Kawasaki has kicked off 2026 with an interesting new motorcycle called the Stockman. This offering is directly based on the reliable KLX 230 dual-sport platform. However, it was developed exclusively for Australia and New Zealand. Currently, Kawasaki has no intentions to introduce the model to India or other global markets.
Built for the Jobsite
Unlike its standard dual-sport sibling, this Stockman variant was clearly designed from the ground up as a utility-oriented motorcycle. You can see it’s aimed squarely at farmers and ranchers who need a reliable tool. Powering it is the same trusty 233cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine we know, which produces a manageable 18.7bhp at 7,600rpm and 19.9Nm of torque at 6,100rpm.
It’s fuel-injected and paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, delivering a smooth and friendly performance perfectly suitable for tough off-road duties. Despite its no-frills appearance, Kawasaki included a few interesting features that show real-world thinking.
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The standout is the clutch lever locking system; from experience, this is a game-changer, letting the rider keep the bike in gear without continuously holding the clutch—incredibly useful when riding slowly through a paddock or stopping frequently during work. Practical touches extend to aluminium hand guards, which offer crucial protection from branches, fences, and rough terrain.
Purpose-Built Hardware
From a practical standpoint, Kawasaki has equipped the Stockman to be a true work partner right out of the box. A sturdy rear luggage rack is standard, along with tough engine protection guards, making it far better suited for carrying tools or supplies through tough rural environments.
Its suspension duties are handled by rugged 37mm telescopic forks at the front and a rear monoshock with preload adjustment, a setup I’ve found absorbs the bumps of a paddock beautifully. The bike runs on a classic off-road setup with a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, a combination commonly seen on serious, oriented motorcycles. For stopping power, braking is taken care of by capable disc brakes at both ends, ensuring control is always in your hands.
