The three-bike lineup of Kawasaki KLX230 dual-sport motorcycles gets refreshed for 2023. Powered by a fuel-injected air-cooled motor, the 2023 Kawasaki KLX230 dual-sport models are designed to be exceptionally novice-friendly motorcycles. We have tested the KLX230, so you can check that out to get a better idea of what these models are all about. Here’s what’s going on in 2023.KLX230 dual-sport lineup
There has been a bit of shuffling of the KLX230 models. The KLX230 SE is gone—it was a Special Edition, after all. This leaves us with the 2023 Kawasaki KLX230, KLX230 S, and KLX230 S ABS. In case you forgot, the “S” models are the lowered versions, which have about two fewer inches of travel at both wheels resulting in a lowering of the seat height and ground clearance by just over two inches.
The bulbous KLX230 headlight is gone. The new headlight is a LED unit in a more-compact plastic housing. Kawasaki also reduced the generator capacity due to the LED headlight’s lower current demand, sending more of the air-cooled SOHC motor’s power to the rear IRC tire. The front fender has also been restyled to match the new headlight cowl.
KLX230 S
When you start a cold KLX230, you’ll notice a slower fast-idle speed. This keeps noise down first thing in the morning when you don’t want to bother sleeping neighbors.
The ECU has been revised to improve power at high altitudes.
The 2023 Kawasaki KLX230 S ABS gets a new ABS arrangement. Rear-wheel ABS can now be disabled for off-road riding.
KLX230 S ABS
If you like Lime Green, the KLX230 S is your only choice. All three KLX230s are available in Battle Gray.
Although there has been a price increase, both non-ABS 2023 Kawasaki KLX230 dual-sport bikes can be had for less than $5000. ABS runs an additional $300 on the KLX230 S.
2023 Kawasaki KLX230 (KLX230 S and KLX230 S ABS) SpecsENGINE
Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory + Steve ’Stavros’ Parrish
byMotos and Friends by Ultimate Motorcycle
Hello everyone and welcome once again to Ultimate Motorcycling’s weekly podcast—Motos and Friends. My name is Arthur Coldwells.
Our first segment features the new Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory. Senior Editor Nic de Sena brings us his report on the flagship version of Aprilia’s upright middleweight machine. He gives us insight into whether it’s worth spending the extra money on the Factory version, and also of course, whether this sporting Aprilia is really the motorcycle for you.
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The next guest segment of Motos and Friends is brought to you by the faster and most technologically advanced, 2023 Suzuki Hayabusa—one of the most iconic sportbikes ever. Check it out in person at your local Suzuki dealer now, or visit suzukicycles.com to learn more.
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In this segment, Associate Editor Teejay Adams chats with (arguably) one of the most interesting Suzuki race riders of all time. the iconic RG500 alongside teammate double World Champion Barry Sheene. The two were almost as famous for their exploits off-track, as for their success on it. Those were the days! Steve also raced the Isle of Man TT for about ten years where he won 13 Silver Replicas, and got a podium finish. His insight into that particular brand of mayhem are fascinating.
But there’s waaay more to Steve Parrish than his motorcycle racing. He is also the most successful Semi-Truck racer ever, and, little known piece of useless trivia—he’s my birthday twin: 24th February. He is a natural entertainer and you can’t miss his recounting of the world’s most entertaining—and arguably terrifying—double-decker bus ride ever. If any of you were actually on that hell-ride then we’d love to hear from you!
