The Kawasaki KLX230 targets hardcore trail use with its off-road setup, while the Hero XPulse 210 blends everyday practicality with adventure capabilities.
By Reetika Bhatt
Kawasaki has introduced the KLX230 as a lightweight dual-sport offering in India, entering a segment where Hero MotoCorp already has a stronghold with the XPulse. The XPulse 210 brings updates in both design and performance. While both bikes are designed for on- and off-road use, they differ significantly in engine configuration, suspension hardware, and key dimensions. The KLX230 leans toward serious trail riding with its off-road-focused setup, while the XPulse 210 aims to balance daily usability with adventure-readiness. This specification comparison takes a closer look at how the two models stack up against each other in terms of performance, equipment, and overall capability.
The Kawasaki KLX230 is priced at Rs 3.30 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a premium dual-sport motorcycle in India.
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In contrast, the Hero XPulse 210 offers a more budget-friendly option, with prices ranging from Rs 1.76 lakh to Rs 1.86 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant. This significant price difference reflects their distinct target audiences and feature sets.
The Kawasaki KLX230 measures 2,090mm long with a 1,370mm wheelbase, 880mm seat height, and 265mm ground clearance.
On the other hand, the XPulse 210 is expected to be around 2,254mm long, with a 1,446mm wheelbase, 830mm seat height, and 220mm ground clearance, making both bikes similar in height but different in stance and length.
The Kawasaki KLX230 is powered by a 233cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed transmission. It generates 18bhp at 8,000rpm and 18.3Nm of torque at 6,400rpm. The bike is built around a steel perimeter frame and comes with a 37mm telescopic front fork offering 240mm of travel, while the rear features a preload-adjustable monoshock with 250mm of travel. Braking duties are handled by 265mm front and 220mm rear petal discs, backed by dual-channel ABS. It runs on 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels, shod with dual-purpose tyres suited for mixed terrain.
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Meanwhile, the Hero XPulse 210 gets a more advanced 210cc liquid-cooled DOHC engine derived from the Karizma XMR. This motor delivers 24.26bhp and 20.7Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and aided by a slipper and assist clutch. Suspension setup includes a telescopic front fork with 210mm travel and a monoshock at the rear with 205mm travel. It, too, comes with disc brakes at both ends and switchable ABS. Rolling on the same 21/18-inch wheel combo as the KLX, it uses tubed block-pattern tyres for better grip off-road. At 170kg, it strikes a solid balance between control and durability for trail riding.
The Kawasaki KLX230 offers a basic LCD display that includes smartphone connectivity through the Kawasaki Rideology app, enabling riders to receive call and message alerts. Additional convenience features include a rear luggage rack and a USB-C charging port, making it suitable for both commuting and adventure rides.