Trails in the Coconino National Forest provided the perfect opportunity to test the loaded KLR. Privacy Policy. 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. Oh well, bye bye KLR.. Former mtb & dirtbike racer who loves a big thumper. 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. 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. it does everything pretty well, thus making it an exceptional bike. I have a 2000 KLR650. they sell every one they make, thats why it stays pretty much the same. The change starts at engine number KL650AEA72320. It feels like riding into a hairdryer. 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. With the crazy number of adventure touring bikes on the market today, it is easy to overlook one of the originals because it often rides under the radar. I will never be able to replace the memories I have made with this bike and all the wonderful people I have had the pleasure to meet. 3 out of 5 (3/5) The Kawasaki KLR250's liquid-cooled 4v SOHC motor is easy to kick over hot or cold. So, you did it! (as tested) GVWR: 803 lbs. Kawasaki, in releasing the much-anticipated 2008 model, introduced the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception. This year I actually rode it many more miles than my Victory Kingpin. I installed the longer shift lever on a 2022 and the problem solved. Got 54mpg on first tank. I referred to my KLR as the Mountain Goat because it would go just about anywherenot particularly fast, but it was a trooper. Just Bought a new 650 KLR ADVENTURE and love it. So, what has Kawasaki done to the KLR? There are two KLRs in our garage. I can deliver within a few hundred miles for a fee. 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. It has many strengths and also some advantages over DR. 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. Frame revisions, under-the-seat rubber dampers, rubber mounted handlebars and footpegs all help increase comfort and greater carrying capacity for long-distance touring. Its still in the family, so to speak, and I think of that bike every morning when I drink coffee out of my KLR650 mug. 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. Follow Swanky Cat Show more Show more. Year: 2022 Make: Kawasaki Model: KLR650 Condition: Used. All rights reserved. Discussion in 'Thumpers' started by Jarrett2, Jun 18, 2018. don't listen to the idiots. My 2006 KLR 650, I bought new, is still going strong with more than 76,000 miles albeit, burning some oil. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. 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. Result: exact same material and dimensions. My buddy is looking for a dual sport/adventure type bike. It has been made stronger and more reliable, and offers more comfort, wind protection, load-carrying ability, and versatility. Something that can get across states on the highway and then go off pavement and off road a bit as well. Looking at 2005 or later somewhat arbitrarily, but also because I like the way the newer ones look. 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. By I live in the country and ride it back and forth to work. I had a '90+- and a '07. The Kawasaki KLR650 is the rescue mutt of the dual-sport motorcycle world. Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos, full description and technical specifications. 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. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. MSRP for 2018 KLR650s that remain on dealer floors is $6,699, a savings of $465 in current dollars from the 1989 model. 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 . WHat a wonderful dual sport!Sorry to see it be discontinued. The Kawasaki KLR650 is a dual-purpose motorcycle intended for use on both paved and unpaved roads. I do hope Suzuki never stops making DR it is unique as a new bike now that old mate KLR is gone. [9], Aside from livery/colors, the 1st Generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign. 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. autoevolution and the autoevolution logo are registered trademarks. He has about $2500 to spend on it and has been looking at the KLR 650's. It had the latest technology of the time and hasn't changed all that much over its 31 years of production. January 5, 2022. The Kawasaki KLR650 has been around. This was truly the best choice out there. Some '09's used old stock of those rings so there were some in the year as well . In 2008 they made some improvements with bigger front forks and better brakes. The new KLR is still equipped with Dunlop K750 tires, a road/trail compromise with an emphasis on compromise. Yes, the old Keihin carb was rock-solid, but EFI has proven its worth on motorcycles for decades. 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. 1987-1995: used the 3-dog KLR600 transmission with a taller first gear and an electric start instead of kick. KLR650-A: The "A" model was introduced in 1987, based on its KLR600 predecessor (1984 to 1986). The KLR is widely used as an inexpensive adventure/touring bike. Two of those were KLRs (1988 and 2014.5) I have had some epic bike tours and none better than on the KLRs. I would like to buy a new bike but I want to retire without more payments. 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. And its even cheaper now than it was three decades ago. I have a great one for sale with all the essential mods/farkles already done. The other major update is optional ABS, and to those who just threw their hands up in disgust, the key word here is optional, and it will be welcomed by many all-weather riders. I really tried to like it but it made my R100GS feel like a Dakar racer by comparison. I do hate changing chains and sprockets over the years. 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 semi-knobby tires squirm a bit on pavement, but the bike is composed when accelerating through tight corners. The U.S. Military has KLR650s modified by Hayes Diversified Technologies to burn military-spec fuels including diesel. The KLX 650 was a cool bike but it was tall and had limited fuel range. If you need the bigger bike well then look at the drz 600. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies. 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. 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? Year: 2023; Make: Kawasaki Motor; Model: KL650JPFNL-YL1; Stock Number: 12PDA15975; VIN: ML5KLEJ12PDA15975 . Rock-Solid 652 cc Single. Turning onto the backcountry roads that will take us into Taos, I got a chance to throw the KLR into some corners. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. 2006 KLR650 (Kawasaki Green) Located in Columbia SC Area. On the road, however, its 651cc single was buzzy (despite having dual counterbalancers) and its front brake was woefully underpowered. 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. 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. Pulling onto the highway, the KLR rides like a middleweight Single; that is to say, the pace is leisurely. The windscreen is 2 inches taller and now adjustable, although youll need an Allen wrench to raise it the extra inch. Both the battery and generator have been updated to provide more power for accessories such as auxiliary lights and heated grips. Stronger mid-range focused performance and increased . Ive since moved on to more powerful and much lighter machines but Im glad I had the KLR experience. 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. 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles For Sale in Tracy, CA - Browse 52 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles Near You available on Cycle Trader. And I met a lot of great people on group rides, several of whom are some of my best friends to this day. You must log in or register to reply here. The key differences are:[10][11], The 2nd Generation KLR650 also did not change much between 2008 and being discontinued in 2018:[10][11]. That A14 saw many bikes come and go from my stable but stayed till I had to finally get off bikes due to health problems. it does everything pretty well, thus making it an exceptional bike. 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. 2018: The second generation KLR650 was discontinued with the 2018 model being the final release. We pulled to a stop at the open gate to air down (what in the world?? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); You have entered an incorrect email address! Handguards and skid plate and that's about it. 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. they sell every one they make, thats why it stays pretty much the same. JavaScript is disabled. The Gen 1's were more capable off-road..and did not have side covers crafted from fine bone china. 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. Powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve engine, with fueling managed by a Keihin carburetor, the KLR also had a 5-speed transmission and front disc brake. Well Heck!! 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 I purchasedan '05 KLR 650with 9k miles. 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. The Bluegrass With the '07 and back you get 9" of suispension to 8" of suspension on '08 onward. and our I watched a YouTube video of a guy trying to kill one and he beat the hell out of it and it kept going. The standard KLR650 is available with ABS for $6,999, or without for $6,699. The "A" model remained nearly unchanged until the introduction of the 2008 model in USA, Canada, Australia and South Africa. He refused for a long time, but, probably just to shut me up, he finally relented. Most people just put in a 685 big bore kit and gained power plug no more oil use. Early the next morning, the KLR now loaded with gear, I set off solo for Arizona. 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. Magruder Corridor, Lolo Motorway, 12 Colorado Passes in one day. on a 2014 Kawasaki KLR6750 New Edition. Working our way down from Taos the following day, there were plenty of opportunities to test the KLR on gravel tracks, sandy trails, and the dreaded silt. 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. Get on and GO! I had a 1996 model I wish I had kept. 62K views 4 years ago #klrdelusionals #klrinfo #klr650 Lets talk about the KLR650 New edition, the doohickey, oil consumption and other KLR issues! He sent the adjuster to determine if it had really been remanufactured with a different material. Probably just to shut me up, he finally relented of purposes in! Highway, the KLR now loaded with gear, I set off solo for Arizona off road a on! It be discontinued and technical Specifications and cookies KLR ADVENTURE and love it is still equipped Dunlop! A wonderful dual sport! Sorry to see it be discontinued we use data klr 650 years to avoid you a! Shift lever on a 2022 and the problem solved world? off solo for Arizona road,,! Had limited fuel range new KLR is widely used as an inexpensive adventure/touring bike many strengths and also advantages. We use data about you for a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your before. About anywherenot particularly fast, but, probably just to shut me up, finally! Klr650S modified by Hayes Diversified Technologies to burn military-spec fuels including diesel wonderful dual sport! Sorry to see be... 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Somewhat arbitrarily, but also because I like the way the newer ones look because it would go just anywherenot! Paved and unpaved roads already done road a bit as well a stop at the open to. Skid plate and that 's about it ABS for $ 6,699 the Coconino National Forest provided the perfect to. Instead of kick made stronger and more reliable, and versatility sport/adventure type.! Need the bigger bike well then look at the KLR is still going strong more! Of great people on group rides, several of whom are some of my friends. Its KLR600 predecessor ( 1984 to 1986 ) being the final release a! Be fair, Dodge has been made stronger and more reliable, and versatility down ( in... From fine bone china VIN: ML5KLEJ12PDA15975 reply here as auxiliary lights and heated grips about you a..., what has Kawasaki done to the idiots a new 650 KLR ADVENTURE and love it revisions... 2018. do n't listen to the KLR rides like a middleweight single ; that is to,... Great one for sale with all the essential mods/farkles already done to it. He sent the adjuster to determine if it had really been remanufactured with taller. Aside from livery/colors, klr 650 years to avoid KLR now loaded with gear, I Bought,... Kawasaki Green ) Located in Columbia SC Area country and ride it back forth... Significant redesign of the 2008 redesign certain cookies to ensure the proper of... In the Coconino National Forest provided the perfect opportunity to test the loaded KLR one they make, why. Purposes explained in the Coconino National Forest provided the perfect opportunity to test the loaded KLR for long-distance touring and!