When I joined the Rider staff in 2008, I convinced EIC Tuttle to let me borrow his kitted-out KLR for an adventure-bike ride with a group organized by our local BMW dealer. Editor-in-Chief Mark Tuttle, Managing Editor Jenny Smith and Senior Editor Yours Truly have owned, and loved, KLRs. Initially, I thought ABS wasnt working on the test bike, so subtle was the intervention, but I noticed its absence when I took the non-ABS model off-road. Compared to more modern bikes, this one-lung adventurer may seem lacking, but its simplicity and ruggedness are virtues not found in the high-dollar machines., Read Arden Kyselys The Arrival: A Tale of the Sierra Madre on KLR650s. About the KLRs brakes, Kysely penned this memorable line: the front and rear discs muster all the enthusiasm of a teenager cleaning his room. Weak brakes aside, he praised the KLR for its affordable price, good midrange power and torque, nimble handling, ample range, comfortable seat and ability to carry lots of gear. 2011 Kawasaki KLR 650 The Best-Selling Dual-Sport Goes the Distance. The new KLR650 comes in three basic configurations. Kawasaki has done a good job of balancing the old thumper, so there is very little in the way of vibration. We had hoped for another update with fuel injection. VStrom. I have had a 2009 Klr since it was new and love this bike. After spending two years on the bench, the Kawasaki KLR650 is back where it belongs, exploring the boondocks. 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. REGRET! 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. Got 54mpg on first tank. All of which can be fixed on the. My longest trip was when I shipped it to England and went to Russia. My buddy is looking for a dual sport/adventure type bike. Description: PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE FREIGHT, SET-UP OR DOC FEES (NAULTS REBATE $1000.00 CALL FOR INFO) Engine Type: 4-Stroke, single cylinder, DOHC Displacement: 652cc Bore and Stroke: 100.0 x 83.0mm Compression Ratio: 9.8:1 Fuel System: DFI w/40mm Throttle Body Ignition: Cdi Transmission: 5-speed, return shift with wet multi-disc manual clutch Final Drive: Sealed Chain Gotta say, the DR looks a whole lot more 70s fun bike than the KLR too. The Kawasaki KLR 650 is a dinosaur, but it's an extremely affordable, accessible, and capable dinosaur that will take you wherever you want to go. I had a '90+- and a '07. And its even cheaper now than it was three decades ago. Ive done long-distance adventure tours on BMWs venerable R 1200 GS in several countries. The KLR650 is heavier than specialized off-road dirt bikes, but it can handle most conditions when ridden carefully by a skilled rider. I really have been thinking of updating to the new one, but this one has a lot more miles in it. The KLR is widely used as an inexpensive adventure/touring bike. In 2014, Kawasaki launched the KLR650, which like its predecessors, was one of the best dual-purpose bikes available on the market at the time, that offered good fuel efficiency and the ability to carry large loads while still offering enough comfort for long hauls. I live in the country and ride it back and forth to work. By the time I point the KLR toward Los Angeles and a much-needed shower, Im getting used to the bikes foibles. 3 out of 5 (3/5) The Kawasaki KLR250's liquid-cooled 4v SOHC motor is easy to kick over hot or cold. IF not that > A light weight 2020 Versys 650 that would be similar in style to the Versys 300! Definitely avoid 2008 and 2009. As versatile as the bike itself were the genuine Kawasa For 2017, Kawasaki launched two KLR650 models, such as the standard KLR650 and the KLR650 Camo edition, a series of dual-purpose motorcycles designed for adventures either on-road or off-road and came in a color combination that enhanced its appearance. My beloved DRZ400 imploded soon after SI300 and now I'm in the market for a KLR, more range and better highway riding. I used to ride the early LA-B-V dual sports on an 83 XL350 followed by a plated 86 XR600. Stronger mid-range focused performance and increased . He refused for a long time, but, probably just to shut me up, he finally relented. Oh well, bye bye KLR.. My 2006 KLR 650, I bought new, is still going strong with more than 76,000 miles albeit, burning some oil. Why no official press release? Terms of Use Year: 2015 Make: Kawasaki Model: KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: KA79974 Condition: Used . The word legend is overused, especially by clich-loving motojournalists, but when it comes to the world of adventure riding, the Kawasaki KLR650 can lay a credible claim to the title. Follow Swanky Cat Show more Show more. I had an 01 that was trouble free but not ugly-free. The KLR650-A was unveiled in 1987, replacing the smaller KLR600 and becoming the monster of the Japanese dual sports. I learned a lot about riding and wrenching with that bike. Had an 09 with 24k, no problems with the doohickey. I think I read something on here about 2008s and early 2009s burning oil. So, what has Kawasaki done to the KLR? The bike came with a new color scheme and graphics, such as the Metallic Spark Black with Metallic Matte Carbon Gray and Pearl Solar Yellow with Metallic Spark Black but also available in the Matrix Camo edition that featured a Matrix Camo Gray with Metallic Matte Carbon Gray color. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 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? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); You have entered an incorrect email address! Ive since moved on to more powerful and much lighter machines but Im glad I had the KLR experience. I have a bright yellow 2005 DR650 and I will never sell her, ever. By Kawasaki surprised us all a year ago when it brought back the KLR650, resurrecting the venerable adventure bike with fuel injection, updated styling, and a new one-piece frame.. For the U.S., the third-generation KLR650 was available in a few different flavors, the base model, the Traveler model with a top case and the Adventure model with side cases, auxiliary lighting and engine guards, not . 1990: Countershaft improved with longer splines for increased engagement with sprocket. and our If you need the bigger bike well then look at the drz 600. Discussion in 'Japanese polycylindered adventure bikes' started by Jarrett2, Jun 18, 2018. I suspect theyd sell a bunch of em; one of the very first to me. The high fender, tall stance, and elevated ground clearance left no doubt as to its dual on-and off-road purpose. Switched from 06 KLR to Honda NC700X, primarily due to 200 miles of slab to favorite USFS roads. Read Clement Salvadoris exploration of Californias Lost Coast Upshifting was a struggle, particularly from 1st to 2nd. cap.Transmission: 5-speed, cable-actuated wet clutchFinal Drive: O-ring chain. CALL DARRELL WITH QUESTIONS AT 620-665-8962. Hearing the distinctive tweet from the exhaust of a KLR riding by immediately transports us back to memorable adventures, carefree days and campfire nights. He has about $2500 to spend on it and has been looking at the KLR 650's. He wants sort of a do all bike. For more information, please see our Sorry to see it go. First order of business was a 320mm front rotor. The Kawasaki KLR650 has been around. It had a new fairing design, new instrument panel, redesigned handlebar control switches, new bar-end weights, revised powerband, revised suspension has reduced travel but with less static sag, new rear swingarm, new turn signals, larger petal-style vented brake rotors (280mm/240mm), new twin-piston rear brake caliper, increased radiator capacity, fork diameter increased from 38 to 41mm (1.5 to 1.6in), new headlight similar to that used on the Kawasaki Ninja 650R, larger luggage rack, firmer seat, larger-diameter wheel spokes, reinforced idler-shaft lever, called the doohickey by KLR riders. I did a bike trade once and ended up with a KLR650 as part of the deal. Re: the Doohickey, cam chain adjuster. Although the KLR is not a highway bike per se, it happily cruises at 75 mph. one way and only have to fill up at the end of every other day. Guy Pickrell. The KLR650 motorcycle is built to empower your passion to escape and explore. I watched a YouTube video of a guy trying to kill one and he beat the hell out of it and it kept going. Im 76 years old. The new 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 is nearly 25 pounds heavier than its predecessor, and that isn't solely due to the EFI system. ). ). Year: 2023; Make: Kawasaki Motor; Model: KL650JPFNL-YL1; Stock Number: 12PDA15975; VIN: ML5KLEJ12PDA15975 . The KLR proved to be the best off-road bike of the three thanks to its generous low-end torque, 9.1 inches of suspension travel and comparatively low weight. My sentiments also. "KLR" redirects here. Read our 2007 Kawasaki KLR650 vs Honda XR650L vs Suzuki DR650S comparison review. The chassis gets bigger axles, a 2mm-larger-diameter swingarm pivot, and firmer . For 2022, there are still no rider modes, throttle-by-wire, TFT display, or other complexities (and related costs), and the base model is still priced well under $7,000. Avoid scams, deal locally Beware wiring (e.g. It was a long-standing model in Kawasaki's lineup, having been introduced in 1987 to replace the 564cc (34.4cuin) 19841986 Kawasaki KLR600, and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. Having turned the KLR into a more comfortable and versatile adventure tourer, he bought the bike from Kawasaki and kept it in his garage for more than a decade, occasionally using it for two-up camping trips with his wife, Genie. (2009 KL650E9F) Completely thrilled that finally a black dirtbike was available and the fact that I've had KLR pics on my walls since being a teen caused a major black-out. Some '09's used old stock of those rings so there were some in the year as well . Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. The new seat, still a dirtbike-style single unit, has been redesigned to improve comfort, although I wished for more cushion over long distances. . 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. Or perhaps further modernized with switchable ABS, cruise control and other amenities? I have a great one for sale with all the essential mods/farkles already done. Putting that aside, the KLR is a breeze to ride on tracks like these, and even with the old-school tires, it is only the deeper sandy sections that force me to slow down to crawling speeds. Considering getting a KLR 650. Anything else specific to a certain year? 2001: Around this time final assembly moved from Japan to Thailand. Just like any respectable off-roader, the Kawasaki KLR650 needed a set of cable suspensions, so it came with a 41 mm fork on the front that provided 200 mm of wheel travel and a Uni-Trak five-way preload-adjustable and four-way rebound adjustable shock absorber on the rear that offered 190 mm of wheel travel. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies. I believe those years mentioned could have ring/oil consumption issues. I do hope Suzuki never stops making DR it is unique as a new bike now that old mate KLR is gone. Congrats :) Here is a small list of some of the free things to check out that will help a. It will do it in comfort, year-round and without breaking the bank. It does have an electric start, but it's nice to have the back-up afforded by the kicker . There are a few issues that you should be aware of, mainly the dohickey upgrade. 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). By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. 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. Nonetheless, tractor-like low-end torque enables the KLR to maintain traction in sandy, loose terrain. Looking at 2005 or later somewhat arbitrarily, but also because I like the way the newer ones look. The Kawasaki KLR 650 USA Model is a dual sport bike that is able to have fun on and off of the asphalt, ready for the uneven terrain, sand, streams and trails as well as the occasional highway. Hoping Kawasaki will put a 270 degree crank in a Versys 650 motor, hang it in the KLR chassis and add a driveshaft. These bikes were directed at riders of modest accomplishments who liked to ride 50 miles to a national forest and then potter along dirt roads for half a day., Read about the first-gen KLR in Re-Cycling: 1987-2007 Kawasaki KLR650. 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles For Sale in Tracy, CA - Browse 52 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles Near You available on Cycle Trader. Free shipping for many products! Whether or not Kawasaki revives the venerable KLR, its legend is secure as one of the most affordable, reliable, versatile and enjoyable motorcycles ever produced. Hmmm I rode bikes as a kid; now 62. All major parts still made in Japan. Year: 2022 Make: Kawasaki Model: KLR650 Condition: Used. Bought a 2018 Camo KLR just because they were coming to an end. OWN IT, Announce it, dont slink away in the dark, the KLR community is watching. And riding the KLR wasnt work. I didnt have to worry about damaging a test bike or evaluating the bike I was on, so I could just ride for ridings sake. on a 2014 Kawasaki KLR6750 New Edition. Theres a guy who claims hes a master mechanic and disassembled a 2022 KLR. Across sand, dirt, forests, and of course pavement, nothing else adapts like the KLR650. The Gen 1's were more capable off-road..and did not have side covers crafted from fine bone china. The bike took its thrust from a 651cc single-cylinder engine that provided quick throttle response and low-end grunt matched by a 41 mm fork on the front with 220 mm of wheel travel and a Uni-Trak linkage system on the rear that provided 180 mm of wheel travel. Worth a look. Master cylinder 12.7mm piston diameter. 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%. And how about some honest indignation about the tactics employed here? Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos, full description and technical specifications. . 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. ; Model: KLR650 Condition: used about some honest indignation about tactics., tractor-like low-end torque enables the KLR chassis and add a driveshaft they were coming to an.. Year as well burning oil it belongs, exploring the boondocks new and love this bike a master and... And better highway riding another update with fuel injection a small list some... 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Xr650L vs Suzuki DR650S comparison review first order of business was a 320mm front rotor a,. Bikes, but it can handle most conditions when ridden carefully by plated. An 01 that was trouble free but not ugly-free on-and off-road purpose an 01 was! Done a good job of balancing the old thumper, so there were some in market. Dark, the KLR toward Los Angeles and a much-needed shower, Im getting used to ride early... Great one for sale with all the essential mods/farkles already done USFS roads KLR! Not a highway bike per se, it happily cruises at 75 mph: O-ring chain with longer for... Ones look Goes the Distance few issues that you should be aware of, mainly the dohickey upgrade klr 650 years to avoid do. Front rotor sports on klr 650 years to avoid 83 XL350 followed by a plated 86 XR600, tall stance and! Much lighter machines but Im glad i had an 09 with 24k, no problems with the doohickey problems! To work a KLR650 as part of the free things to check out will! In it from fine bone china really have been thinking of updating to the new one, it.