2025 Kawasaki KLX230R & KLX230R S

Midsize trail bike fun gets an overhaul for 2025.

Kawasaki’s KLX230R is overhauled for 2025 with upgraded suspension, larger fuel tank, and a keyed ignition.Kawasaki

Overview

For the rider who is nearly, but not quite full-size, meet the KLX230R and KLX230R S. This platform is the last stop before reaching the full-size model in Kawasaki’s KLX trail bike lineup, the KLX300R. The KLX230R is ideal for teens and small adults from beginners to novice-level riders, and the newly introduced KLX230R S is a slightly lowered variant for an easier reach to the ground for shorter inseams.

The air-cooled fuel-injected 233cc four-stroke single is easy to ride, simple to maintain, and a reliable, capable platform. The KLX230R has always been a popular model for its versatility, but for 2025, the green machine gets an overhaul with what Kawasaki calls a smoother-running engine (less vibrations) with improved low-end torque. A revised frame is more compact with a lower seat height than before at 35.6 inches, and the KLX230R S measuring at 34.4 inches. The chassis also houses a larger-capacity fuel tank and upgraded suspension. The 2025 KLX230R models feature a keyed ignition and fuel tank cap, a thicker, wider seat, and new instrumentation with a low-fuel warning light.

Kawasaki’s KLX230 platform is available in other trims, as well, including the KLX230 (without an R at the end), which is the dual sport version. The KLX230 is very similar to the R models, but has a license plate, headlight, blinkers, and mirrors among other features. The KLX230SM is the supermoto version, also street-legal but with less focus on off-road capability and tuned for zipping around on the street. The key distinction there is the 17-inch wheels (same as a sportbike) and street tires. When shopping for a KLX230, pay close attention to the model names to be sure you’re shopping for the right version.

The 2025 Kawasaki KLX230R S offers a lower seat height for shorter riders.Kawasaki

Pricing and Variants

The 2025 Kawasaki KLX230R and KLX230R S are each available in Lime Green and Battle Gray for $4999.

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2025 Kawasaki KLX230R / KLX230R S Claimed Specs

MSRP: $4999
Engine: SOHC, air-cooled, 4-stroke single-cylinder
Displacement: 233cc
Bore x Stroke: 67.0 x 66.0mm
Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/chain
Fuel System: DFI w/ 32mm Keihin throttle body
Clutch: Wet, multiplate
Frame: High-tensile steel, box-section perimeter
Front Suspension: 37mm telescopic coil-spring fork; 9.8 in. / 8.7 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Uni-Trak linkage system and single shock, spring preload adjustable; 9.8 in. / 8.8 in. travel
Front Brake: 2-piston caliper; 240mm petal disc
Rear Brake: 1-piston caliper; 220mm petal disc
Wheels, Front/Rear: Spoked; 21 in./18 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: 80/100-21 / 100/100-18
Rake/Trail: 25.4°/4.2 in. ; 24.6°/3.9 in.
Wheelbase: 54.1 in. / 53.3 in.
Ground Clearance: 11.4 in. / 10.6 in.
Seat Height: 35.6 in. / 34.4 in.
Fuel Capacity: 2.0 gal.
Wet Weight: 262 lb. / 265 lb. (50-state model)
Contact: kawasaki.com