KLX230R

The KLX230R is Kawasaki's competition-oriented variant of the KLX230, positioned as a lightweight, off-road-focused motorcycle in the company's KLX lineup. The R designation signals a emphasis on performance and suspension tuning for riders who compete in or train for off-road events, rather than street-legal versatility.

Power and drivetrain: The bike uses a compact single-cylinder four-stroke engine in the roughly 230 cc class, with fuel injection for reliable throttle response across varied terrain. A six-speed transmission is paired with electric starting to balance ease of use for trail riding and competition settings. The exhaust is tuned to deliver a broad, usable powerband suitable for off-road scenarios.

Chassis and suspension: The KLX230R employs a lightweight steel frame and long-travel suspension designed for rough trails. Front suspension typically consists of inverted forks, while the rear uses a monoshock linked to the swingarm. Wheel sizes are commonly 21 inches at the front and 18 inches at the rear, with a high ground clearance to improve off-road capability. Brakes are hydraulic discs on both ends, chosen to provide predictable stopping power while keeping weight down.

Ergonomics and equipment: Ergonomics emphasize rider control for standing and maneuvering over uneven terrain. Practical off-road features such as a skid plate and handguards are commonly fitted, and the bike generally omits some road-oriented equipment found on street-legal models, including electronics like ABS in many markets.

Market position and availability: The KLX230R targets entry- to mid-level off-road riders seeking a race-ready platform. Availability and exact specifications vary by year and region, with competition coming from other brands’ mid-displacement off-road motorcycles.