First introduced in 2006 as the KLX250, Kawi’s small-displacement dual sport has received a range of key updates over its 15 years of existence. None arguably more significant than this year’s boost in power — achieved through a 43cc increase in displacement, optimized ignition timing and a higher-performance camshaft. 

With improved versatility in mind, Kawasaki engineers also added slimmer radiators, additional suspension tweaks, a new engine balancer, and taller gearing for 2021. Sure, nothing groundbreaking, but sometimes it’s those incremental changes that perfect the breed. And moving up from the 250cc to 300cc class is one change that can make a bigger difference than you might expect, especially for a bike designed to hit the trails and perhaps even cruise on the highway while carrying luggage.

After weeks of testing over hundreds of miles, in wide ranging terrain, we took a deep dive with the KLX300 to get a sense of its full range of capabilities. In this video, we give a rundown of its performance in the dirt, on asphalt and traveling on the highway, to determine if the latest round of changes really offer a major advantage. 

Is it still the same user-friendly dual sport? Could it be your Light ADV? Do you still need to truck it to the trails? What still needs improving? We have answers for all your burning questions and more.

Thanks for checking out the video and leave us your thoughts and questions in the comments below. For those of you who prefer to read, you can check out our full review article of the 2021 Kawasaki KLX300 here.

Photos by Kevin Wing

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Mexico, North Africa, Europe, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.