Kawasaki KLX230 at autoX Awards: Best Bikes of 2025 Ranked

Ever since it first hit the market last year, the Kawasaki KLX230 has had quite the roller-coaster of a journey – it first made headlines for its extraordinary price tag, and then again for the equally extraordinary drop in it. But at ₹1.84 lakh (ex-showroom), the KLX230 now seems to be in a sweet spot – a steal for anyone dreaming of a light & capable off-road machine with that iconic Lime Green badge. Powering this featherweight machine is a 233cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine, which produces 18.37bhp at 8,000rpm and 19Nm at 6,400rpm and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. On paper, these numbers might not sound thrilling, but once you twist the throttle, the KLX230’s lively character immediately becomes apparent. It’s one of those bikes that thrives on momentum – it’s light, responsive, and eager to play.

We’d already tested the KLX230 in its natural habitat – off-road – where it was, predictably, impressive. But curiosity got the better of us, so we brought it to our annual track day at the Buddh International Circuit. And that’s where things became interesting.

Also Read: Kawasaki KLX 230 Review: More Capable Than Hero Xpulse 200 and RE Himalayan 450?

On the track, the KLX surprised everyone with its punchy low-end torque and unexpectedly quick cornering pace. The generous ground clearance and skinny tyres meant that knee-down antics were best avoided, but the bike’s agility and willingness to lean were undeniable. My colleague Karan, meanwhile, spent more time riding it on one wheel rather than two until we literally had to drag him off the bike to save the fork seals.

With 240mm of suspension travel at the front and 250mm at the rear, the KLX devours rough terrain and lands jumps like a champ. Its slender frame, tall 880mm seat height, and comfortable ergonomics give it the authentic dirt-bike feel while remaining completely road-legal. Sure, its 7.5-litre tank and seat height might test your patience in the city, but once you hit the dirt, all is forgotten.

Also Read: Kawasaki KLX230 Gets 7-Year Extended Warranty in India – Check Full Details Inside

The Kawasaki KLX230 isn’t about numbers or specs – it’s about pure, unfiltered fun. It’s the kind of bike that reminds you of the reason you fell in love with riding in the first place.