Published October 24, 2025 by Michael Le Pard , Editor‑in‑Chief
The KLX230 S offers modern conveniences alongside its rugged performance. A low 33.2” seat height makes it accessible to a wide-range of riders.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Kawasaki KLX230S: NO ABS, NO PROBLEMO.
Introducing the 2026 Kawasaki KLX230S…
LIGHTWEIGHT DUAL-SPORT FOR ON- AND OFF-ROAD FUN.
The Kawasaki KLX230 S motorcycle stands out as an accessible, versatile machine designed to bring adventure to riders of all levels. At the core of the KLX230 S is its dependable 233cc four-stroke air-cooled single-cylinder engine, offering smooth and reliable performance. Its compact design, with a bore and stroke of 67.0mm x 66.0mm, ensures durability while delivering a satisfying ride. The fuel injection system guarantees consistent power delivery in various conditions, while the electric starter contributes to its user-friendly nature.
At the heart of the KLX230 S is a 233cc fuel-injected, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine, high-tensile steel perimeter frame, full-size wheels, capable suspension, KX-inspired styling, smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE*, an LED headlight and available both with and without ABS.
2026 Kawasaki KLX230S Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- ABS SYSTEM WITH ON/OFF FUNCTION
- SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY VIA RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE
GET OUT AND PLAY
The KLX230 motorcycle lineup has been a trailblazer in the world of both off-road and on-road fun, purpose-built to deliver a rider-friendly experience. For 2026, the Kawasaki KLX230 S, KLX230 S ABS, and KLX230SM models return stronger than ever and encourage riders to get out and play.
At the heart of the KLX230 S is a 233cc fuel-injected, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine, high-tensile steel perimeter frame, full-size wheels, capable suspension, KX-inspired styling, smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE*, an LED headlight and available both with and without ABS.
The KLX230SM ABS shares many of the same key features found on its KLX230 and KLX230 S counterparts. Unique features that differentiate the KLX230SM ABS from the off-road models include wider 17-inch front and rear wheels, powerful 300mm semi-floating petal disc front brake, stiffer suspension settings, supermoto styling, and footpegs with rubber pads.
2026 Kawasaki KLX230S Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Engineered with a high-tensile steel perimeter frame, the KLX230 S offers exceptional handling for a wide range of terrains. Designed in harmony with the engine, the frame provides an ideal balance of rigidity and a low center of gravity, ensuring a maneuverable and confidence-inspiring ride. With a short 53.7” wheelbase and 9.4” of ground clearance, this motorcycle excels at tackling obstacles and tight trails with ease, making it a great choice for off-road enthusiasts. Suspension duties are managed by a 37mm telescopic front fork with 7.9” of travel, ensuring comfort and control on varied terrains. At the rear, the New Uni-Trak® rear linkage system delivers 8.9-inches of wheel travel, providing excellent bump absorption and road-holding capabilities. The KLX230 S’s full-size black aluminum wheels, 21” at the front and 18” at the rear, add to its ability to navigate challenging conditions. On non-ABS models, a 240mm front disc gripped by a twin-piston caliper offers strong, easy-to-control braking. ABS-equipped models utilize a 265mm front disc, gripped by a twin-piston caliper, which offers strong, easy-to-control braking. Slowing the rear on both models is a 220mm disc gripped by a single-piston caliper.
The KLX230 S offers modern conveniences alongside its rugged performance. A low 33.2” seat height makes it accessible to a wide-range of riders. Its design borrows styling cues from Kawasaki’s KX motocross lineup, exuding a sporty and aggressive aesthetic. Practical features, such as a lockable toolbox for on-the-go maintenance and a two-gallon fuel tank for extended adventures, add to its versatility. The digital instrument panel with Bluetooth® connectivity enhances the riding experience, allowing seamless integration with RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE* for added functionality and convenience.
2026 Kawasaki KLX230S – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $5199 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ NA CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ NA (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
POWER
| POWER | |
| Engine | 4-stroke single, SOHC, air-cooled |
| Displacement | 233cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 67.0 x 66.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Maximum Horsepower | 17 hp¹ @ 8,000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 13.0 lb-ft @ 6,400 rpm |
| Fuel System | DFI® with 32mm throttle body |
| Ignition | TCBI with Electronic Advance |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Final Drive | Sealed chain |
| Electronic Rider Aids | Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) |
PERFORMANCE
| PERFORMANCE | |
| Front Suspension / Wheel Travel | 37mm telescopic fork/7.9 in |
| Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | Uni-Trak® linkage system and single shock with adjustable spring preload/8.8 in |
| Front Tire | 2.75 x 21 |
| Rear Tire | 4.10 x 18 |
| Front Brakes | Single 240mm (265mm ABS Model) petal disc with a dual-piston caliper (and ABS) |
| Rear Brakes | Single 220mm petal disc with single-piston caliper (and ABS) |
DETAILS
| DETAILS | |
| Frame Type | Perimeter, high-tensile steel |
| Rake/Trail | 24.6°/3.8 in |
| Overall Length | 81.9 in |
| Overall Width | 33.3 in |
| Overall Height | 44.9 in |
| Ground Clearance | 9.4 in |
| Seat Height | 33.3 in |
| Estimated Dry Weight | 277.7 lb** (ABS), 275.5 lb** (non-ABS) 50-State Model; 275.6 lb** (ABS), 273.4 lb** (non-ABS) 49-State Model |
| Curb Weight | 293.3 lb* (ABS), 291.1 lb* (non-ABS) 50-State Model; 291.1 lb* (ABS), 288.9 lb* (non-ABS) 49-State Model |
| Fuel Capacity | 2.0 gal |
| Wheelbase | 53.7 in |
| Special Features | ERGO-FIT®, LCD Instrumentation with Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE |
| Color Choices | Lime Green, Bright White |
*Curb weight includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
**Dry weight does not include all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)
¹This vehicle’s HP was measured according to ISO standard 4106. This ISO standard measures HP differently than the SAE standards by which the horsepower of many cars is measured, and as a result the referenced HP measurement may be higher than if it were measured by an SAE standard.
KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and proper apparel. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Adhere to the maintenance schedule in your Owner’s Manual. ©2025 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
Specifications subject to change.
2026 Kawasaki KLX230S – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
NA
2026 Kawasaki KLX230S – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
NA
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
