In 2022, the KLX230 platform became more approachable than ever with the introduction of the ‘S’ version which among other features, offered a lower seat height to make it easier for new and shorter riders to reach the ground. For the new year, Kawasaki is bringing back the friendly KLX230 S with a host of changes including longer travel suspension, new Bluetooth technology, a revised rear subframe, a new ABS system, revised bodywork, and more.

According to Kawasaki, one of the key updates for 2024 lies in the chassis, specifically the revised rear subframe that allows for longer wheel travel and updated seat. This design enables a good amount of ground clearance while still keeping the seat height accessible, providing a comfortable reach to the ground and enhancing off-road performance.

2024 KLX230 S Highlights

• New Longer-travel suspension and more ground clearance
• New ABS system with on/off function
• New Smartphone connectivity with RIDEOLOGY THE APP
• New KX-inspired styling
• New thicker seat with two-tone color
• New LED headlight
• New rear subframe
• Increased low-mid range performance. 
• Revised ECU settings match the increased low mid range torque. 

Chassis And Ergonomics

For the new year, Kawasaki says the redesigned rear subframe traces a lower line on the machine, which allows for longer legs while keeping the reach to the ground approachable. Bump absorption up front is carried out by a 37mm diameter telescopic fork now offering 7.8-inches of suspension travel compared to the 6.2-inches of the outgoing model. At the rear, the Uni-Trak linkage also offers more suspension travel, going from 6.6 inches to 8.7 inches. The single rear shock absorber with pressurized nitrogen gas comes with a threaded preload adjustment, allowing riders to set the bike up for their weight or a passenger. 

In addition, the KLX230 S comes equipped with a new aluminum swingarm that is approximately 2.6-pounds lighter than before, and a lighter rear brake master cylinder helps to further shave weight. 

While the bike’s taller legs have contributed to a 0.5 inch increase of seat height compared to before, the KLX230 S still offers a shorter seat height than the standard model at 33.2-inches. 

The side stand has also been shortened to match the low seat height plus the short 53.7-inch wheelbase combined with 9.4-inches of ground clearance contributes to the bike’s maneuverability, allowing riders to navigate the trail more easily. 

Similar to the lineup of KX motorcycles, the flat design of the tank and seat gives the rider greater freedom of movement when changing riding positions and facilitates sitting farther forward. In addition to trail riding, cruising comfort was also a consideration when deciding the seat shape and thickness. The seams between the shrouds, seat and side covers all fit flush, making it much easier for the rider to move around on the bike.

Engine And Transmission

The 233cc four-stroke air-cooled single-cylinder engine offers smooth, reliable and durable performance in a compact package. A simple SOHC two-valve design was chosen for its easy-to-use power characteristics and reliability. A narrower intake port and 4mm smaller intake valve, now measuring 33mm, help contribute to increased low and mid-range performance, and revised ECU settings match the increased low to mid-range torque.

Fuel injection ensures consistent fuel delivery regardless of outside air temperature or elevation. It also enables the use of an electric starter, for easy starting at the push of a button, whether the engine is hot or cold, and contributes to clean emissions. The fuel injection system utilizes a 32mm throttle body and a longer exhaust pipe length was selected to contribute to the engine’s low-mid range performance. To match its KX-inspired bodywork, the exhaust features a tapered silencer with an oval cross-section.

A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission covers a wide range of street-riding conditions and allows for more comfortable cruising on the highway, which is also effective when trail riding. A 45/14 final gear ratio was selected for an ideal balance of both road and trail riding.

Brakes And Wheels

Keeping things rolling is a set of 21/18 inch aluminum wheels, which for 2024 will come with in black, maintaining the KX-inspired looks that help reflect its sporty character. Stopping power is carried out by petal disc brakes, front and rear. On non-ABS models, a 240mm front disc gripped by a twin-piston caliper offers easy-to-control braking while a single-piston caliper grips a 220mm disc at the rear. ABS-equipped models utilize a 265mm front disc, gripped by a twin-piston caliper while a 220mm disc operated by a single-piston caliper slows the rear.

The dual-purpose ABS system was updated for 2024 and Kawasaki says it is designed to assist riders to stop effectively in a short distance on and off-road. Using a switch on the left side of the handlebar, riders can now disable both the front and rear ABS function based on their preference when riding off-road. Once the bike is turned off and re-started, the ABS returns to its default setting, returning ABS functionality to the rear brake.

Styling And Instrumentation

The KLX230 S gets its styling from Kawasaki’s line of KX motocross motorcycles, and for 2024, an even sportier, more aggressive styling cue was used. The newly designed two-toned seat has a flat profile for added freedom and movement for the rider, and smoother bodywork has eliminated some of the protruding parts that minimized movement. In addition, a new compact LED headlight is the focal point of the KLX230 S front end. The headlight is encased in a slim, sharp new front cowl and offers more brightness. To match the sporty headlight, the front fender features a rugged design.

A redesigned two-gallon fuel tank allows the good times to keep rolling over the course of a long day, and redesigned shrouds and side covers create a single-flowing integrated appearance that mimics the looks of a KX motorcycle. A pair of passenger footpegs enables two-up riding as well. 

The KLX230 S is also equipped with a lockable toolbox compartment, located in the left side cover, which features everything necessary for quick, on-the-spot maintenance jobs. The toolbox utilizes the Kawasaki One-key system, which means that the side cover panel is conveniently unlocked with the ignition key. 

To make the bike more versatile an all-digital instrument panel offers at-a-glance information , plus an easy-to-read LCD display screen now provides smartphone connectivity to access instrument functions. Features include speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, clock, and indicator lamps.

Smartphone Connectivity

Harnessing the power of Bluetooth technology, the KLX230 S offers riders seamless wireless connectivity to their motorcycle. Leveraging the dedicated smartphone application RIDEOLOGY THE APP, this feature unlocks a myriad of functions, enhancing the overall motorcycle experience. Whether it’s monitoring performance metrics, receiving notifications or customizing settings, Bluetooth connectivity allows riders to stay connected to their bike in a modern and intuitive way.

Functions include:

• Vehicle info: battery voltage can be viewed via the smartphone
• Riding log: GPS route information as well as vehicle running information can be logged and viewed via the smartphone
• Telephone notices: when a call or mail is received by the smartphone, this is indicated on the instrument display
• Communication sharing: rider profile, location and riding logs can be shared with other RIDOLOGY THE APP users, allowing riders to interact with other like-minded riders
• Maintenance log: maintenance history like refueling, lubrication, oil changes, consumable parts replacement, and periodic inspections can also be managed.

Availability And Pricing

The 2024 KLX230 S as well as the ABS variant are available now in Lime Green and Battle Gray. In spite of the changes, Kawasaki is keeping pricing of the new model the same as last year, listing the non-ABS KLX230 S at $4,999 and the variant with ABS at $5,299.

Kawasaki KLX230 S Specs