Tim McCreadie Edition

At the heart of the KLX300 is its 292cc single-cylinder liquid-cool four-stroke engine. It mixes a good blend of simple, easy-to-manage, yet relatively strong power that inspires confidence at every rpm range. Down low, the initial roll-on is consistent and smooth as you wean it off the cable-operated clutch, perfect for newbies. The fuel injection system is spot-on and doesn’t want to lurch or surge in slower-speed areas. Low-end torque is still adequate for small to moderate hill climbs and nearly impossible to stall, again making it perfect for beginner riders.

The motor comes alive as you shift through the wide-spread six-speed gearbox. I found the sweet spot in the 6000-9000 rpm range, which made the engine feel ultra-usable as you pick up speed on the dirt. It offers a surprisingly good top-end pull and is fun to ride if you want to run at a faster pace. On the road, this proved beneficial, too, as the KLX can easily cruise at 55-plus miles per hour. The stricter-emissions dual sport is noticeably tamer than the off-road-only KLX300R. The dual sport’s choked-up rear exhaust doesn’t do the bike any favors in terms of performance but does keep the bike quiet, at least.

Suspension is quite good. The hold-up from the fork is better than I expected. Budget-friendly bikes, such as the KLX range, are often held back by their suspensions. Frequently, they are under-sprung and bottom easily. Not the KLX, though. It soaks up the big hits well, and with 10 inches of travel up front and nine in the rear, there is plenty of cushion for smaller bumps and the unexpected G-out. Beginners/novices or those who just want to slow down and soak in the sights will enjoy the KLX’s cushy suspension, which has more adjustability than some of its class rivals. More experienced riders will be impressed by how far they can push the KLX’s suspension before limits are reached.