200 😂 not having the temptation of cruising on the freeway can be liberating in a way. anyway the search continues!
Great starter dual sport. 2020 w/2k miles, all stock. Great low end torque and decent midrange given the engine size. Tapped out around 65mph, 6'3" and 200lbs. Decent suspension and handling off road. Upgrading the tires will help in soft sand or mud. Stock tires are good for everything else. Coleman or Mad Dog atv seat cover helps out the stock seat, $20 fix. Good price point, just doesn't have much aftermarket options here in the states. I put the OEM plastic skid plate on and it's done great, but I don't have large rocks to deal with here in Florida either. Fun dirt and gravel road dual sport, and will cruise at 55mph all day on the road.
My only problem with this bike is where the blinker is located, I’ve burned off my blinker a few times cuz of the exhaust
"It's not a Grom", NOICE!!!
can you try a ktm next time i feel that would be interesting and maybe try something comparable to the drz
Got a test ride of the 890 adventure coming this morning that you might enjoy.
I'm kinda limited to what the dealership will let me borrow, but I'll keep trying to get more variety as I go.
im 15 and im thinking about buying the 2024 should i buy the 230
I just bought one over the 300. 1k cheaper and more flickable and easier to transport.
With drivers in the PNW I only use the roads to get to dirt.
I really bought it because my CT110 is to small and my KLR was to big.
I think this would be a better deal for someone than the DR200. It has a better suspension.
Now $7100 Aud. Im tempted as CRF 300l $9700 or $11000 for the rally version (all bikes registered and abs)
Is the 230 set up the same as the 300 then? I thought the 300 had 33hp what does that have and how do these compare to the DRZ400? I hear that a lot of the fuel injected bike have a longer service interval than the older carb bikes. Not sure the DRZ400 or the DR650 are worth the money with all the upgrades they need. Great video though it's nice to know that bike will drag a big guy around.
19 HP on the 230 and it doesn't have the adjustable suspension that the 300 has.
I own a 125cc keeway c light, I’m kinda thinking of selling it and buying this enduro🤔 I’m quite tall so I really don’t want to look ridiculous