The new KLX230R has been released with an evolved look and feel.
Kawasaki will release fully redesigned “KLX230R” and “KLX230R S” on September 25, 2025. Both models are positioned as off-road competition models and are not designed for use on public roads. While retaining the good points of the previous models, improvements have been made throughout to enhance ease of handling, ride comfort, and off-road driving performance.
A balancer has been added to the 232cc air-cooled engine, improving handling at low and medium speeds.
The engine is an air-cooled 232cc single-cylinder, and the addition of a uniaxial primary balancer reduces vibration at low and mid-speed ranges, improving riding comfort. The intake valve diameter has been narrowed from the previous 37mm to 33mm, improving torque at low and mid-speed ranges and throttle response. The fuel tank has been changed from plastic to steel, and its capacity has been increased from 6.6L to 7.6L, improving cruising range. The front and rear wheels are 21-inch and 18-inch, respectively, and combined with the long-stroke suspension, they improve handling on rough roads.
The low-seat version “S” takes into consideration the rider’s height and build.
The riding position has also been revised. The grips have been moved 25mm forward and the footpegs shifted 9mm rearward to improve maneuverability, while the caster angle has been steepened (from 26.5° to 25.4°) to make cornering easier. The seat height has been lowered 20mm from 925mm to 905mm, and the cushion has been thickened to improve comfort. The KLX230R S model has an even lower seat height of 875mm, and wheel travel has been shortened front and rear for easier handling. The design adopts the latest KX style, with black anodized rims and revised levers for a more sleek look.
Positioned as a non-road-legal “competition” model
Both the KLX230R and KLX230R S are priced at 544,500 yen (tax included) and are sold at Kawasaki authorized dealers and off-road entry shops. It is clearly stated that these models are not legal for road use, and are intended for off-road use such as racing and training. Lime green and bright white are available as colors. Production for the Japanese market takes place at Kawasaki’s overseas factory in Indonesia.
The full model change of the KLX230R/KLX230R S aims to provide riders who enjoy off-road riding with greater control and comfort than ever before. Engine control, chassis, seat height, and riding position have all been improved, with a particular emphasis placed on the balance between “ease of handling” and “drivability.” While not intended for road use, this model features performance enhancements throughout to meet its purpose.
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KLX230R, KLX230R S
KLX230R, KLX230R S
KLX230R, KLX230R S
