Kawasaki KLX300 - Things I Really Dislike About It

No bike is perfect and fortunately, the KLX300 isn't trying to be! While it's a great bike, here is a brief rundown on the things I dislike the most!
Please leave a comment with what you dislike, and if you agree or disagree with my list. Also, like and subscribe! I'd love to have you be part of the family.

[@BrianSmith-ql5nj]

I have 2 for you.. miles on dash disappear when low fuel "fuel" light comes on effectively eliminating the ability to gauge miles to empty. Secondly the seat.. the seat is dirt bike style wich doesnt lend itself to street riding. Being a ""dual sport"" motorcycle the seat should be alot better for highway use instead of a 2x4 style skinny hard ass beater.

[@jonathansheeder5153]

Agree. I'm going rotopax. Problem solved. It can be used to help others out of gas as well.

[@joshdoddadbod]

For me thr fuel tank and power are an issue. I got the ims tsnk and it barely is enough for strategically fuelling up, riding in the bush all day then strategically fuelling again to get home. I agree a 3.5 ish gallon tank would be ideal. I did the bdsb ecu flash and it really woke up the bike, much more fun. A similar effect to getting the fuel controller and other mods. I email IMS every so often to remind them im mad they dont make a bigger tank. I am now carrying 2 fuel bottles with me just to make my range anxiety go away. So far i havent needed to use them.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Please let me know if they decide to manufacture a bigger tank. I quit hoping for one a long time ago!

[@joshdoddadbod]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures yea I don't think there are plans to, and since the frame is a bit different on the 2024 bikes I doubt we will see one for the 2021-2023 bikes sadly.

[@leanit5756]

Good content.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Thank you!

[@kevinrussell4172]

Thinking about getting one. Thanks

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

It would be a good decision and money well spent. I’m surprised you can find one though.

[@BobBob-vq3rb]

Yea that's perfect I get put Sattler bags and stuff and go off road when I need too

[@terrysphilippinejourney9347]

Amen Bro agree 100%

[@southerndeth]

I ordered a 2023 KLX. I'm number 6 on the list. These are all issues I plan to address.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

It’s a great bike. Doing some mods just adds to the fun! Enjoy it when you get it.

[@GrotrianSeiler]

Got 75 mpg on my last tank. Do mods and you pay with lower mileage. Peg size is fine. Seat is fine. Love my bike. I think they made some improvements for 2023. Great bike.

[@Clamjammer]

Everybody complains about the seat and pegs…I’ve never had an issue with either

[@gabrielkopp2036]

Every bike have ever ridden didn't have a gear indicator or a fuel gage..and never ran out of gas

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Good for you! You deserve a participation trophy!

[@gabrielkopp2036]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures well go look at all your participation trophies!!! If you can't keep track of what gear you are in and need a fuel gage maybe you should give up riding!!!

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

LOL listen kid, here’s the deal. I know what gear I’m in. I don’t run out of fuel. But it’s 2022 and the other bike manufacturers are putting those things in their bikes for the same or less money. That’s my point. Now stop chewing on shoe leather and relax. It’s gonna be fine. 😂🤣

[@gabrielkopp2036]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures it's all good.. fyi I've been riding dirt/dual sport bikes since 1980!!!!

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

You got me. I didn’t start until ‘84.

[@danshobbies13]

I just traded in my XT250 for the KLX300. It had no RPM gauge, no fuel gauge or a gear indicator. I used my trip odometer to figure out when I would need gas. Plus it had a low fuel light like the 300.

[@CrustyMac300]

I have the KLX230, same gripes as the KLX300 except the fuel gauge, the 230 has one. The 230 doesn't have adjustable suspension (nor does the Honda 300) the KLX300 does! My '23 Camo Grey KLX300 is on order, I already know I'll be making the same upgrades to it that I did to my '22 KLX230: Handlebars, Pillowtop Grips, Two-Finger Levers, Foot Pegs, Exhaust, ECU, add on Skid Plate, Handguards, a luggage rack w/Rotopax 1 gallon fuel tank, Doubletake Mirrors, Seat Concepts & Tires. I don't need a gear indicator but I would like a fuel gauge.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

I actually don’t mind the seat on mine. I didn’t hate the Honda CRF250L seat either but I think that’s because I stand up far more than I sit. I’m going to get a rotopax mount and go that route too. I bought an enclosed trailer so I’m hoping to make some trips up to Georgia so I do some different riding with the KLX.

[@Matthew-zw9su]

I can hardly believe no aftermarket company has intoduced a tank larger than the IMS. And yes, shame on Kawasaki for the pitifully small tank in the first place.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

There doesn’t seem to be an internet in making one either. Really frustrating.

[@keithert]

Something is seriously wrong if you are only getting 25 miles to the gallon. I'm getting 65 on my KLX 250. My fuel light comes on at 85 to 90 miles.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

It’s probably not quite that low but it’s close. I geared it down, swapped the exhaust, added a fuel tuner, and deleted the 02 sensor. I’m surely not getting 65.

[@neilouellette3004]

Thinking of buying a new KLX300 but that 2 gallon tank is killing me. Yes, I can upgrade for $400 for a joke 2.7 gallon tank, buy a Rotopax or a 1-2 liter fuel bottle for emergency fuel. I can understand the gripes on a 2 gallon 100 mile top range for a 300cc bike. What a joke!!

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

For many riders it can be a major hurdle. It’s manageable if you have resources to plan for fuel but sometimes it can be a problem.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

You hit my negatives as well. I knew the fuel capacity was going to be the biggie, it is with me. 4 gallons, I need to be somewhere around 200 miles if I want this to be a light ADV bike. Its the only reason that I sometimes wish I had the Honda 300 Rally.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

That fuel tank debacle really chaps my ass, if I’m being honest. Worse than the stock tank being 2 gallons is the nerve of IMS for selling .7 gallons for $400! 😡 The other gripes are not all that big a deal and I didn’t even touch on the really petty ones like the restricted exhaust and too lean fuel delivery. I think there’s a certain amount of reality one needs to apply when buying bikes like these. We cannot expect full on dirt bike performance from a $6000 dual sport. A little give & take should be expected but 2 gallons is insufficient if someone wants to do any significant trail rides. Having said all that, the upgraded suspension you get on the KLX outweighs the fuel tank problem.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures You’re right, IMS is the real pisser, $400 for just over 1/2 gallon.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

@@pinkiewerewolf damn thieves. I’ll convert a hydration backpack with a fuel cell and carry an extra gallon of highly combustible fuel on my body before paying them $400.

[@canedewey756]

I know, by the time I ride around town twice and back, I'm empty again, and I live in a medium size town.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

@@canedewey756 Similar situation here. I'm constantly filling it up. I have two of the large MSR bottles and a Giant Loop bladder if I ever get this thing set up to go out & about for a decent trip. I have other bikes but I want to experience a lightweight and affordable bike over decent distances.

[@HighCountryRambler]

I have to carry 2, 2 liter soda bottles full of fuel in my backpack just t make some of the loops I ride on my 22 KLX300. By the time the 'low fuel' indicator comes on, I wouldn't have the fuel to get back to camp. Other beef, it feels very front end heavy, meaning nearly impossible to lift front wheel of down trees in the trail. Hoping changing rear sprocket might help this category, and dump the stock tires. Coming off a YZ450 might also play into that issue.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

A sprocket change will surely help. I’m good enough at wheelies to get over most things I encounter just so long as they aren’t over 8-10 inches!

[@JoeJ523]

I own a 23 klx300 and yes the handle bars suck cause putting hand guards are almost impossible. And the gas gauge like wtf every bike that can be registered should have a gas gauge in my opinion

[@nephilymbass1]

What gets me about the klx is how bad the fuel mileage is for a 300. It’s not that difficult to get over 70mpg on a Yamaha xt250 or any of the Honda 300s(crf300l, 300rally, rebel300, cbr300, cb300r). They all can get over 70mpg if you baby them. There are motorcycles with bigger p-twin motors that can get at least 60mpg. I’m kind of baffled by how a relatively small motor sucks so much fuel.

[@canedewey756]

10:06 consumable was the word you're looking for

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Yes!!! That IS the word I was looking for! Man, you’ve got no idea how long I thought about that, even while editing the video. It was driving me crazy. Thank you!

[@blakeberlin6295]

Just bought my bike. I've ordered a few bits, including an aluminum handlebar in my preferred bend . I didn't realize the stocker wasn't open at the ends. I would have replaced the handlebar anyway, because steel bars won't hold up to my planned crashes.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Planned crashes! Love it! If you aren’t crashing, you’re doing something wrong. Enjoy your bike, congratulations!

[@jordanfrangquist1474]

Keep it up, great video!

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Thank you Jordan!

[@brianm-g6l]

Have you ever ridden the Honda crf 300l? Besides the soft suspension, are there any downsides to getting the CRF 300l compared to the KLX? Are they more or less the same in terms of maneuverability etc? Finally, at 6'1" would I find either one of them less cramped than the other? Thanks for any thoughts you have.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

I have not ridden the CRF 300 but I owned a CRF 250L until buying the KLX. I’m guessing the suspension and dash display are the biggest differences and neither would be that big of a deal. Particularly if you plan to swap the suspension out. Neither bike will be too cramped. Enjoy whichever one you get!

[@brianm-g6l]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures Thank you

[@allans7281]

Great video love when owners look right into the camera and tell us honestly what they think Bike looks dope In the background -eliminated in the darkness Just bought my 2023 lime green. I think my foot peg to figure for 2023, But I have an answer for all your gripes Dashboard simple easy to read no need for a gas gauge not accurate anyway. Bright orange light comes on to tell you hey you got x miles left Love the sleek look of the smaller gas tank just throw a half a gallon in your backpack. Most rides are under 80 miles anyway before you need to stop Handlebar is basic if it breaks you get something else but I put softer grips on it with smooth everything out. The” Progrip rally soft grips” I’m coming off the Honda rally 250 and I’m loving this Kawasaki Welcome to the Kawasaki crib! Happy riding mate Allan Sol Cal

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Haha, thanks! I’ve fixed all the problems except the tank. I just keep gas on hand and fill it up before riding out. I do have those grips and I love them. The orange gas light is a joke though. If I see that, I’m in trouble. My bike is a gas guzzler and that light means I’ll be pushing for a stretch! 😂

[@Jagknorr]

You sound so intense and annoyed but its also straight forward and honest. Its great. Im gonna buy this bike and i will probably mod everything you suggest. 😂 It will be my first offroad experience so i wont know any better, but ill definitely keep these things in mind.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

I generally sound intense and annoyed. I guess that’s due to originally being from New York! 😂

[@moreclips805]

Anyone else have speed wobbles over 65mph?

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Hey I’ve never mentioned it in a video (I should though) but I put Ride On tire sealant in my front inner tube. It drastically reduced wobbling. I need to put it in the rear tube, yank off the wheel weights and see if the problem is solved. Thanks for reminding me!

[@jameswilkins2820]

Yes my new klx300 has intense speed wable pretty scary!

[@BattleKegGreg]

how much do you weigh? you might need to get stiffer springs, that's the problem I had

[@jameswilkins2820]

@@BattleKegGreg 170. Change the springs? You think that's the problem?

[@BattleKegGreg]

@@jameswilkins2820 i weigh about 280, and my sag is too much, I found a calculator for that stuff, I'll see if I can dig it up. But if you're rear suspension is too weighted, it'll make your front end lighter and less stable. You could either do it yourself or go to a professional and that should get you sorted out

[@JusitnP]

My ride is Klx300r - big agree to footpegs, bars, and fuel rank. Also is exhaust and intake! Bike is restricted by pinky finger holes. Seat could be a little more comfortable like the ol TTR's. I just switched from 14/50 to 14/52 and it feels amazing only riding 50" or single track flowing sandy Michigan trails

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

You have the same problems on the R version too? I figured it was just the dual sport that got the short end.

[@Cuban.53]

Thanks for another great video dude. Keep up the good work and remember to keep the rubber side down eh. 🙂

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Thanks buddy! I appreciate you watching more than ya know.

[@guestmedia]

Subed! Same bike, same gripes lol. I'm in Central, FL. Yourself?

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Yep, central Florida.

[@jordanfrangquist1474]

Even the KLX 230 has a fuel gauge.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

😡😡😡 Don’t rub it in! 😂

[@jordanfrangquist1474]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures Don't worry I'm in the same boat as you! KLX 300

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

@@jordanfrangquist1474 I actually love mine and wouldn’t get rid of it. Overall it’s a great bike with just a baby gas tank!

[@jordanfrangquist1474]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures I love mine as well but makes ya wonder on those little nitpick things what Kawasaki's thought process was or is.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

@@jordanfrangquist1474 it’s usually about cost savings, I think. Plus having to meet EPA restrictions, and EU requirements. Shoot, I bet if the world governments weren’t meddling in stuff, we’d have a 4.5 gallon gas tank and would be enjoying 50HP and 2 MPG! LOL

[@BrandonH.1911]

What area in Florida do you ride? I am in east coast central FL, Near the Cape. We have a place called Canaveral Groves that is the off road spot every goes to around here, Lots of trails, holes, mud, sand. Its an absolute blast.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

I’m probably directly across the state from you. I ride mostly in the state forests in Pasco-Hernando counties.

[@BrandonH.1911]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures Yeah i believe you are near the tread lightly jeep badge trail, I went down it coming back from Tampa one day. Pretty calm trails perfect for bikes. i did it all in 2 wheel drive in a stock 2020 willys wrangler. I found the BIGGEST DAMN BANANA SPIDER I HAVE EVEN SEEN OUT THERE!!!!. (No lie it had to of been close to 6in+ across) i got pics of it after it fell onto my jeep when i passed under its giant web LOL. If you havnt been out there i would check it out(Just watch for spiders). lost of trails and like i guess you could call them like the fire roads you find up north going all through out as well. lots of access. God i cant wait to get a bike again to go through trails. I miss it so much. but at least i have a jeep to do it for now lol

[@philipraposo8324]

I dislike that the aftermarket support is not great. The Honda CRF has way more available.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

It’s better than you think. You just have to buy the KLX250S parts. Everything is virtually the same.

[@philipraposo8324]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures which year of the 250s?

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

I know the last era which ended in 2019 works but some even older parts may work, just be careful. But anything I’ve bought from the 2019 bikes has been fine.

[@philipraposo8324]

@@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures I been looking for aftermarket brake pedal, I want something with a larger area. Any suggestions?

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

No but I’ll look into it for you.

[@utubepro7742]

Hi there just watched you video Thinking of buying a new bike They have a gray one in crate! My son is only 14 but big for his age Don’t want to get too much of a bike soo he cannot try it occasionally So many bikes out there! Do you still recommend her?

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Most definitely. The KLX300 is a great all around bike, even for a beginner.

[@Thojouno]

Things a manufacturer can do better = a lot more $$.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Sometimes. Sometimes not. The display on the Honda is better, but the CRF300L is cheaper. Of course their suspension sucks.

[@jetberv]

Do you think a 14-44 sprocket will fit with original chain ?

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Probably not

[@philipfreeman72]

Is there a reserve on the fuel ?

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

No not on this bike. In fact, while there may be some, I don’t know if many fuel injected bikes that have a reserve.

[@markshortridge4620]

Pegs had to go on my bike too. I drilled the stock bars and tapped them . It was a slow process but they turned out well. Exhaust, 13 tooth sprocket and fuel tuner added. Stock seat is crap . Replaced with seat concepts . I agree a larger tank, fuel gauge instead of a low fuel indicator and a gear indicator are my biggest gripes. I’ve forgotten to fill my tank before and hit the woods only to see the low fuel warning come on and ruin my day. I usually get 75-80 miles before this low fuel lite appears.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

I actually don’t mind the seat. I don’t ride longer than 2-3 hours at any given time though so that helps! Plus most of the time I’m standing up, hence the need for good pegs!

[@BobBob-vq3rb]

Yea it is some storage on that

[@danielgreen7159]

Nothing new here.

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

You are! Thank you for commenting.

[@allenedwards3073]

You also sound kinda weak.😳

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

Appreciate the comment!