Kawasaki KLX is a popular name among off-road motorcycles and the 2021 line up brings five additional models. The company showcases four-engine configurations for the low maintenance, easy-to-ride and trailblazer KLX motorcycles.
We’ve written earlier this year a story that Kawasaki could be working on a 700cc adventure motorcycle that could bare the name KLX 700 and aim at its rival the Yamaha Tenere 700. Now, Kawasaki adds five additional KLX models on the American motorcycle market.
Kawasaki KLX 230
The company designed this model as a dual-purpose motorcycle to help riders explore any sort of trail around the world. The motorcycle was developed taking inspiration from the KX line and the racing knowledge the brand has in motocross racing. It features a 233cc fuel-injected, air-cooled single, tweaked to deliver low- to mid-range power. The engine is linked to a six-speed transmission with return shift and the KLX 230 is equipped with a manual wet clutch. Moreover, the single-cylinder engine is mounted on a compact steel perimeter frame designed to tackle trail riding. Completing the package is a Hassle-free electric starter, full-size spoked wheels, long-travel suspension, and 10.4-inch (264mm) ground clearance. Also, the Kawasaki KLX 230 is fitted with Kawasaki’s first Dual Purpose ABS system. All these features keep the curb weight at 293.3 lb. (133kg).
Kawasaki KLX 300R
This model is the flagship of the KLX model range and offers a mixture between a dirt bike and a full race bike. Thus, the motorcycle comes with a good balance between engine and chassis performance. It’s equipped with a 292cc fuel-injected, liquid-cooled four-stroke engine and it’s fitted with an electric starter and keyless ignition. Transmission wise it features the same parts as the KLX 230 – six-speed gearbox with return shift and a manual wet clutch. A cool feature on the Kawasaki KLX 300R is the ERGO-FIT 4-way adjustable handlebar which allows the rider to suit it to his riding needs. The lightweight perimeter frame keeps the curb weight down at 282.2 lb. (128 kg). The suspension is provided by an 11.2-inch (285mm) inverted telescopic fork with adjustable compression damping and an 11.2 (285mm) Uni-Trak gas-charged shock with piggyback reservoir with adjustable compression, rebound damping and spring preload. Also, the Kawasaki KLX 300R features a short 56.5-inch (1,435mm) wheelbase to provide agile handling around corners while the high 12-inch (305mm) ground clearance makes it easy for riders to clear technical terrain features. The bike comes equipped with full-size off-road wheels and tires mounted on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels.
Kawasaki KLX 140R F
The F model is the third version of the KLX 140 series. The motorcycle features a 144cc, four-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine wrapped up with an electric starter and keyless ignition. Unlike the previous two Kawasaki KLX models, this motorcycle has a five-speed gearbox with return shift and a wet multi-disc manual clutch. The suspension is provided by a 7.5-inch (190mm) telescopic fork while on the rear Kawasaki mounted a Uni-Trak linkage system and a 7.9-inch (200mm) single shock with piggyback reservoir, 20-way adjustable for rebound damping and threaded preload. Ground clearance is set at 12.4-inches (315mm). Kawasaki KLX 140R F comes equipped with full-size off-road wheels and tires together with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels.
Kawasaki KLX 110R & KLX 110R L
This model was designed to help young riders start and learn motocross and trail riding skills. Kawasaki KLX 110R features a 112cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine mounted on a high-tensile steel frame. The fuel system is provided by an 18mm Keihin carburetor and screw-type throttle limiter. So unlike the other dirt bikes, the KLX 110R lacks fuel injection. Only four-speed gearbox for the transmission system this time, but it features return shift. To make riding easy for kids, Kawasaki equipped the bike with an automatic centrifugal and wet, multi-disc clutch system to help and improve shifting through gears. Suspension wise it’s fitted with a 30mm telescopic fork and single rear shock to keep the dirt bike as simple as possible. Ground clearance sits at 8.5-inches (216mm) while the seat height is 26.8-inch (680mm) which helps the young riders tackle easier the bike’s curb weight of 167.5 pounds (75 kg). The larger version, Kawasaki KLX 110R L comes with taller seat height at 28.7-inches (729mm) compared to 26.8-inches. Also, the bike has more ground clearance with 1.9-inches (48mm) bringing the bike to a total of 10.4-inch (262mm). Moreover, the suspension travel is longer with a 5.5-inch (140mm) hydraulic telescopic fork. On the rear, the KLX 110R L has a 5.2-inch (132mm) single hydraulic shock. Curb weight is the same as the KLX 110R – 67.5 pounds (75 kg).
Kawasaki KLX models and pricing:
- KLX 300R – $5,499
- KLX 230 ABS – $4,899
- KLX 230 – $4,599
- KLX 140R F – $3,749
- KLX 110R – $2,349
- KLX 110R L – $2,549