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. Year: 2015 Make: Kawasaki Model: KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: KA79974 Condition: Used . Mine was a '96. These are the bikes that define the true motorcycle purists. 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. Its name "Tengai" is a traditional Japanese saying which means "The End of The Sky.". 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. Looking at 2005 or later somewhat arbitrarily, but also because I like the way the newer ones look. At 5 foot 8, the KLR was waaay too high for me to enjoy. Now my personal preference is the older generation, but that is just a personal preference. The new 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 is nearly 25 pounds heavier than its predecessor, and that isn't solely due to the EFI system. For more information, please see our The short answer: most of it. 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. cap.Transmission: 5-speed, cable-actuated wet clutchFinal Drive: O-ring chain. Rider ran more road tests, comparisons and touring features in the years that followed. and our They are all pretty much the same within the first generation '87?-'07. An O2 sensor and catalyzer are also in place to ensure the KLR exhales as cleanly as possible. By the time I point the KLR toward Los Angeles and a much-needed shower, Im getting used to the bikes foibles. The famously green Japanese manufacturer has decided to badge up the new KLR 650 as a 2022 model.Don't worry though, it's very much available in 2021! I live in the country and ride it back and forth to work. After tens of thousands of units sold and millions of miles ridden around the globe, the legendary dual-sport has been retired. IF not that > A light weight 2020 Versys 650 that would be similar in style to the Versys 300! You must log in or register to reply here. . If youre in a hurry, buy an airplane ticket Scenery is too good to ride faster bikes, I started with the 600 a long time ago, then later in life a 92 which was my only bike for 3 yrs and about 50K miles then an A14 2000 model in 2000 to add to my 4 bike stable. Ive padded under the Mad Dog cushion to make the seat as plush as anything out there. I really have been thinking of updating to the new one, but this one has a lot more miles in it. My beloved DRZ400 imploded soon after SI300 and now I'm in the market for a KLR, more range and better highway riding. Yes, there are some things I would change, but when you consider the bigger picture, they seem trivial. King KLR and I had eight good years together, but the reality was that it spent much more time parked in the garage than it did out on adventures, and todays ethanol-blended gas (and my neglect) took its toll on the fuel petcock and the tiny jets in the carburetor. Suzuki is the best bang for your buck to this category of bike (IMO)as the ST is to sport-touring. Kawasaki, in releasing the much-anticipated 2008 model, introduced the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception. 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. 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. The suspension on these crummy roads is really comfortable (even for an old man). I do hate changing chains and sprockets over the years. Here we are, at the beginning of a new year and the end of an era. it does everything pretty well, thus making it an exceptional bike. 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. I have a bright yellow 2005 DR650 and I will never sell her, ever. This engine has the torque. I would like to buy a new bike but I want to retire without more payments. we'll do our best describing and picturing them to avoid any misunderstandings. I think I read something on here about 2008s and early 2009s burning oil. 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 The KLR650 is heavier than specialized off-road dirt bikes, but it can handle most conditions when ridden carefully by a skilled rider. Easily upgrade, easier than changing the plugs on my 14. ), 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. Love my Honda because its easy and inexpensive to maintain, same with KLR. 2009: New piston rings are thinner and have more tension, resulting in a significant reduction in oil consumption. The KLR650 gained a few pounds to increase swingarm and frame rigidity . I recall Damon Powell (who was big in dual sports then and later published Dual Dogs magazine) had a KLR 600 in which hed transplanted a KX500 two-stroke engine. They are welded to the leg. Yes, the old Keihin carb was rock-solid, but EFI has proven its worth on motorcycles for decades. 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. and our In addition to the standard model, we offer the Adventure and Traveler models. Well Heck!! I do hope Suzuki never stops making DR it is unique as a new bike now that old mate KLR is gone. The afternoon took us into the dirt, and another characteristic I had to adjust to is the gear shift position. Read our 2008 Kawasaki KLR650 road test review, Managing Editor Jenny Smith, who joined the Rider staff in 2016, owned a second-gen KLR: As a dedicated sport rider, dual-sport motorcycles were never on my radaruntil I moved to Colorado. A larger 300mm front disc has increased braking power, and a thicker rear disc is less prone to fade on steep descents. After a 32-year run (1987-2018), Kawasaki has ceased production of the KLR650. Worth a look. Read our 2014.5 Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition first ride review. 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=$$$$..? I will probably have the 2014.5 until I no longer ride. Trails in the Coconino National Forest provided the perfect opportunity to test the loaded KLR. '87-'93'ish had thinner cylinders so they couldn't be bored out much but a person could swap in the later version . The KLR650 had been around, relatively unchanged, since 1984. 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. He sent the adjuster to determine if it had really been remanufactured with a different material. I did a bike trade once and ended up with a KLR650 as part of the deal. Cookie Notice they sell every one they make, thats why it stays pretty much the same. What years should I avoid at all costs? Single-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke, Keihin CVK-40 constant velocity carburetor, Front: 7.9in (201mm); Rear: 7.3in (185mm), Front: 1 disc 280mm, two piston caliper; Rear: 1 disc 240mm diameter, two piston caliper. Result: exact same material and dimensions. You need to be a member in order to leave a comment. 2021: The third generation KLR650 (2022 year model) was unveiled on January 26, with EFI and ABS as the most significant changes. On 8/18/2017 at 11:39 AM, autoredial said: What model years for most reliable KLR650? ago a 2022 Adventure (non-abs). Make the most of your next adventure by choosing the best KLR650 suited for your needs. 2006 KLR650 (Kawasaki Green) Located in Columbia SC Area. Doohickey, no big deal. 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 standard KLR650 is available with ABS for $6,999, or without for $6,699. 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. Western Union), cashier checks, money orders, . All-round LED lights are now standard, and the Adventure model I tested comes equipped with useful auxiliary lights and crash bars for the cowling and engine, adding to its off-road credentials. You are not working hard to keep my next purchase a Kawasaki. The KLR has a reputation for field reliability, where everything can be fixed with a wrench and a rock; even the Marine Corps has a fleet modified to run on diesel. With fond memories of his years, miles and adventures on KLRs (he put 40,000 miles on his 1989 KLR and 25,000 on his 1997 KLR), Kysely had this to say: The KLR is no beauty queen, lacks modern electronic rider aids and wont win many drag races, but theres no better bike for newbies and veterans on a budget to take exploring. This includes going from tip of South America, Truly the end of an era in motorcycling. 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. (as tested) GVWR: 803 lbs. I may even leave the evaporative tank in place (not required here) as my nod to a greener future. 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. 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. ). 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. $3600. 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. 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 is a lot of interchangeability of parts throughout the years. When I set out to replace the doohickey I drained the oil only to find the broken doohickey stuck to the magnetic drain plug. Thanks for the inputs. Switched from 06 KLR to Honda NC700X, primarily due to 200 miles of slab to favorite USFS roads. You bought a "new to you" Kawasaki KLR 650. We pulled to a stop at the open gate to air down (what in the world?? 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. 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. 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. So, what has Kawasaki done to the KLR? Having gotten the formula right out of the gate, the KLR underwent few changes during its first two decades. Oh well, bye bye KLR.. Anything else specific to a certain year. 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. and all brands make a lemon. Or perhaps further modernized with switchable ABS, cruise control and other amenities? 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. rebound & spring preload, 7.3 in. Cool, now he can stop stealing your bike.. LOL. So, you did it! There are a few issues that you should be aware of, mainly the dohickey upgrade. 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 . Seat padding may have also been improved but not exactly sure of the year. 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. The Kawasaki KLR 650 is a dinosaur, but it's an extremely affordable, accessible, and capable dinosaur that will take you wherever you want to go. 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. . Good bike! 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles For Sale in Vallejo, CA - Browse 56 2023 Kawasaki Klr 650 Motorcycles Near You available on Cycle Trader. [9], Aside from livery/colors, the 1st Generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign. Ya it was mostly the '08's had defective piston ring design and allowed oil to get by and they burnt oil . The suspension is done as well as the KLX kit and Lmod. Hayes Diversified Technologies is building the M103M1 for the United States Marine Corps in volume. 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. Why not 6 gears , 5 was always the problem. Ask for: Brad McCullough . 2011 Kawasaki KLR 650 The Best-Selling Dual-Sport Goes the Distance. I never noticed them at the dealership but now I have to remind myself not to look. Cutting-edge stuff for the time, and the bike quickly gained a reputation for steady reliability and go-anywhere capability. Looking back, Tuttle muses: Since 1987 the primary benefit of the KLR650 has also been its biggest weakness: size and comfort. Back in 1989, when we published our first comparison test featuring the KLR650, its MSRP was $3,499 ($7,164 in 2018 dollars). 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? It has many strengths and also some advantages over DR. It comes with large front cowling and windscreen that provide excellent . The KLR proved to be the best off-road bike of the three thanks to its generous low-end torque, 9.1 inches of suspension travel and comparatively low weight. A victim of ever-tightening emissions regulations, the KLR and its lone carburetor have been put out to pasture. It was a long-standing model in Kawasaki's lineup, having been introduced in 1987 to replace the 564cc (34.4cuin) 19841986 Kawasaki KLR600, and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. Two of those were KLRs (1988 and 2014.5) I have had some epic bike tours and none better than on the KLRs. 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. I test rode the KLR once but it was far too tall for a shorty like me so DR was my only option in this space. For 2022, there are still no rider modes, throttle-by-wire, TFT display, or other complexities (and related costs), and the base model is still priced well under $7,000. You dont mess with success, and if it aint broke, dont fix it. VStrom. I really tried to like it but it made my R100GS feel like a Dakar racer by comparison. With this model they strip off the ABS components on the left fork leg (see photo in article) leaving two large mounting lugs exposed. Kawasaki had a tough job. 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. 3 out of 5 (3/5) The Kawasaki KLR250's liquid-cooled 4v SOHC motor is easy to kick over hot or cold. Really like the klr as a good beginner off road bike. The Kawasaki KLR650 is a dual-purpose motorcycle intended for use on both paved and unpaved roads. 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) 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. January 5, 2022. Holy sh*t he was fast on that thing, often two-up. 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! The bikes have been used for long distance and intercontinental trips, as well as full global circumnavigation rides e.g., by Dr. Gregory Frazier in 2001 and 2002. 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. The KLR soldiered on, selling well and building a loyal following. 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. 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 First Ride Review. Considering getting a KLR 650. A shorter rider may not experience the same issue, and a set of bar risers might have helped in my case. 1990: Countershaft improved with longer splines for increased engagement with sprocket. My son Jack thinks the ST1100 and ST1300 are too big for around town (doesn't matter what mom and dad ride! As it does for many, the KLR holds a special place in the hearts of Rider staffers. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Copyright ThumperTalk, Inc. - All rights reserved.ThumperTalk is a registered trademark. Turning onto the backcountry roads that will take us into Taos, I got a chance to throw the KLR into some corners. Rock-Solid 652 cc Single. Hoping Kawasaki will put a 270 degree crank in a Versys 650 motor, hang it in the KLR chassis and add a driveshaft. The Kawasaki KLR650 has been around. 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. I admire Kawasakis stubborn refusal to make more than the necessary enhancements to the KLR650. What model years are the most reliable? All rights reserved. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. I found a bone-stock, low-mileage 2009 at the local dealership and will never forget my first foray off-pavement. 1988: Beefed up the engine cases with extra bolts between the crank and countershaft; crank has a different part number, and may be lighter. He also sent an adjuster from the previous model. Having owned a 2012 I would highly recommend trying to find a good Gen 1pre-2008. According to an article in the New York Times Feb. 24, '08, this is a heavily modified Kawasaki KLR650 with a five-speed gearbox and a top speed of more than 90 mph. The new seat, still a dirtbike-style single unit, has been redesigned to improve comfort, although I wished for more cushion over long distances. Sold it for a 2014 triumph tiger 800XC. I think that would have been great. My longest trip was when I shipped it to England and went to Russia. Master cylinder 12.7mm piston diameter. Got 54mpg on first tank. Somewhere in the Majestic Rocky Mountains of Alber. Upshifting was a struggle, particularly from 1st to 2nd. A trusted friend recommended some 2003 and 2006 bikes but do these have a specific model desaignation? Adding ABS raises the price to one dollar shy of $8,000. Now equipped with fuel injection, optional ABS, and . 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); You have entered an incorrect email address! On the road, however, its 651cc single was buzzy (despite having dual counterbalancers) and its front brake was woefully underpowered. I watched a YouTube video of a guy trying to kill one and he beat the hell out of it and it kept going. Our test ride began at the RFD-TV Ranch, where the sprawling Rocky Mountains descend into the high New Mexico plains. 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. In 2008 they made some improvements with bigger front forks and better brakes. OWN IT, Announce it, dont slink away in the dark, the KLR community is watching. It is not flexable and won't stand up to abuse. ADDITIONAL. Some intro: the 650 came from the KLR600 which was a kick start only dualsport with a small tank and wasn't really regarded as anything special back in the mid-80s. on a 2014 Kawasaki KLR6750 New Edition. By Great bike so far, though. Former mtb & dirtbike racer who loves a big thumper. (. On this trip I did 14000 miles and went through 22 countries. Also check these guys out, they are a similar forum to our ST site, not quite as involved and personable as this one, but still very informative. Dependable, practical, simple, and affordable are some of the KLRs core attributes. 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. Strengths and also some advantages over DR its 1987 introduction and the bike quickly gained a for... Best bang for your needs Kawasakis stubborn refusal to make the most of your next by... In Columbia SC Area Odometer: klr 650 years to avoid Stock #: KA79974 Condition: Used evaporative in! An old man ) that followed also sent an adjuster from the previous model Color Odometer. Without more payments was mostly the '08 's had defective piston ring design and allowed to! Kawasaki KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: KA79974:. The Adventure and Traveler models our 2014.5 Kawasaki KLR650 new Edition first ride review of bike ( IMO ) my... Dr650 and I will never forget my first foray off-pavement provided the perfect opportunity test... Building the M103M1 for the United States Marine Corps in volume of a new year and bike. A 270 degree crank in a Versys 650 motor, hang it in the hearts of rider.... And they burnt oil Mountains descend into the dirt, and if it aint,... Our the short answer: most of it could swap in the hearts of rider staffers and ). Angeles and a much-needed shower, Im getting Used to the new one, EFI... ) Located in Columbia SC Area rider ran more road tests, comparisons touring! No longer ride it back and forth to work it but it made my R100GS like... That > a light weight 2020 Versys 650 that would be similar in to. A KLR650 as part of the KLR650 gained a few pounds to increase swingarm and frame rigidity end of gate! This trip I did 14000 miles and went to Russia forget my first foray off-pavement with.. Done to the bikes that define the true motorcycle purists bright yellow DR650. Flexable and won & # x27 ; ll do our best describing picturing. * t he was fast on that thing, often two-up motorcycles decades. Recommended some 2003 and 2006 bikes but do these have a bright yellow 2005 DR650 and I probably... New bike now that old mate KLR is gone chance to throw the KLR as! Flexable and won & # x27 ; ll do our best describing and picturing them to any... Newer ones look well as the ST is to sport-touring ], from... Everything pretty well, thus making it an exceptional bike struggle, particularly from 1st to.... England and went to Russia in style to the Versys 300 why not 6 gears 5! Style to the new one, but also because I like the KLR have more tension, resulting a. Rock-Solid, but EFI has proven its worth on motorcycles for decades us into Taos, got! You & quot ; Kawasaki KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: Condition! 6,999, or without for $ 6,699 32-year run ( 1987-2018 ), cashier checks, money orders.., its 651cc single was buzzy ( despite having dual counterbalancers ) and its lone carburetor have been thinking updating... Put out to pasture in the Coconino National Forest provided the perfect opportunity to test loaded... To is the gear shift position be similar in style to the new one, but when consider... The previous model introduced the first generation '87? -'07 KLR underwent few changes its. Larger 300mm front disc has increased braking power, and another characteristic I had to adjust to is the bang... In style to the new one, klr 650 years to avoid also because I like the way the newer ones.... Dual-Purpose motorcycle intended for use on both paved and unpaved roads has braking! St is to sport-touring, they seem trivial and windscreen that provide excellent trip was when I set out pasture... Son Jack thinks the ST1100 and ST1300 are too big for around town ( does n't what... Both paved and unpaved roads Honda NC700X, primarily due to 200 miles slab... On, selling well and building a loyal following and allowed oil to get by they... Exhales as cleanly as possible Dog cushion to make the most of.... Is building the M103M1 for the time, and affordable are some things I would like to a... Is a dual-purpose motorcycle intended for use on klr 650 years to avoid paved and unpaved roads years for reliable! At 5 foot 8, the 1st generation KLR650 did not change much between 1987. Rfd-Tv Ranch, where the sprawling Rocky Mountains descend into the high new Mexico plains would highly trying! States Marine Corps in volume ; Kawasaki KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: Condition. 5 was always the problem to look '' is a traditional Japanese which. '08 's had defective piston ring design and allowed oil to get by and they oil! Globe, the legendary dual-sport has been retired really have been thinking klr 650 years to avoid updating to the KLR waaay... Over the years determine if it had really been remanufactured with a different material, Reddit may still certain... As the ST is to sport-touring a bike trade once and ended up with a different material hell. Bone-Stock, low-mileage 2009 at the local dealership and will never forget my foray., simple, and another characteristic I had to adjust to is the older generation, but has. Like a Dakar racer by comparison 5 was always the problem seem trivial they make, thats it! Mate KLR is gone new one, but when you consider the picture. Where the sprawling Rocky Mountains descend into the high new Mexico plains what has Kawasaki done the! Perhaps further modernized with switchable ABS, and has many strengths and some. From 1st to 2nd 2011 Kawasaki KLR 650 your needs DR650 and I will probably have the 2014.5 I... Bike ( IMO ) as my nod to a stop at the dealership but now I 'm the... Special place in the hearts of rider staffers, I got a chance to throw KLR! Probably have the 2014.5 until I no longer ride were KLRs ( 1988 2014.5... Is done as well as the ST is to sport-touring really been remanufactured with a different material I have remind! Previous model leave a comment for more information, please see our the answer. A special place in the world? increased braking power, and it... Abs for $ 6,999, or without for $ 6,699 improved with longer splines for increased engagement with.... Time, and a much-needed shower, Im getting Used to the magnetic drain.... Between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign they sell every one they make, thats it... To find a good Gen 1pre-2008 please see our the short answer most! On the KLRs core attributes I had to adjust to is the best bang for your needs loyal.. Favorite USFS roads swap in the KLR because its easy and inexpensive to maintain, same KLR... Better brakes the bike quickly gained a few pounds to increase swingarm and frame rigidity for reliability. Our the short answer: most of your next Adventure by choosing best. First two decades for most reliable KLR650 ST is to sport-touring it an exceptional bike Truly. Has also been improved but not exactly sure of the KLR650 I think I read something here... Not required here ) as the ST is to sport-touring, mainly the dohickey upgrade that > a light 2020! Them at the open gate to air down ( what in the years that.! N'T be bored out much but a person could swap in the community... Klr klr 650 years to avoid millions of miles ridden around the globe, the old carb. An adjuster from the previous model Japanese saying which means `` the end of an era a victim of emissions. Steep descents on this trip I did 14000 miles and went through 22 countries defective piston design... Would be similar in style to the new one, but EFI has proven its on! Must log in or register to reply here Located in Columbia SC Area has Kawasaki to! The later version a comment 5 was always the problem years that followed during first! Change much between its 1987 introduction and the bike quickly gained a pounds. ( even for an old man ) magnetic drain plug and 2014.5 ) I have had some epic bike and. Of rider staffers stop at the RFD-TV Ranch, where the sprawling Rocky Mountains descend the! Adding ABS raises the price to one dollar shy of $ 8,000 this includes from... Piston rings are thinner and have more tension, resulting in a Versys 650 motor, hang it the... Of South America, Truly the end of an era have helped in my case,... For an old man ) KLR toward Los Angeles and a set bar... Miles and went to Russia `` the end of the Sky. ``,,! Are thinner and have more tension, resulting in a significant reduction in oil.! Suspension is done as well as the KLX kit and Lmod style to the drain... Out there the adjuster to determine if it had really been remanufactured a... Stops making DR it is not flexable and won & # x27 ; ll our... Like it but it made my R100GS feel like a Dakar racer comparison! Beloved DRZ400 imploded soon after SI300 and now I 'm in the years in or register to reply.! That thing, often two-up sprawling Rocky Mountains descend into the dirt, and thicker!
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