[PetaWatt]

As Kawasaki will decide the price based on the number of booking, isn’t it logical for us to wait for the price release first?

KLX is 20kg lighter than XPulse but I will still pick XPulse as my second motorcycle because Hero got better service network. Had been to Ladakh in June this year and my fellow rider’s xPulse started to give issue because of the bad fuel he bought from the homestay. Issue was fixed within an hour by a non authorised mechanic.

[v12]

Although the KLX230 is very similar to the Xpulse 200 in every aspect - I am sure price-wise there will be a huge gap. Kawasaki will definitely price this at a premium compared to the Xpulse. I am assuming somewhere in the range of 2.3 to 2.5 lakhs - where the KLX will sell, but not enough to cause Hero any worry.

Kawasaki should start worrying if and when Hero launches the Xpulse 300/400 at the 2.5 - 3 lakh bracket. I wonder what is holding them back. I definitely will be putting down my money on the Xpulse 400 if it comes at that price point.

[FlankerFury]

Bikewale's review of the KLX is here.

https://www.bikewale.com/expert-revi...t-ride-review/

I figured it'd be under an embargo. Probably released it by mistake.



Very simple dash, managed to integrate bluetooth connectivity in this one.




Anyways here's the summary, they say the motorcycle is fairly forgiving with linear power delivery. The engine makes 18bhp and 18Nm of torque with well controlled NVH.
The bike is equipped with dual channel ABS, rear ABS can be switched off. It rides on 21in front and 18in rear wire spoke wheels.
Suspension travel is 240mm/250mm (front/rear). For reference, the standard Hero Xpulse has 190mm at the front and 170mm at the rear (numbers taken from a quick Google search).
I always thought the front suspension would have the longest travel. Probably an editing error from Bikewale's end.

Speculated to be priced around 2.8L ex showroom but it is a CKD. Kawasaki says it'll look at localising it if there's enough demand.

Interesting that Kawasaki had no trouble localising the W175 but wouldn't do the same for this one even though the KLX has a far better chance at being popular.

That 880mm something seat height might be a challenge though, would probably discourage people with that number alone.

Maybe a good idea to get the Supermoto as well

[b16h22]

Originally Posted by FlankerFury

Interesting that Kawasaki had no trouble localising the W175 but wouldn't do the same for this one even though the KLX has a far better chance at being popular.
[/ATTACH]

I found this bit pretty interesting.

"Moreover, Kawasaki also confirmed to BikeWale that they will localise the bike and manufacture it in India given there is an adequate demand in the market. But this will be possible only if the brand prices it correctly."

This is a loop Without localisation, they will obviously price it at a premium and maybe even close to the next gen Enduro 390 or the current Himmy 450 and it might end up being a niche product. And this will ensure low demand and they will never localise the KLX.

[nasirkaka]

I dont like this new trend of soft launching a product and start 'booking', without revealing the price. Why would I (or anyone) book it unless I know for sure how much the bike would cost. Knowing Kawasaki and their history of absurd pricing (versys 300x being one), it could be anywhere between 2 to 3 lakh. I would be comfortable with a price tag of around 2.5L OTR and anything above that would be difficult to convince the mind.

Reveal the price at launch like how Triumph did with their Speed 400, surprise us with mouth-watering proposition and garner 10k booking in 10 days just like the speed 400.

And those comparing the KLX 230 to the existing Xpulse must keep in mind that Hero would soon be launching the Xpusle 210 based on the new Karizma XMR's engine. Test mules have already been spotted multiple times. Current xpulse is too basic and unrefined, just like a tractor. The new Xpulse would hopefully come with smoother and rev-happy engine with other modern goodies to keep up with the market. That would be the real deal to compete, if at all. I dont think Xpulse 300 or 400 are anywhere near their birth, yet.

Also curent Xpulse is an everyday bike with decent off-roading capabilities. The design, seat height, riding geometry, etc are somewhat balanced between a commuter and an offroader. Its a bike which can just about pass as a commuter and may not feel very oddly out at a traffic junction among the crowd of other bikers commuting to work. Whereas the KLX 230 is a full blown offroad focussed bike. The seat height itself means its not a commuter bike and only enthuiasts would seriously look at it. The design/looks is typical dual sport and would stand out like a sore thumb at signals, again taking it away from being commuter friendly.

The narrow seat, small tank and light weight would make it a very nervour highway bike. Not to mention that small tank with very limited range. Means its not a bike well suited for touring.

That makes it very offroad focussed bike targetting a niche segment of off-road enthuiasts (which is rapidly growing) and mostly as their 2nd bike. It could double up as a commuter too esp for cities with bad roads like Bangalore, but for someone who does not mind the radical looks and the seat height.

Personally i would be interested in such a bike and would surely test ride it when available. It could be a good option to replace my current Xpulse.

[Thmh]

With the Xpulse 210 unveiled, will be interesting to know the fate of this bike!

[nasirkaka]

It is almost past 10 days in the month of December and still there is no news on the price reveal of the KLX 230. Has Kawasaki shelved the plan before launching? There was no excitement build around the product even during the IBW which could have been a valid platform to generate some interest. Is the new and upcoming xpulse 210 entered to spoil their party? Many questions and no answers. So far.

[b16h22]

Originally Posted by nasirkaka

It is almost past 10 days in the month of December and still there is no news on the price reveal of the KLX 230. Has Kawasaki shelved the plan before launching? There was no excitement build around the product even during the IBW which could have been a valid platform to generate some interest. Is the new and upcoming xpulse 210 entered to spoil their party? Many questions and no answers. So far.

According to the Autocar KLX230 review, Kawasaki confirmed that the price reveal will happen at IBW. There is still time but most manufacturers have already announced or revealed their new products. My gut feeling is, Kawa just didn't get the sort of booking response they were expecting for the bike and now they are in two minds about it Not sure what they were expecting with early news of localisation and they backtracking on that plus no price reveal on launch.

[nasirkaka]

Originally Posted by b16h22

According to the Autocar KLX230 review, Kawasaki confirmed that the price reveal will happen at IBW. There is still time but most manufacturers have already announced or revealed their new products. My gut feeling is, Kawa just didn't get the sort of booking response they were expecting for the bike and now they are in two minds about it Not sure what they were expecting with early news of localisation and they backtracking on that plus no price reveal on launch.

Couple of riders from one of the riding groups I am part of, had booked by paying the booking amount but even they have not received any communication. Some other riders in the same group were also interested but depending on the price point and post a test ride. This is a niche bike and would not be suitable to mass market. But that niche segment of off-road enthuiasts is surely growing. If priced well and with good service and spares support, the bike could be a sleeper hit amongs the enthuiasts. Somewhat like how Impulse has a desirable appeal post it was discontinued. Light weight and off-road ready.

[Shonith]

Originally Posted by nasirkaka

It is almost past 10 days in the month of December and still there is no news on the price reveal of the KLX 230. Has Kawasaki shelved the plan before launching?.

Price will be revealed on dec 24th and deliveries will begin jan 24th onwards. Regarding the price its all speculation it could very well be around the 3 lak mark on road.

[dj_666]

Originally Posted by nasirkaka

If priced well and with good service and spares support, the bike could be a sleeper hit amongst the enthusiasts. Somewhat like how Impulse has a desirable appeal post it was discontinued. Light weight and off-road ready.

Totally with you on this.
Kawasaki products resonate very well with me.
The long lead time for spare parts is my main concern

[CrAzY dRiVeR]

Kawasaki KLX 230, now launched at Rs 3.3 lakhs:

[b16h22]

Originally Posted by CrAzY dRiVeR

Kawasaki KLX 230, now launched at Rs 3.3 lakhs:

Attachment 2702297

I'm at a loss of words, honestly Good old Kawasaki never fails to deliver. Shumi was right to grill them after all.

[Shonith]

Time to cancel my booking. 3.3 lakhs on road is what i paid for my 390 duke back 2019. There ain't no way i am paying more than that for barebones klx.

[CrAzY dRiVeR]

The pricing seems inline with other markets like the US at least-