Kawasaki KLX 230 Launched And Priced At Rs. 3.30 Lakhs (ex-showroom)
Kawasaki had showcased the KLX 230 in India a few month back with a small test ride opportunity but has not released the pricing. With expectations soaring high, the prices for the Japanese entry-level adventure motorcycle was showcased and the KLX 230 is now expected to be over Rs. 4 lakhs on-road Mumbai as the ex-showroom cost is at Rs. 3.30 lakhs.
Key Specifications and Features
Powered by a 233cc air-cooled single-cylinder SOHC 2-valve motor producing only 18.1 BHP at 8000 RPM and 18.3 Nm of torque at 6400 RPM. It might not seem too powerful but the KLX weighs only 139 kgs making it good enough for adventure duties.
The KLX comes with long travel suspension on both the ends with the suspension travel over 240 mm. Also equipped with off-road rubber and 21-18 front-rear wheel size for a great balance. The only downside for the KLX is the tiny 7.6 litre fuel tank which could give a maximum riding range of just 250-280 kms.
For the electronics bit, the KLX stays raw and only comes equipped with an ABS unit for safer braking duties. Yes there’s discs on both the ends with dual-channel ABS.
Aimed at Adventure Enthusiasts
Introduction of KLX in the Indian market opens up an opportunity for Kawasaki to attract more budget friendly customers aiming at adventure bikes. Kawasaki earlier had the Versys 300 but it was more of a touring motorcycle while the KLX is specifically designed for adventure riding.
Market Position and Competition
In terms of competition, the KLX 230 should be competing with the Xpulse from Hero but the pricing brings it closer to the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the KTM 390 Adventure.
Priced on a higher side, there is a bit of disappointment from the enthusiasts as they were expecting a pure Japanese adventure motorcycle on a budget. While the Kawasaki KLX 230 does not really have anything special to offer apart from being a ready-to-offroad motorcycle, the market positioning and competition check has gone for a toss.
