The expansion of the Kawasaki lineup of KLX230 motorcycles continues with the new 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF ABS—a ruggedized dual-sport bike. The DF starts with the latest version of the standard KLX230 ABS as a base, then adds features to make it more durable and practical for off-road use.
Impact protection for the 233cc SOHC motor is the primary feature. A blacked-out skidplate protects the bottom of the air-cooled mill, while compact crash bars guard the side cases. Handguards are standard, giving the rider protection, just like the motor gets.
A steel rear rack is rated to handle 6.5 pounds of cargo, with four bungee cord-mounting hooks welded onto the rack.
Kawasaki went with a stealth look for the new DF. The engine, frame, and rims are black, while the plastic is Medium Cloudy Gray, which Kawasaki calls “earth-tone”.
The 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF ABS has an MSRP of $5799, a $500 premium over the 2025 version of the standard KLX230 ABS. To date, the only KLX230s announced for 2026 are the DF and the Sherpa S.
If you would like to see a 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF ABS in person, there’s a good chance there’s one at your local dealer.
2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF ABS Specs
ENGINE
- Type: Single-cylinder four-stroke
- Displacement: 233cc
- Bore x stroke: 67.0 x 66.0mm
- Compression ratio: 9.4:1
- Valvetrain: SOHC; 2 valves
- Cooling: Air
- Fueling: EFI w/ 32mm throttle body
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Final drive: Chain
CHASSIS
- Front suspension; travel: Non-adjustable 37mm fork; 7.9 inches
- Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted spring-preload adjustable shock; 8.8 inches
- Front tire: 2.75 x 21; IRC Trails GP-21F
- Rear tire: 4.10 x 18; IRC Trails GP-22R
- Front brake: 265mm petal disc w/ 2-piston caliper
- Rear brake: 220mm petal disc w/ single-piston caliper
- ABS: Standard
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 53.7 inches
- Rake: 24.6 degrees
- Trail: 3.8 inches
- Seat height: 32.5 inches
- Ground clearance: 9.4 inches
- Fuel tank capacity: 2.0 gallons
- Curb weight: 300 pounds
- Color: Medium Cloudy Gray
2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF ABS Price: $5799 MSRP
