KTM 390 Enduro R Vs Kawasaki KLX 230 Comparison

KTM 390 Enduro R vs Kawasaki KLX 230: Dual-Sport Showdown

Performance and Powertrain

If you are passionate about off-roading on two wheels, the current market offers some fantastic choices, particularly from KTM and Kawasaki. Both brands have strong dual-sport motorcycles designed to handle everyday commuting duties as well as rugged trail adventures. Among the two, the KTM 390 Enduro R clearly positions itself as the more powerful machine, delivering 45.37 horsepower and 39 Nm of torque, a massive jump over the 18 horsepower and 18.3 Nm offered by the Kawasaki KLX 230. While both motorcycles feature a 6-speed gearbox, the KTM elevates the experience by offering a bi-directional quick-shifter for faster and smoother gear changes. Engine cooling technologies also set them apart — the KTM features a liquid-cooled engine that handles intense conditions better, while the Kawasaki opts for a simpler air-cooled setup, suitable for lighter use but less efficient under heavy loads or in hotter environments.

Weight, Seat Height, and Dimensions

When it comes to weight and dimensions, the two bikes take very different approaches. The KTM 390 Enduro R is considerably heavier at 177 kilograms, while the Kawasaki KLX 230 keeps things lightweight with a 139-kilogram curb weight, making it more nimble on tighter trails. Seat height is another area of difference: the Kawasaki sits taller at 880 mm, which may be intimidating for shorter riders, while the KTM is slightly more approachable at 860 mm. Interestingly, despite its heavier build, the KTM’s longer wheelbase and lower ground clearance make it better suited for stable high-speed off-road rides, while the KLX 230’s higher clearance gives it an edge in rougher, more technical terrain. The KTM also benefits from a larger 9-litre fuel tank, offering greater range compared to the KLX 230’s 7.6-litre tank.

Suspension and Off-Road Capabilities

Suspension setups further highlight the motorcycles’ intended uses. The KTM 390 Enduro R uses premium 43 mm WP Apex fully adjustable suspension at the front and a matching adjustable WP monoshock at the rear, offering riders fine control over compression and rebound to suit various terrains. The KLX 230, in contrast, comes with a 37 mm telescopic front fork and a rear monoshock, both non-adjustable, favoring simplicity and ease of maintenance. Interestingly, while the Kawasaki offers a longer suspension travel — 240 mm at the front and 250 mm at the rear versus the KTM’s 200 mm front and 205 mm rear travel — it sacrifices adjustability, limiting customization for different riding styles. Additionally, the KTM features larger and more powerful brakes for improved stopping power, a crucial benefit when tackling tough off-road courses.

Technology and Features

On the feature front, the KTM 390 Enduro R is a clear leader, loaded with advanced technologies. It sports a crisp 4.2-inch TFT display and provides two riding modes — Street and Off-Road — to tailor the bike’s behavior depending on conditions. Further enhancing its off-road prowess are switchable ABS and traction control, essential for confident riding on loose surfaces. Riders also enjoy Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation directly on the display, enhancing both convenience and safety. On the other hand, the Kawasaki KLX 230 offers a basic digital console supplemented by app-based connectivity, which, while useful, does not match the KTM’s feature-rich interface.