QUICKSPIN I 2024 Kawasaki KLX300 & KLX300SM
P100
pair of aftermarket pegs before
signing on the dotted line. A
fuel gauge would be nice, too.
In most situations, the KLX's
two-gallon fuel tank can go the
distance, but a gas-level indica
-
tor would give the rider some
added peace
of mind between
fill-ups. Until then, there is
always the tripmeter. At 302
pounds, the KLX300 is heavy.
While in motion, it's not an issue,
but I don't envy the person who
has to pick the KLX up after a
tip-over or two.
As before, riding the KLX is
a simple experience that fills
many roles, such as an ideal in-
town commuter, a great learner
bike, and a perfect low-main
-
tenance, low-cost, low-stress
weekend
getaway bike, on the
street or dirt, or both. It's incred
-
ibly versatile and can handle
more obstacles than
you might
expect. Plus, its fresh and mod
-
ern looks will surely bump up
the urge
to go riding more often.
KLX300SM
As before, there is a super-
moto version of the KLX300, the
street-legal
KLX300SM. The SM
gets the same updates as the
KLX300. They are essentially the
same motorcycle; only wheels
and tires, brakes, external
gearing, and suspension differ-
ences set the SM apart from
the standard.
The SM rolls
on a pair of 17-
inch wheels and full-on street
rubber, has a larger front-brake
disc (300mm vs. 250mm), and
its suspension is tuned more for
street riding. You lose about an
inch of wheel travel at both ends
with the SM, but the springs are
stiffer. You also lose nearly two
inches of ground clearance and
approximately an inch and a half
of seat height, which is good
news to many, especially begin
-
ners. The SM weighs about
two pounds more than
the dual
sport, but you won't notice it.
