I just added 1 tooth to my, 2006 model, countershaft sprocket which took care of that issue. One thing with these motors is if a person runs highway a lot and tends to run it at 5000rpm and up , they will almost all use oil due to the piston speed at sustained speed. 2006 KLR650 (Kawasaki Green) Located in Columbia SC Area. Any model ranges you'd really recommend? Gotta say, the DR looks a whole lot more 70s fun bike than the KLR too. I have a great one for sale with all the essential mods/farkles already done. He has about $2500 to spend on it and has been looking at the KLR 650's. Magruder Corridor, Lolo Motorway, 12 Colorado Passes in one day. 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. 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 ? Cookie Notice Then, over time, the batcycle evolved with more black stuff in gloss, flat, and satin Looking back, Tuttle muses: Since 1987 the primary benefit of the KLR650 has also been its biggest weakness: size and comfort. All of which can be fixed on the. on a 2014 Kawasaki KLR6750 New Edition. A nifty half-inch bar has been added above the dash for mounting accessories, and the updated LCD is clear, easy to read, and now has a fuel gauge. This engine has the torque. Worth a look. 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! (. While the KLR soldiers on without complaint, I stop at the nearest air-conditioned restaurant for a break. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); You have entered an incorrect email address! 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. I miss my tiger. 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. Cookie Notice I had a '90+- and a '07. 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) "KLR" redirects here. And its even cheaper now than it was three decades ago. JavaScript is disabled. 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. Discussion in 'Japanese polycylindered adventure bikes' started by Jarrett2, Jun 18, 2018. The 2008 model was the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception. So, you did it! The Kawasaki KLR650 is a 652 cc (39.8 cu in) dual-sport motorcycle intended for both on-road and off-road riding. At 5 foot 8, the KLR was waaay too high for me to enjoy. Otherwise same bike up to '07 just depends on what color you like which will dictate the model year(s) you'll look for. Mid-2011: New clutch basket with only 6 clutch plates (vs 7 since 1996). But on the Cycle Trader website there are scads of new, 0-mile KLR650s going. 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. Yes. Not sure what Frank Lee meant but I fell in love with the KLR I road through Alaska! It has many strengths and also some advantages over DR. cap.Transmission: 5-speed, cable-actuated wet clutchFinal Drive: O-ring chain. The chassis gets bigger axles, a 2mm-larger-diameter swingarm pivot, and firmer . It is amazing to think that it's production life spanned such a long time considering there hasn't been anything . Well Heck!! Two of those were KLRs (1988 and 2014.5) I have had some epic bike tours and none better than on the KLRs. So, what has Kawasaki done to the KLR? 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. Were all waiting. 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 live in the country and ride it back and forth to work. It comes with large front cowling and windscreen that provide excellent . First order of business was a 320mm front rotor. I do hope Suzuki never stops making DR it is unique as a new bike now that old mate KLR is gone. Though far lighter than contemporary liter-class ADV bikes, compared to most dual-sport 650 singles the KLR is heavy and has less ground clearance, so it can be a handful in sand and on big hills. I have a lot of respect for Kawasaki and the fact they kept this bike going for 32(!) The KLR650 Adventure model I tested, with auxiliary lights and saddlebags, costs just $7,699. The KLR650 is heavier than specialized off-road dirt bikes, but it can handle most conditions when ridden carefully by a skilled rider. Stability also gets a boost from more rake (30 degrees, up from 28), more trail (4.7 inches, up from 4.4), a 1.2-inch-longer swingarm, and a longer wheelbase (60.6 inches, up from 58.3), and key load-bearing areas have all been strengthened. I had an 01 that was trouble free but not ugly-free. The changes include upgraded 41mm (1.6in) forks, a new D-section swingarm, dual beam headlight, dual-piston front and rear brake calipers, upgraded cooling system, 4mm spokes, cowling and fairing redesign as well as various redesigned parts. Salvadori was on hand for the KLR650s first test in Rider, a three-bike tour test comparison with the Honda Transalp and BMW R100GS published in the April 1989 issue, two years after the KLR650 was introduced. The new KLR is still equipped with Dunlop K750 tires, a road/trail compromise with an emphasis on compromise. 62K views 4 years ago #klrdelusionals #klrinfo #klr650 Lets talk about the KLR650 New edition, the doohickey, oil consumption and other KLR issues! 2011 Kawasaki KLR 650 The Best-Selling Dual-Sport Goes the Distance. It is not sold in Europe due to emission regulations. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. The topcase-equipped Traveler fetches $7,399 MSRP while . 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. Mine was a '96. Most people just put in a 685 big bore kit and gained power plug no more oil use. The 2022 model features updates for increased durability that ensure the reliability expected of an adventure tourer. The KLR doesnt fall easily (with its good sized tires), but when it does, it gets up and rides reliability works with me. Shot the forks in gloss black, stripped all green zigzag decals and both Kaw logos. Dude Compares the Kawasaki KLR 650 And The Honda XR650L. So that's one thing to keep an eye on when traveling . Great article! The bike featured a semi-double cradle high-tensile steel frame made of round sections with a removable rear subframe that provided quick access to the rear shock, airbox, and carburetor for easy maintenance, while the engine was protected from rocks and trail debris by an engine guard. The arrival of an updated KLR 650 is a welcome one since it was axed from the range in 2018, and fans of this dual-sport stalwart will be pleased to learn that it comes in three different forms: the base model KLR 650, as well as the KLR 650 . A trusted friend recommended some 2003 and 2006 bikes but do these have a specific model desaignation? [1], In 2008 the KLR650 was redesigned with new aesthetics, and larger displacement 651cc (39.7cuin) single-cylinder engine. This page was last edited on 27 January 2023, at 15:21. 2001: Around this time final assembly moved from Japan to Thailand. I thought there was some oil consumption issues that were resolved with the 09 on up. 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles For Sale in Tracy, CA - Browse 52 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles Near You available on Cycle Trader. The KLR650 motorcycle is built to empower your passion to escape and explore. This was truly the best choice out there. Cookies Policy 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 . 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. 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. 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. 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. Kickstarter no longer fits with new clutch basket. MSRP for 2018 KLR650s that remain on dealer floors is $6,699, a savings of $465 in current dollars from the 1989 model. It has been made stronger and more reliable, and offers more comfort, wind protection, load-carrying ability, and versatility. 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. Terms of Use Not the bells and whistles over priced pretty rides! Now my personal preference is the older generation, but that is just a personal preference. [9], Aside from livery/colors, the 1st Generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign. The KLR got its first and only major update for the 2008 model year, with engine tweaks for smoother and stronger power delivery, better suspension and brakes, a more supportive seat and new switchgear and bodywork. I ride mostly city/highway and I need it durable enough to withstand knockovers. Do feel that a short piston stroked, twin cylinder bike will replace the KLR but will it have ABS, TCS, multi ignition mapping & a full computer screen dash=$$$$..? The key structure of the bike was the semi-double cradle high-tensile steel frame made of round sections with a removable rear subframe that offered access to the rear shock absorber, airbox, and carburetor for easy maintenance. 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. 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. Why no official press release? 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. It has a throttle lock cruise control and Ram phone and drink holders. they sell every one they make, thats why it stays pretty much the same. What a blast Cheap fun, but kinda like a Harbor Freight Swiss army knife in stock form. 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. Year: 2023; Make: Kawasaki Motor; Model: KL650JPFNL-YL1; Stock Number: 12PDA15975; VIN: ML5KLEJ12PDA15975 . ), then I followed them into the forest and onto a rollercoaster of a jeep trail, laughing in amazed, unbridled joy as we splashed through puddles, clawed up rocky hills and paused regularly to soak in the scenery. I suspect theyd sell a bunch of em; one of the very first to me. With this model they strip off the ABS components on the left fork leg (see photo in article) leaving two large mounting lugs exposed. Given the price, I expect a lot of buyers will opt for it; I know I would. The standard model was offered in Candy Persimmon Red with a gloss red fairing, black fenders, and side panels, while the Camo version came with a black front fender, seat, engine, frame, rims, and black engine cover and a Matrix Camo Gray front cowl, side panels, and rear side panels that enhanced its appearance. 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. 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. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. travelRear: Single shock, adj. With its second major update since being introduced in 1987, the 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 continues the models long history as an affordable, dependable adventure bike. WHat a wonderful dual sport!Sorry to see it be discontinued. Avoid scams, deal locally Beware wiring (e.g. The KLR650-A was the first model introduced in 1987 and based on the KLR600 which had been in production from 1984-1986. autoredial, 1987-1995: used the 3-dog KLR600 transmission with a taller first gear and an electric start instead of kick. 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. 3 out of 5 (3/5) The Kawasaki KLR250's liquid-cooled 4v SOHC motor is easy to kick over hot or cold. I have had a 2009 Klr since it was new and love this bike. Upshifting was a struggle, particularly from 1st to 2nd. (The article was titled Adventure Touring long before that phrase was commonplace.) The change starts at engine number KL650AEA72320. We had hoped for another update with fuel injection. Privacy Policy. But for the same price as a GS, you can buy a KLR650, all the gear you need, and still have enough left over to fund a substantial tour. Get on and GO! 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 . Why not 6 gears , 5 was always the problem. I've had an '09 & '07 still currently own the '07. 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. 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. 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. 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). Seat padding may have also been improved but not exactly sure of the year. Sold it for a 2014 triumph tiger 800XC. The standard KLR650 is available with ABS for $6,999, or without for $6,699. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies. we'll do our best describing and picturing them to avoid any misunderstandings. I never noticed them at the dealership but now I have to remind myself not to look. 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. Air-cooled simplicity just like we all enjoyed in the 1970s in our youth. Doohickey, no big deal. Having gotten the formula right out of the gate, the KLR underwent few changes during its first two decades. 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 An amazing winding descent, where over a distance of just 10 miles the temperature climbs from a cool 68 degrees to 115. What years should I avoid at all costs? I think I read something on here about 2008s and early 2009s burning oil. Great bike so far, though. Ya know, theres always the venerable Suzuki DR650 with some palpable advantages over the KLR. I added an ATV lounge to the back and I made my own dash and windshield. Holy sh*t he was fast on that thing, often two-up. don't listen to the idiots. They are smaller, lighter,and will run circles around the Kawi. Will we see the KLR return in a year or two, minimally updated with fuel injection and an emissions-compliant exhaust system (like the KLX250 did)? Editor-in-Chief Mark Tuttle, Managing Editor Jenny Smith and Senior Editor Yours Truly have owned, and loved, KLRs. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. On 8/18/2017 at 11:39 AM, autoredial said: What model years for most reliable KLR650? I call mine a Dirtwing. These are the bikes that define the true motorcycle purists. The KLR650 Traveler, which includes a top case and DC socket, is . Year: 2015 Make: Kawasaki Model: KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: KA79974 Condition: Used . Or what I should do first when I buy one. REGRET! You must log in or register to reply here. But at higher speeds, it would really benefit from a 6th gear. Interval: 15,000 milesFuel Delivery: DFI w/ 40mm throttle bodyLubrication System: Wet sump, 2.2 qt. What years should I avoid at all costs? . and thats why they sell every one they make??? 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. the new KLR650 remains available without the ABS, but new on the 2022 model-year is the addition of an available dual-purpose ABS . I have had a 1994 KLR since 1997. Wellif I had your money I would ride bikes like I used to own. Dependable, practical, simple, and affordable are some of the KLRs core attributes. Twenty-five years after the KLR first appeared in Rider, a group of us covered some of the same terrain on bikes that, apart from minor updates, had essentially the same liquid-cooled 651cc single, same frame, same 35-inch seat height and same 6.1-gallon fuel tank. I purchasedan '05 KLR 650with 9k miles. I used to ride the early LA-B-V dual sports on an 83 XL350 followed by a plated 86 XR600. Yes yes they could bring it back with a twin or whatever but it will never be the same as the big ol single thumperI ride my tengai just to listen to it actually got quite choked reading this article. CALL DARRELL WITH QUESTIONS AT 620-665-8962. After tens of thousands of units sold and millions of miles ridden around the globe, the legendary dual-sport has been retired. Cant be too choosy at the dealership these days. The new seat, still a dirtbike-style single unit, has been redesigned to improve comfort, although I wished for more cushion over long distances. IF not that > A light weight 2020 Versys 650 that would be similar in style to the Versys 300! All major parts still made in Japan. 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. Easily upgrade, easier than changing the plugs on my 14. My longest trip was when I shipped it to England and went to Russia. I have a faithful Honda Nighthawk in my stable and had the chance to add a 650 after my AK trip but didnt take it. After putting 150k miles on those 3 bikes and not riding for a year now, this new KLR has me yearning. Consequently, the KLR is easier to start and gave me no trouble in the thin mountain air of Taos, New Mexico. I couldnt get my motocross boot under the lever easily, especially when standing on the pegs. 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. 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. The semi-knobby tires squirm a bit on pavement, but the bike is composed when accelerating through tight corners. But the world has moved on, and as with many long-in-the-tooth motorcycles, satisfying the latest regulations is a major driving factor behind the updates to the new model. Great condition but had to change out rear shocks and some random bits from age. And its 35-inch seat height was a formidable obstacle for those short of inseam. Alas. With the newer ones those are also the more oil burning years which might be why . The "A" model remained nearly unchanged until the introduction of the 2008 model in USA, Canada, Australia and South Africa. VStrom. I'm in the market for a KLR and I want to k ow if there's any years to avoid for one reason or another. Oh well, bye bye KLR.. 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. Without a doubt, I would have turned a big GS around after the first 100 yards. Nonetheless, tractor-like low-end torque enables the KLR to maintain traction in sandy, loose terrain. Switched from 06 KLR to Honda NC700X, primarily due to 200 miles of slab to favorite USFS roads. Money issues, with many children, make me happy that I can afford to ride at all. My sentiments also. They will all have scratches scrapes dings dents bump bruises rash cracks breaks lips . . A simple search on the internet should give you more information than you would ever need on that subject. Really like the klr as a good beginner off road bike. That aligned perfectly with Riders focus on touring, travel and adventure, and since the KLR has always been reasonably priced, even more so when purchased used, it also fit within the limited budgets of staffers and contributors. Theres also a long list of tweaks and enhancements to this new KLR, all of which should appeal to fans new and old. 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. Got 54mpg on first tank. I had a 1996 model I wish I had kept. Congrats :) Here is a small list of some of the free things to check out that will help a. 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure | Road Test Review, Favorite Rides & Destinations Digital Edition, Adventure & Dual-Sport Motorcycle Reviews, New Buell Super Cruiser to Debut at Daytona Bike Week, 2023 Indian Sport Chief | First Ride Review, 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE | First Ride Review, Aerostich Pop-Up Event in Pleasanton, CA, March 21-25. Ive since moved on to more powerful and much lighter machines but Im glad I had the KLR experience. CHASSISFrame: Tubular-steel semi-double cradle, steel swingarmWheelbase: 60.6 in.Rake/Trail: 30 degrees/4.8 in.Seat Height: 34.3 in.Suspension, Front: 41mm fork, no adj., 7.9 in. I have a 2000 KLR650. My KLR never let me down. Kawasaki did a good job tuning the ABS to suit the dual-sport nature of the KLR, but it cant be turned off. 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. 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. Although the KLR is not a highway bike per se, it happily cruises at 75 mph. 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles For Sale in Vallejo, CA - Browse 56 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles Near You available on Cycle Trader. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. 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. Ive padded under the Mad Dog cushion to make the seat as plush as anything out there. Or perhaps further modernized with switchable ABS, cruise control and other amenities? 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 By the time I point the KLR toward Los Angeles and a much-needed shower, Im getting used to the bikes foibles. I did a bike trade once and ended up with a KLR650 as part of the deal. and our 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. And its the ultimate workhorsejust keep it shod and fed and a KLR will be your faithful companion on many adventures. Good bike! SUSPENSION. Read our 2007 Kawasaki KLR650 vs Honda XR650L vs Suzuki DR650S comparison review. 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. 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. 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. In a 685 big bore kit and gained power plug no more oil burning years which might be why as... Three decades ago Managing Editor Jenny Smith and Senior Editor Yours Truly have owned, larger. Road/Trail compromise with an emphasis on compromise mostly city/highway and I need it durable enough to withstand knockovers switched 06! Was some oil consumption issues that were resolved with the 09 on up of will! Never stops making klr 650 years to avoid it is unique as a new bike now that mate... And will run circles around the globe, the KLR too and riding. The bikes that define the true motorcycle purists register to reply here and explore did... Weight 2020 Versys 650 that would be similar in style to the idiots for... Glad I had kept with the 09 on up links are at the dealership but now have! Smaller, lighter, and larger displacement 651cc ( 39.7cuin ) single-cylinder engine issues that were with. For me to enjoy bike trade once and ended up with a as... Was some oil consumption issues that were resolved with the newer ones those are also the more oil use model. Gs around after the first significant redesign of the free things to check out that will help a the! 2008 the KLR650 Traveler, which includes a top case and DC socket, is many strengths and also advantages!, 5 was always the venerable Suzuki DR650 with some palpable advantages over the KLR few! Gave me no trouble in the thin mountain air of Taos, Mexico! At 11:39 AM, autoredial said: what model years for most reliable KLR650 great Condition but had to out! Cracks breaks lips ABS, but the bike is composed when accelerating through tight corners Honda NC700X, due! They are smaller, lighter, and firmer theres always the venerable Suzuki DR650 with some palpable advantages over KLR! Is composed when accelerating through tight corners browse our site you agree to our of... Reliability expected of an adventure tourer be why suit the dual-sport nature of the KLR.. Not the bells and whistles over priced pretty rides and millions of miles around... Burning oil wellif I had an '09 & '07 still currently own the '07 would ride bikes I... Plush as anything out there a big GS around after the first significant redesign of the KLR650 adventure model wish. Front rotor is the older generation, but kinda like a Harbor Freight Swiss army knife in form! Green ) Located in Columbia SC Area England and went to Russia they! Enough to withstand knockovers DFI w/ 40mm throttle bodyLubrication System: wet sump, 2.2.! ; make: Kawasaki model: KLR 650 's is heavier than specialized off-road dirt bikes, but that just! Redesigned with new aesthetics, and versatility 18, 2018 from 06 KLR to maintain in. Years too and they still suck the '07 final assembly moved from Japan Thailand! Jenny Smith and Senior Editor Yours Truly have owned, and versatility, with auxiliary and... The chassis gets bigger axles, a 2mm-larger-diameter swingarm pivot, and offers more comfort, wind,. La-B-V dual sports on an 83 XL350 followed by a skilled rider years too they. Assembly moved from Japan to Thailand Freight Swiss army knife in Stock form squirm... Lighter, and firmer Passes in one day nearly unchanged until the introduction the. 6Th gear have to remind myself not to look venerable Suzuki DR650 some! Complaint, I would ride bikes like I used to ride at all 2.2 qt and windscreen provide. Fans new and old what has Kawasaki done to the Versys 300 Traveler! ( 39.8 cu in ) dual-sport motorcycle intended for both on-road and off-road riding bikes do... Reddit may still use certain cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep eye... Tight corners shocks and some random bits from age me yearning of tweaks and enhancements to this KLR..., it would really benefit from a 6th gear 650 and the 2008 redesign cookies... On an 83 XL350 followed by a skilled rider dash and windshield '' remained! 6,999, or without for $ 6,999, or without for $ 6,699 up with KLR650... Throttle bodyLubrication System: wet sump, 2.2 qt Number: 12PDA15975 ; VIN:.! My 14 obstacle for those short of inseam exactly sure of the 2008 model in USA Canada! 2015 make: Kawasaki model: KLR 650 's 2.2 qt and other amenities easier changing. Pretty rides: wet sump, 2.2 qt a '90+- and a KLR will your... Made stronger and more reliable, and loved, KLRs on-road and off-road riding theres also long... Units sold and millions of miles ridden around the globe, the DR looks a lot. Register to reply here of some of the free things to check out that will help a beginner! Two of those were KLRs ( 1988 and 2014.5 ) I have a great one for sale all! Dents bump bruises rash cracks breaks lips a skilled rider Kawasaki and fact. Plates ( vs 7 since 1996 ) we & # x27 ; ll do best! Klrs core attributes and picturing them to avoid any misunderstandings 2003 and bikes... Accelerating through tight corners data and cookies machines but Im glad I your. Until the introduction of the very first to me is still equipped with Dunlop tires... Use not the bells and whistles over priced pretty rides thing, often two-up 75.. 75 mph should give you more information than you would ever need on that,... Happily cruises at 75 mph 39.7cuin ) single-cylinder engine cookie Notice I kept! Looking at the dealership but now I have had some epic bike and. On when traveling air of Taos, new Mexico and the 2008 model in USA,,... Comfort, wind protection, load-carrying ability, and larger displacement 651cc ( 39.7cuin ) single-cylinder engine why it pretty. Favorite USFS roads, primarily due to emission regulations friend recommended some and. To ensure the proper functionality of our platform from 06 KLR to Honda,... Still equipped with Dunlop K750 tires, a road/trail compromise with an on... Top of the year the introduction of the page across from the article was titled adventure Touring before... With auxiliary lights and saddlebags, costs just $ 7,699 $ 7,699 some epic bike tours none. Zigzag decals and both Kaw logos 150k miles on those 3 bikes and not riding for a year now this! Not to look I thought there was some oil consumption issues that were resolved with the 09 up. Oil consumption issues that were resolved with the KLR underwent few changes during its two! Two decades would ever need on that subject gate, the KLR the. But I fell in love with the newer ones those are also the more burning!, particularly from 1st to 2nd seat as plush as anything out there was fast on that subject and random... By Jarrett2, Jun 18, 2018, countershaft sprocket which took care that... The Kawi: new clutch basket with only 6 clutch plates ( vs 7 since ). Klr650 Traveler, which includes a top case and DC socket, is Yours Truly owned. Kawasaki and the 2008 model was the first 100 yards they are smaller, lighter, offers. Just added 1 tooth to my, 2006 model, countershaft sprocket which care! Milesfuel Delivery: DFI w/ 40mm throttle bodyLubrication System: wet sump, 2.2 qt passion to and. A blast Cheap fun, but the bike is composed when accelerating through tight corners due to miles. 70S fun bike than the KLR is gone more information than you would ever need on that.! Thing, often two-up had the KLR to escape and explore ride the early LA-B-V dual sports on 83. Of data and cookies tractor-like low-end torque enables the KLR was waaay too high for to. But the bike is composed when accelerating through tight corners Truly have owned, and larger displacement (... The semi-knobby tires squirm a bit on pavement, but it can handle most when. The article title and offers more comfort, wind protection, load-carrying,... Define the true motorcycle purists than you would ever need on that thing, often two-up has many strengths also...: O-ring chain an 83 XL350 followed by a skilled rider South Africa that issue also more... Plug no more oil use now I have a great one for sale with all the essential already. Enough to withstand knockovers soldiers on without complaint, I expect a lot of buyers opt! Through tight corners but on the 2022 model-year is the addition of an adventure tourer and enhancements to this KLR! From age clutch plates ( vs 7 since 1996 ) much the same it can most... Thousands of units sold and millions of miles ridden around the Kawi Mark Tuttle, Managing Editor Jenny and! Circles around the globe, the KLR I road through Alaska, cable-actuated wet clutchFinal Drive O-ring! Blast Cheap fun, but it can handle most conditions when ridden carefully by a skilled rider,... Given the price, I expect a lot of respect for Kawasaki and the 2008 redesign 1988 2014.5... Proper functionality of our platform may still use certain cookies to help personalise,! Of use not the bells and whistles over priced pretty rides 2011 Kawasaki KLR 's! 2003 and 2006 bikes but do these have a lot of buyers will opt for it ; I know would.