Two formidable off-road machines – one from Japan and one from India – face off in this detailed comparison of specs. Here’s how the Kawasaki KLX230 stacks up against the Hero Xpulse 200 4V Pro.
Engine & Performance
| Specification | Kawasaki KLX230 | Hero Xpulse 200 4V Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Air-cooled, 233cc, 2-valve, single-cylinder | Air-cooled, 199.6cc, 4-valve, single-cylinder |
| Power | 18.1hp at 8,000rpm | 19.2hp at 8,500rpm |
| Power-to-weight ratio | 130.2hp/tonne | 120.7hp/tonne |
| Torque | 18.3Nm at 6,400rpm | 17.35Nm at 6,500rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 5-speed |
While both bikes are powered by roughly 200cc single-cylinder engines, their designs diverge significantly. The Hero Xpulse 200 4V Pro features a modern 4-valve configuration, while the Kawasaki KLX230 opts for a simpler 2-valve setup. However, the Kawasaki compensates with a 6-speed gearbox compared to the Xpulse’s 5-speed unit. Despite being 1hp down on power, the KLX’s superior power-to-weight ratio – thanks to its lighter build – gives it an edge in performance.
Dimensions & Weight
| Specification | Kawasaki KLX230 | Hero Xpulse 200 4V Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 139kg | 161kg |
| Seat Height | 880mm | 891mm |
| Ground Clearance | 265mm | 270mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 7.6 litres | 13 litres |
| Wheelbase | 1370mm | 1427mm |
The KLX230 is significantly lighter, weighing 22kg less than the Xpulse, which improves its handling and makes it feel more agile. However, the Xpulse’s extra weight and longer wheelbase provide more stability, especially on rough terrain. While both bikes have tall seat heights, the KLX offers an optional lower seat, making it more accessible. The Xpulse, on the other hand, comes with a larger 13-litre fuel tank, nearly doubling the KLX’s capacity and boosting its practicality for longer rides.
Suspension & Brakes
| Specification | Kawasaki KLX230 | Hero Xpulse 200 4V Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | 37mm Telescopic fork | 37mm Telescopic fork (damping adjustment) |
| Rear Suspension | Preload-adjustable Monoshock | Preload-adjustable Monoshock |
| Wheel Travel (F/R) | 240mm / 250mm | 250mm / 220mm |
| Brake Discs (F/R) | 265mm disc / 220mm disc | 276mm disc / 220mm disc |
| Tyres (F/R) | 2.75-21 / 4.10-18 | 90/90-21 / 120/80-18 |
Both bikes come equipped with similar suspension setups, though the Xpulse offers damping adjustment on the front fork, an advantage over the KLX. Wheel travel is comparable, with the Hero providing more travel at the front and the Kawasaki at the rear. Both bikes feature switchable ABS to cater to off-road conditions, making them equally capable when venturing off the beaten path.
Features & Practicality
While neither bike is overflowing with high-tech features, both are designed to handle the rigors of off-road riding. Each comes with a simple LCD display that connects via Bluetooth for basic notifications and navigation. The KLX230 is available in two color options – green and gray – while the Xpulse 200 4V Pro is offered in a single color. Both also feature LED headlights for enhanced visibility.
Pricing & Availability
The Kawasaki KLX230 is expected to be priced in December, with deliveries set to begin in January 2025. Currently imported as a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) unit with parts sourced from Indonesia, Japan, and Thailand, Kawasaki plans to localize the KLX230 by the time of its launch in India.
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