Intro

Kawasaki has released the 2026 KLX230 DF, a dual-sport motorcycle that’s off-road tough and street practical. Above the standard KLX230, the DF has touring-friendly upgrades so it’s the perfect bike for riders who want one bike that can do weekday commutes and weekend trail adventures.

Design & Features

The Kawasaki KLX230 DF has a new rugged look, with Medium Cloudy Gray paint, blacked-out frame, wheels and engine bay. This darker theme makes the bike look stealthy and adventure-ready.

Practicality is key with factory-fitted goodies:

• Rear luggage rack for carrying stuff
• Engine guards and aluminum skid plate for protection
• Knuckle guards with body-colored accents
• Updated digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity through Kawasaki’s Rideology app
• Tubeless rear tire for easy puncture repairs

The DF is more versatile than the standard KLX230, leaning towards long-distance capability.

Engine & Performance

Underneath the bodywork is the familiar 233cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, making 17 hp and 13.3 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 6-speed gearbox and 7.6-liter fuel tank.

Not big numbers but the motor shines in real-world use. The strong low- to mid-range torque is perfect for tight trails and gravel paths, while the wide gear spread means it can cruise on open roads.

Price & Rivals

Kawasaki has priced the 2026 KLX230 DF at $5,799 (U.S. MSRP), above the base KLX230. If you want a lower seat height, you can also look at the sibling KLX230 Sherpa S.

With its added gear and durability, the DF will compete with other dual-sport and adventure motorcycles like the Honda CRF300L and Yamaha XT250, for those who want more practicality without going full adventure-tourer.

Closing Note

The 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF fills an important gap for riders who want one motorcycle to do it all – city runs, dirt trails, and light touring. With its rugged design, adventure-focused features, and proven reliability, Kawasaki has given dual-sport enthusiasts a strong new option for 2026.

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FAQs

What is the seat height of the 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF?
The DF variant has a taller stance compared to the Sherpa S, aimed at off-road performance, though Kawasaki hasn’t specified exact seat height figures yet.

Is the KLX230 DF suitable for long-distance touring?
Yes, thanks to its luggage rack, protective gear, and comfortable ride setup, the KLX230 DF can handle weekend touring, but it’s best suited for mixed terrain adventures.

What is the seat height of the 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF?

The KLX230 DF has a seat height of 33.3 inches (845.8 mm), giving it a more off-road-focused stance. This is taller than the KLX230 Sherpa S, which features a lower seat height of 32.5 inches.