The Kawasaki KLX230 S is the latest addition to the KLX230 lineup in India, joining the standard KLX230 and the off-road-only KLX230R S. Built on the same platform and sharing the same mechanical package as the standard KLX230, the KLX230 S is aimed at riders who want the KLX experience in a more accessible package. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about it.
What is the price of the Kawasaki KLX230 S in India?
The Kawasaki KLX230 S is priced at Rs 2.19 lakh (ex-showroom), the same as the standard KLX230. Deliveries are set to begin in mid-September, and bookings are open at Kawasaki dealerships for a token amount of Rs 5,500.
What engine does the Kawasaki KLX230 S use?
The Kawasaki KLX230 S is powered by the same 233cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine used across the KLX230 range. It produces 19hp at 7,800rpm and 19Nm at 6,200rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
What is the suspension travel on the Kawasaki KLX230 S?
The KLX230 S uses a 37mm conventional telescopic fork with 160mm of wheel travel and a Uni-Trak rear monoshock with adjustable preload and 163mm of travel. That's notably less than the standard KLX230, which offers 220mm of front and 223mm of rear wheel travel – a trade-off made to achieve the lower seat height.
What community is saying on the KLX230 S?
What is the seat height and ground clearance of the Kawasaki KLX230 S?
The KLX230 S has a seat height of 830mm – 50mm lower than the standard KLX230's 880mm – and 220mm of ground clearance, compared to 255mm on the standard model. The reduction in both figures is a direct result of the shorter suspension travel and is the primary trade-off for the more accessible seat height. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel combination is retained from the standard KLX230.
How does the Kawasaki KLX230 S differ from the standard KLX230?
The KLX230 S and the standard KLX230 are mechanically identical, sharing the same engine, gearbox, wheels, tyres and features, including an LED headlight, digital instrument cluster and switchable single-channel ABS. The main differences are the lower 830mm seat height (versus 880mm), reduced suspension travel (160/163mm versus 220/223mm) and the resulting reduction in ground clearance.
Autocar India Team 
Stephen Raj Antony
