Watch: 2021 Kawasaki KLX300 Dual Sport tested

First introduced in 2006 as the KLX250, Kawi’s small-displacement twin sport has received a series of key updates over its 15-year history. None is arguably more significant than this year’s increase in power – achieved through an increased displacement of 43cc, improved ignition timing and a more efficient camshaft.

With better versatility in mind, Kawasaki engineers have also added thinner radiators, additional suspension adjustments, a new engine balancer and larger gearing for 2021. Of course, nothing revolutionary, but these are sometimes those gradual changes which perfect the breed. And going from the 250cc to 300cc class is a change that can make a bigger difference than you might think, especially for a bike that’s designed to hit the trails and maybe even ride the highway while carrying luggage.

After weeks of testing hundreds of miles, over a variety of terrains, we took a deep dive with the KLX300 to get a feel for its full range of capabilities. In this video, we take a look at how it performs on gravel, asphalt and highway, to see if the latest round of changes really offers a major advantage.

Is it still the same user-friendly dual sport? Could this be your Light ADV? Do you still need to truck it on the trails? What still needs to be improved? We have answers to all of your burning questions and more.

Thanks for watching the video and leave us your thoughts and questions in the comments below. For those of you who’d rather read, you can check out our full 2021 Kawasaki KLX300 review here.

Photos by Kevin Wing

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney began a long-standing obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he bought his first motorcycle – a 1982 Honda MB5. In his twenties and thirties, he competed in off-road races. in the desert, notably the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his penchant for exploration led him to the dual practice of sport and adventure. Rob’s never-ending quest to find out what lies ahead around the next corner has taken him on adventures in Mexico, North Africa, Europe, and throughout the American West. As a motorcycle journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to go on adventures across horizons near and far.