Kawasaki announced a slew of new and updated models for its 2023 lineup. The new models include three additions to the KLX230 and KLR650 S families. The new updated models include the Ninja 650, Z650 and KX450SR.
2023 Kawasaki KLX230
New for 2023 is the dual-purpose KLX230. Designed to be lightweight and easy to handle for both trails and streets, the KLX230 features an air-cooled 233cc 4-stroke engine with electric starter and a compact steel perimeter frame. The short wheelbase of 54.3 inches along with the high ground clearance of 10.4 inches increase the mobility of the car. KLX230 is also equipped with front and rear disc brakes, 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, front fork with 8.7-inch travel and rear suspension with 8.8-inch wheel travel. Available for $4,999 in Battle Gray.
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2023 Kawasaki KLX230 WILL
The 2023 KLX230 S is a more accessible version of the KLX230 and has a lower seat height of 32.7 inches (versus 34.8 inches on the KLX230). The lower saddle height is due to shorter wheel travel, with 6.2 inches of travel at the front and 6.6 inches at the rear.
ABS is optional and the driver can turn the ABS function on and off. The non-ABS option is available for $4,999 in Lemon Green and Battle Gray while the ABS option is available for $5,299 in Battle Gray.
2023 Kawasaki KLX230SM
The KLX230 family evolves with the new KLX230SM supermoto, designed for greater comfort on pavement. With the same air-cooled 233cc engine and electric starter as the KLX230 and KLX230 S, the KLX230SM comes with 17-inch wider front and rear wheels than the ones on the KLX230. The 37mm upside down fork adds rigidity to the front end and gives the bike a sportier look.
Compact LED headlights and black painted engine, frame, handlebars, handlebars and rims add to the street-ready look. The non-ABS option is available in Lemon Green and Oriental Blue for $5,299 while the ABS option is available in Lemon Green for $5,599.
2023 Kawasaki KLR650 WILL
Following the release of the all-new KLR650 last year, Kawasaki adds the KLR650 S to the 2023 lineup. It shares a 652cc single-cylinder engine, digital console, high-strength twin rack frame and LED headlights with last year’s KLR650. New to the KLR650 S is the model configuration for increased versatility.
Related story: 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure | Road test
The KLR650 S also has a lower front suspension and readout. 41mm fork for suspension travel is 6.7 inches while the rear suspension has 7.0 inches of travel. The 21 inch front wheel and 17 inch rear wheel allow the driver to enjoy this car both on and off the road. 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
The Ninja 650 has been updated for the 2023 model. Like the previous models, the Ninja 650 2023 features a 649cc Twin-Twin engine, a 4.3-inch TFT display, twin LED headlights and smartphone connectivity.
What sets the 2023 model apart from previous iterations is the Kawasaki Impact Control System (KTRC). KTRC evaluates several parameters to get a real-time picture of driving conditions. It also allows the driver to choose between two modes. Mode 1 facilitates acceleration out of corners by maximizing drivetrain forward from the rear wheels, ideal for sporty driving. Mode 2 reduces engine power when excessive wheel spin is detected to help the driver navigate wet pavement. The driver also has the option to turn the system off.
The Ninja 650 2023 is available for $7,999 in Metallic Matte Graphensteel Gray / Ebony or Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Matte Flat Raw Greystone / Ebony.
Related story: Kawasaki Ninja 650 2020 | Road test
2023 Kawasaki Z650
The naked Z650 returns in 2023 with a 649cc tandem engine, 4.3 inch TRT display, LED headlights, thick passenger seat and smartphone connectivity.
New for 2023 is the Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) system, the same system found on the updated 2023 Ninja 650. KTRC evaluates several parameters to get a real-time picture of the conditions. Driver. It also allows the driver to choose between two modes. Mode 1 facilitates acceleration out of corners by maximizing forward drive from the rear wheels, ideal for sporty driving. Mode 2 reduces engine power when excessive wheel spin is detected to help the driver navigate wet pavement. The driver also has the option to turn the system off.
The 2023 Z650 is available in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black or Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Ebony for $7,749.
Related story: Kawasaki Z650 2017 | Review the first trip
2023 Kawasaki KX450SR
The KX450SR is race-ready again in 2023 with new Showa front and rear suspension components. The KX450 made its debut in 2022 with an electric-started 449cc engine, a near-ratio 5-speed gearbox and a slim aluminum frame. The new Showa front and rear suspension components on the 2023 KX450SR feature a titanium-oxide inner fork that improves wear resistance and reduces friction. The rear shock provides dual compression adjustment so that high- and low-speed damping can be adjusted separately. The steering wheel can also be adjusted in 12 different positions for the driver to customize.
The 2023 KX450SR will be available in late fall in lime green for $12,699.
Other models in the Kawasaki lineup 2023
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
Question 650 L
Verse 1000 SE LT +
W800
Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS
