2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF and Sherpa S – First Look
Two rugged-looking dual sports join the KLX family
Kawasaki announced two new dual-sports in the KLX230 Sherpa S and KLX230 DF. Both models are based on the proven KLX platform which has already given us the KLX230R off-road bike, the KLX230 dual-sport, and the KLX230SM supermoto. The 2026 KLX Sherpa S starts at $5,699 while the DF comes in at $5,799.
We already like the KLX230 S as a versatile entry-level dual-sport, which carries an MSRP of $5,299 with ABS. So, the question is how these two new variants separate themselves, and how they justify their higher prices?
Looks wise, the Sherpa and DF have a more utilitarian design compared to the KLX230 S, which is styled after Kawasaki’s racier-looking off-road models. The headlight cowl has a blockier two-piece design, and the side panels have a more minimalist look than the KLX230 S.
Both models are powered by the same 233cc air-cooled fuel-injected Single as the rest of the KLX230 lineup, tuned to deliver low-to-mid-range torque. The frame is likewise unchanged from the other KLX230 model, as is the combination of a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel.
The braking systems are unchanged from the KLX230 S, with petal-shaped disc brakes. A dual-purpose anti-lock braking system comes standard for both the Sherpa and DF. When riding off-road, the ABS timing is slightly delayed, letting the tires slide slightly before the system intervenes. On paved roads, it behaves like a regular ABS on a less-sensitive setting. Rear wheel ABS can also be disabled via a switch on the left handlebar,
2026 Kawasaki KLX230 Sherpa S
Kawasaki describes the Sherpa S as a practical ride good for city streets and back country roads. Where it really stands out is in its 32.5-inch seat height, by far the lowest of any of the KLX230 variants. This makes the KLX230 Sherpa S the most approachable variant, especially for newer or shorter riders.
The low seat height was achieved by employing shorter suspension than the other KLX230 models. Both the 37mm telescopic fork and Uni-Trak rear suspension use dual-rate springs instead of the progressive springs found on the KLX230 S. Suspension travel is also shorter than the Sherpa’s siblings, with 6.2 inches up front and 6.6 inches at the rear.
The Sherpa S also comes standard with metal-reinforced hand guards, a skid plate, and a guard bar below the headlight. Other features include an LCD display, and smartphone connectivity. Kawasaki claims a curb weight of 297.7 pounds (299.9 pounds for 50-state models).
The 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 Sherpa S comes in Whitish Beige with a matching frame and swingarm for $5,699.
2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF
Kawasaki pitches the DF as the more rugged of the two new variants, thanks to its frame-mounted engine guards, rear luggage carrier and increased ground clearance. The luggage rack has a 6.6-pound cargo capacity and comes with four welded bungee attachment points. If you want to carry larger loads, Kawasaki also offers a larger rear carrier as an accessory.
The suspension system is the same as the KLX230, with a 37mm telescopic fork with 7.8-inches of travel, and a Uni-Trak rear suspension system with 8.7-inches of travel. The longer suspension helps contribute to the 33.3-inch seat height and 9.4 inches of clearance (8.5 inches on the Sherpa).
The hand guards, skid plate, LCD display and smartphone connectivity are all the same as the Sherpa.
The 2026 KLX230 DF comes in Medium Cloudy Gray for $5,799. Kawasaki claims a wet weight of 302.1 pounds.
Specifications | 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 Sherpa S | 2026 Kawasaki KLX230 DF |
|---|---|---|
Engine Type | 4-stroke single, SOHC, air-cooled | |
Bore x Stroke | 67.0 x 66.0mm | |
Displacement | 233cc | |
Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | |
Fuel System | DFI with 32mm Keihin throttle body | |
Ignition | TCBI Electronic Advance | |
Clutch | Wet multi-disc manual clutch | |
Transmission | 6-speed | |
Final Drive | Chain | |
Frame | High-tensile steel, box-section perimeter | |
Front Suspension | 37mm telescopic fork/6.2 in. of travel | 37mm telescopic fork/7.9 in. of travel |
Rear Suspension | Uni-Trak linkage system and single shock with adjustable spring preload/6.6 in. of travel | Uni-Trak linkage system and single shock with adjustable spring preload/8.8 in. of travel |
Front Brake | Single 265mm petal disc with a dual-piston caliper, ABS | |
Rear Brake | Single 220mm petal disc with single-piston caliper, ABS | |
Front Tire | 2.75 x 21 | |
Rear Tire | 4.10 x 18 | |
Rake / Trail | 24.4° / 3.8 inches | 24.6° / 3.8 inches |
Wheelbase | 53.3 inches | 53.7 inches |
Seat Height | 32.5 in. | 33.3 inches |
Ground Clearance | 8.5 inches | 9.4 inches |
Curb Weight | 297.7 lb. / 299.9 pounds 50-state model (claimed) | 302.1 pounds (claimed) |
Fuel Capacity | 2.0 gallons | |
2026 Kawasaki KLX230 Sherpa S and DF – First Look Gallery
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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.
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I like the bike.
5800 bucks. Meanwhile, the Royal Enfield Scram 411 starts at just a hair over $5k. And I've seen leftover/demo models going for around $4k. Sheesh!