Tag Archives: Kawasaki KLX230 S

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500, Z500, KLX230 S, and KLX230SM Review | First Look 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 KRT Edition in Lime Green / Ebony

Kawasaki updates its 2024 lineup with a new Ninja 500 sportbike and Z500 naked bike using the 451cc parallel-Twin found in the sport-cruiser Kawasaki Eliminator. It has also updated the Kawasaki KLX230 S dual-sport and KLX230SM supermoto. 

Related: 2024 Kawasaki Eliminator Review | First Ride 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500 

2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS
2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS in Candy Lime Green / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Graphite Gray

Kawasaki adds to its Ninja family of motorcycles with the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and the Z500 naked version. These two new motorcycles come in standard as well as SE versions with special features, and they both include a 451cc parallel-Twin, new styling, a new LCD instrument panel, and a new seat shape. 

Engine | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE ABS in Passion Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Dark Gray

The Ninja 500 and Z500 are powered by the liquid-cooled 451cc parallel-Twin found in the Kawasaki Eliminator sport-cruiser introduced last year. Adapted from the same engine found in the Ninja 400, this engine adds 52cc of displacement for better acceleration and performance at high rpm due to a lengthened stroke of 6.8mm. Also new to the 500s are a new crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons suitable for the larger displacement. Additionally, the top ring land of the aluminum pistons now features a hard alumite treatment suitable for higher pressure. 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500
The 451cc parallel-Twin powering the Ninja 500 and Z500 is adopted from the Kawasaki Eliminator sport-cruiser.

Chassis | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500 

The Ninja 500 and Z500 feature a trellis frame with the engine as a stressed member and with a supersport-style short-wheelbase/long-swingarm configuration. The wheelbase is 54.1 inches, and seat heigh is 30.9 inches. The Ninja 500 weighs 377 lb, while the Z500 with less bodywork comes in at 368 lb. Fuel capacity is 3.7 gallons. 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Raw Graystone

Both bikes feature a nonadjustable 41mm telescopic front fork. In the rear is a bottom-link Uni-Trak suspension unit with five-step preload adjustability using an included tool kit. Braking power comes in the form of a single 310mm front disc gripped by a 2-piston caliper and a single 220mm rear disc with a 2-piston caliper. The star-pattern 5-spoke wheels help keep weight low. 

2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS
2024 Kawasaki Z500 SE ABS in Candy Persimmon Red/Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray

The Ninja 500 features an elevated position of its clip-on handlebars along with a slightly foot-forward footpeg placement for a relaxed rider triangle. The handlebar on the Z500 is taller and wider for a more upright riding position. Kawasaki claims the ergonomics on both bikes is intended to provide a balance between comfort and a sporty attitude to satisfy a wide range of rider needs. 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500

Technology | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500 

Also new for the 500s is a high-contrast LCD instrument panel that displays odometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, dual trip meters, remaining range, current and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, clock, connected device notification, service indicator, and the economical riding indicator. This last feature appears on the LCD screen to signal favorable fuel consumption conditions so that riders can optimize fuel efficiency. 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500

Through Rideology the App, riders can access vehicle info, a riding log, smartphone notifications, a maintenance log, and the ability to share location and riding logs with other app users. 

Styling | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500 

Styling is where the Ninja 500 and the Z500 diverge. The Ninja 500 features a redesigned front end and large-volume bodywork inherited from larger-displacement Ninjas, along with compact LED headlights, built-in front turnsignals, and an LED taillight with a new design. 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE 40th Anniversary Edition ABS in Lime Green / Pearl Crystal White / Blue

The Z500 features less bodywork, as well as a triple LED headlight configuration that acts as a styling focal point. The two upper headlights serve as low beams while the lower headlight acts as the high beam. The Z500 also features a new LED taillight. 

2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS
The 2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS features a triple LED headlight.

The SE versions of the Ninja 500 and Z500 add a variety of upgrades. The SE versions of both bikes feature a full color TFT display, a USB-C outlet, a radiator screen, frame sliders, a pillion seat cover, a tank pad, and knee-grip pads. Also included on the Ninja 500 SE is a large clear windscreen and Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System, which uses a key fob to allow riders to remotely release the bike’s steering lock and main switch. The Z500 SE comes with a smoke-colored meter cover. 

Pricing | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500 

The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 comes standard in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Raw Graystone for $5,299. The KRT Edition adds $200. The ABS version is available in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Raw Graystone, White Silver / Metallic Moondust Gray, or Passion Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Dark Gray from $5,699-5,899. The SE ABS and KRT SE ABS versions come in Passion Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Dark Gray for $6,399. The SE 40th Anniversary Edition ABS comes in Lime Green / Pearl Crystal White / Blue for $6,599. 

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 ABS in White Silver / Metallic Moondust Gray

The 2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS comes in Candy Lime Green / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Graphite Gray for $5,599, and the SE ABS version comes in Candy Persimmon Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray for $6,299. 

All Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500 variations are available now. Visit the Kawasaki website for more information. 


2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM 

2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S
2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S in Lime Green

The Kawasaki KLX230 S dual-sport and KLX230SM supermoto models, first introduced in 2020, also receive updates for 2024. The most notable updates for these two models are found in the chassis and the revised rear subframe, along with some other updates to the ABS system, styling, seat, and added smartphone connectivity. 

Related: 2024 Kawasaki KLX300 and KLX300SM | First Look Review 

Engine | 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM 

2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM
The 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM are powered by an air-cooled 232cc Single.

Powering the KLX230 S and KLX230SM is an air-cooled 233cc Single with a bore and stroke of 67.0mm x 66.0mm. The long stroke offers good low-to-mid-range torque. The intake port is 4mm narrower for 2024 (now measuring 33mm) to help contribute to low-to-mid-range performance. These bikes use a 6-speed transmission with a 45/14 final gear ratio selected for a balance of road and trail riding. 

Chassis | 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM 

Both models ride on a high-tensile steel perimeter frame, and for 2024, the rear subframe has been redesigned to trace a lower line on the machine, allowing for longer wheel travel while maintaining good ground reach. Both bikes have a 53.7-inch wheelbase. Ground clearance on the KLX230 S is 9.5 inches, while on the KLX230SM it’s 8.7 inches. 

2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM
2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM in Battle Gray

On the KLX230 S, a 37mm telescopic fork provides 7.9 inches of travel. A new Uni-Trak rear linkage shock allows 8.9 inches of travel and is preload adjustable. Additionally, a new aluminum swingarm is 2.6 lb lighter than the previous swingarm. The new chassis design has allowed for a lower seat height of 33.3 inches, and the sidestand has also been shortened to match the lower seat height. 

2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S
2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S in Battle Gray

The KLX230 SM, designed more for on-road use than its KLX230 S brethren, uses a 37mm inverted fork up front with 7.4 inches of front wheel travel. Like the KLX230 S, the SM adds the Uni-Trak rear linkage shock with preload adjustability. For 2024, suspension settings were revised to create a more forward-leaning posture and increase rear wheel travel to 8.8 inches. To accommodate on-road riding, the SM comes with stiffer spring settings, and the off-road footpegs from the 230S are replaced with standard footpegs with rubber pads on the SM. The SM’s seat height is 33.1 inches. 

2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM
The 2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM and KLX230 S feature a new compact LED headlight.

The 2024 Kawaski KLX230 S rides on aluminum wheels, measuring 21 inches in the front and 18 inches in the rear compared to the Kawasaki KLX230SM’s 17-inch front and rear wheels that are wider than the KLX230 S wheels. The dual-sport KLX230 S comes with a 240mm front petal disc gripped by a 2-piston caliper, while the supermoto KLX230SM uses a 300mm front petal disc and 2-piston caliper. Both bikes feature the same 220mm rear disc with single-piston caliper. 

Technology | 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM 

The KLX230 S dual-sport comes standard without ABS, and an ABS version is available, while the KLX230SM supermoto comes standard with ABS. The ABS unit has been updated for 2024 with a switch on the left side of the handlebar that can be used to disable both front and rear ABS. When the bike is turned off and back on, ABS returns to default. 

2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM

Both bikes feature a new compact LED headlight and a redesigned two-toned seat with a flatter silhouette that allows more freedom of movement. Additionally, the bodywork has been smoothed over to eliminate some protruding parts. The 2-gallon fuel tank has also been redesigned.  

2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM
The LCD display offers additional functionality through Rideology the App.

Also new for 2024 is smartphone connectivity through Rideology the App. The app gives riders access to vehicle information, a GPS-informed riding log, smartphone notifications on the LCD display screen, a maintenance log, and communication sharing with other app users. 

Pricing | 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM 

2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S
2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S in Lime Green

The 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S comes in Lime Green / Battle Gray for $4,999 without ABS or $5,299 with ABS. The 2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM supermoto variant comes in Battle Gray for $5,599. Both bikes are available now. 

Visit the Kawasaki website for more information. 

Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2024 Motorcycle Buyers Guide  

The post 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500, Z500, KLX230 S, and KLX230SM Review | First Look  appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Kawasaki Announces More New and Updated 2023 Models

2023 Kawasaki
The all-new Kawasaki KLX230SM

Kawasaki has announced a slew of new and updated models to its 2023 lineup. New models include three additions to the KLX230 family and the new KLR650 S. Updated models include the Ninja 650, the Z650, and the KX450SR.

2023 Kawasaki KLX230

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki KLX230 in Battle Gray

New for 2023 is the dual-purpose KLX230. Designed to be lightweight and easily maneuverable for both trail and street riding, the KLX230 features a 4-stroke 233cc air-cooled engine with electric start and compact steel perimeter frame. The short 54.3-inch wheelbase along with the high 10.4-inch ground clearance adds to the maneuverability of the bike. The KLX230 also features front and rear disc brakes, a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel, a front fork with 8.7 inches of travel suspension, and a rear suspension with 8.8 inches of wheel travel. Available for $4,999 in Battle Gray.

Read all of Rider‘s Kawasaki reviews

2023 Kawasaki KLX230 S

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki KLX230 S in Lime Green

The 2023 KLX230 S is a more approachable version of the KLX230 and features a lower seat height of 32.7 inches (compared to 34.8 inches on the KLX230). The lower seat height is due to the shorter wheel travel, with 6.2 inches of travel in the front and 6.6 inches of travel in the rear.

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki KLX230 S in Battle Gray

ABS is optional, and riders have the ability to turn the ABS function on and off. The non-ABS option is available for $4,999 in Lime Green and Battle Gray while the ABS option is available for $5,299 in Battle Gray.

2023 Kawasaki KLX230SM

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki KLX230SM in Oriental Blue

The KLX230 family grows with the new KLX230SM supermoto, designed for a more comfortable ride on pavement. Featuring the same 233cc air-cooled engine and electric start as the KLX230 and KLX230 S, the KLX230SM comes with 17-inch front and rear wheels that are wider than the wheels on the KLX230. The 37mm inverted forks add front-end rigidity and give the bike a sportier look.

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki KLX230SM in Lime Green

The compact LED headlight and blacked-out engine, frame, swingarm, handlebars, and rims add to the street-ready appearance. The non-ABS option is available in Lime Green and Oriental Blue for $5,299 while the ABS option is available in Lime Green for $5,599.

2023 Kawasaki KLR650 S

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki KLR650 S in Pearl Storm Gray

Following the release of the all-new KLR650 last year, Kawasaki adds the KLR650 S to the 2023 lineup. It shares the 652cc single-cylinder engine, the digital instrumentation panel, high-tensile double-cradle frame, and the LED headlight with last year’s KLR650. New to the KLR650 S is the model configurations for added versatility.

Related Story: 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure | Road Test Review

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki KLR650 S in Candy Lime Green

The KLR650 S also features a lower front and rear suspension. The 41mm fork offer 6.7 inches of suspension travel while the rear suspension sits at 7.0 inches of travel. The 21-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheels allow riders to enjoy this bike both on and off the roads. The standard KLR650 S is available for $6,899 in Pearl Storm Gray and Candy Lime Green, and the KLR650 S with ABS is available in Pearl Storm Gray for $7,199.

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 in Metallic Matte Graphensteel Gray / Ebony

The Ninja 650 has been updated for model year 2023. Like previous models, the 2023 Ninja 650 features a 649cc parallel-Twin engine, a 4.3 -inch TFT display, twin LED headlights, and smartphone connectivity.

Related Story: 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650 | Road Test Review

What sets the 2023 model apart from past iterations is the Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC). The KTRC assesses several parameters to get a real-time picture of the riding conditions. It also allows riders to select between two modes. Mode 1 facilitates acceleration out of corners by maximizing forward drive from the rear wheel, making it ideal for sport riding. Mode 2 reduces engine output when excessive wheel-spin is detected to help riders navigate wet pavement. Riders also have the option to turn the system off.

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 in Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Matte Flat Raw Graystone / Ebony

The 2023 Ninja 650 is available for $7,999 in Metallic Matte Graphensteel Gray / Ebony or Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Matte Flat Raw Graystone / Ebony.

2023 Kawasaki Z650

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki Z650 in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black

The naked Z650 returns in 2023 with the 649cc parallel-Twin engine, a 4.3-inch TRT display, LED headlight, a thick passenger seat, and smartphone connectivity.

Related Story: 2017 Kawasaki Z650 | First Ride Review

New for 2023 is the Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) system, the same system equipped in the updated 2023 Ninja 650. The KTRC assesses several parameters to get a real-time picture of the riding conditions. It also allows riders to select between two modes. Mode 1 facilitates acceleration out of corners by maximizing forward drive from the rear wheel, making it ideal for sport riding. Mode 2 reduces engine output when excessive wheel-spin is detected to help riders navigate wet pavement. Riders also have the option to turn the system off.

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki Z650 in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Ebony

The 2023 Z650 is available in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black or Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Ebony for $7,749.

2023 Kawasaki KX450SR

2023 Kawasaki
2023 Kawasaki KX450SR in Lime Green

The race-ready KX450SR returns in 2023 with new Showa front and rear suspension components. The KX450 debuted in 2022 with a 449cc engine with electric start, a close-ratio 5-speed transmission, and a slim aluminum perimeter frame. The new Showa front and rear suspension components on the 2023 KX450SR feature a titanium-oxide inner fork tube that improves wear resistance and reduces friction. The rear shock offers dual compression adjustability so that high speed and low speed damping can be tuned separately. The handlebar can also be adjusted in 12 different positions for rider customization.

The 2023 KX450SR will be available in late fall in Lime Green for $12,699.

Other Models in the 2023 Kawasaki Lineup

2023 Kawasaki

Ninja H2R

Ninja H2

Ninja H2 Carbon

Ninja ZX-14R ABS

Ninja ZX-10R

Ninja ZX-10R KRT Edition

Ninja ZX-10RR

Ninja ZX-6R KRT Edition

Z125 PRO

Z650 RS

Z900 ABS

Z900 SE

Versys 650 LT

Versys 1000 SE LT+

W800

Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS

The post Kawasaki Announces More New and Updated 2023 Models first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com