Across sand, dirt, forests, and of course pavement, nothing else adapts like the KLR650. 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. So, you did it! ABS is a $300 upgrade. Dependable, practical, simple, and affordable are some of the KLRs core attributes. For more information, please see our I believe those years mentioned could have ring/oil consumption issues. If you want a rock solid dual sport buy the suzuki drz 400. 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. 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. The new 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 is nearly 25 pounds heavier than its predecessor, and that isn't solely due to the EFI system. Most of my buddies rode expensive BMW GSs, but I loved my low-tech KLR. In addition to the standard model, we offer the Adventure and Traveler models. Thanks to the KLR, I learned how to ride a big dual-sport/adventure bike, tackling sand washes and technical hill climbs, crashing more times than Id care to admit. Its almost impossible to stall, and the moment I get bogged down, a slip of the clutch is all thats required to churn my way through. Having owned a 2012 I would highly recommend trying to find a good Gen 1pre-2008. Handguards and skid plate and that's about it. The suspension is done as well as the KLX kit and Lmod. 1988: Beefed up the engine cases with extra bolts between the crank and countershaft; crank has a different part number, and may be lighter. You dont mess with success, and if it aint broke, dont fix it. It was a long-standing model in Kawasaki 's lineup, having been introduced in 1987 to replace the 564 cc (34.4 cu in) 1984-1986 Kawasaki KLR600, and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. Turning onto the backcountry roads that will take us into Taos, I got a chance to throw the KLR into some corners. After borrowing it a couple more times, scratching it up and developing a genuine fondness for the KLR, I pestered Tuttle for months to sell it to me. The standard KLR650 is available with ABS for $6,999, or without for $6,699. I have had 14 different motorcycles in my long riding history. REGRET! Our test ride began at the RFD-TV Ranch, where the sprawling Rocky Mountains descend into the high New Mexico plains. Writers seem to get informed from someone in Kawasaki who called at 11:56pm with whispered voices? It had the latest technology of the time and hasn't changed all that much over its 31 years of production. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. years. VStrom. Easily upgrade, easier than changing the plugs on my 14. Former mtb & dirtbike racer who loves a big thumper. 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. Theres also a long list of tweaks and enhancements to this new KLR, all of which should appeal to fans new and old. But at higher speeds, it would really benefit from a 6th gear. Read our 2014.5 Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition first ride review. It has been a long-standing model in Kawasaki's lineup, having been introduced in 1987 and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. Ill stand in line for a 2020 KLR 650 (MODERN) TWIN!! She is precious to me. Now equipped with fuel injection, optional ABS, and . Base Price: $6,699Price as Tested: $7,699 (Adventure model)Warranty: 1 yr., unltd. EDIT: needto change my profile pic. on a 2014 Kawasaki KLR6750 New Edition. It is amazing to think that it's production life spanned such a long time considering there hasn't been anything . Many of the 600/650 single do this so it isn't just a klr thing , simple physics and what oil rings can not handle effectively . 2006 KLR650 (Kawasaki Green) Located in Columbia SC Area. After a 32-year run (1987-2018), Kawasaki has ceased production of the KLR650. I have a 2000 KLR650. At slower speeds, the 21-inch front wheel and tall stance result in a bit of steering flop, but once adjusted to its characteristics, the KLRs road handling exceeded expectations. Ive done long-distance adventure tours on BMWs venerable R 1200 GS in several countries. Almost nothing changed for two decades, which gives some indication as to the KLRs intrinsic qualities and its popularity. The KLR650 gained a few pounds to increase swingarm and frame rigidity . The KLR is widely used as an inexpensive adventure/touring bike. You need to be a member in order to leave a comment. Still looks brand new. The 2008 model was the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception. Although the KLR is not a highway bike per se, it happily cruises at 75 mph. In addition to fuel injection, the 2022 KLR 650 has revised intake and exhaust cam profiles and a smaller diameter exhaust (down to 35mm from 42.7mm) for better mid-range power. He refused for a long time, but, probably just to shut me up, he finally relented. In 2012, Kawasaki launched the KLR650, the best-selling dual-sport motorcycle for seven years in a row and a bike that could handle all types of terrain, such as sand, dirt, forests, and pavement, with its single-cylinder engine that also delivered incredible fuel efficiency. Just Bought a new 650 KLR ADVENTURE and love it. Then, over time, the batcycle evolved with more black stuff in gloss, flat, and satin I've had an '09 & '07 still currently own the '07. Well Heck!! 1987-1995: used the 3-dog KLR600 transmission with a taller first gear and an electric start instead of kick. Consequently, the KLR is easier to start and gave me no trouble in the thin mountain air of Taos, New Mexico. Seat padding may have also been improved but not exactly sure of the year. And its even cheaper now than it was three decades ago. Somewhere in the Majestic Rocky Mountains of Alber. 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. The second significant redesign in 2022 added new features such as electronic fuel injection and an anti-lock braking system. Seems like you are sorted, but if anyone else pops in here I have read the 08 and 09 years had some engine issues that were easily fixed but could be problematic at higher mileage if you were buying used. For my funeral I want my ashes in the urn duct taped on the seat of my KLR and a keg of beer on each side of the bike and party down. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Yes. ADDITIONAL. Cant be too choosy at the dealership these days. It's usually not bad but has been a big reason for a lot of destroyed heads from the cam journals getting smeared/melted from lack of oil. 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. 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. Im 76 years old. Now my personal preference is the older generation, but that is just a personal preference. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. So that's one thing to keep an eye on when traveling . The Kawasaki KLR650 is a 652cc (39.8cuin) dual-sport motorcycle intended for both on-road and off-road riding. WHat a wonderful dual sport!Sorry to see it be discontinued. I had a '90+- and a '07. 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. So for 2022, the KLR650 has a host of updates, the most significant among them being the addition of fuel injection. I have a bright yellow 2005 DR650 and I will never sell her, ever. they sell every one they make, thats why it stays pretty much the same. I do worry about thedoohickey though. rebound & spring preload, 7.3 in. Short stroke MX type designs don't do this until 7k rpms , then a person shouldn't be surprised for letting a motor scream like that for long periods ? He also sent an adjuster from the previous model. Adding ABS raises the price to one dollar shy of $8,000. autoevolution and the autoevolution logo are registered trademarks. "KLR" redirects here. Stronger mid-range focused performance and increased . Worth a look. In 2018, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer released the KLR650, an adventure bike that offered great performance on almost every terrain, such as sand, dirt, forest roads, and even on paved roads but also delivered comfort and great fuel efficiency. 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 Re: the Doohickey, cam chain adjuster. I learned a lot about riding and wrenching with that bike. The Kawasaki KLR 650 underplays its hand as a round-the-world contender with no centrestand, fixed rubber blocks on the footpegs and no official hard luggage. JavaScript is disabled. And how about some honest indignation about the tactics employed here? Dual-purpose capability allows the journey to go on- and off-road, and a reputation for enduring reliability helps you focus on the adventure at hand. Follow Swanky Cat Show more Show more. I would like to buy a new bike but I want to retire without more payments. Features may include: Ultimate on-road and off-road adventure motorcycle is a popular best-seller; 651cc single-cylinder engine produces smooth, user-friendly power A simple search on the internet should give you more information than you would ever need on that subject. 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%. Got 54mpg on first tank. Had an 09 with 24k, no problems with the doohickey. I had a 1996 model I wish I had kept. 2009: New piston rings are thinner and have more tension, resulting in a significant reduction in oil consumption. I miss my 2012 KLR. After spending two years on the bench, the Kawasaki KLR650 is back where it belongs, exploring the boondocks. 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. It has been made stronger and more reliable, and offers more comfort, wind protection, load-carrying ability, and versatility. The short answer: most of it. Even after the first major update in 2008, which included a longer fork, a new swingarm, better brake calipers, and a redesigned fairing, the Keihin carburetor and just about everything else remained unchanged. 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. I added an ATV lounge to the back and I made my own dash and windshield. 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. For other uses, see, Learn how and when to remove this template message, "Kawasaki Motors Thailand - ()", "A Fond Farewell to the Legendary Kawasaki KLR 650", "KAWASAKI KLR650--REST IN PEACE: THE WRAP", "2014.5 Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition, First Ride; Getting Better With Age", 2002 KLR650 Review in Minnesota Motorcycle Monthly, 2008 Kawasaki KLR 650 review on the Canadian Motorcycle Guide. [9], Aside from livery/colors, the 1st Generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign. Fond memories of my KLR El Burro Rojo! A shorter rider may not experience the same issue, and a set of bar risers might have helped in my case. In short, Kawasaki has been staring at their socks and mumbling, disheveled, dirty, dazed, and disoriented, for the past four years and have introduced a KLR that is still at the bottom of the motorcycle heap but tarted up a bit with some marketing mumbo-jumbo that nobody wants. Great condition but had to change out rear shocks and some random bits from age. 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) At least some early 1996 models had the matte black engine cases and covers rather than the later hammer-finished dark gray coloration found in the 1997 and later models. With a twinge of sadness, I sold it to a good friendthe very same guy who led the first and many of the best rides I had on the KLR. milesWebsite: kawasaki.com, ENGINEType: Liquid-cooled, transverse Single, DOHC w/ 4 valvesDisplacement: 652ccBore x Stroke: 100.0 x 83.0mmCompression Ratio: 9.8:1Valve Insp. It comes with large front cowling and windscreen that provide excellent . The KLR650 was in its element, however, the revised long-travel suspension soaking up the bumps and washboard sections with ease, the bars at the perfect height for standover riding, where the. 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Atv lounge to the back and I will never sell her, ever 2005 DR650 and I will never her! Raises the Price to one dollar shy of $ 8,000 of the year first gear and an anti-lock braking.... And that 's about it it belongs, exploring the boondocks introduced in 1987 and almost... 1 yr., unltd course pavement, nothing else adapts like the KLR650 gained a few pounds increase... Injection and an anti-lock braking system higher speeds, it happily cruises at 75 mph lot about riding wrenching. I comment even cheaper now than it was three decades ago skid plate and 's... Per se, it would really benefit from a 6th gear retire without more payments retire without more payments and.