Why I don't like my KLX230S ABS
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 20 พ.ย. 2022
- Here is why I don't like my 2022 Kawasaki KLX230S. I have had my KLX230s for a while now and have found a few things that I am not a big fan of. Let me know what you think and if there is something I have missed with the KLX230s or if I am out in the night on this one.
Ricochet Skid Plate for KLX230: ricochetoffroad.com/products/...
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Hi Matt, these things happen, we can't be as lucky each time as with a TW200 :) As a motorcycle instructor up here in Canada, we had 2 KLX230s added to the fleet one year - they were horrible for high idling and so bad that the new riders could not have the control required and it made it difficult to learn - we got rid of them after the first season. The bigger & more expensive KLX300 is a 1000% improvement/upgrade and totally superior choice here. Nice to hear all of your points, for those considering this bike. Cheers, Ronny
Thanks Ronny!! That's good to know with the KLX...I think I gotta make some mods happen. I know it is way different than my TW, but man I am really liking my TW even more now! 😁
@@MOBStreet83 Hi Matt,Im on my 3rd TW200,Like you I wanted to try something different with more power after my first TW and sold it and bought a KLR650 and that bike sucked,Way to big and scary on trails and if it falls over you cant pick it up by yourself,Sold it and got another TW,After awail I wanter more speed again and got a DR350 and that bike was great but blew the engine,Last summer I bought another TW and got all the upgrades you have Plus Jims windsheld,Cant beat the TW ! almost went with the XT250 but I love the big tires and the tractor gear on the TW,Just wish it was a 250cc But I stay off the hiway anyway so at 60 years old Im just going to enjoy the bike the way it is,You should sell the Kaw and get a XT 250 if you think you need another bike ? But the TW is hard to beat and the XT will feel different o,ff road because of the skinny tires,I ride in northern Mn through the woods on deer trails with my wife on the back.I also liked the CT 125 but a little under powered for two but a fun trail bike
I got the 2022 230se and so far I haven’t had any issues.I live close to the mountains so I need a four stroke bike for on and off road. I recommend this Klx 230se . Just buy it and enjoy the ride. Thank you for your effort and time for the video. Stay safe!
Thanks for the insight, I really appreciate it!
Love your channel man. Please keep it going 👍 🏍
Thanks! I am glad you are enjoying it! I don't plan on stopping any time soon.
I’m sure you already know this, but the 2023 models have a revised ECU mapping and the high idle has also been rectified. Love all your videos!
Yeah, I just wish they would have some sort of update or something for those of us with the 22's. Thanks Jim, I really appreciate it!
Hey can they fix the mapping on the 2022s?
Did you contact your dealer? @@robertlapin813
Is that supposed to be all the 2023 models?? Because mine is a 23 and it idles high. I don't like it.
Thank you for sharing your experience. It all makes sense and makes me want to ask a co-worker if we can swap on a ride to see what it feels like.
For the kick stand, try switching your habit to putting it down after you dismount.
You bet Jacob! That is a very simple approach to the side stand......I have never been accused of being smart! 😂
Great video Matt! I hope to get a couple TWs sometime. I know I would enjoy it and I usually take one of my kids along. They like to ride. I appreciate you sharing your experience with the 230 and think I will steer clear. Maybe a good bike for some, but not what I’m looking for.
Thanks Aaron! The TW is a great machine and my kids love riding them just as much as I do! The KLX has some good points to it but overall I am struggling to like it all.
This is a great video. You make some good points. I thought I was all set getting one but will continue looking elsewhere. It does seem like a great starter bike on paper though.
You know, these are just little things that I nit picked at here. My brother in law loved it when he rode it last Saturday so it really is to each their own. But, that being said........I still don't like those things about it! 😂
Matt, Love your videos. I'm in Idaho, but used to live in Manti, Ephraim, and Hideaway. It's a trip for me. You have me convinced about the TW. Stay safe bro.
Hey Michael! The TW is awesome and I have ridden around Ephraim quite a bit with it! Idaho has some great places for a TW though. There are some folks that I have seen that ride the mountains up there are there awesome places. Thanks for watching and I hope you enjoy the TW!
Appreciate your honesty!
Thanks Mike! I appreciate it!
Thanks for the honest review
You bet! Thanks for watching and for the comment, I appreciate it!
Good video buddy, sorry it’s not a shining star.. Just had a Yammy XT250 loaner for a few weeks and it was super cool.
Keep up the great videos.
Thanks Brother! It might be a shining star for someone, but I am having a harder time getting used to it. I would love to try out the XT250 and see what they both do.
Mate you have nailed your first 4 points about the bike.im coming from a gsxr 600 and bought this as a trail adventure bike to muck around on.
The seat is like concrete I'm getting hammeroids after 30 mins. I'm only small and struggle to see out of the mirrors. What the hell were they thinking with that extra long break line covering the screen. Totally agree with the stand, getting on the bike with the stand down is over balanced and too long.
Yes it over revs too, hope I don't burn my clutch out every 100 klms. But I still love riding it as suspension is great fir the price.
Offcourse with thinner tyres it will be more twitchy than those beefy tw tyres.
But the 21 inch front gives you more ability to climb bigger obstacles.
I'm just here supporting your 4 initial views which I totally agree your making people aware of... but I still like the bike. Well done mate. I ended buying those bike shorts with gel padding in the ass to give me comfort on my ride lol
Thanks Mick! I really appreciate the input and all the comments on the videos! Another thing about those skinnier tires is that there are a lot more options for tires than the TW200. There are some great things about the bike that I really do enjoy as well. What would you say your favorite bit about the KLX is?
Great review! I've been thinking about buying this bike.
Thanks! I am glad you liked it. Thanks for watching.
Good call on the Richochet skid plate! Try the Double Take rear view mirrors. I have them on my bike and love them.
I have heard the Double Take mirrors are good ones! I gotta look into something better for this one.
@@MOBStreet83
I love them! I have the doubletake adventure mirrors on my cb500x. They are amazing and super flexible. They can be set wide for the road and tucked in for the woods. All done in just a few seconds. They are a little pricey but, 100% worth the cost. In my opinion.
My niece has that this bike and I rode it I’m 190lbs. I love it I find the seat supportive plenty of smooth power for around town has a nice little burble engine note when you downshift. Super fun to scoot around.
Nice, yeah it ain't bad to get around on!
I briefly considered the 230,but bought one of the last klx250s made before the switch to 300 . Seems good over all the seat was also hard .I went with a seat concepts low profile, a definite improvement . Mine has a very easily accessible knob to adjust idle speed even though it's fuel injected. I changed the mirrors also .I couldn't hardy see around my shoulders.
Yeah, I wish they would have included the adjuster on the 230s but oh well. I will find something to fix it.
I have a 20 plus year old XT 225 and it amazes me what that bike can do, it seems its only limitation is me :) Great Vid thanks!!
I would love to have one to go with my TW! That would be awesome!
Oh, and I used a loop of Velcro around the brake hose to the handlebar cross bar to hold the hose away from the ignition switch and from blocking the dash view. Still have plenty of hose movement for full suspension travel.
Good to know Jim, cause that thing is driving me nuts!
Very valid points. I have a 2020 klx 230. I switched the seat with a lower seat concepts seat. I'm only 5'7" on a good day and it helped. I also lowered it with a soupy lowering link but quickly returned it to factory hight which rides way better. I had to get used to the hight but wouldn't trade it for the world. My 230 hits the speed limiter at 76mph. I'm 220lbs and it does every bit of 76mph without issue. My wife has a Tw200 which I definitely prefer on the rough trails due to the fat tires and lower hight. The TW is hard to beat and much safer on sand gravel or the trails. Those thinner tires are sketchy in comparison for sure. I hate the idle and that first gear could be shorter for the trails. I love them both tw & klx. If I'm doging a trail the TW is my favorite. If I'm flying through a field or down the highway the klx's longer legs and superior suspension takes the cake. You probably would enjoy the taller 230 in comparison to the 230s . I know I enjoy mine better even though it's harder to reach the ground. 2 great bikes in my honest opinion. They do things a little differently but they do what they do best pretty well. If that makes sense. Lol. Love the vids Keep up the good work
Hey Christopher! Thanks for watching and for the insightful comment, I really appreciate it. What you said does make sense and I am glad to hear what you had to say. Thanks again and all the best!
Im the same size as you but i have limited mobility in my right leg. Experienced rider looking fora dual sport because I just want something lighter to get around Philly. Does the suspension sag get you to a comfortable spot with your feet on the ground when you stop?
Yeah, I can touch flat foot while sitting on the bike. Plus, the rear suspension is adjustable as well
Do you think they got together with Honda when determining the length and routing of the front brake line? The 300L has a very similar situation going on. X3 on the XT, it looks kinda dorky with the headlight but it gets the job done and you get access to standard tires.
😂 I don't know if they did, but they sure could have!
Thank you for an honest opinion
You bet Allen! Thanks for taking the time to watch it, I appreciate it!
Looking at a Royal Enfield 411 scram
That’s what I’ve been wanting to hear is the comparison between TW’s and what I’ll call traditional dirt bikes. I’ve heard the fat front tire is grabby in creek beds and is a handful in Rocky terrain. I talked to a Yamaha rep to try and plant a seed about what I want. A TW with 350cc f&r discs and injection. He said that would be an awesome bike. It’s not the first time he’s heard those desires. He said dream on and laughed. 😂. Dealers can’t get enough of them the way they are. Why change something that has that kind of demand. Thanks Matt. 👍🏻
Yeah, there are a lot of folks that would love a six speed and a bigger engine in the TW. I am not sold on the EFI yet just because of how stupid it is to try and adjust it. But, not all the bikes are like that I know.
@@MOBStreet83 I forgot to mention a 6 speed in my wish list. A stock TW that would cruise at freeway speeds with no modifications would be great. I’m still enjoying the channel even though I have not made a purchase yet. Best wishes Matt👍🏻
I have one for two years now and yes the seat is hard, the fuel gauge is horrible but otherwise I love it and do not have any idle problems. I'm 5'6"and had the lowering Link installed, but I feel very stable, and really love my bike.
Awesome! I was nit picking on all of these. The bike is a good bike, I just had those few things that bother me about it. It is solid and capable for sure.
Now that's a good honest review.
Thanks Dennis! I appreciate it!
In Thailand for 2023 Kawasaki have retuned the engine hopefully to iron out the high idle, they have also upgraded the fork to inverted on the SE model but sadly only available in Thailand
I wish it was straight across the board for all bikes....what you have we get and what we have you get.
For comparison, I weigh 270lb. Just took my 2022 KLX230S in for its first service. Could feel it becoming more powerful during the break-in period. Now I can bounce the bike off its rev limiter in 6th gear anytime I want except into a 40+ mph headwind. My elevation is about 850 feet. Have had the bike at 1500 ft elevation and still all good.
I installed seat concepts foam, bar end mirrors and a gp kompozit windscreen for a suzuki inazuma as well as gp kompozit bar risers. Also a nice aluminum bash plate from indonesia and the kawi rear rack.
Yeah, I figured elevation had a lot do with it. That is good to know and it sounds like you've set yours up way better than this is.
I have an identical bike to yours and I must say your review is spot on. I did the seat, idle and mirror upgrades and I do like the bike, but a person shouldn't have to do those things to a new bike. Unfortunately Kawasaki is notorious for not listening to their customers. I doubt I will buy another Kawi just because of this. I fear the 230 will have a short life span due to poor decisions by their engineering department coupled with bad market research.
I think I'm gonna follow your lead and get the seat and the idle adjuster. Which mirrors did you get? Folks are telling me to use the double take.
@@MOBStreet83 I bought the bike used with 84 miles on it. :) The previous owner replaced them with Kemimoto mirrors. I like the looks and their functionality, but I doubt they will hold up to the bike being dropped. When they break I will probably get the Double Take.
I've been riding for decades now still waiting for someone to say "I love my kawasaki!" Not hard to find a Honda or Suzuki lover. Kawasaki though, outside of the H2 or Klr650, straight to the used market they go.
@@domenik8339 Good point, but I have to say that they all have their issues. I've been riding for over 50 years and owned many different brands. I had a XR650L before the klx and it wasn't perfect, at least for me. Being 69, I no longer have the flexibility to get on the taller bikes now, and so it was a choice betweent he Yamaha XT and the KLX. I liked the KLX better, and to be honest now that I've done the "fixes" that Kawi should have done, I like the bike very much.
I have the standard tall version of the 230. I ride it fast on gravel and sand and take it into thick woods with no tracks make your own single track. The fast idle is not that bad on my bike. Yeah the seat sucks. I use a air pad on the pavement. Realistic cruise speed is 55 to 62 mph. The ecu speed limits it at 75 mph indicated which is 72 gps on mine. I weigh 158lbs.
That's normally what I do with my TW200.......except for the speed. I have tried just some dirt roads that are a bit rockier and my feet find them pretty quick. Yeah, I've got quite a bit of weight on you for sure.
I love my KLX230S. The brake line i Velcro out of the way. The seat is fine with me. One mine is warmed up, it idles low.
It’s been a great bike, and my favorite I have owned, though I’m new to dirt. I have 6k miles on mine.
You should have gotten the regular 230 or the 300, you would probably like the 300.
I am really glad that it is working well for you. I have had it warmed up and the idle still stays high and on steep trails I don't like how it doesn't allow you to use the engine to slow down.
@@MOBStreet83 I’ve heard that problem is an issue. I bet that would be frustrating. I know you can buy a manual idle adjuster to remedy that problem. I guess I got lucky on mine, but I thought the issue was fixed with the S models, but you have the same bike as mine, same color too, and mine doesn’t do it and yours does. It makes me sad yours is disappointing to you, I really do love mine. Either way, i hope you have fun riding whatever bike you choose. Those TW’s are legendary.
Interesting finds, I really like the KLX, but I think this just shows how solid the TW really is for its simple proven design. The high idle (without a proper way to adjust in the software) would probably be major annoyance for me also on trail riding.
I need to look up the KLX vs an XT as well (can't remember if you already made a video for that comparison).
Yeah, that really bothers me about the bike. I wish there were a way to adjust it. No, I haven't made a video yet but one is on the way!
I feel your pain. I regret trading my XT for a new KLR. Its a great bike but i miss the lightweight maneuverability around town. I don’t care about getting on the highway. The KLR way too fast as well. I loved my XT250 but somehow got it in my head that i needed a bigger bike (im 6’ 2”). I think your big extra loop of brake line is Kawasaki being lazy and leaving the tall version’s brake line in place. The S version is kind of an afterthought. Im glad you mention your isses since im looking to trade in my klr. I will hold out for an xt
Good Call Charley! Lot's of folks told me to go with the KLR but I knew it wasn't the bike that I wanted. I am pretty familiar with them from working at Rocky Mountain ATV/MC and a lot of guys there rode the KLR's. They are a great bike, but just not the one that I wanted.
I have both TW and KLX 230S. Love them best but when I am doing serious trails usually go for the KLX.
Really?!? What about the lower ground clearance on the KLX, doesn't that create issues with the trails? I have found that the ground comes a lot faster on the KLX than the TW? But, both are fun and I was nit picking about the things I don't like on the KLX
I dont have a problem with the seat however I only weigh 135lbs which is probably the main factor that lets it work for me vs most everyone else.
Yeah, I think that would help me a lot too!
Yeah, I thought that high idle might end up being a huge issue. Kawi claimed it was done to help beginners, but it has the exact opposite effect. Except for the brake line (probably saved money by using the same one as the KLX300 or something), everything else is correctible. But that idle....man, I don't know about that. Without getting that imported little part that can make a manual adjustment. Shows the engineers aren't necessarily riders LOL.
That is one thing that I didn't like with some of the Harley parts we would install at the dealership. You could tell whoever designed it didn't ride. Yeah, the other things are all fixable......Just means there is opportunity to be creative!
They chopped a couple of inches off the suspension travel from the 230 to make the 230S with a lower seat height. Problably spec'd out the same brake cable and that slack had to go somewhere. I have the 230 and at 6'1" and 195 lbs I can straddle that bike flat footed. My inseam is a common 34". The 230S is for a shorter person and you pay the price with less suspension travel.
All I can say to this is......Yep!
I have a 2021 or rather my wife does and she rides it just fine with limited experience as a rider. She has no complaints, nor any biases.
These are things that I am nit picking and it is all my opinion
I think your points are fair, but the seat hasn't bothered me as much as yours has. I've only ridden up to an hour though. I'm 150lbs and can ride it around 70mph without much problem, but just for short trips on the highway. The fuel gauge is probably the worst point for me. The mirrors seem OK to me too, but not great. I think it depends what you're looking to do with the bike, and it sounds like the KLX300 or new KLR650s might have been better for you. I'm mostly commuting in town and also doing some light off road, and I think it works for that. Interested to see the next video.
Nice to know! I've used mine around town but have tried a few longer distance trips with it and haven't made it as far as I wanted. I'm a fan of the engine and Trans though, I think I just gotta figure out that seat so my fat self is more comfortable. 😅
The KLR650 is twice the size of this bike. It is absolutely massive.
Matt, sale that bike & get the xt250. Just got one myself and love it. It's a well built machine,with a low seat hight as well and outstanding gas mileage.
I have seriously considered it Jeff! I just can't seem to fine one around here to buy!
I had a 2021 Klx230 . All valid points about the bike. Mine leaned over nice on the kickstand. They must have used the same kickstand for both models. The seat is terrible! I installed doubletake mirrors the first week!
Yeah, the kickstand is something I gotta fix. I have looked at the Double take mirrors, just haven't picked them up yet.
As they say Let the good times roll. Every time I find myself struggling to enjoy a motorcycle I end up selling it. That gets expensive. $13,000.00 on a motorcycle that I wanted to like but couldn’t. $500.00 on another motorcycle that was one of the joys of my life. My Tdub is getting into my soul quickly.
That is the absolute truth right there.......We'll see how it goes. The TW's though, they will always be here with me!
Different strokes for different folks. I guess. I have been looking at the TW200 and KLX230 ... or maybe XT250... VanVan ... and the like. I am a little taller, so maybe I could handle the CRF250/300. Kawasaki seems to love hard seats. I bought an aftermarket seat for my Versys 300 ... awesome after that. (Just have to add that to the price point when considering a Kawi !). The traction and stability are very different on the two bikes. I've test ridden both, but am accustomed to the skinny tires -- and the taller front wheel. Since I'm used to them, they feel more normal -- the 21" rolls over obstacles better. But those fat TW tires ... are just awesome. They are definitely more stable at lower speeds. Your videos help -- keep it up ! I do think the gas gauge is accurate ... you just don't like that it's designed to blink at .8(ish) gallons left ... just another thing to get used to. I really have drunk the kool-aid on fuel injection though ... every time I ride a carb'd bike in the cold I miss that FI :) Thanks again -- have a great Thanksgiving week !
Thanks JT! I know I still have a lot to learn about the KLX230. I love my TW's though and I have taken them all over the place. The KLX230 has a lot lower ground clearance than the TW and just on dirt roads so far I find rocks with my feet a lot faster than the TW. I actually feel a lot more sturdy on the TW at all speeds than the KLX. It is time for me to do a lot more comparison videos between the two! Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours as well!
My klx 230R has never had high idle problems and has been fantastic after a few upgrades like cut seat foam to make shorter and way softer with guts cover, ricochet skid plate, odi grips, kawasaki ninja short adjustable brake & shift levers and acerbis handguards. Maybe it's ny state
Hey Blake! I know not all of the 230's have the idle issue. I have the skid plate also but I like the idea of the ninja levers on there!
@MOBStreet 83 you can also get both from kawasaki verseys also mine are green but there are like 7 color choices
I briefly road my friend's CRF230 and would prefer my 2022 TDub any day of the week.
Yep, me too!! My TW's are my favorite 😂
every bike for the last 20 years has a seat like that my bike idles 1800 its normal too. is it reliable oil burner like the 650?
Well, my TW's have had way better seats than this one did and they don't idle nearly that high. I don't know, I haven't had enough miles through it to see if it's burning.
Most would change the bars and have a raiser bark busters, rack from factory, fold mirrors, centre stand full exhaust system. The ide improves after 3,000 km it has to be run in, I replaced the seat anyway.
Hey Simo! Thanks for all the insight! I will look at getting that stuff added to it if I decide to keep it.
I am with you about the brake line. I just hate that, so annoying. And the dashboard is dinosaur. The seat does not bother me much, as you will be standing most of the time on the trail anyway.
I am considered this because of the lower seat height. But also, looking at the Honda CRF300, then shave the seat 2 inches to be similar with this bike. The Honda will have more power, water cool, better dashboard with RPM & gear indicator.
I have heard that the CRF is a great machine and folks highly recommend it. I listed my KLX for sale so I will see what bike comes next.
Hi Matt. I think the bike flashing empty on gas when it's got a half-tank is because it's bad to let a fuel injector run dry and bad for the fuel pump sucking air when low on fuel. I would like a fuel-injected TW, because here in California it's really had to find non-Ethanol gas, and the Ethanol gas is bad for a carb.
Thanks for the heads up! I hear ya, finding non-ethanol gas in California can be a challenge.
I think the brake line issue is because they use the same brake line on both the S and the regular model, and with a shortened suspension it makes it stick up higher
Yeah, that is most likely the case then!
You have touched on all the things I don't like on my klx230s. I hope to sale it or trade it for a
TW, an show up to TW feast next year 2024. Thanks for sharing. 😊
I have had mine for sale for almost a year and I haven't had any serious interest in it all. If you can't sell it before then and get one great, if not, come ride with us anyways!
230 S has less suspension travel than the standard 230 which is why it probably why the brake line rides up there. I believe it has that high idle as part of the clutch assist for new riders and clutch engagement so it doesn’t snub.
That makes sense. I thought maybe they had saved money by using the KLX300 lines, but what you pointed out makes a lot more sense.
That does make a bit more sense, but my bro in laws KLX250 is the same way. I'm sorry, but teach new riders how to ride properly so the rest don't have to suffer. When I lived in Germany I had to learn German to get around........same concept.
Finally a real explanation of why there are 10of them on the market right no all with less than 300 miles....if a person could actually teat ride these kawasaki would never sell them
Yep, I have tried to stay as positive as I can about it, but some of it really needs to be addressed.
I hate to say it my friend but you’re not gonna love everything on two wheels. This 230 seems to have quite a few issues but one I’ve noticed on numerous bikes, is that brake cable looping up like a Volkswagen Beetle passenger grab bar. Honda CRF300L and the Rally do it too.. it really doesn’t make sense. There’s other options for sure, other than right in front of the screen.
Sell it before all those things your mentioning gets out to everyone and you can’t give it away. 😂
Love your channel man!!
Yeah, I know I won't like them all. Maybe I should get a Honda Monkey! Yeah, it might be for sale before too long. Hey, do you have any type of fishing rig I could set up on the TW?!? That would be awesome. Thanks for watching also, I really appreciate it.
@@MOBStreet83 You know, a Monkey would make a nice addition to the collection your acquiring. Like the TW, it’s a little hard to come by but honestly, the type of riding that you do and the area you live in, there’s definitely room for a Monkey. I think you’d enjoy it…
Honestly, I’m looking for something a little larger. Something I can pack up and do some distance on over 50mph😄.
Man, there’s plenty of fishing set ups for a TW. Depending on the type of fishing you wanna do and how serious you are, I’d love to help you figure something out, as a matter of fact, I’d be honored. Lots of possibilities.
I bet you have some awesome places to go. 🎣
Let me know and we can connect some how, Instagram maybe, just let me know.
My XT 250 is way more stable, less squirrely, on the rocky roads than my TW200. And it's fine at 65 mph on highway. Wonder what the diff is?
How's the idle on it? Maybe I should go trade this one in.
@@MOBStreet83 idle is normal, what you'd expect.
I like the old school mechanical idler screw type.
You and me both!
How is your TW200 in the mountains? We live in CO so are avoiding carbureted bikes in case we head to high altitudes. We take our Jeep up above 13,000 feet in the San Juans, but I don't think the T-Dub could do that without changing the jets.
I love mine in the Mountains! I have been up to almost 10'000' feet with the stock jetting without issues. My father in law went up over 9700' feet yesterday with his and it handled it just fine. I have heard of others that are riding them over there in your neck of the woods that haven't had any issues with them either.
Any thoughts on the new CRF300ls as an upgrade to the 230?
You know, a lot of folks have told me that it would be a lot better......But I can't seem to sell this one to save my life!
"Weighing 240 cruising my 230", lololol. Man you need to get a T-shirt made with that on it and wear it when you're riding doing your videos ✊️
Good Call! I might actually have to do that! 😂
I’m 58 years old, retired ‘up north’/in Northern wi, with trails and firelanes from my driveway. I have a Honda monkey, (and a Suzuki Burgman) which I like, works ok on my small pit bike track, but the reality is those small diameter wheels dont cut it on firelanes and trails. There’s a lot of Sandy trails around here that Rob power and although not near as bad as gravel, give you that unsettled or uneasy squirrly feeling you mentioned, the ones that have you doing the death grip for 80% of your ride. I’ve been thinking of a 230 KLX dual sport or cheaper yet the 230R, but the TDub keeps coming up, and I feel for the sandy and gravel terrain, it would be my best bet?
My longest blacktop (55mph) rides would be 15 miles one way, and I can easily stay off highways, which I do at all costs.
I’m starting to think a TW is a no brainer?
Thoughts...
Thanks in advance.
Mike
Mike, I've taken my TW200 all over the place and I'd pick it over the KLX230S any day of the week. I've ridden 200 mile days on it and been fine. I Love my TW200's. I have three of them so that should tell you what I think of them. 😁 I think it'd be perfect for what you mention.
I agree, I’m old enough to know better to buy what works, vs buy what looks cool.
Thanks for the feedback.
Never found an issue with the idle, probably just because I’ve been on 2 wheels so long and have been on so many bikes, the brake line loop is so there is slack in the line for the suspensions movement. Crf300l does the same thing and that seat sucks for sure
I've been riding motorcycles for 30 years and have ridden plenty of them from being a motorcycle technician for a lot of years. That idle was the first thing I noticed and I am not the only one. There are plenty of folks that have said the idle is crazy. Some of the other models don't have the problem. My bro in law's 2019 KLX250 didn't do it. They have said that it is a help for new riders so they won't stall the machine.....oh well, I will figure something out.
News from this week: In '23 honda is probably coming out with the crf300ls (s for lower seat height like the 230s, the motorcycle journalist are speculating here). might be the one for your needs? they are also speculating that he xr150l dual sport is coming to US markets, but I think it will have a carburetor, so that's a deal breaker for me. but, who knows? always nice to have more options
Wait a minute.........Honda is bringing a XR150L with a carb?!? Just goes to show how timeless the TW200 is. Now that I have had both, carb and efi, I really appreciate the simplicity of my carb more and more.
My KLX300 doesn't seem to have that idle issue, runs great.
That's good! Some folks have told me I should've bought that instead! 😂
It does not have that idle controller on it right?
Why did you need that thing anyway? How many bikes can you ride at once?
I bought it because my wife and kids are riding as well. My kids are to the point where they can ride the TW and I needed another bike so we all had one. I also bought it to do comparison videos with.
Wow, it's interesting to see that others have some of the same basic problems that I discovered after riding mine for a while. The loop, I just zip tied the loop to my clutch cable. At least I don't have to fight to stick the key in anymore. The seat is a brick. I absolutely had to take the seat strap off as it was digging into my ass. I only weigh 160, but it was very uncomfortable. I'll have to check into Seat Concepts. My fuel gauge sucks too. It blinks empty when I still have a gallon left in the tank. I only have about 300 miles on the bike, and when I get to my 600 mile first service I'm going to see what they have to say about that one. If there is no solution, I'll just use my "B" trip meter as a fuel gauge, and stick a piece of electrical tape over the real one. A Ricochet skid plate is a "must have" item. I had a similar situation happen on my last bike, and the plate totally saved my transmission. Bent the shit out of the plate like yours, not to mention all the rock dents, dings and gouges I had in it. Still really like the bike though. We'll see if my opinion changes in a couple hundred more miles. Be safe out there kids.
Hey Mick! Now that I have had the bike for a while, a lot of these little things I nit picked here are easier to live with. I have a video coming out tomorrow of what I do like about the bike. The engine on this thing is a blast and full of character for sure......like I said on the other comment, I am glad your sixth gear actually does what it is supposed to cause with my weight and elevation it's a bad combo. But, 1-4 gear though is a great time!
The brake cable position is normal on supermotos dirt bikes and hard seat. You could probably install supermoto wheels on it.
Hey Steve! The Supermoto wheels have for sure crossed my mind!
I don't own the bike. but everything you said that you didn't like about the bike I agree with. I hate hard seats. the idle should not be that high, and that break line is ridiculous. but at 7:43 when you pushed down the brake line. I thought why not pull it back and wire tie it to something. so in 2023 what is a better bike to buy in this category ?
I have heard the 2023 doesn't have the idle issue. But, I haven't seen one in person. Yet!
Because it needs to be free for suspension movement.
Solving the seat problem is accomplished with a Seat Concepts seat.
Yeah, I think I am going to be getting one!
I took the stock seat off my DRZ400s , Now I use it for an Anvil...
No joke!!
I completely agree! The TW200 has got to be one of the most stable and durable machines out there, and I have definitely tested that 😂.
I remember before I knew the TW200 existed I had always wanted the Honda CRF230L. It was really hard to find anything near me because they were only made in the L model (dual sport) in 2008 and 2009. Heck if you could find one of those, I'm positive it would crush anything on the market right now.
Keep up the great videos, Matt! Have a great Thanksgiving! God bless you and your family
Thanks McCoy, I really appreciate it! I love my TW's and they have served me more than well for the years that I have had them. I would love to find an older Honda like that and see what they do against each other. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours as well!!
Manual idle screw is big brain. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Folks weren’t pissed about idle screws, they were pissed about dirty slow jets and altitude rejets. Sometimes they toss the baby out with the bath water.
Yep Matt, I agree with you on that one!
I took the tank out and then took the gauge out and bent the float down about 1 1/2 inches and it is much more accurate. Its not very hard.
There's a thought!
The klx230s is the perfect bike... for the right person! May not be the perfect bike for you... right now. Gain the experience on this bike that you need, then trade it in for a klr650s, or something else that suits you better. The most important question u can ask before buying a bike is "what will i use it for?" The right bike for you is out there. Developing your skills should be your driving factor. Best of luck! 😎👍
Good Call Martin! This bike is actually a ton of fun and these things I was really nit picking. The engine is a blast and the transmission works really well. It isn't for cruising a lot of miles with that seat, but it could be with a little work.
So in your opinion the TW200 is better?
I would choose the TW over the KLX230S. I've had it for sale since January 2023 and I can't get anyone to buy it. I could sell my TW today if I wanted to.
Totally Agree! I've got 2021 230R. In the end it's a farm bike, but...
Engine Chatter bugs me the most. Low top gear (wrong size sprockets). Seats hard AF. Believe it or not, my sons klx150 stand is worse. Looks weird af from behind with the narrow wheels. I'd never buy another one.
My 2010 Fury chopper with small tank doesn't have a fuel gauge, so no whinge there for the klx at least having one.
Yep, I won't buy another one either.
Love your honesty, That stuff would bother me too. Who would let the bikes leave the factory with that kind of idle?!? Sounds like a rushed 'covid' bike. Great review!
Thanks, I really appreciate it. I have another video I just released, I'm gonna sell it. I know not everyone sees it the way I do, but this bike just isn't for me.
I had a Yamaha XT225 that I put 33,000miles on it, and loved it. I then bought a KLR650 which I put 26,000 miles on it. The XT225 was the best motorcycle I’ve ever owned. The KLR650 was the biggest piece of junk I’ve ever own. I used to be a major Kawasaki fan. But would never consider another after the KLR experience.
I hear you Dennis! I would take my TW200 over the KLX any day
When will another manufacture step up and build something to complete with the TW? The first company that takes these fat tires and puts a 250cc fuel injected engine it and builds enough to keep up with demand will do well.
After this bike, I am not sold on EFI. You can't adjust it on the fly and it is TONS cheaper to buy an install a couple of jets than it is to have your efi remapped. The only one that was even close was the Vanvan but it didn't last long here at all. I would think a 350-400 and a six speed trans on the TW would be the ultimate. I don't need the EFI cause it leaves you stranded if the battery is dead and I like being able to adjust my fueling for a fraction of the cost of EFI.
I am thinking about going with the new klx230sm But I will 95 percent be riding on the street in a tight city lol
I think this bike is great for the city! The engine and trans are great and the idle wouldn't bother me at all for street riding. It has plenty of low end grunt and buzzing around town on it isn't bad at all!
I need a light weight dual sport for my farm, and to go 5-10 miles between farms. but my dilemma is I'm 6'5" tall, 210 lbs, and 58 years old. I really like the idea of the Tw200, but I'm concerned about the seat to peg height. I don't care about the overall height, or ground clearance. I just don't want my knees bent too much. This is a number not advertised, but for a rough idea I've taken the seat height minus the ground clearance. The TW seat minus ground clearance 31.1-10.4=20.7 inches and the KLX230S is 32.7-8.3=24.4", almost 4" more. The seat height minus ground clearance is the same 24.4" for the standard KLX230 and the KLX230S I really want the TW, but I think I'm just too tall for it.
Hey Trent! That is a great number to consider. My bro in law is 6'2" and he loves his TW200. For me personally, the foot pegs on the KLX230S are way lower than the TW200 but the ground clearance is way worse than the TW200. If you want the KLX230s I am selling mine! facebook.com/marketplace/item/706066558048676
classifieds.ksl.com/listing/74255198
Excellent review. All those points are very valid complaints.Too bad you can't ditch it for a XT250. Superior to that bike in my opinion. Plus it would be a winning team with your TW200.
I tried to do that.....but there isn't one at my local dealership. I am looking throughout the state for one and I haven't seen one yet
@@MOBStreet83 I've heard they are kind of scarce. Hope it happens for you.
Yes I agreed xt250 would be great, it little more power than tw and fuel injection
@@josephgeorgeejr7039 An xt250 and TW would surely be a fun combo to own.
About those mirrors, the originals are never any good, for my bikes I always get the round folding mirrors on Amazon. They're practical and cheap.
The idle RPMs are high at the start before the engine gets warm. I think there's a thermostat and a servo that regulates the RPM. You could get that manual idle-adjustment screw from Bikehedonia. I've bought one but haven't yet installed it. Also check your gas-handle, maybe the wires are too tight? They should leave about 3 mm of slack/deadzone in the handle.
The original tires are quite bad, yes. I got a pair of Dunlop Trailmax "for dry and rocky terrain", they're good on, and off road although not at all good in wet mud, grass or sand.
Speed; I've gotten up to a 122 kmh on mine, that was on slight downhill, but usually I can reach 110 kmh with little effort, though I don't recommend cruisin at that speed. The KLX230 is at its best around 70-90 kmh on roads.
That shift lever, throw it away. Get a real one for dirt bikes out of cast aluminium with a folding tip, these things do break.
As for that seat, Seat Concepts has a softer and wider seat for the KLX230.
EXCELLENT! Thanks Tomas! Which dirt bike shift lever did you go with? Let me know how the adjuster from BikeHedonia goes for you. I have thought of buying one of them. Yeah, I have seen the Seat Concepts and trying to think of which setup to go with. Thanks again!
@@MOBStreet83 I think it was the shifter for Yamaha YZ450. It fits perfectly and it has that folding tip, in case you down your bike again. The original shifter isn't of very good material. The KLX230 it's kind of like an RC-car, you need to 'upgrade' some things on it before it's really good ;)
That idle-screw I'll be testing later in spring, it's below zero so I'm not riding. I'll let you know.
2:00 There is an explanation, but I can't remember the whole logic behind it. The line has to move according to the compression and also the extension of the forks. Jakethegardensnake has a video somewhere warning people who've tried to anchor their lines incorrectly on the CRF dual sports. I agree, it's annoying and it's in the way, but they do it, for some reason.
(edit) maybe the instruments team and the brakes team don't get along at Kawasaki. Interesting video.
I am sure there is some reason for doing what they did....I just don't understand the logic behind it all since the suspension is fully sprung. One day, I will find out why they have done it!
I hate the brake line to and how soft the front is
Yep!
As for mirrors the Versys mirrors are a straight swap
Thanks!
On the plus side, it matches your shirt.
Valid Point! 😂
Buyers remorse for sure dude lol 😂
Yeah, might not be my brightest moment for sure! I gotta chat with you about yours still!
Told ya about the seat.
You weren't wrong!! 🤣
Well Matt you knew I would be making a comment. I'm just sorry you had to spend all that money to find out that I TOLD YOU SO. That's why the TW has been out so long. I really like the video though. You're TW probably came in a couple days after you bought that. Now the real test will come when you have to sell it,will go for as much as the TW.
Yep, I knew you would. Nope, my 2023 TW hasn't come in yet. That is all okay though, because I wanted to get it to do tests against the TW with. It will be interesting for sure to see what it'll go for when I do get rid of it.
Trade it for an XT250 so we can settle this debate between the TW and XT once and for all. 😏
My dealership doesn't have one, I already called. But, I know where I can find one!
@@MOBStreet83 sounds like a plan! Thinking about picking one up to go with my tw as well
From what I've seen on the specs , the klx230 and the TW have virtually the same top speed. I wouldn't want to be on a freeway on either one .
For me, my TW200 is faster. But, I completely agree, I won't take either on the freeway
My klx250 is faster than either one, especially with the mods I've done ,and I don't want to be on the freeway with it either.
Fair point! 😁
If you think that seat is rough try the Beta seat
My buddy has the Beta Xtrainer and it is a great bike! I can't say I sat much while riding it though so I'm gonna take your word for it!
Rode my friends @saltxthexwound his 300klx sumo and i honestly did not like it had some fun riding it while at the same time not having fun it wasn't fun in the corners and had no torque or anything it felt like i was on a weak untuned version of a drz 400sm and in my opinion i did not think it was worth what they're charging for those bikes but like i said that's just my opinion id recommend just get a nice used suzuki drz 400sm easy to tune easy to ride and a shit ton of fun in the corners off roading and of course super reliable
Maybe I'll have to look and see if I can find the DRZ400! Your buddies channel is great! Just for fun I would love to do a track day on my TW200! 😂
Sorry about your concerns
However, I dont think you can compare this bike to a TW. They are two completely different bikes.
Hey Scott! I appreciate it. The reason I am comparing this to the TW200 is because they have a similar price, engine size and seat height. I know they are two completely different machines and I can appreciate that. There are some things that I love about the bike and I mention that in the next video with it. I was hoping to shed some light for folks who are trying to decide what to do if they are looking at these two machines. They are both great in their own right and I understand that some people have issues with both. These are just my opinions and I know others won't see it like me and that is what makes motorcycling great. Thanks again!
Thanx, I'm gonna avoid this now, especially for the price
I think there are a couple of bikes in the price point that I would choose instead.
What else is at that price point? @@MOBStreet83
The bike looks like a project. How perfect for me who has no money 😂
Total blank canvas!
Is it olive green?
Yep! You wanna buy it? It's for sale right now.
@@MOBStreet83 a bit too far away...lol. I want to see the new low seat Honda 300 first anyways before I decide.
Good call! I've heard they are great bikes
No offense but it sounds like, to me, you bought the klx thinking it was going to behave like the tw. It’s not and it won’t.
The wheels and suspension are the big differences. Of course it has a little more power and 6th gear. I wouldn’t take either on the highway unless I absolutely had to.
I have a dr 200 and I love it in the woods. Those skinny tires get plenty of traction. Just have to trust your equipment. I grew up riding small dirt bikes in the woods so tires moving around is standard stuff with these things.
I say give it some more time to become familiar with the idiosyncrasies of the klx. You may learn to appreciate it for what it is. You must have reasons you bought it hopefully it serves those. Good luck and too many bikes is a good problem to have.
Thanks for the comment Ben! I know there are major differences between the two and I bought it to show those off. There are things that I do like about it and like you said I will appreciate more with time. There is more to come for sure! Thanks again!
For $10 I put some mirror wideners on. Now I'm not staring at my arms. Yay.
Hey Jim! I have been looking at those and I am going to pick up a set! Thanks for advice.
Riding on the snow is a very tricky thing on any bike.
That's the truth! 😂
I just bought a KLX300 and the seat is also awful. It puts "the gentleman" to sleep, if ya know what I mean. It's too bad I have to spend $300+ dollars on a Seat Concepts seat, but I don't know if I can keep riding without it!
If you do buy the seat, I would take it to an upholster. It was a royal pain that required two sets of hands to get mine stapled up.
Matt, all your 'negative' observations about the little KLX 230S are certainly validated, however, for me, this has to be one of the best stock bikes that I have owned, all things considered!
For me, the biggest drawback of this great bike is the low ground clearance (the S-model). What a shame Kawasaki took an even better bike and 'raped' (please pardon the crude analogy!) it by sacrificing the all-important ground clearance - Kawasaki, what were you thinking??!
Unfortunately here in Australia we now only get the lower S-model, and the supermotard one.
Really, you only get the S model? That is crazy! Again, I agree with the ground clearance issue! But, I have brother in law who used to race motocross and he rode with me a few weeks ago. He was on the KLX230 and man, he was doing things with that bike that I didn't know were possible. He came away loving the bike and I came away with a new appreciation for it.