Kawasaki has launched a more road-focused model of its KLX230 with an ‘S’ suffix. The KLX230 S comes with a lower seat height and reduced suspension travel, making it ideal for riders that are intimidated by the tall seat-height of the regular KLX230. Here we pit it against the Hero Xpulse 210, to see how it fairs on paper.
Kawasaki KLX230 S vs Hero Xpulse 210: Engine and output
The Xpulse 210 boasts a better power-to-weight ratio
Despite its larger 233cc displacement, the KLX230 S trails the Xpulse 210 in outright performance. The Hero produces 5.6hp and 1.7Nm more while also boasting a better power-to-weight ratio. The Kawasaki, however, develops its peak power and torque lower down the rev range, suggesting it should feel more relaxed at lower engine speeds.
Kawasaki KLX230 S vs Hero Xpulse 210: Weight and dimensions
The KLX230 S is 31kg lighter than the Xpulse 210
The KLX230 S’ biggest advantage is its kerb weight. At 139kg, it’s a substantial 31kg lighter than the Xpulse 210, which should make it easier to handle on technical trails and at lower speeds. Both motorcycles have the same 830mm seat height and 220mm ground clearance, but the Hero counters with a much larger 13-litre fuel tank and a longer wheelbase that could lend it greater stability. As opposed to the standard KLX230's 890mm seat height and 255mm ground-clearance, the KLX230 S gets a more accessible seat height.
Kawasaki KLX230 S vs Hero Xpulse 210: Tyres, brakes and suspension
Both motorcycles come with the same off-road biased 21/18-inch setup
On paper, both motorcycles employ a conventional telescopic fork and monoshock setup and ride on a 21-/18-inch wheel combination. The Kawasaki uses slightly larger brake discs at both ends, while the Hero features wider tyres, particularly at the front, although the two use different tyre sizing conventions.
Kawasaki KLX230 S vs Hero Xpulse 210: Features
The Xpulse gets a TFT dash on its top-variant
Here the KLX230 S falls short of offering creature comforts like a TFT dash and Bluetooth connectivity that the Xpulse 210 gets on its top-spec variant. However, both motorcycles cover the essentials such as LED headlights and ABS. The Xpulse 210 gets dual-channel ABS with modes whereas the KLX230 S gets single-channel ABS. Sticking to their off-road intent, both motorcycles get a tubed tyre setup with a 21-inch/18-inch (F/R).
Kawasaki KLX230 S vs Hero Xpulse 210: Price
At Rs 2.19 lakh (ex-showroom), the KLX230 S costs around Rs 43,000 more than the top-spec Xpulse 210. That premium buys you a significantly lighter motorcycle, but on paper the Hero offers stronger performance and a much larger fuel tank for considerably less money. It is also worth bearing in mind that the Kawasaki is a more premium brand whose after sales service ought to cost more.
Vishal Venugopal
Autocar India News Desk
Dinshaw Magol
