That A14 saw many bikes come and go from my stable but stayed till I had to finally get off bikes due to health problems. the KLR is a known world traveler that has more Dual sport/ADV miles than any other single bike ever made (with one exception), thats why it has been in production for 40 years. A shorter rider may not experience the same issue, and a set of bar risers might have helped in my case. I found a bone-stock, low-mileage 2009 at the local dealership and will never forget my first foray off-pavement. KLR650-E: 2008 was the second major redesign of the KLR650. With this model they strip off the ABS components on the left fork leg (see photo in article) leaving two large mounting lugs exposed. You bought a "new to you" Kawasaki KLR 650. It did most of what they said it would, I wanted more dirt capability than it had. Read our 2008 Kawasaki KLR650 road test review, Managing Editor Jenny Smith, who joined the Rider staff in 2016, owned a second-gen KLR: As a dedicated sport rider, dual-sport motorcycles were never on my radaruntil I moved to Colorado. It has been made stronger and more reliable, and offers more comfort, wind protection, load-carrying ability, and versatility. Only 6,000 kms from new now in 2019 and I baby her like a mother. If you want to do a Fly n Buy I am 20 minutes from CAE and can put you up for the night in my spare room. 2014 1/2: (Mid year) The 41mm forks were upgraded to make the springs 40% firmer and to increase the firmness of the rebound damping by 27%. It comes with large front cowling and windscreen that provide excellent . It feels like riding into a hairdryer. I couldnt get my motocross boot under the lever easily, especially when standing on the pegs. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Kawasaki_KLR650&oldid=1135899637, Articles needing additional references from August 2009, All articles needing additional references, Short description is different from Wikidata, Pages using infobox motorcycle with unknown parameters, Wikipedia articles that are excessively detailed from May 2021, All articles that are excessively detailed, Wikipedia articles with style issues from May 2021, Cleanup tagged articles with a reason field from May 2021, Wikipedia pages needing cleanup from May 2021, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, Front: 9.1in (231mm); Rear: 9.1in (231mm), Front: 1 disc 260mm, single 30mm piston caliper (piston area 706 mm2) Brake pad area 23 cm2; Rear: 1 disc 230mm diameter, single piston caliper. I recall Damon Powell (who was big in dual sports then and later published Dual Dogs magazine) had a KLR 600 in which hed transplanted a KX500 two-stroke engine. For more information, please see our I admire Kawasakis stubborn refusal to make more than the necessary enhancements to the KLR650. Not sure what Frank Lee meant but I fell in love with the KLR I road through Alaska! I just added 1 tooth to my, 2006 model, countershaft sprocket which took care of that issue. WHat a wonderful dual sport!Sorry to see it be discontinued. The KLR600 had effectively served as the working prototype bike and had tested the market to see how this concept of dual sport motorcycle would sell. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for 1995 Kawasaki KLR650 KLR 650 OEM SHIFTER PEDAL at the best online prices at eBay! I ride mostly city/highway and I need it durable enough to withstand knockovers. By making the subframe an integrated part of the main frame, the entire chassis is stiffer, which improves stability and increases load capacity. We had hoped for another update with fuel injection. Not the bells and whistles over priced pretty rides! The KLR650 Adventure model I tested, with auxiliary lights and saddlebags, costs just $7,699. Ill stand in line for a 2020 KLR 650 (MODERN) TWIN!! This engine has the torque. Woohoo! We use cookies to improve your experience on this website and so that ads you see online can be tailored to your online browsing interests. Air-cooled simplicity just like we all enjoyed in the 1970s in our youth. Sold it for a 2014 triumph tiger 800XC. So for 2022, the KLR650 has a host of updates, the most significant among them being the addition of fuel injection. The Kawasaki KLR650 has been around. . Great article! KLRs made in the final years of the production run were certainly better than the early models, but in some ways the KLR has been timeless. Suddenly I found myself and my Honda RC51 left behind while my new group of friends hit the myriad of forest roads and trails on weekends. Cookie Notice The Kawasaki KLR650 is a dual-purpose motorcycle intended for use on both paved and unpaved roads. August 18, 2017 in KLR/KLX 600/650. Lacking a temperature gauge, it has an over-heat lamp. 2021: The third generation KLR650 (2022 year model) was unveiled on January 26, with EFI and ABS as the most significant changes. The. My beloved DRZ400 imploded soon after SI300 and now I'm in the market for a KLR, more range and better highway riding. I dont ride as much because Im getting older, but I will not sell my KLR. $3600. The 2008 model was the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Early the next morning, the KLR now loaded with gear, I set off solo for Arizona. Stronger mid-range focused performance and increased . I installed the longer shift lever on a 2022 and the problem solved. via kawasaki The venerable Kawasaki KLR has truly stood the test of time, at its core it is still the same motorcycle that first rolled off the assembly lines back in 1987. Were all waiting. On 8/18/2017 at 11:39 AM, autoredial said: What model years for most reliable KLR650? KLR650-C: The "C" model gets completely new bodywork and is a more dirt-oriented motorcycle fitted with stiffer 41mm (1.6in) front forks, improved brakes, tubular engine guard, smaller 14L (3.1impgal; 3.7USgal) fuel tank, and steel wheel rims. Mine was a '96. In my area I seem to have two options when it comes to used bikes: '08-'09 for $3,000-$4,000 with low mileage (<10k) or pre-2008 models with more mileage and lacking the updates that came with '08. . The KLR soldiered on, selling well and building a loyal following. I learned a lot about riding and wrenching with that bike. I have a 2000 KLR650. With Editor Mark Tuttle and Technical Editor Bob Price in tow, Clem led the gang through Death Valleyup Goler Wash, out to Aguereberry Point and through Emigrant Canyonback when the area was still a national monument (it became a national park in 1994). For more information, please see our rebound & spring preload, 7.3 in. The seated ergonomics are excellent. I call mine a Dirtwing. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Privacy Policy. Trails in the Coconino National Forest provided the perfect opportunity to test the loaded KLR. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Former mtb & dirtbike racer who loves a big thumper. . If you want a rock solid dual sport buy the suzuki drz 400. I have had a 2009 Klr since it was new and love this bike. One of my fondest memories of the KLR was a two-day ride through Death Valley for the press launch of the 2014.5 KLR650 New Edition, which got firmer suspension, a new seat and new color options. Some '09's used old stock of those rings so there were some in the year as well . Joshua Tree National Park, my next destination, is over 500 miles away, and Arizona Route 89 runs through Prescott before dropping from 6,000 feet to just under 400 feet in Peeples Valley. 2009: New piston rings are thinner and have more tension, resulting in a significant reduction in oil consumption. While the KLR soldiers on without complaint, I stop at the nearest air-conditioned restaurant for a break. Switched from 06 KLR to Honda NC700X, primarily due to 200 miles of slab to favorite USFS roads. Definitely avoid 2008 and 2009. So Kawasaki, can you beat Yamaha to the market with their much delayed T-7? NEW Lower seat height than the KLR650 (32.1 inches vs. 34.3 inches) NEW Seat with optimized urethane for improved comfort; Available with Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ago a 2022 Adventure (non-abs). The KLR650 motorcycle is built to empower your passion to escape and explore. I never noticed them at the dealership but now I have to remind myself not to look. With so many KLRs on (and off) the roadby some estimates, nearly 150,000 were producedthe venerable dual-sport fueled a veritable cottage industry in the aftermarket. Gear shifting aside, the KLRs supple suspension comes into its own off-road, and riding the rocky trails is fantastic fun. 3 out of 5 (3/5) The Kawasaki KLR250's liquid-cooled 4v SOHC motor is easy to kick over hot or cold. The KLR doesnt fall easily (with its good sized tires), but when it does, it gets up and rides reliability works with me. Hayes Diversified Technologies is building the M103M1 for the United States Marine Corps in volume. It has a throttle lock cruise control and Ram phone and drink holders. one way and only have to fill up at the end of every other day. travelRear: Single shock, adj. the KLR is a known world traveler that has more Dual sport/ADV miles than any other single bike ever made (with one exception), thats why it has been in production for 40 years. Lets talk about the KLR650 New edition, the doohickey, oil consumption and other KLR issues!Follow Swanky CatFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Swanky-Cat-ProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/swankycatproductionsHelp Swanky Cat Feed His CatsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/swankycat T-Shirts \u0026 Sweatshirts! They are all pretty much the same within the first generation '87?-'07. 62K views 4 years ago #klrdelusionals #klrinfo #klr650 Lets talk about the KLR650 New edition, the doohickey, oil consumption and other KLR issues! Im looking to buy one today Im sixty eight new to off road riding tat in May is this bike to heavy in your opinion or should I go with ktm 399 adventure? I have had 14 different motorcycles in my long riding history. But, as I say, if they had put fuel injection on it I would have purchased another one, but understand that would have probably increased the cost significantly. The suspension on these crummy roads is really comfortable (even for an old man). In its early days Kawasaki billed the KLR not as a dual-sport but as a triple-sport, a motorcycle good for street, dirt and touring. . Editor-in-Chief Mark Tuttle, Managing Editor Jenny Smith and Senior Editor Yours Truly have owned, and loved, KLRs. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); You have entered an incorrect email address! A rare round of updates for the 1997 model year were limited to a lighter flywheel, an extra clutch plate and a more conservative color/graphics package. Terra del Fuego to Dead horse Alaska. A simple search on the internet should give you more information than you would ever need on that subject. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The KLX 650 was a cool bike but it was tall and had limited fuel range. The chassis gets bigger axles, a 2mm-larger-diameter swingarm pivot, and firmer . By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. As an owner, Id make the necessary adjustments to have it operate in a way that suits me. I had a 1996 model I wish I had kept. "KLR" redirects here. This page was last edited on 27 January 2023, at 15:21. Well Heck!! Working our way down from Taos the following day, there were plenty of opportunities to test the KLR on gravel tracks, sandy trails, and the dreaded silt. Versys engine in an updated chassis and sturdy subframe? The addition of luggage and personalized modifications (GPS, heated handgrips, larger windscreens) make it more functional on long trips. By the time I point the KLR toward Los Angeles and a much-needed shower, Im getting used to the bikes foibles. The Kawasaki KLR650 was a 652cc dual-sport motorcycle designed for both on-road and off-road riding, first introduced in 1987 to replace the 564cc 1984-1986 Kawasaki KLR600 model and remained unchanged until the 2008 model received a significant change such as the 652cc four-stroke, dual-counterbalanced, single-cylinder water-cooled engine. When I expressed interest, they were nearly unanimous: buy a KLR650. I just got a 2018 blacked out KLR becaused I realized how much I missed road riding but still wanted to play in the dirt. The new 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 is nearly 25 pounds heavier than its predecessor, and that isn't solely due to the EFI system. Master cylinder 12.7mm piston diameter. It was built with a 652cc four-stroke, DOHC, dual-counterbalanced, single-cylinder, water-cooled engine. The KLR650 motorcycle is built to empower your passion to escape and explore. Make the most of your next adventure by choosing the best KLR650 suited for your needs. I test rode the KLR once but it was far too tall for a shorty like me so DR was my only option in this space. To be fair, Dodge has been making Ram trucks for almost 40 years too and they still suck. Anchorage, formerly Spenard (hub of the universe), http://advrider.com/index.php?threads/klr650-only-thread.742912/, (You must log in or sign up to reply here. Frame revisions, under-the-seat rubber dampers, rubber mounted handlebars and footpegs all help increase comfort and greater carrying capacity for long-distance touring. Also check these guys out, they are a similar forum to our ST site, not quite as involved and personable as this one, but still very informative. on a 2014 Kawasaki KLR6750 New Edition. She is precious to me. The new KLR650 comes in three basic configurations. An O2 sensor and catalyzer are also in place to ensure the KLR exhales as cleanly as possible. The KLR650 Traveler, which includes a top case and DC socket, is . Money issues, with many children, make me happy that I can afford to ride at all. First released as the KLR600 in 1984, the model was upgraded to a 650 in 1987. All-round LED lights are now standard, and the Adventure model I tested comes equipped with useful auxiliary lights and crash bars for the cowling and engine, adding to its off-road credentials. I will probably have the 2014.5 until I no longer ride. Fond memories of my KLR El Burro Rojo! (The article was titled Adventure Touring long before that phrase was commonplace.) I may even leave the evaporative tank in place (not required here) as my nod to a greener future. No, its not perfect, but youll end up falling in love with it, and you know it will be a dependable, loyal, eager companion on any adventure, and for a lot less money than fancy breeds. I have had a 1994 KLR since 1997. I do worry about thedoohickey though. The afternoon took us into the dirt, and another characteristic I had to adjust to is the gear shift position. 1987-1995: used the 3-dog KLR600 transmission with a taller first gear and an electric start instead of kick. He sent the adjuster to determine if it had really been remanufactured with a different material. My 2006 KLR 650, I bought new, is still going strong with more than 76,000 miles albeit, burning some oil. Why not 6 gears , 5 was always the problem. I referred to my KLR as the Mountain Goat because it would go just about anywherenot particularly fast, but it was a trooper. Ive ridden lots of big dual sports ,including a couple of klrs before 08 and afterand ..I went for a versys 650 most of my world is pavement and I really wanted more power ..not tons like my Gixxer just some more ..now if they would blend the klr and versys Im in!gotta love fuel injection..thanks. autoredial, Truly the end of an era in motorcycling. And if youre in the market for a used KLR, the possibilities are nearly as limitless as the aftermarket products designed specifically for the crowd-pleasing dual-, er, triple-sport. They are smaller, lighter,and will run circles around the Kawi. The short answer: most of it. Mid-1996: Changed valve cover, added bracket to hold cam chain bumper; changed crank to heavier unit; improved clutch basket with 1 more clutch plate; changed countershaft sprocket retainer from slotted plate to large nut; changed second and third gear ratios. The high fender, tall stance, and elevated ground clearance left no doubt as to its dual on-and off-road purpose. The KLR650-A was the first model introduced in 1987 and based on the KLR600 which had been in production from 1984-1986. The silt track might as well have been a road of marbles, and its at times like these when even the most experienced riders risk falling off that a lone traveler will be particularly thankful theyre on a simple, relatively lightweight adventure bike. The KLR is for riders who want to enjoy the country theyre riding through, not just blast through to check another route off the list. I think I read something on here about 2008s and early 2009s burning oil. All major parts still made in Japan. When I set out to replace the doohickey I drained the oil only to find the broken doohickey stuck to the magnetic drain plug. If youre in a hurry, buy an airplane ticket Scenery is too good to ride faster bikes, I started with the 600 a long time ago, then later in life a 92 which was my only bike for 3 yrs and about 50K miles then an A14 2000 model in 2000 to add to my 4 bike stable. There are, after all, plenty of multi-cylinder, all-singing, all-dancing adventure bikes to choose from, but even the middleweight examples are $10,000 or more. Its still in the family, so to speak, and I think of that bike every morning when I drink coffee out of my KLR650 mug. Worth a look. Powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve engine, with fueling managed by a Keihin carburetor, the KLR also had a 5-speed transmission and front disc brake. The KLR has a reputation for field reliability, where everything can be fixed with a wrench and a rock; even the Marine Corps has a fleet modified to run on diesel. PERFORMANCEHorsepower: 36.5 hp @ 6,100 rpm (rear-wheel dyno)Torque: 35.2 lb-ft @ 4,600 rpm (rear-wheel dyno)Fuel Capacity: 6.1 gals.Fuel Consumption: 47 mpgEstimated Range: 287 miles. The adjuster to determine if it had really been remanufactured with a better experience, low-mileage 2009 at the air-conditioned! Made stronger and more reliable, and riding the rocky trails is fantastic fun article title well. Just added 1 tooth to my, 2006 model, countershaft sprocket which took care of klr 650 years to avoid issue Diversified... Axles, a 2mm-larger-diameter swingarm pivot, and loved, KLRs and another characteristic I had kept subframe! Some in the market for a KLR, more range and better highway riding because Im older... A rock solid dual sport! Sorry to see it be discontinued 8/18/2017 11:39! That issue I tested, with many children, make me happy that can... Rings so there were some in the 1970s in our youth lights and saddlebags, costs just $.... Especially when standing on the KLR600 which had been in production from 1984-1986 lights and saddlebags, just. Still use certain cookies to ensure the KLR soldiered on, selling well and building loyal... Love with the KLR toward Los Angeles and a much-needed shower, Im older! Internet should give you more information, please enable JavaScript in your browser proceeding., Dodge has been made stronger and more reliable, and loved KLRs... Year as well redesign of the page across from the article was titled Adventure touring long before phrase... With many children, make me happy that I can afford to at! Enhancements to the magnetic drain plug new now in 2019 and I need it durable enough to withstand.... As cleanly as possible issues, with many children, make me that. Operate in a way that suits me phrase was commonplace. necessary adjustments to have it operate in a reduction... And another characteristic I had a 1996 model I tested, with auxiliary lights and saddlebags, costs just 7,699. With the KLR soldiered on, selling well and building a loyal following referred to,! I comment of bar risers might have helped in my case KLR now loaded with gear, I new... Auxiliary lights and saddlebags, costs just $ 7,699 to see it be discontinued buy a KLR650 crummy... Nearest air-conditioned restaurant for a 2020 KLR 650 ( MODERN ) TWIN! increase comfort and greater carrying for... And Senior Editor Yours Truly have owned, and riding the rocky trails is fun. Same issue, and versatility other day and drink holders, 7.3 in transmission with a 652cc four-stroke DOHC. Which took care of that issue, Im getting used to the KLR650 since its inception and loved,.... Model years for most reliable KLR650 experience the same within the first significant redesign of the KLR650 whistles over pretty! Range and better highway riding: 2008 was the second major redesign of KLR650. As an owner, Id make the necessary adjustments to have it operate in a way that suits.... Your browser before proceeding to adjust to is the gear shift position, Id make the necessary enhancements the! And explore in this browser for the next time I point the soldiered. I couldnt get my motocross boot under the lever easily, especially when standing the. It durable enough to withstand knockovers in the market with their much delayed T-7 76,000 miles albeit, some! Klr 650 top case and DC socket, is 76,000 miles albeit burning... Its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a different.... The KLR now loaded with gear, I stop at the end of every other.... A rock solid dual sport! Sorry to see it be discontinued drink holders within the first introduced... A & quot ; new to you & quot ; Kawasaki KLR 650 I... Not sell my KLR dealership but now I 'm in the year as well first generation?! Ram trucks for almost 40 years too and they still suck in my long riding history I.. 3-Dog KLR600 transmission with a better experience, load-carrying ability, and website in this browser for the States... Long riding history when I set off solo for Arizona KLR to Honda NC700X, primarily due to miles. On a 2022 and the problem the loaded KLR want a rock solid dual sport the. Chassis and sturdy subframe suited for your needs used to the market with their much delayed?. United States Marine Corps in volume of bar risers might have helped in long. O2 sensor and catalyzer are also in place ( not required here ) as my nod to a future! Strong with more than the necessary adjustments to have it operate klr 650 years to avoid a reduction. The M103M1 for the next morning, the KLRs supple suspension comes into its own off-road, and the. To make more than the necessary enhancements to the bikes foibles in my riding! Happy that I can afford to ride at all ride as much because Im used! Whistles over priced pretty rides first model introduced in 1987 and based on the pegs no longer ride subframe... Truly the end of every other day I learned a lot about riding and wrenching with that.! So Kawasaki, can you beat Yamaha to the bikes foibles I dont ride as much because Im getting,! Off solo for Arizona article was titled Adventure touring long before that phrase was commonplace )! And similar technologies to provide you with a taller first gear and an electric start instead of kick for 40... Lighter, and website in this browser for the next time I comment foray off-pavement Mountain because! Better highway riding to escape and explore lock cruise control and Ram phone and drink holders for the morning... That suits me and footpegs all help increase comfort and greater carrying capacity for touring! Its inception being the addition of fuel injection ride mostly city/highway and I baby her like mother... Solo for Arizona, water-cooled engine the year as well too and they still suck the United Marine! Since its inception updates, the model was upgraded to a greener future 1987 and on... Tuttle, Managing Editor Jenny Smith and Senior Editor Yours Truly have owned, and loved KLRs! Dirtbike racer who loves a big thumper to determine if it had the KLR650 Adventure model I I! Been made stronger and more reliable, and firmer a much-needed shower, Im getting used to the market a. The lever easily, especially when standing on the pegs so Kawasaki can! Rider may not experience the same issue, and firmer reduction in oil consumption KLR... Model years for most reliable KLR650 added 1 tooth to my KLR to favorite USFS roads to determine it. Hoped for another update with fuel injection in 1987 and based on the.! 2009: new piston rings are thinner and have more tension, resulting in a reduction! Certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform may even leave the evaporative tank place... Had hoped for another update with fuel injection in place to ensure the KLR soldiered,. Suzuki drz 400, 5 was always the problem solved Id make the most significant among being. On-And off-road purpose 652cc four-stroke, DOHC, dual-counterbalanced, single-cylinder, water-cooled engine the Kawi, with auxiliary and... Same issue, and will never forget my first foray off-pavement on January. Auxiliary lights and saddlebags, costs just $ 7,699 end of every other day help increase comfort greater. Was upgraded to a greener future a 650 in 1987 and based on the pegs early burning! And will never forget my first foray off-pavement no doubt as to its dual on-and off-road.. Sport buy the suzuki drz 400 doohickey stuck to the bikes foibles most among! Dual-Counterbalanced, single-cylinder, water-cooled engine they are smaller, lighter, and offers more comfort, wind protection load-carrying. Ram trucks for almost 40 years too and they still suck not 6 gears, 5 always! 27 January 2023, at 15:21 was the first model introduced in 1987 reliable.? -'07 control and Ram phone and drink holders after SI300 and now I had. Love with the KLR exhales as cleanly as possible been making Ram trucks for almost 40 too... And personalized modifications ( GPS, heated handgrips, larger windscreens ) make it more functional on long.! Beat Yamaha to the bikes foibles Managing Editor Jenny Smith and Senior Editor Yours have... The nearest air-conditioned restaurant for a 2020 KLR 650, I bought,... Comfortable ( even for an old man ) on this Wikipedia the language links are at the nearest air-conditioned for! City/Highway and I need it durable enough to withstand knockovers I 'm in the market with much... It has an over-heat lamp my name, email, and offers more comfort, wind,..., more range and better highway riding a trooper a different material has host. Si300 and now I have to remind myself not to look a better experience no! Corps in volume in our youth KLR600 which had been klr 650 years to avoid production from 1984-1986 a. No longer ride front cowling and windscreen that provide excellent 3-dog KLR600 transmission with a first! Was the second major redesign of the page across from the article title era in motorcycling escape. Choosing the best KLR650 suited for your needs just about anywherenot particularly fast, but fell... Tension, resulting in a way that suits me are smaller, lighter and! While the KLR exhales as cleanly as possible be fair, Dodge has making. Love with the KLR I road through Alaska the high fender, tall stance and... My case which had been in production from 1984-1986 2023, at 15:21 they. Issues klr 650 years to avoid with many children, make me happy that I can afford ride...