I will say I am sad to see KLR leave us though. Ask for: Brad McCullough . 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. Former mtb & dirtbike racer who loves a big thumper. 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. Somewhere in the Majestic Rocky Mountains of Alber. ). 2008-2023 SoftNews Net SRL He sent the adjuster to determine if it had really been remanufactured with a different material. 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. When I set out to replace the doohickey I drained the oil only to find the broken doohickey stuck to the magnetic drain plug. Seat padding may have also been improved but not exactly sure of the year. But on the Cycle Trader website there are scads of new, 0-mile KLR650s going. 1988: Beefed up the engine cases with extra bolts between the crank and countershaft; crank has a different part number, and may be lighter. The old thumper has been updated to improve efficiency and meet the latest regulatory requirements, at the heart of which lies the new EFI system. Hearing the distinctive tweet from the exhaust of a KLR riding by immediately transports us back to memorable adventures, carefree days and campfire nights. 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 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. First released as the KLR600 in 1984, the model was upgraded to a 650 in 1987. The KLR650 takes comfort and touring potential to the next level while maintaining the highly acclaimed reliability of its predecessor. In 2008 they made some improvements with bigger front forks and better brakes. Not the bells and whistles over priced pretty rides! Now equipped with fuel injection, optional ABS, and . I have been to 35 countries with my KLR. 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. It does have an electric start, but it's nice to have the back-up afforded by the kicker . 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. 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. I do worry about thedoohickey though. You are not working hard to keep my next purchase a Kawasaki. And how about some honest indignation about the tactics employed here? The new seat, still a dirtbike-style single unit, has been redesigned to improve comfort, although I wished for more cushion over long distances. My buddy is looking for a dual sport/adventure type bike. 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. There is a lot of interchangeability of parts throughout the years. To calm the nerves of the faithful, Ill start with what hasnt changed. All rights reserved. The 2008 model was the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception. On the road, however, its 651cc single was buzzy (despite having dual counterbalancers) and its front brake was woefully underpowered. The windscreen is 2 inches taller and now adjustable, although youll need an Allen wrench to raise it the extra inch. The KLR doesnt fall easily (with its good sized tires), but when it does, it gets up and rides reliability works with me. I really tried to like it but it made my R100GS feel like a Dakar racer by comparison. He has about $2500 to spend on it and has been looking at the KLR 650's. He wants sort of a do all bike. 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. 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. 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 think I read something on here about 2008s and early 2009s burning oil. After spending two years on the bench, the Kawasaki KLR650 is back where it belongs, exploring the boondocks. Its name "Tengai" is a traditional Japanese saying which means "The End of The Sky.". Two of those were KLRs (1988 and 2014.5) I have had some epic bike tours and none better than on the KLRs. Still looks brand new. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. If you need the bigger bike well then look at the drz 600. 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. Handguards and skid plate and that's about it. You dont mess with success, and if it aint broke, dont fix it. Otherwise same bike up to '07 just depends on what color you like which will dictate the model year(s) you'll look for. [9], Aside from livery/colors, the 1st Generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign. I used to ride the early LA-B-V dual sports on an 83 XL350 followed by a plated 86 XR600. 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. autoredial, Anything else specific to a certain year? A simple search on the internet should give you more information than you would ever need on that subject. Suzuki is the best bang for your buck to this category of bike (IMO)as the ST is to sport-touring. We pulled to a stop at the open gate to air down (what in the world?? An O2 sensor and catalyzer are also in place to ensure the KLR exhales as cleanly as possible. Year: 2015 Make: Kawasaki Model: KLR 650 Color: Odometer: 0 Stock #: KA79974 Condition: Used . Or what I should do first when I buy one. Considering getting a KLR 650. Love my Honda because its easy and inexpensive to maintain, same with KLR. Thanks for the inputs. In the May 1999 issue of Rider, EIC Tuttle wrote a project bike feature called King KLR. Starting with a stock 1998 KLR650, he upgraded the suspension (including an hlins shock), handlebar, seat, exhaust, clutch, tires and various odds-and-ends, such as the infamous doohickey, the name the KLR community gave to the notoriously failure-prone balancer chain adjuster lever. He also swapped the steel gas tank for a lighter plastic one (being translucent, it also provided a low-tech fuel gauge) and added hand guards, a taller windscreen, cleated footpegs, a centerstand, a skid plate and soft luggage. rebound & spring preload, 7.3 in. I think that would have been great. they sell every one they make, thats why it stays pretty much the same. Re: the Doohickey, cam chain adjuster. The Bluegrass With the '07 and back you get 9" of suispension to 8" of suspension on '08 onward. 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. Almost nothing changed for two decades, which gives some indication as to the KLRs intrinsic qualities and its popularity. (The article was titled Adventure Touring long before that phrase was commonplace.) Terms of Use The high fender, tall stance, and elevated ground clearance left no doubt as to its dual on-and off-road purpose. 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 miss my tiger. 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. Fond memories of my KLR El Burro Rojo! $3600. Worth a look. That video made my mind up. they sell every one they make, thats why it stays pretty much the same. I added an ATV lounge to the back and I made my own dash and windshield. Doohickey, no big deal. 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. The short answer: most of it. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. The KLR650 Adventure model I tested, with auxiliary lights and saddlebags, costs just $7,699. 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! Ya it was mostly the '08's had defective piston ring design and allowed oil to get by and they burnt oil . . January 5, 2022. Definitely avoid 2008 and 2009. Hmmm I rode bikes as a kid; now 62. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. What model years are the most reliable? ADDITIONAL. My beloved DRZ400 imploded soon after SI300 and now I'm in the market for a KLR, more range and better highway riding. 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. Over the decades it developed an entire legion of loyal owners, many of whom have owned multiple versions of the beloved machine. I have a lot of respect for Kawasaki and the fact they kept this bike going for 32(!) The new KLR is still equipped with Dunlop K750 tires, a road/trail compromise with an emphasis on compromise. Kawasaki surprised us all a year ago when it brought back the KLR650, resurrecting the venerable adventure bike with fuel injection, updated styling, and a new one-piece frame.. For the U.S., the third-generation KLR650 was available in a few different flavors, the base model, the Traveler model with a top case and the Adventure model with side cases, auxiliary lighting and engine guards, not . Get on and GO! The bike is so perfectly modified to me that I am looking at the Versys/Ninja engine mod! Cool, now he can stop stealing your bike.. LOL. Upshifting was a struggle, particularly from 1st to 2nd. ). So for 2022, the KLR650 has a host of updates, the most significant among them being the addition of fuel injection. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies. travelRear: Single shock, adj. 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. You bought a "new to you" Kawasaki KLR 650. 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. 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. . 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. 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. 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. I found a bone-stock, low-mileage 2009 at the local dealership and will never forget my first foray off-pavement. Hoping Kawasaki will put a 270 degree crank in a Versys 650 motor, hang it in the KLR chassis and add a driveshaft. What years should I avoid at all costs? Kickstarter no longer fits with new clutch basket. The second significant redesign in 2022 added new features such as electronic fuel injection and an anti-lock braking system. Got 54mpg on first tank. autoevolution and the autoevolution logo are registered trademarks. With the newer ones those are also the more oil burning years which might be why . 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! For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. 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. Easily upgrade, easier than changing the plugs on my 14. He has about $2500 to spend on it and has been looking at the KLR 650's. Nevertheless, anyone who has tried to get a carburetor serviced lately will know that its a specialized skill in dwindling supply, and many will welcome the belated switch to fuel injection. So, you did it! Lacking a temperature gauge, it has an over-heat lamp. 2015 Kawasaki KLR 650 - STOCK #: KA79974 Available at: South Sound Honda Phone: Year: 2015 Make: . A victim of ever-tightening emissions regulations, the KLR and its lone carburetor have been put out to pasture. Requiem for the Kawasaki KLR650 (1987-2018), Favorite Rides & Destinations Digital Edition, Adventure & Dual-Sport Motorcycle Reviews, Read Clement Salvadoris exploration of Californias Lost Coast, 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. Trails in the Coconino National Forest provided the perfect opportunity to test the loaded KLR. Ya know, theres always the venerable Suzuki DR650 with some palpable advantages over the KLR. 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. The addition of luggage and personalized modifications (GPS, heated handgrips, larger windscreens) make it more functional on long trips. I call mine a Dirtwing. 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. 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. They are all pretty much the same within the first generation '87?-'07. He refused for a long time, but, probably just to shut me up, he finally relented. and all brands make a lemon. Turning onto the backcountry roads that will take us into Taos, I got a chance to throw the KLR into some corners. 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. Year: 2023; Make: Kawasaki Motor; Model: KL650JPFNL-YL1; Stock Number: 12PDA15975; VIN: ML5KLEJ12PDA15975 . Great bike so far, though. Built for almost any terrain an adventurous rider could dream up, this dual-sport can go the distance with its rugged single-cylinder engine and incredible fuel efficiency. cap.Transmission: 5-speed, cable-actuated wet clutchFinal Drive: O-ring chain. As an owner, Id make the necessary adjustments to have it operate in a way that suits me. It feels like riding into a hairdryer. Congrats :) Here is a small list of some of the free things to check out that will help a. 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. I have a bright yellow 2005 DR650 and I will never sell her, ever. You need to be a member in order to leave a comment. Wellif I had your money I would ride bikes like I used to own. 3 out of 5 (3/5) The Kawasaki KLR250's liquid-cooled 4v SOHC motor is easy to kick over hot or cold. Redesigned and unveiled on January 26, 2021, the third generation KLR brings EFI and ABS to the lineup. . Western Union), cashier checks, money orders, . 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. Ive done long-distance adventure tours on BMWs venerable R 1200 GS in several countries. I will probably have the 2014.5 until I no longer ride. August 18, 2017 in KLR/KLX 600/650. 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)? A trusted friend recommended some 2003 and 2006 bikes but do these have a specific model desaignation? I'm a new motorcyclist and am looking to buy a used KLR 650. . I purchasedan '05 KLR 650with 9k miles. Cookies Policy Kawasaki had a tough job. 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. It will do it in comfort, year-round and without breaking the bank. What years should I avoid at all costs? Discussion in 'Thumpers' started by Jarrett2, Jun 18, 2018. don't listen to the idiots. Holy sh*t he was fast on that thing, often two-up. on a 2014 Kawasaki KLR6750 New Edition. I suspect theyd sell a bunch of em; one of the very first to me.