At 6'7" and an experienced ADV rider, I'm looking at this thing as a minibike like a grom or z125. Once these hit the used market because NoT fAsT eNoUgH I'm gonna swoop and and get a good deal on em.
Just have a question Kris. I am an experienced rider looking for a second bike for local commutes, parcel pickup, milk runs. Might also do a courier delivery here or there. Would you say this (can be had at AU6495 for the '23) or the new 401 Svartpilen' 24 at AU8795. Any thoughts? I also considered the Z500SE and CB500 Hornet but both would be twice as much for insurance than the KLX230SM & 401.
@@K113-A Yep, the engine character at least on this bike encourages shifting earlier, where on the Ninjas keeping the throttle pinned as long as you can is pretty fun!
Check out my ergos video, where I go into more detail on those topics. If you have any extra questions not answered there, let me know! ruclips.net/video/ccU62xT3V1k/видео.html
Just watched this again, Kris. I wouldn't mind one here in northern Thailand. Made here so they don't cost much. Be fun in the narrow country lanes and light off-road. I could keep the 390 and replace the little scooter with a 230. Any underseat storage? First-class review. Nick
Yep that pricing is a bit crazy, I think it's a real shame they aren't priced in the $6K range ride-away here in Australia, kind of like the Honda CB300/CBR300 was years and years ago. They definitely have some potential for fun!
It would be doable, although I think for dual sport you'd want a 19 inch front at least, so a different set of wheels may be better, I think the S runs a 21F/18R in fact. Some riders run a different set of sprockets and chain to match in that kind of setup too. It just depends how serious you want to go. A simple set of dual purpose tyres would probably be ok for a bit of fun!
@@MotoJournoKris Thank you Kris for your reply, your a gentleman. As a middle aged beginner I’m torn as to which bike to purchase. I like the versatility of a duel sport. The short list is looking like the Kawasaki klx230s, klx250, Honda CRF 300L & the Suzuki VStrom 250sx just looks like phenomenal value. The reality is that as much as we would all like to get off road more, life gets in the way. I’d be keen to get your feedback on those bikes for me or any others. Ps - it won’t be a daily commuter either. Just a bit of fun. Much appreciated, Cheers Ben.
@@BlackArrow401 The Suzuki seems like it would be very hard to beat for pure value honestly, I rode the previous version which did run a different engine, but was such a good machine regardless, and was a hoot. I think the CRF300L or KLX250 are a bit more serious and probably more capable in comparison - especially thinking dual sports, but you do pay the price for that. If you just want to get into it, and have a little fun, I think any of those would be a great starting point. The V-Strom being very inexpensive does help there of course, with the lower seat too.
@@MotoJournoKris Kris, you’ve gone above and beyond with your advice, thanks buddy. I guess I’m just a procrastinator as I’ve waited so long to get a bike… Honda CRF 300L, Suzuki vstrom 250sx, svartpillen 401, honda revel 500, I’m all over the shop… thanks again mate 🤟🏻
@@BlackArrow401 Worth a bit of procrastination! That said figuring out what you like and want sometimes involves a bit of trial and error, so don't worry too much, the vast majority of options these days are amazing, and it's normally not too hard to sell a bike with minimal drop in value if you really decide you want to try something else down the track. The second hand market is kinda crazy these days, although that's less helpful if you're just buying, and not also selling something.
That new V-Strom is really impressive for the price, especially as it's about 30% less than the SM from what I've seen, which is huge. Obviously different focuses, but it demonstrates that great value is still possible in the 250 cc or so bikes.
The Suzuki is impossible to get now 2024, and the CRF 300L is kind the dual sport goto but also very difficult to get very popular, the KLX230S has has some updates in 2024 and the new price is $7, 850 AUD but you can use the rack, but you can still in the SM, how ever the price for the SM is still $8,200 AUS it has dropped but not enough. When I tested this again the SM has different gearing and I felt it was better power wise but still moderate. With the new 400 now CF Moto 450MT & Enfield 250 Him & Triumph Scram x400 I was hoping this might encourage a better price drop, or a new 400 cc from say the Ninja 400?
Definitely notice the more limited power, and it feels absolutely tiny in comparison. Compared to the WR with D606s it's much comfier and more planted on the road with the road tyres but that's a bit of an apples and oranges comparison. Felt like better front end support out of the box, however I can adjust the WR forks. I feel like I'd honestly enjoy starting on the KLX230SM more if I was a new rider for the earlier stages by a significant margin. It just seems expensive.
As far as I know the KLX300SM isn't tubeless. We don't get it here, but I can't see it mentioned by Kawasaki or any of the reviews I had a quick look through. I'm pretty sure they run tubeless tyres with tubes in them, as they aren't tubeless rims. I could be wrong, but this seems a common confusion (that's caught me out on a few bikes too), where I'd look at the tyre, it says tubeless, but check the stem and it's running tubes.
@@travistoor6360 Yea I'd have said the WR250X was ideal. It's a nice middle point between the DRZ400SM and something like the KLX. Way more power than the Kawasaki but more manageable than the DRZ which I think could catch new riders out. Both great machines however!
Yep, would have been ideally priced at about 25-30% less, as a really affordable entry level option, which I think is more in line with the performance and specs.
Brov I went looking for a bike for two days Jax fl with 6k in my pocket and I could not even get a thing the bike was 6 and after it was 8 and dude did not even run my credit blowe off after I said h had cash
![BRASIL vs. PERÚ [4-0] | RESUMEN | ELIMINATORIAS SUDAMERICANAS | FECHA 10](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/tbyOJKXfQnI/mqdefault.jpg)
I daily ride mine and love every minute of it, I commute 20-30 miles on the back roads to work/back. (150 lbs)
6400 miles now, still very solid and feels like i just left the lot every day. Exhaust is a must, really changes the feel of the bike.
what exhaust do you have on yours?
@@Tacmans Gumma, from ebay. I will say after putting about 1500 miles on the exhaust, the muffler is starting to sound pretty rough and ratty.
@@glizzymaguire in a good way or bad way? haha thanks!
@@Tacmans Not in a good way 😂 I’d suggest putting as much $ into the quality as possible
At 6'7" and an experienced ADV rider, I'm looking at this thing as a minibike like a grom or z125. Once these hit the used market because NoT fAsT eNoUgH I'm gonna swoop and and get a good deal on em.
I reckon that's a good way of looking at these, basically a grom/Z125 inspired Sumo, just needs the price to match.
Just have a question Kris. I am an experienced rider looking for a second bike for local commutes, parcel pickup, milk runs. Might also do a courier delivery here or there. Would you say this (can be had at AU6495 for the '23) or the new 401 Svartpilen' 24 at AU8795.
Any thoughts?
I also considered the Z500SE and CB500 Hornet but both would be twice as much for insurance than the KLX230SM & 401.
I'm planning to buy this thing for urban commuting and running errands. That tractor like engine really sold it to me.
Will be ideal for that!
@@MotoJournoKris one question though, how's the rev limiter? On my Ninja its stupidly smooth.
@@K113-A Really only hit it once or twice taking off, and you'll know in a subtle way. I wasn't bouncing it off the limiter though.
@@MotoJournoKris ah I see, typical Kawasaki limiter... Its too smooth!
@@K113-A Yep, the engine character at least on this bike encourages shifting earlier, where on the Ninjas keeping the throttle pinned as long as you can is pretty fun!
Can you tell us about the seat and comfort? How was it riding all day on it? Comfortable enough? What's it like? And how about for passengers too?
Check out my ergos video, where I go into more detail on those topics. If you have any extra questions not answered there, let me know!
ruclips.net/video/ccU62xT3V1k/видео.html
Just watched this again, Kris. I wouldn't mind one here in northern Thailand. Made here so they don't cost much. Be fun in the narrow country lanes and light off-road. I could keep the 390 and replace the little scooter with a 230. Any underseat storage?
First-class review. Nick
Yep that pricing is a bit crazy, I think it's a real shame they aren't priced in the $6K range ride-away here in Australia, kind of like the Honda CB300/CBR300 was years and years ago. They definitely have some potential for fun!
I didn't know a 230 existed, Kris. Do you get the 300SM in Australia? The 300 is made in Thailand but, oddly, isn't available here.
This is a new addition to Australia at least, unfortunately we never got the 300SM.
@@MotoJournoKris USA got it. I don't about anywhere else. I'd have loved a go on the 300. 230 is a little small.
KLX300 doesn't have ABS, so can't sell it in Australia. Would be nice to give the CRF300L some modern competition.
@@lachlancannard It certainly would, we need more bikes in that category!
I was at motohub this morning for this very 230sm. Unfortunately Ryan didnt have any demo of this. So sad.
Sorry about that, the video is from a year ago, so availability does change as the bikes get sold!
Hi Kris, how does this go as a beginner dual sport. is it as simple as changing the tyres. Cheers Ben
It would be doable, although I think for dual sport you'd want a 19 inch front at least, so a different set of wheels may be better, I think the S runs a 21F/18R in fact. Some riders run a different set of sprockets and chain to match in that kind of setup too. It just depends how serious you want to go. A simple set of dual purpose tyres would probably be ok for a bit of fun!
@@MotoJournoKris Thank you Kris for your reply, your a gentleman. As a middle aged beginner I’m torn as to which bike to purchase. I like the versatility of a duel sport. The short list is looking like the Kawasaki klx230s, klx250, Honda CRF 300L & the Suzuki VStrom 250sx just looks like phenomenal value. The reality is that as much as we would all like to get off road more, life gets in the way. I’d be keen to get your feedback on those bikes for me or any others. Ps - it won’t be a daily commuter either. Just a bit of fun. Much appreciated, Cheers Ben.
@@BlackArrow401 The Suzuki seems like it would be very hard to beat for pure value honestly, I rode the previous version which did run a different engine, but was such a good machine regardless, and was a hoot. I think the CRF300L or KLX250 are a bit more serious and probably more capable in comparison - especially thinking dual sports, but you do pay the price for that. If you just want to get into it, and have a little fun, I think any of those would be a great starting point. The V-Strom being very inexpensive does help there of course, with the lower seat too.
@@MotoJournoKris Kris, you’ve gone above and beyond with your advice, thanks buddy.
I guess I’m just a procrastinator as I’ve waited so long to get a bike… Honda CRF 300L, Suzuki vstrom 250sx, svartpillen 401, honda revel 500, I’m all over the shop… thanks again mate 🤟🏻
@@BlackArrow401 Worth a bit of procrastination! That said figuring out what you like and want sometimes involves a bit of trial and error, so don't worry too much, the vast majority of options these days are amazing, and it's normally not too hard to sell a bike with minimal drop in value if you really decide you want to try something else down the track. The second hand market is kinda crazy these days, although that's less helpful if you're just buying, and not also selling something.
would this bike be alright if im 5'10" 175 pound and only really plan to go around 55-60 mph?
I would definitely think so!
I’m your size and the regular klx230 feels great for me both my feet have just enough room to touch and it’s not hard to get on or off.
@@MikeHawkbaby Thanks for sharing your experience with the bike!
I have the 300sm,
I love the looks of 230sm way better, but engine is too small.
I reckon the 300 is a much better proposition too, wish we got it here...
The Suzuki vstrom 250sx just came out. I think it’s going to be very close
That new V-Strom is really impressive for the price, especially as it's about 30% less than the SM from what I've seen, which is huge. Obviously different focuses, but it demonstrates that great value is still possible in the 250 cc or so bikes.
@@MotoJournoKris i owned a DRZ400SM and it was a fab touring bike I put on Avon adv 60/40 distanza tyres a rack and two brothers full system.
The Suzuki is impossible to get now 2024, and the CRF 300L is kind the dual sport goto but also very difficult to get very popular, the KLX230S has has some updates in 2024 and the new price is $7, 850 AUD but you can use the rack, but you can still in the SM, how ever the price for the SM is still $8,200 AUS it has dropped but not enough. When I tested this again the SM has different gearing and I felt it was better power wise but still moderate. With the new 400 now CF Moto 450MT & Enfield 250 Him & Triumph Scram x400 I was hoping this might encourage a better price drop, or a new 400 cc from say the Ninja 400?
You think a 120 front and 130 rear would fit
Interesting question, not sure on that one.
160 is the max would fit
How does it compare to your WR250R?
Definitely notice the more limited power, and it feels absolutely tiny in comparison. Compared to the WR with D606s it's much comfier and more planted on the road with the road tyres but that's a bit of an apples and oranges comparison. Felt like better front end support out of the box, however I can adjust the WR forks. I feel like I'd honestly enjoy starting on the KLX230SM more if I was a new rider for the earlier stages by a significant margin. It just seems expensive.
What about the Klx300sm thinking about buying seems really good
I wish we got those here in Australia. I think that would be my pick of the two, if I had the option, just for some additional performance.
Available in the PH?
It doesn't look like it, only the regular KLX230 from what I can see.
Wait!? You're telling me the KLX230 has fuel gage while the 300 doesn't!?
Yea in my ergos video I show the dash display at about 4min10s. It looks like a simpler dash than the 300SM overall, but obviously that's a benefit!
start at $5200 in texas
I just bought one
Wicked, how are you finding it? Any mods/accessories planned yet?
@Moto Journo Kris No not yet, still learning how to ride it. So far I'm loving it. My first bike ever
@@giniolamy That's great, it's an ideal first machine! Have fun and stay safe out there.
I assumed it was tubeless because I heard the klx300sm is tubeless
As far as I know the KLX300SM isn't tubeless. We don't get it here, but I can't see it mentioned by Kawasaki or any of the reviews I had a quick look through. I'm pretty sure they run tubeless tyres with tubes in them, as they aren't tubeless rims. I could be wrong, but this seems a common confusion (that's caught me out on a few bikes too), where I'd look at the tyre, it says tubeless, but check the stem and it's running tubes.
@@MotoJournoKris That makes sense. Thanks for the reply!
There’s no better beginner supermoto than the drz400.
I don't know, you ever rode Yamaha wr250?
@@travistoor6360 Yea I'd have said the WR250X was ideal. It's a nice middle point between the DRZ400SM and something like the KLX. Way more power than the Kawasaki but more manageable than the DRZ which I think could catch new riders out. Both great machines however!
Drz is massive for us short ppl
Süper 💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯.....
Love this thing but little pricey...
Yep, would have been ideally priced at about 25-30% less, as a really affordable entry level option, which I think is more in line with the performance and specs.
650cc single supermoto needed
Would be cool to see something below the KTM/Husqvarna options (more affordable) in that range!
Convert an Xr650l.
Good God it's 4,999 at my local
The price he mentioned is in Australia, not the States
$7,000 Texas dealer, so sad.
@@Namedeeznuts5800 OTD here at my local kawi dealer. I want a toy, z125 is too tiny so this might do the trick.
😝 'Promosm'.
$8,700? That’s a lot of money for a POS.
This accent is way too much for me..where you from bro Australia? Wide bahhs nice wide bahhs
Yep :)
Pretty standard aussie accent cobbarino
And you don’t have an accent right? 😏🙄
You're riding on the wrong side of the road
People with higher IQ's ride on that side.
The kangaroo 🦘 ride on the other side
Sorry 5,300
Yea, that price was AUD, although it still seems a bit high even so!
Brov I went looking for a bike for two days Jax fl with 6k in my pocket and I could not even get a thing the bike was 6 and after it was 8 and dude did not even run my credit blowe off after I said h had cash
@@vicguide4580 I just put money down on the KLX230s. With Kawasaki's spring deals, it's on sale for 4599
@@vicguide4580What the hell did you just say ?