News Article: Kawasaki KLX230R S - Off-Road Powerhouse with Unique Features
Launched in 2026, the new off-road motorcycle Kawasaki KLX 230R S debuts at an price of ₹1,94,000
The Kawasaki KLX230R S is a purpose-built off-road bike, designed for those who seek thrills on unpaved trails. This machine, however, comes with a unique twist when compared to its international counterpart.
Differences Between India-Spec and International-Spec Kawasaki KLX230R Models
The India-spec KLX230R S weighs 129 kg, due to the use of a high-tensile steel frame and swingarm. This is in contrast to the international-spec model, which uses an aluminium swingarm and frame, making it lighter by about 14 kg. Both models, however, are designed for off-road use and do not come with road-legal equipment such as headlights, indicators, or mirrors.
The India-made model achieves about 95% localization to reduce costs, featuring a high-tensile steel frame and swingarm. On the other hand, the CKD version uses lighter materials such as aluminium for its chassis and swingarm.
Key Features of the Kawasaki KLX230R S
The KLX230R S uses 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels with knobby tyres, providing excellent traction off-road. It boasts a seat height of 900 mm and a ground clearance of 270 mm, ensuring a comfortable riding position and ample clearance for challenging terrains.
The bike is equipped with a 233 cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected single-cylinder engine, producing approximately 19 hp and 20 Nm of torque. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox.
The suspension system includes a 37 mm telescopic front fork with 220 mm of travel, along with a rear link-type monoshock with 223 mm of travel. The bike is braked by a 290 mm disc up front and a 230 mm disc at the rear.
Pricing and Availability
The Kawasaki KLX230R S is priced at ₹1.99 lakh ex-showroom after a price cut of ₹1.30 lakh. A road-legal version of the KLX230R S is available, called the KLX230R.
Competition in the Market
The KLX230R S faces competition from other bikes such as the Kawasaki KLX 110RL, Kawasaki KLX 140R F, Kawasaki Versys X 300, KTM 390 Enduro R, Yamaha Lander 250, and the upcoming Yamaha Lander 250 with a 249 cc engine.
In conclusion, the Kawasaki KLX230R S is a powerful off-road bike with unique features, catering to those who seek adventure beyond the tarmac. Its differences with the international-spec model, particularly in weight and material composition, add to its distinct character.
Sports enthusiasts seeking off-road challenges will find the Kawasaki KLX230R S an enticing option. This bike, designed for unpaved trails, exhibits unique features when compared to its international counterpart, such as a high-tensile steel frame and swingarm in the India-spec model, making it 14 kg heavier than the international-spec model with an aluminium chassis and swingarm.
