The KLX sits at a comfortable
35.2-inch seat height, which
makes it easy to throw a leg over
it. Even with this approachable
stance, the bike still rides on
the versatile 21-inch front and
18-inch rear wheels. You also get
over 10 inches of ground clear
-
ance, 10 inches of adjustable
suspension
travel, and front and
rear disc brakes.
I enjoy riding these entry-
level dual sport bikes and set
my expectations accordingly.
You might be disappointed if
you're used to or expect a high-
performing dual sport bike, like
the Honda CRF450RL or KTM
EXC-F models, out of the KLX.
However, the KLX300 is not
designed to compete with these
bikes but to attract newer or less
experienced riders to the world
of motorcycling at approximately
half the cost.
At the heart of the KLX300 is
its 292cc single-cylinder liquid-
cool four-stroke engine. It mixes
a good blend of simple, easy-
to-manage, yet relatively strong
power that inspires confidence at
every rpm range. Down low, the
initial roll-on is consistent and
smooth as you wean it off the
cable-operated clutch, perfect for
newbies. The fuel injection sys
-
tem is spot-on and doesn't want
to
lurch or surge in slower-speed
areas. Low-end torque is still
adequate for small to moderate
hill climbs and nearly impossible
to stall, again making it perfect for
beginner riders.
The motor comes alive as you
shift through the wide-spread
six-speed gearbox. I found the
sweet spot in the 6000-9000 rpm
range, which made the engine
feel ultra-usable as you pick up
speed on the dirt. It offers a sur
-
prisingly good top-end pull and
is fun to
ride if you want to run at
a faster pace. On the road, this
proved beneficial, too, as the KLX
can easily cruise at 55-plus miles
per hour. The stricter-emissions
dual sport is noticeably tamer
than the off-road-only KLX300R.
The dual sport's choked-up rear
exhaust doesn't do the bike any
favors in terms of performance
but does keep the bike quiet, at
least.
QUICKSPIN I 2024 Kawasaki KLX300 & KLX300SM
P96
Look familiar?
The KLX300
looks more like
its KX cousins
than ever.
