Kawasaki is expanding its small‑bore dual‑sport lineup for 2027 with the introduction of the KLX300 XPL, a new “ADV‑Lite” variant built on the proven KLX300 platform but equipped with comfort and utility features aimed at riders who spend more time on pavement between trails. The XPL joins the returning KLX300, the supermoto‑focused KLX300SM, and the new rugged‑styled KLX300 DF.

The KLX300 platform has long been known for its approachable manners thanks to its higher gearing and updated gear‑driven balancer. Kawasaki has continued refining that formula for 2027, with the company stating they have given the XPL more power and equipment to support longer days in the saddle.

Explorer‑Focused Features

The new XPL builds on the KLX300’s dual‑sport foundation with equipment aimed at comfort, wind protection, and light‑touring practicality:

• Tall clear windshield to reduce chest‑to‑chin wind exposure
• Hand guards for wind reduction and lever protection
• Round LED headlight with separate low/high chambers and retro‑inspired styling
• Rear carrier with built‑in tie‑down hooks for gear and weekend supplies
• Bold brush‑pattern graphics inspired by 1980s–1990s KX motocross machines

Kawasaki describes the XPL as blending “old‑school character with modern functionality,” giving the bike a distinctive look, while retaining the slim, nimble KLX300 dual sport platform underneath.

Updated Engine

For 2027, Kawasaki says the biggest change to the 292cc DOHC single is a new plain‑bearing connecting‑rod big end, replacing the previous needle bearing. This reduces friction and improves durability, contributing to increased power compared to the prior model. Kawasaki also borrowed cam profiles from the KLX300R off‑road model and retained the lightweight piston, pin, and electrofusion cylinder coating for crisp throttle response. Kawasaki now lists output at 26.8 hp at 8,000 rpm and 18.4 lb‑ft at 6,800 rpm, up from 25.0 hp and 17.7 lb‑ft previously. 

The KLX300 has long been one of the smoothest small‑bore singles in the class — something we noted in our 2021 review — and the updated engine continues that trend. The gear‑driven balancer, optimized ignition timing and taller gearing all help keep vibration low at highway speeds, making the new XPL and other KLX 300 variants more comfortable for longer rides.

The chassis remains unchanged from the standard KLX300, built around a high‑tensile steel perimeter frame with a 43mm inverted cartridge fork and fully adjustable Uni‑Trak rear shock. Like its sibling, the KLX300 XPL features 10 inches of front travel and 9.1 inches in the rear, rolling on full‑size 21/18‑inch wheels with Dunlop D605 dual‑purpose tires.

New Front‑Wheel ABS

Kawasaki introduces ABS to the KLX300 lineup for the first time in the U.S. For 2027, front‑wheel ABS will be added to all KLX300 variants. On dual‑sport models, the system can be disabled via a left‑handlebar switch when riding off‑road. 

To accommodate the new ABS system, Kawasaki relocated the ABS components to the right side of the bike, which required removing the right‑side radiator. Cooling performance is preserved by switching to a single, larger radiator on the left. This packaging update allowed Kawasaki to add ABS without widening the chassis or altering the frame layout. A new short-style brake lever, optimized to provide precise brake feel with ABS operation, has also been adopted along with a matching short-style clutch lever.

New LCD Dash

All KLX300 models receive a new compact digital dash featuring:

• Speedometer
• Odometer
• Dual trip meters
• Current/average fuel consumption
• Clock
• Battery voltage
• Service reminders
• Bluetooth indicator
• Call/email notifications

Smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE adds route logging, maintenance tracking, navigation functions, and the ability to share riding logs with other users.

Model Variants for 2027

KLX300 ABS — $5,999 / $6,199 (Camo)
Standard dual‑sport platform with new front-only ABS, new dash, and updated engine.

KLX300 DF ABS — $6,299 (Medium Cloudy Gray)
Adds rugged, utilitarian styling with hand guards and rear carrier; subdued earth‑tone colorway.

KLX300SM ABS — $6,399
Supermoto variant with 17‑inch wheels, street tires, shorter suspension travel, and always‑on ABS.

KLX300 XPL ABS — $6,499 (Ebony)
Explorer‑focused with windshield, hand guards, round LED headlight, and rear carrier.

KLX300 XPL Specs