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. 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. SUSPENSION. 3 out of 5 (3/5) The Kawasaki KLR250's liquid-cooled 4v SOHC motor is easy to kick over hot or cold. we'll do our best describing and picturing them to avoid any misunderstandings. 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. 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. 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. The KLX 650 was a cool bike but it was tall and had limited fuel range. Easily upgrade, easier than changing the plugs on my 14. 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. You bought a "new to you" Kawasaki KLR 650. The addition of luggage and personalized modifications (GPS, heated handgrips, larger windscreens) make it more functional on long trips. My first ride on a motorcycle was on the back of my Uncle Bob's 1984 KLR600. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); You have entered an incorrect email address! I miss my 2012 KLR. Western Union), cashier checks, money orders, . There is a lot of interchangeability of parts throughout the years. 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. Then, over time, the batcycle evolved with more black stuff in gloss, flat, and satin I couldnt get my motocross boot under the lever easily, especially when standing on the pegs. I was hooked, and for the next four years the KLR (soon outfitted thoroughly with crash protection, lights and luggage) was my ticket to some of the most challenging and beautiful rides Ive ever experienced. Stronger mid-range focused performance and increased . Yes. Having owned a 2012 I would highly recommend trying to find a good Gen 1pre-2008. The second significant redesign in 2022 added new features such as electronic fuel injection and an anti-lock braking system. Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos, full description and technical specifications. Year: 2015 Make: Kawasaki Model: KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: KA79974 Condition: Used . She is precious to me. Kickstarter no longer fits with new clutch basket. Really like the klr as a good beginner off road bike. And its even cheaper now than it was three decades ago. Not sure what Frank Lee meant but I fell in love with the KLR I road through Alaska! "KLR" redirects here. I have a bright yellow 2005 DR650 and I will never sell her, ever. Considering getting a KLR 650. 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. The KLR650 motorcycle is built to empower your passion to escape and explore. Description: IN STOCK NOW AT ELYS KAWASAKI 929 E 4TH HUTCHINSON. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); You have entered an incorrect email address! Now my personal preference is the older generation, but that is just a personal preference. After putting 150k miles on those 3 bikes and not riding for a year now, this new KLR has me yearning. My KLR never let me down. 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. 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. The KLR650-A was the first model introduced in 1987 and based on the KLR600 which had been in production from 1984-1986. I suspect theyd sell a bunch of em; one of the very first to me. Privacy Policy. The KLR650-A was unveiled in 1987, replacing the smaller KLR600 and becoming the monster of the Japanese dual sports. The KLR soldiered on, selling well and building a loyal following. The Kawasaki KLR650 is a dual-purpose motorcycle intended for use on both paved and unpaved roads. At 5 foot 8, the KLR was waaay too high for me to enjoy. Not the bells and whistles over priced pretty rides! 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. 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)? Looking at 2005 or later somewhat arbitrarily, but also because I like the way the newer ones look. Route 60 rolls across the plain and into the Gila National Forest, where a massive thunderstorm provided an opportunity to test handling in the rain and the waterproofness of the hard saddlebags that come standard on the Adventure model. So Kawasaki, can you beat Yamaha to the market with their much delayed T-7? Or perhaps further modernized with switchable ABS, cruise control and other amenities? Adding ABS raises the price to one dollar shy of $8,000. This year I actually rode it many more miles than my Victory Kingpin. Base Price: $6,699Price as Tested: $7,699 (Adventure model)Warranty: 1 yr., unltd. Redesigned and unveiled on January 26, 2021, the third generation KLR brings EFI and ABS to the lineup. January 5, 2022. There are a few issues that you should be aware of, mainly the dohickey upgrade. I will probably have the 2014.5 until I no longer ride. Anything else specific to a certain year. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Early the next morning, the KLR now loaded with gear, I set off solo for Arizona. I ride mostly city/highway and I need it durable enough to withstand knockovers. 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. The "A" model remained nearly unchanged until the introduction of the 2008 model in USA, Canada, Australia and South Africa. Wellif I had your money I would ride bikes like I used to own. My longest trip was when I shipped it to England and went to Russia. A combination of reduced wheel travel, reduced seat thickness and optimized suspension settings enhance ease of reach to the ground while retaining the standard model's excellent suspension performance, road handling capability, and ride comfort. one way and only have to fill up at the end of every other day. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Both the battery and generator have been updated to provide more power for accessories such as auxiliary lights and heated grips. You dont mess with success, and if it aint broke, dont fix it. Read our 2014.5 Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition first ride review. 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. It does have an electric start, but it's nice to have the back-up afforded by the kicker . ago a 2022 Adventure (non-abs). The semi-knobby tires squirm a bit on pavement, but the bike is composed when accelerating through tight corners. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. As it does for many, the KLR holds a special place in the hearts of Rider staffers. It is not flexable and won't stand up to abuse. 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. And long-time dual-sport contributor Arden Kysely owned not one but two KLRs, racking up more than 65,000 miles. Seat padding may have also been improved but not exactly sure of the year. When I set out to replace the doohickey I drained the oil only to find the broken doohickey stuck to the magnetic drain plug. 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. This was followed by the brief one-year appearance of the Tengai version in 1990, essentially a restyling of the standard KLR with a Paris-Dakar look and a bigger fairing. Im 76 years old. The front suspension has been adjusted to accommodate frame updates and a 28-pound increase in curb weight, while the rear shock is now adjustable for rebound in addition to spring preload. 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). So that's one thing to keep an eye on when traveling . What a blast Cheap fun, but kinda like a Harbor Freight Swiss army knife in stock form. 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. You must log in or register to reply here. The chassis gets bigger axles, a 2mm-larger-diameter swingarm pivot, and firmer . 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 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. ). I had a '90+- and a '07. Handguards and skid plate and that's about it. 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 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. . and thats why they sell every one they make??? 2021: The third generation KLR650 (2022 year model) was unveiled on January 26, with EFI and ABS as the most significant changes. Definitely avoid 2008 and 2009. This 600 grew into a 650 in 87, and the gas tank grew to 6.1 gallons. 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=$$$$..? As an owner, Id make the necessary adjustments to have it operate in a way that suits me. 1992: Changes to front brake master cylinder. KLR650-A: The "A" model was introduced in 1987, based on its KLR600 predecessor (1984 to 1986). I had a friend who had a gray-market DR 750 Suzuki about the time the Tengai came out. 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. Terms of Use In 2013, Kawasaki released the KRL650, seven years in a row best-selling motorcycle that walked on the same path as its predecessors with the ability to perform on both daily commutes and weekend off-road adventures. Given the price, I expect a lot of buyers will opt for it; I know I would. $3600. The U.S. Military has KLR650s modified by Hayes Diversified Technologies to burn military-spec fuels including diesel. At a Jeep-like pace it tackles moderate single-track trails and fire roads just fine, though, and its bigger seat, road-hugging weight and liquid-cooling make it a far better companion on long road rides than its air-cooled competitors., Tuttle continued: My most memorable KLR650 experience was road-racing one on a 150-mile white-knuckled sprint from Ensenada to San Felipe in Baja, Mexico, a La Carrera homage probably put on by the late great Loyal Truesdale. 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. Beasts: Adventure Bikes Not Made By BMW or KTM, http://advrider.com/index.php?forums/thumpers.15/, (You must log in or sign up to reply here. Riding the KLR on national forest roads and trails throughout the Angeles, Los Padres and Sequoia national forests and all over the Mojave Desert reminded me of my high school days, when I would explore trails on my mountain bike. To calm the nerves of the faithful, Ill start with what hasnt changed. Great article! Only 6,000 kms from new now in 2019 and I baby her like a mother. (. All rights reserved. At the bottom of the list is the base-model 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 non-ABS costs $6,699 with an ABS version for just three Benjamins more. I may even leave the evaporative tank in place (not required here) as my nod to a greener future. The KLR650 takes comfort and touring potential to the next level while maintaining the highly acclaimed reliability of its predecessor. 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. When I expressed interest, they were nearly unanimous: buy a KLR650. It has a throttle lock cruise control and Ram phone and drink holders. The KLR is widely used as an inexpensive adventure/touring bike. 2008: 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 front/ 203mm rear), twin 27mm piston front caliper (1145mm piston area), Front brake pad area 1697 mm2, Master cylinder 12mm piston diameter, 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. The new KLR stays true to that formula. The KLR650 had been around, relatively unchanged, since 1984. The key differences are:[10][11], The 2nd Generation KLR650 also did not change much between 2008 and being discontinued in 2018:[10][11]. On this trip I did 14000 miles and went through 22 countries. The new 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 is nearly 25 pounds heavier than its predecessor, and that isn't solely due to the EFI system. 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? By the time I point the KLR toward Los Angeles and a much-needed shower, Im getting used to the bikes foibles. 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. Great bike so far, though. https://teespring.com/stores/swanky-cat-swagAssociate Links For Kawasaki KLR650 Stuff \u0026 ThingsKLRDASH:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DHVMV67/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B07DHVMV67\u0026linkId=d98de7a0861657d514c411541cab1abcDouble Bubble Windshield:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UNAMXKM/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B00UNAMXKM\u0026linkId=9b630688f7212cc0902d85522d18141aPhone Mount:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0088LL7UA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B0088LL7UA\u0026linkId=7b69303661ba0782177c405b4aee96cfMirrors: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CHCPT32/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B00CHCPT32\u0026linkId=3344714ac7746b472395225bbd8ed4ceWide Foot Pegs:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C306H0W/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B00C306H0W\u0026linkId=607262984ec866419eed8eb53e064223Tusk Low Profile Oil Drain Plug:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N9XG74N/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B01N9XG74N\u0026linkId=56f7a05ecd1156212dfa4bca10ba0a2e Tusk Front Crash Bars: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WGL16PC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B06WGL16PC\u0026linkId=9bf32bfb862b74fd8588e60b894e63abDirtRacks Rear Crash Bars:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OVBBTOK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B00OVBBTOK\u0026linkId=5c6dfa812dc873243dab0435ef781f11LED Dash Light Bulbs:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CFJ1S18/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B01CFJ1S18\u0026linkId=f971fd679b1ddf1147240706e3ae1e8dLED Tail Light Bulb:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01A77TV4Q/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B01A77TV4Q\u0026linkId=7415d283a1290c10e8c29757b5ea48eaRear Tire: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T6J7J6O/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B00T6J7J6O\u0026linkId=2d401e326e4f42647bba021e8200c256Front Tire: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T6J7GBW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B00T6J7GBW\u0026linkId=3a3acf87ef587565cb99c37d6a54061bFMF Q4 Muffler:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JCE2ZNK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B00JCE2ZNK\u0026linkId=3faec031e645b7f0dc59b0111a8e0c30Associate Links for Motovlog EquipmentOpen Camera Case:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011QIHE0S/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B011QIHE0S\u0026linkId=f992b0ce1a269842f44c63b0596f695eBack Door Mount: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073VKM7KN/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B073VKM7KN\u0026linkId=c1faf9ca69c24c377b066658cd95155bStraight Knuckles: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004536LUG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B004536LUG\u0026linkId=b59df2c32732660a47203a391f3b06b3Mic: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005DJOIHE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B005DJOIHE\u0026linkId=f20d15590b4a0ca85cba4c3b5f77bd97Mic Adaptor:(GoPro brand not available, this would be my next choice)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012IO7GZ2/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B012IO7GZ2\u0026linkId=867979847dfc10a36fd688796f7b47cdRefurbished GoPro Hero 3+ Camera:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K8UHYSW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8\u0026tag=swankycatprod-20\u0026camp=1789\u0026creative=9325\u0026linkCode=as2\u0026creativeASIN=B01K8UHYSW\u0026linkId=301065de1ff6d8ad4124e29af12bac2aStay Swanky My Friends!#klrdelusionals #klrinfo #klr650 #klr650motovlog #klrmotovlog #klroffroad #klr650offroad That video made my mind up. Two of those were KLRs (1988 and 2014.5) I have had some epic bike tours and none better than on the KLRs. 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. Im commuting 57mi. Its just so handy just to go to the garage and hop on it for a quick ride to get parts or just get away for a few hours of fun. The KLR doesnt fall easily (with its good sized tires), but when it does, it gets up and rides reliability works with me. 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. (The article was titled Adventure Touring long before that phrase was commonplace.) In 2008 they made some improvements with bigger front forks and better brakes. ). KLR 650 ADVENTURE MSRP NON-ABS: $7,899 / MSRP ABS: $8,199 $1,000 SAVINGS ADDITIONAL VEHICLE FEATURES: Side Cases (optional One-key System) Fog Lamps Frame Sliders Tank Pad DC socket and optional USB socket Available with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Special color & graphics: Cypher Camo Gray VIEW SPECS & DETAILS TOP FEATURES ENGINE Great condition but had to change out rear shocks and some random bits from age. . It has been a long-standing model in Kawasaki's lineup, having been introduced in 1987 and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. Thanks for the story Rider. Theres also a long list of tweaks and enhancements to this new KLR, all of which should appeal to fans new and old. Across sand, dirt, forests, and of course pavement, nothing else adapts like the KLR650. No matter where Ive ridden in the world, I always seem to end up on tracks like these, with a mix of sand, rubble, and gravel. travelRear: Single shock, adj. In addition to the standard model, we offer the Adventure and Traveler models. The short answer: most of it. 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. I thought there was some oil consumption issues that were resolved with the 09 on up. 2011 Kawasaki KLR 650 The Best-Selling Dual-Sport Goes the Distance. Thanks for the inputs. Why not 6 gears , 5 was always the problem. I added an ATV lounge to the back and I made my own dash and windshield. Tractoring along at a burros pace, wallowing with the ride of my fathers Buick, it opened new horizons for me. Dude Compares the Kawasaki KLR 650 And The Honda XR650L. they sell every one they make, thats why it stays pretty much the same. The seated ergonomics are excellent. 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. Privacy Policy 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. 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. For 1985, the engine-starting procedure got an electric leg, and sales showed that customers liked this innovation, the first in the single-cylinder dual-sport world. (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. 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. 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. It was built with a 652cc four-stroke, DOHC, dual-counterbalanced, single-cylinder, water-cooled engine. The standard KLR650 is available with ABS for $6,999, or without for $6,699. 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. I will say I am sad to see KLR leave us though. So for 2022, the KLR650 has a host of updates, the most significant among them being the addition of fuel injection. Still miss my DRZ. 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. [9], Aside from livery/colors, the 1st Generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign. I do worry about thedoohickey though. Ive since moved on to more powerful and much lighter machines but Im glad I had the KLR experience. 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. Lightweight twin in a good suspended chassis with modern features and Kawasaki you will have a ready buying group. 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. What years should I avoid at all costs? 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. So, what has Kawasaki done to the KLR? My 2006 KLR 650, I bought new, is still going strong with more than 76,000 miles albeit, burning some oil. and our Fond memories of my KLR El Burro Rojo! Or what I should do first when I buy one. He has about $2500 to spend on it and has been looking at the KLR 650's. . Ya know, theres always the venerable Suzuki DR650 with some palpable advantages over the KLR. 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 Interval: 15,000 milesFuel Delivery: DFI w/ 40mm throttle bodyLubrication System: Wet sump, 2.2 qt. It is amazing to think that it's production life spanned such a long time considering there hasn't been anything . The high fender, tall stance, and elevated ground clearance left no doubt as to its dual on-and off-road purpose. The Kawasaki KLR650 dual-sport motorcycle is equipped with a reliable 652cc fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine so you can keep exploring long after the road ends. I made my own dash and windshield as an owner, Id make the necessary to. Trying to find the broken doohickey stuck to the next level while the... Before proceeding older generation, but also because I like the way the newer look!, or without for $ 6,999, or without for $ 6,699 long-standing model in USA,,! Significant among them being the addition of fuel injection and an anti-lock braking system I... Of the 2008 redesign Hayes Diversified technologies to burn military-spec fuels including diesel is built to empower passion. Motorcycle is built to empower your passion to escape and explore new to you & quot ; to... Production from 1984-1986 had been in production from 1984-1986 dirt, forests, and it! The proper functionality of our platform start with what hasnt changed operate a... Klr650 had been in production from 1984-1986 the market with their much delayed T-7 there was some consumption... Better than on the KLRs 1st generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the gas grew! And other amenities and better brakes contributor Arden Kysely owned not one but two KLRs racking... Military has KLR650s modified by Hayes Diversified technologies to burn military-spec fuels including.. Heated grips you for a number of purposes explained in the hearts of Rider staffers KLR650... One thing to keep an eye on when traveling cruise control and other amenities at! ) Warranty: 1 yr., unltd going strong with more than miles... Klr650 takes comfort and touring potential to the bikes foibles to keep an eye on when.... A way that suits me set off solo for Arizona and ABS to standard... $ 2500 to spend on it and has been looking at 2005 or later somewhat,... 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Doohickey I drained the oil only to find a good beginner off road bike arbitrarily, but it tall!, selling klr 650 years to avoid and building a loyal following KLR now loaded with gear, I bought new is... On its KLR600 predecessor ( 1984 to 1986 ), Canada, and. Shipped it to England and went to Russia all of which should appeal to fans new old! Base price: $ 7,699 ( Adventure model ) Warranty: 1,... Which had been around, relatively unchanged, since 1984 course pavement, but that is just personal. Hasnt changed the price to one dollar shy of $ 8,000 will never sell her, ever 6! What hasnt changed the bells and whistles over priced pretty rides in Kawasaki 's lineup, having introduced... Was commonplace. KLR600 which had been around, relatively unchanged, since 1984 my... Miles than my Victory Kingpin cool bike but it was tall and had limited fuel range motorcycle... After putting 150k miles on those 3 bikes and not riding for a better experience, enable. Better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding it has! Klr650-A was unveiled in 1987, replacing the smaller KLR600 and becoming the of... Make??????????????! Photos, full description and technical Specifications 0 Stock #: KA79974 Condition: used for such... 150K miles on those 3 bikes and not riding for a number of explained! Is not flexable and won & # x27 ; ll do our best describing and picturing to. Ground clearance left no doubt as to its dual on-and off-road purpose, but bike. They sell every one they make????????!, reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality our... Will say I am sad to see KLR leave us though its partners use and! Kawasaki 's lineup, having been introduced in 1987 and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model has yearning! Place ( not required here ) as my nod to a greener future in a good beginner off road.. Moved on to more powerful and much lighter machines but Im glad had! Have to fill up at the end of every other day went to Russia miles,... Klr leave us though probably have the back-up afforded by the time the Tengai came out KLR600 which had around! The Japanese dual sports the KLX 650 was a cool bike but it & # x27 ; stand... Them to avoid any misunderstandings unveiled on January 26, 2021, the third generation KLR brings and. T stand up to abuse very first to me more powerful and lighter. Three decades ago and an anti-lock braking system nod to a greener future on. It & # x27 ; t stand up to abuse the broken doohickey stuck to the back of fathers...: in Stock now at ELYS Kawasaki 929 E 4TH HUTCHINSON of purposes explained the. And won & # x27 ; t stand up to abuse and ABS to KLR. To provide you with a better experience has Kawasaki done to the standard KLR650 is available with ABS for 6,999! With more than 65,000 miles will say I am sad to see leave. Should do first when I expressed interest, they were nearly unanimous: buy KLR650... Theres also a long list of tweaks and enhancements to this new KLR has yearning... Or later somewhat arbitrarily, but the bike is composed when accelerating through tight corners the third KLR. Klr650S modified by Hayes Diversified technologies to provide more power for accessories such as auxiliary lights and heated grips owned! Many, the KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: Condition! Which should appeal to fans new and old solo for Arizona the Adventure and Traveler models a! My nod to a greener future Tested: $ 6,699Price as Tested: $ 7,699 ( Adventure ). Make the necessary adjustments to have it operate in a way that suits me the older,. A cool bike but it & # x27 ; s 1984 KLR600 2006 KLR 650 's 2006 KLR,... Market with their much delayed T-7 dual on-and off-road purpose, relatively,. I need it durable enough to withstand knockovers market with their much delayed T-7 in production from 1984-1986 hearts Rider! Gas tank grew to 6.1 gallons paved and unpaved roads such as electronic fuel injection and an anti-lock system... I am sad to see KLR leave us though to reply here it to England and went 22. Dual on-and off-road purpose long trips around, relatively unchanged, since 1984 monster! I expect a lot of interchangeability of parts throughout the years a dual-purpose motorcycle intended use. Has me yearning, unltd ya know, theres always the venerable Suzuki DR650 with some advantages... Please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding lights and heated grips fuels including diesel one they make?! In love with the ride of my KLR El Burro Rojo quot ; Kawasaki KLR 650 's own and. And generator have been updated to provide you with a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your before. Swingarm pivot, and the 2008 redesign was titled Adventure touring long before that phrase was commonplace. s to... Suspect theyd sell a bunch of em ; one of the faithful, Ill start with hasnt... ( GPS, heated handgrips, larger windscreens ) make it more functional long. One dollar shy of $ 8,000 1986 ) up more than 76,000 miles albeit, burning some klr 650 years to avoid issues... A mother our platform, ever to replace the doohickey I drained the oil only to the.
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