I just recently got my hands on the 2021 Kawasaki KLX 110R L. This mini bike has a 112cc engine capable of versatile off-road shenanigans. Equipped with low seat height, plush suspension, electric start and a 4-speed clutch, that makes this bike every riders dream toy. Here are a few of my favorite things about the 2021 Kawasaki KLX 110R L.
Clutch & Electric Start:
The clutch is extremely forgiving on this beast of a mini-bike. Lets just say, at first, I was intimidated by this little thing because it has some torque. The clutch is cable operated, but has a nice engagement and a pull that any aged rider will appreciate. In addition to freeing up the exhaust flow, changes in valve timing, ignition and the piston rings help increase boost. More riders, especially younger kids and first timers, will appreciate the fact that the KLX also has an electric-start.
Low Seat Height:
The seat height on the KLX 110R L is only 28.7 inches. That’s perfect for shorter people and young kids. I am 5’1 and can perfectly touch the ground without having to ride up the curb so I don’t fall over when I stop the bike. Or just ghost the bike into a tree because I can’t stop. Both of those situations are embarrassing and not ideal. The low seat height may cause some annoyance to the taller people but it actually helps riders to sit up right and not hunch.
Handling and Turns:
The handling on the KLX110R L is as fine as ever. The bike has a good suspension balance front-to-rear and the handling is nimble. Kawasaki has done an amazing job in setting the suspension to be stiff enough to take a beating from kids jumping it and acting crazy (you know that’s all kids want to do!) while at the same time hold up an adult who thinks they are Axel Hodges. Both front and rear have decent bottoming resistance but you can still get them to clank. Yet even for a new rider right in the size range for this bike, the suspension will get the job done and give room to grow. The drum brakes are a little on the soft side for anyone used to discs, but they slow the bike just fine and are not intimidating for a first timer who may not be so coordinated with the controls (like me). The KLX has been picked on for is its overall weight, right at 167.5 pounds with gas. It feels a bit heavy compared to some of its competition, especially when picking it up after falling over. Durability on all Kawasaki bikes has been excellent in our experience. That is one reason why people love this brand so much. The motor, when left stock, is bulletproof. Over time the suspension valving will fade and the foot pegs and especially the rear brake pedal will get wrapped around and bent. But the big pieces hold up just fine to all normal abuse. You can expect to have this bike for a very long time.
Overall the 2021 KLX110R L is a perfect upgrade from an already successful model. Kawasaki made all the right improvements, wrapped it in a more stylish skin, providing more options for buyers out there. As a first or second machine for youngsters looking to have fun, you can’t go wrong. Especially considering they can keep riding it, as they get older. I plan to let my daughter Audrey have this bike when she’s old enough and ready!