A true apocalypse bike. No ECM, circuit boards, electronics to fry from a EMP bomb. This bike has been taken around the world more than any other bike.
@@seanskywalka5172 yes I believe so. A dr-650 by Suzuki is still carbed as of 2022. You have options on the used market as well as the hawk 250 from China and taotao tbr7 from China both under $2000 and all mechanical bikes
Owned two of these (bought one in 1986 when it first came out and another in 2005). I have also owned the BMW R100GS and have a '12 DL650ADV now so I kind of been riding Adv bikes a while. The KLR is one of the original Adventure bikes with only the BMW R80GS as it's competition when released. Best suited for taller/ longer legged riders or you'll drop it on the dirt. Short legged rides should buy the Suzuki DR650 as they'll but much happier not struggling to find the ground in the loose stuff). Do get it dirty as it goes just about anywhere if you take it slow. Perfect for the road less travel and for non-interstate travel. I do have many 500+ mile days on mine and couple of Iron Butts but I'm abnormal that way. Big tank means it's great for exploring. You can modify it to suit but the stock bike is very capable. Tire wear is dependent on how aggressive the tread is. The mild aggressive 80%/20% will do 8k on the rear, 14k on the front. Stock tires and most knobby tires don't last long. Great Bike for entry into Adventure Riding. Ciao'
So since I'm rather short-legged you wouldn't recommend one? Can't you adjust the suspension? I've read about the legendary ruggedness of the KLR. Does Yamaha make an equivalent? I'd rather stick with Yamaha versus Suzuki.
@@tomservo5347 DR650 is still a very tall bike. Dr650 is 34.8 inch seat height. KLR is 35inch seat height. If you want a shorter ADV capable bike go with a Kawasaki Versys X300 or a Honda CB 500X. Both are around 32inch seat height.... Also you are a bit foolish too write off Suzuki as a brand. The DR650 has legendary reliability, it's not as well know as the KLR 650 because it cost more from the factory and comes with less farkles. My DR is comfortable cruising at 100mph for extended runs, a KLR tops out around 85mph and feels like it's beating itself to death at those speeds.
I grew up riding dirt bikes and bought a KLR 650 six weeks ago, my very first street legal motorcycle. It has changed the direction of my life completely. I originally figured I'd putt around on it on the weekends and do some light riding on the road, and I'm actually commuting on it everywhere, everyday. I've put nearly 1500 miles on it in the 6 weeks I've had it, and I'm starting to think of aquiring a ninja 650 to go along my klr 650. It's an amazing machine, I've installed tusk crash bars and a SW-motech aluminum skid plate as well as aluminum off road foot pegs. I'm planning to install a taller seat (I'm tall af) and bar risers, and will replace the 50/50 tires with more aggressive knobbies when they are worn out. I couldn't be happier with this bike, I've been exploring back country dirt roads in Idaho and commuting to work and school on the streets. I couldn't have picked a better first bike. Oh, and it does in fact wheelie ;)
This was/is my first bike. Got my MSF cert in February. Endorsement same week- 2022 KLR ADV same week. Hated it at first but came to love it once I adjusted from learning on a Rebel 250 to riding a bike this large, tall and heavy. I’ve dropped it more times than I can count as 80% of my riding is not only off-road, but in severely rocky areas with lots of deep washes. Takes the beating and keeps going no matter what I do to it. Absolutely recommend as a beginner bike- but you cannot be afraid to drop it, because you absolutely will if you’re not a large person, while you get used to it.
A great bike. Huge fan of it here. For more punch in the low end, you can always reduce the front sprocket by 2 and increase the rear one by 2. All hail the mighty KLR650!
Keep Front sprocket as large/diameter as possible. Change rear sprocket more or less teeth. Your chain will last longer. 1 tooth on counter shaft sprocket is equal to 3 teeth on rear sprocket
I have an 08' KLR650. I bought it at the end of 2015 with 997 miles on it. Clean as a whistle, first owner never took it offroad and for the last 5 years he had it he just rode it around the block a few times to keep the fluids going through it. Now 3 years later I've put over 12,000 miles on it and heavily modified it. Great bike and going to keep it til the wheels fall off. Sad they ended its rein after over 30 years. It's going to be hard for Kawasaki to build something as strong as this bike to replace it.
I am on my first bike and it's a 08 KLR650. Starting to look at doing engine maintenance, it has 44k but runs fine and gets 43mpg. I use it for commuting to work and ride it rain or shine. I myself am not into going fast or in need or a powerful bike. It's perfect for around town. I must admit at high speeds, 70+ I think it's lacking a little bit of power. But mine has a load of miles and is probably in some serious need of maintenance. It's a great first bike. When its dry, and I have no idea what I am doing I find myself dragging peg while going around corners and it feels safe and stable. I am a very new rider and DO NOT push my limits at all but sometimes it just feels like it wants to lean hard and I do not fight it. Having a lot of fun learning on this thing and if I drop it I won't cry.
Dude, I'm sitting here watching your ride and saying, "That all looks familiar. Where is this?" You're right down the road.Finally a fellow PA KLR rider on UA-cam.
Another KLR video! yep these things are the zombie apocalypse bikes, damn near unbeatable... there is no better bike for bombing around on the PA back roads. 4th or 5th gear and just braaapppp from turn to turn
@Flame James I've ridden both, for off road, esp single track, yep the DR is better, but on the road, the klr is much better, and in most dirt situations they are about equal, the biggest difference is the fuel capacity of the klr, it's a super tanker comparatively
Flame James better off road. But for a long adventure the amount of things you have to do to a DR isn't worth it. So much aftermarket for the KLR too. The KLR is the king of adventure. DR may handle better off road but good luck making it to a gas station on those days in the wild where the next station is over 200mi away. 6 gal tank on the KLR gives it amazing range while chugging through Central and South America.
Very uplifting to hear God's word in your vids. About to pick up my '22 KLAh, as the Aussies say. Going from a '21 Road King to this KLR and I'm excited! Stay strong in the Lord!
A KTM 690 Enduro R is 100 lbs lighter than the KLR, liquid cooled and puts out over twice the horsepower. Of course, it is almost twice the price of a KLR. I own a KLR. ;-)
I have owned my KLR since 1986, have 20,000 on it, go through the Dunlop original 60/40 tires approximately 5/7500 miles.., did put 80/20's on her when I took it to Guam in the service.
Just picked up a cherry 2014 KLR with only 1900 miles. This is my 8th bike I've owned. I've had everything CBRs, R1, Buell 1200, Fatboy, Ktm 250, FZ8, and this is just a joy to ride and romp. I have found the smaller bikes I can ride 100% are more fun then big bikes you can ride at 40-70%.
My last klr I put 98k miles without any issues or any work done. Oil changes, brake pads and tires is all I did. I got about 8k on my rear and 19-13 from the front. I always used kenda k270 I think, cheapest tire I could find. Last 10k miles I used car oil as I did not care about the bike anymore, still kept on ticking.
I have both the klr650 and the R1200gs. The Klr is way more nimble. I find the GS very top heavy. The GS is better off rd, And KLR better on the street I just installed the happy trails fork brace on the Klr. We will see if the brace makes a difference. So tires do wear fast, but I change tires myself and it is not difficult. My only complaint with the Klr is I weight 260lbs and so not near as much umph as the GS.
Yeah. I bought a Honda Xr just to be different but had to blow $800 for a larger gas tank and a crappy windshield for the commute. The Klr already had that for the same $.
I bought a 2006 KLR 650 three months ago. It had 7500 miles on it. I got it for $2400 and have put over 2000 miles on it so far. I changed the grips and seat. Also added a removable trunk. I love the bike and plan on keeping it for a very long time. I also put a new front tire on it. It rides so much smoother now. I went with the Shinko 705.
I have a 2022 with about 1100 miles on it. The stock tires don't look like they're going to last beyond about 3000 miles, to be honest. How have the 705s treated you so far?
The *rear* tires on my 2008 KLR650 would last about 3000-5000 miles. Same with my DR650 - no matter if I buy expensive tires, or cheap tires. The rears are done for in less than 10,000 miles. The front tires last just about forever, though.
Had the KLR 650 and loved it , Have a DR650 with a 20 liter gas tank. I will walk all over the KLR off road and more than keep up with it on road. How ever for long distance touring that is where the KLR shines over the DR . For great tires for these bikes go with Dunlop TrailMax Mission great off toad and great on road a true 50/50 tire and they will last. Have them on my KTM 390 Adventure with close to 5,000 Km and they still look like new. Getting a set for the DR, Looking in to the 2022 KLT for long distance touring and will be putting them on it. Love my DR650 but no wind protection and I like it that way, the KTM 390 Adventure also a great bike but 14.5 liter gas tank limits you to 400 Km per tank of gas. Also have the GIVI Trekker 33/46 hard bags on the KTM and love them, so will be putting them on the KLR. The new KLR with fuel injection should get good range with the 23 liter gas tank, hopping for close to 500 KM, the last KLR I could get around 450 Km per tank of gas. These bikes are great in the rain but cut down that wind screen so you can see over it. and a shield on the helmet that deflects the rain. Going across Newfoundland hit the worst rain storm they had in 20 years and still was able to see even at night. Great video But the KRL is just all wright off road, will do it but on the heavy side, and all 3 of these bikes are only good for slow off road when the going gets rough, but all great on dirt and gravel roads. The RD650 is the best of the three for off road longer suspension more ground clearance, and light compared to the KLR 650 ( weight KTM 390 352 lb. DR650 366 lb. KLR 456 lb. ) so I would not call the KLR a light bike, and the 2022 is even heaver. Like your videos watch a lot of them, take a DR650 off road then the KLR 650 and you will see the difference., when it gets to the rough stuff.
Finally! The KLR with sound. I like the bike a lot but, I'm not sure that it's an upgrade from my CB500X. If I had to pick a SHTFT bike the KLR would be up top of the list. Thanks guys!
It’s 2020. Just got back from sitting on many bikes. Sat on Honda 250, Suzuki vstroms and the dr, and Ktm small displaced adventure 390? I gotta say... my butt makes the decisions and the saddle on the 2018 KLR is sooooooo comfortable compared to anything I have sat on. Reminds me of the saddles on my 1980 Honda 175 XL. Really impressed. My butt says, buy a KLR
I have had a few of the older klr's. I love them. Even though I have a 2019 Harley Street glide special, I am going to buy a new klr for myself on my birthday.
@@joseandrescastanedabernot5417 according to the dealer I bought mine from they said in order to keep price where it is they will continue to make them just all be model year 2018 to avoid EPA regulations which would mean air injection. Fuel injection etc to get smog rating down. Which would drive price way up.
@@AlanTrades If you have the money get a Lectron carb and be done with carb issues be it tuning or altitude. Better power, better gas mileage, never have to choke it to crank again. It's basically a $800 fuel injection conversion without all the computer gunk.
I run 70/30 combo tire...i ride 80% gravel 20 % road, i get about 4000 miles on the rear and about 6,000 on the front....I ride fast on the gravel staying on the gas alot...I love my KLR650...Live and Ride in Pennsylvania State Forest Gravel Roads....
Yeah the klr is a good tank but I'd trade my klr for any other bike simply because the klr 650 has pathetic power to the wheel I mean seriously it only puts 32hp to the wheel I got a 476cc dirt bike that puts 64 hp to the wheel and that thing drips but the klr is just too slow and weak for my liking, but like you I won't get any other bike because I just got approved for a loan to make my klr 650 the most powerful klr 650 on youtube, I'm putting a 705cc big bore kit, ported head, oversized valves, stage 4 carb, stage 6 air box, and hotcams, I already got a $800 racing exhaust for mine so I don't need a new one
Good scripture reference, Praise God! I got an 88 model, that performs flawlessly. Tires last 5k miles no matter what brand or tread. I think cuz of heat with tubes. Don't ride much dirt anymore (64 years old) just got a Sprint GT now that I'm 'mature'. Now the klr seems light and nimble but not near as fast as GT triple with 130 hp. They say it will do 160 mph but not with me on it! The klr will always have a special place and is always a keeper! Ride on....
434 lbs (stock) and top heavy! It has many virtues however.....but in 25000 km I have dropped it 9 times. In 15000 km I have yet 😳 to drop my Super Tenere......low centre of gravity although 140ish lbs heavier. Very reliable and loaded with the charm of primitive simplicity.
I've never had an off-road motorcycle, only cruisers, but I'm thinking the KLR650 might be the one that puts a bike back in the garage without worrying my wife that I'm tangling with cars and trucks on town roads, while still being able to get to fun spots without trailering. Hits the sweet spot of not too pricey and decent enough at most things to probably be a good place to start.
I love my 2014.5, it just turned 30k miles, I've done 3 IBA cert rides on it including a BBG, these can be made into good touring bikes and for not much money.
Glad to hear!! I just rolled 22k on my 2014.5. Bought it with 3500mikes for $3k.. Iit still runs mint with just basic maintenance. It's my only bike. I drop it almost every time I'm out on the trails :) Blown away how it fires up and idols like when I bought it.
The KLR is such a diverse bike. The accessibility for for doing your own maintenance is a great bonus. My 2018 has been rock solid and has taken all sorts of conditions from highway to deep woods trails. Good review brother.
Edward Martinez I haven’t ridden a Dr 650, but I want one. Had a Klr and that was so top heavy, it was ridiculous. I have had many many bikes and that has been the most too heavy bike. Vstron 650 #2 but that is basically a street bike anyway, so who cares.
Tom Smith ‘03 klr was my first bike and I found out how top heavy it was the hard way. It hit some gravel in an intersection while turning and lowsided. Bent the front forks but was actually able to ride it home haha.
I'm a member of another "cult". All hail the DR650. I'm currently looking for a good deal on a KLR. I'm not going after one with a passion of any sort, I'm just keeping my ears open for a good deal. My DR is great off road, for me personally. I thought the KLR would be better for the street. I don't want a "street bike"; I won't have a bike that won't go on and off road. Just the prepper thing in me, I guess. But a KLR is on my "to get" list. I enjoyed the video.
Thanks for your presentation. I bought a KLR last year after owning BMW’s and large Honda road bikes. I am enjoying the KLR on And off road (the 2 miles of dirt to get to my house) more than any other. It just feels so comfortable with Progressive shocks. I have Metal panniers that I can carry anything ( full tool kit) plus a Couple of bags of groceries. I strap a McCloud vertical on one side (from Northern California) in the summer. Tomorrow I will purchase a car battery , strap it on and take a run around the Lake and then some (100+ miles). Get my drift?
I have a 2013,Your right the rear shock is passable, but better changed to a Top Dog spring for your weight, and change to Progressive fork springs, preload adjuster fork caps and 15W fork oil, transforms the bike.
mal62 Thanks, I have a progressive rear shock and some aftermarket spring on a donor bike I will be putting on when the rains come (and the fires stop).
I had an '06 ZX6R that I sold and bought a '98 klr 650,, !!best decition ever!!, it makes me way WAY more happy than the zx6r did 😁😁 I dont think I'll ever sell it 😅
I just bought a 2022 with 6000 miles and no dust no dirt anywhere, like you said the previous owner probably never had it on the dirt. I decided to take it out the first night and smart me wearing smooth bottom boots decided to stop on rhe edge of my driveway and put my foot down which slid on wet leaves down the bank and of course the bike followed tank first down the hill. Being dark i couldnt see how upside down it was until i shined my cell phone light and after removing the twigs that were jamed under my faceshield from the bushes I decide to he-man it up hill and it was not working until i watched a video on how to lift it by holding the handlebar and the luggage rack with your back to the bike. So tomorrow I shall buy me a real pair of motorcycle boots with deep tread. Oh next will be crash bars and hard saddle bags too. The bike rode great on the highway at 65 and 70 my normal speed on my street bike, which will be up for sale in the spring. Oh and the insurance on this thing was 6 dollars per year above my old 1997 harley sportster. The low end torque reminds me of my old harley too.
It's probably best if you read your "devotional" deal before you start rolling. Just to be safer, practice safe habits, and set a good example for the aspiring rider. Do what you do brother. Your choice, have a good one👍.
In the mid 80s this became my favorite bike, especially if you can just have one. I never got one but year after year after year it’s still my favorite bike. It’s just come up for me anyway, the perfect dual sport it street legal yet you can still get off road with it and have some fun wherever you go. The only thing I would really change on it other than minor things would be put a V-twin in there but the thumper is still pretty practical and not bad at all.
Any idea which make/model of windscreen is on this bike? I've got the same KLR dash but the windshields I have don't keep the wind and buffeting off of my head (I'm 6'2" with a long torso) at highway speeds.
That's the kind of thing that I love about bikes like these - "ooo should I go ride in that field?" lmao you probably won't be asking yourself questions like that on an R6 xD
It depends on your highway riding brother. I've got 130k on mine with about 80k on roads and highways, took it from Oregon to AZ no issues. Keep in mind it can't go much higher than 90, and that's finding the rev limiter in 5th. The engine is comfortable cruising at 70, anything past that you won't have the power to accelerate and pass as you need to. And I have had to maintenance a fair amount to go that far on one engine
I found a 2012 KLR 650 for $2800 it has 26000 miles on it , it's in great condition. Is it worth it ❓ and how many miles is to many miles for the KLR ❓
Really interested in getting a kit 650 I’ve seen lots for sale. How risky is buying one older then 2010 with over 30km on It? I’m planing on taking a big trip and am wondering if I should strictly buy newer. Any feedback is appreciated
Seriously, the ugliest bike on the road, anemic power, heavy, goofy gas tank, BUT, why do I have more miles on my '08 KLR than any other bike I've owned?
I sold a Harley and bought a klr! I absolutely love mine! Got tired of a 400 dollar a month payment that repeatedly needed to go to the shop for one thing or another. Ive had my klr for 9 years now and 33,000 miles and never to the shop once. Has been as reliable as a hammer! Dyno jet kit air box mod and a lexx slip on exhaust really woke up the old girl!!! Just regular maintenance and tires n brakes
Well, I am looking forward to the 2022 KLR with all amazing updates Kawasaki has done. But I wonder if Kawasaki fixed the problem with blowback due to bad piston rings? If the is one thing that scares me about this bike is the several issues I've seen people complain about in UA-cam. I want a bike that can take me through Central and South America with no problems. As a solo female rider that last thing I want is a bike that will leave me stranded on the side of a lonely middle of now where dirt road in some third world country. In one video I saw of some guy traveling to Panama and back from the US, the bike broke down several times due to a electrical short. On the way back the his bike was consuming a quart of oil per day. In some comments in another video I read that a buy said that his KLR had burned a lot of oil in a long trip in which he maintained 80mph and RPM's over 5,000 for extended periods of time. So for his next trip he changed the front gear and lost one tooth. The first guy's bike was a 2008 and the second's was a 2007.
I love your reviews, so welcoming to fun shit like this! And yes I did want you to go through the field but I appreciate the respect for the plants xD KLR650 looks awesome. I outta start with a dirt bike, but it seems like KLR650 would be a great first road bike maybe, low weight. I wonder how good it is as a commuter bike given that it seems more like an off-roader?
I got 4000 miles on stock tires. I replaced them with MOTOZ tractionator GPS 50/50. I should get 10,000 miles or more. These are the best in my opinion for mostly street and sometimes trails.
The tires I got on mine will last me up to 11k miles, there the k60 scout tires the best of the best, as in the best off road and on road traction with the ultimate longevity
I guess you Americans missed out on having the Yamaha xt660z tenere... Probably the only competition the KLR Really has. The xtz was fuel injection but the KLR was carburettor.
Already have a kx250F dirt bike so wouldn’t be doing a lot of trails riding unless I’m board and decide to head off road or something but debating on the Vulcan 650 or KLR 650 S. Don’t know…
My first road bike. I've rode dirt bikes in the past and it's similar. I'm a tall guy, 6'6" and it fits me nicely. I love it. Great on gas, not too powerful but still plenty of HP. I call it the donkey, load it down and it will haul you and your shit just about anywhere. Slowly. A great bike. They wouldn't have made them over 30 years if they were junk.
I took my klr off road going 65mph and hit a bump I high sided and laid the bike down going 65mph and tore up the entire side but I picked it back up and kept going
you need to revisit this with the fuel injected abs 2022 model, i may be a godless heathen for liking the "upgrades" but this may be my first fuel injected motrocycle. i want a motorcycle for back country access for hunting and i dont want to have carb issues in the middle of nowhere as a non-mechanic
A true apocalypse bike. No ECM, circuit boards, electronics to fry from a EMP bomb. This bike has been taken around the world more than any other bike.
That’s why I was looking at this bike, would be nice to find the older ones with the kick start.
@@toddhacker8867 find a slope to roll it down and pop the clutch
That went out the window the new ones use fuel injection
@@adventureguy4119 what about the 2nd gen models? Can u still roll down a hill, pop the clutch to start it?
@@seanskywalka5172 yes I believe so. A dr-650 by Suzuki is still carbed as of 2022. You have options on the used market as well as the hawk 250 from China and taotao tbr7 from China both under $2000 and all mechanical bikes
Owned two of these (bought one in 1986 when it first came out and another in 2005). I have also owned the BMW R100GS and have a '12 DL650ADV now so I kind of been riding Adv bikes a while. The KLR is one of the original Adventure bikes with only the BMW R80GS as it's competition when released. Best suited for taller/ longer legged riders or you'll drop it on the dirt. Short legged rides should buy the Suzuki DR650 as they'll but much happier not struggling to find the ground in the loose stuff). Do get it dirty as it goes just about anywhere if you take it slow. Perfect for the road less travel and for non-interstate travel. I do have many 500+ mile days on mine and couple of Iron Butts but I'm abnormal that way. Big tank means it's great for exploring. You can modify it to suit but the stock bike is very capable. Tire wear is dependent on how aggressive the tread is. The mild aggressive 80%/20% will do 8k on the rear, 14k on the front. Stock tires and most knobby tires don't last long. Great Bike for entry into Adventure Riding. Ciao'
Im a tall rider and this model seems nice, but people don't advice it for touring. What would be a model more suitable for it?
So since I'm rather short-legged you wouldn't recommend one? Can't you adjust the suspension? I've read about the legendary ruggedness of the KLR. Does Yamaha make an equivalent? I'd rather stick with Yamaha versus Suzuki.
@@tomservo5347 DR650 is still a very tall bike. Dr650 is 34.8 inch seat height. KLR is 35inch seat height. If you want a shorter ADV capable bike go with a Kawasaki Versys X300 or a Honda CB 500X. Both are around 32inch seat height.... Also you are a bit foolish too write off Suzuki as a brand. The DR650 has legendary reliability, it's not as well know as the KLR 650 because it cost more from the factory and comes with less farkles. My DR is comfortable cruising at 100mph for extended runs, a KLR tops out around 85mph and feels like it's beating itself to death at those speeds.
Gigatless
You could tour all day, for months. I place a 1 inch neoprene pad under my butt.
Tom Servo anyone can ride any bike. Look up the short rider for info
I grew up riding dirt bikes and bought a KLR 650 six weeks ago, my very first street legal motorcycle. It has changed the direction of my life completely. I originally figured I'd putt around on it on the weekends and do some light riding on the road, and I'm actually commuting on it everywhere, everyday. I've put nearly 1500 miles on it in the 6 weeks I've had it, and I'm starting to think of aquiring a ninja 650 to go along my klr 650. It's an amazing machine, I've installed tusk crash bars and a SW-motech aluminum skid plate as well as aluminum off road foot pegs. I'm planning to install a taller seat (I'm tall af) and bar risers, and will replace the 50/50 tires with more aggressive knobbies when they are worn out. I couldn't be happier with this bike, I've been exploring back country dirt roads in Idaho and commuting to work and school on the streets. I couldn't have picked a better first bike. Oh, and it does in fact wheelie ;)
This was/is my first bike. Got my MSF cert in February. Endorsement same week- 2022 KLR ADV same week. Hated it at first but came to love it once I adjusted from learning on a Rebel 250 to riding a bike this large, tall and heavy. I’ve dropped it more times than I can count as 80% of my riding is not only off-road, but in severely rocky areas with lots of deep washes.
Takes the beating and keeps going no matter what I do to it. Absolutely recommend as a beginner bike- but you cannot be afraid to drop it, because you absolutely will if you’re not a large person, while you get used to it.
A great bike. Huge fan of it here. For more punch in the low end, you can always reduce the front sprocket by 2 and increase the rear one by 2. All hail the mighty KLR650!
What about more highway speed.
Keep Front sprocket as large/diameter as possible. Change rear sprocket more or less teeth. Your chain will last longer. 1 tooth on counter shaft sprocket is equal to 3 teeth on rear sprocket
Just purchased a 2023 klr, first bike and it's a great bike for me.
Hope you’re having fun, cheers from Vancouver Island, Canada
I thought they stopped making the klr in 2018?
@@Codeman785 they are fuel injected now since 2022
I have an 08' KLR650. I bought it at the end of 2015 with 997 miles on it. Clean as a whistle, first owner never took it offroad and for the last 5 years he had it he just rode it around the block a few times to keep the fluids going through it. Now 3 years later I've put over 12,000 miles on it and heavily modified it. Great bike and going to keep it til the wheels fall off. Sad they ended its rein after over 30 years. It's going to be hard for Kawasaki to build something as strong as this bike to replace it.
I am on my first bike and it's a 08 KLR650. Starting to look at doing engine maintenance, it has 44k but runs fine and gets 43mpg. I use it for commuting to work and ride it rain or shine. I myself am not into going fast or in need or a powerful bike. It's perfect for around town. I must admit at high speeds, 70+ I think it's lacking a little bit of power. But mine has a load of miles and is probably in some serious need of maintenance. It's a great first bike.
When its dry, and I have no idea what I am doing I find myself dragging peg while going around corners and it feels safe and stable. I am a very new rider and DO NOT push my limits at all but sometimes it just feels like it wants to lean hard and I do not fight it. Having a lot of fun learning on this thing and if I drop it I won't cry.
I love everything of my 2008 klr 650 .That bike change my life teaching me ...the less l have the more l get. My best friend ❤
God I love the sound of the KLR650.
You rode the whole video with the choke on bro. I forget to turn it off sometimes too on my KLR. Too many years spoiled by fuel injection!
haha
mine wont rev with the choke on weird
probably runs a little bit lean when choke of if it runs "kind of good" with choke on like this
I guess Jesus didn’t tell him
Jesus was sleeping in….
Dude, I'm sitting here watching your ride and saying, "That all looks familiar. Where is this?" You're right down the road.Finally a fellow PA KLR rider on UA-cam.
I had the same thoughts. “This is definitely Pa”.
Another KLR video! yep these things are the zombie apocalypse bikes, damn near unbeatable... there is no better bike for bombing around on the PA back roads. 4th or 5th gear and just braaapppp from turn to turn
@Flame James I've ridden both, for off road, esp single track, yep the DR is better, but on the road, the klr is much better, and in most dirt situations they are about equal, the biggest difference is the fuel capacity of the klr, it's a super tanker comparatively
Flame James better off road. But for a long adventure the amount of things you have to do to a DR isn't worth it. So much aftermarket for the KLR too. The KLR is the king of adventure. DR may handle better off road but good luck making it to a gas station on those days in the wild where the next station is over 200mi away. 6 gal tank on the KLR gives it amazing range while chugging through Central and South America.
Very uplifting to hear God's word in your vids. About to pick up my '22 KLAh, as the Aussies say. Going from a '21 Road King to this KLR and I'm excited! Stay strong in the Lord!
I had a 2003 KLR650 for 6 years and put 33,000 mi. on it. Best bike I have ever owned. Never let me down.
I’ve never heard the KLR referred to as “Light” especially in such a short window 🤣
A KTM 690 Enduro R is 100 lbs lighter than the KLR, liquid cooled and puts out over twice the horsepower. Of course, it is almost twice the price of a KLR. I own a KLR. ;-)
It is the swiss army knife of motorcycles!
Nope it's not
@@Timberbeartrail well, I guess we will have to agree to disagree.
I have owned my KLR since 1986, have 20,000 on it, go through the Dunlop original 60/40 tires approximately 5/7500 miles.., did put 80/20's on her when I took it to Guam in the service.
Just picked up a cherry 2014 KLR with only 1900 miles. This is my 8th bike I've owned. I've had everything CBRs, R1, Buell 1200, Fatboy, Ktm 250, FZ8, and this is just a joy to ride and romp. I have found the smaller bikes I can ride 100% are more fun then big bikes you can ride at 40-70%.
I agree. I love mine. If you think this bike is boring just know that’s what she said and got her a new rider.
My last klr I put 98k miles without any issues or any work done. Oil changes, brake pads and tires is all I did. I got about 8k on my rear and 19-13 from the front. I always used kenda k270 I think, cheapest tire I could find. Last 10k miles I used car oil as I did not care about the bike anymore, still kept on ticking.
Jose Arevalo how bout valve adjustment?
I’ve owned a 2001 KLR for 10 years. I use the D606 tire front and rear. They can loose nobbies if on is cracked from rocks or roots. Love that bike!
How long did the 606 last for you
@@666dynomax Really depended on the kind of riding. Six months to one year or so.
I have both the klr650 and the R1200gs. The Klr is way more nimble. I find the GS very top heavy. The GS is better off rd,
And KLR better on the street I just installed the happy trails fork brace on the Klr. We will see if the brace makes a difference. So tires do wear fast, but I change tires myself and it is not difficult. My only complaint with the Klr is I weight 260lbs and so not near as much umph as the GS.
Do you bother balancing?
Yes, every word about the KLR is true. This will be the only bike for me as long as I ride and I am very happy to have one. Old school adv bike.
I bought one new in 1998. Really liked that bike. Rode it 28000 miles in about 4 years. Mostly street some gravel/desert roads.
Yeah. I bought a Honda Xr just to be different but had to blow $800 for a larger gas tank and a crappy windshield for the commute. The Klr already had that for the same $.
50,ooo kms be on/off road haven't broken a thing .
I respect the machine .
Tons of fun ...
I bought a 2006 KLR 650 three months ago. It had 7500 miles on it. I got it for $2400 and have put over 2000 miles on it so far. I changed the grips and seat. Also added a removable trunk. I love the bike and plan on keeping it for a very long time. I also put a new front tire on it. It rides so much smoother now. I went with the Shinko 705.
I have a 2022 with about 1100 miles on it. The stock tires don't look like they're going to last beyond about 3000 miles, to be honest. How have the 705s treated you so far?
The *rear* tires on my 2008 KLR650 would last about 3000-5000 miles.
Same with my DR650 - no matter if I buy expensive tires, or cheap tires. The rears are done for in less than 10,000 miles. The front tires last just about forever, though.
You have both bikes, why?
Had the KLR 650 and loved it , Have a DR650 with a 20 liter gas tank. I will walk all over the KLR off road and more than keep up with it on road. How ever for long distance touring that is where the KLR shines over the DR . For great tires for these bikes go with Dunlop TrailMax Mission great off toad and great on road a true 50/50 tire and they will last. Have them on my KTM 390 Adventure with close to 5,000 Km and they still look like new. Getting a set for the DR, Looking in to the 2022 KLT for long distance touring and will be putting them on it. Love my DR650 but no wind protection and I like it that way, the KTM 390 Adventure also a great bike but 14.5 liter gas tank limits you to 400 Km per tank of gas. Also have the GIVI Trekker 33/46 hard bags on the KTM and love them, so will be putting them on the KLR. The new KLR with fuel injection should get good range with the 23 liter gas tank, hopping for close to 500 KM, the last KLR I could get around 450 Km per tank of gas. These bikes are great in the rain but cut down that wind screen so you can see over it. and a shield on the helmet that deflects the rain. Going across Newfoundland hit the worst rain storm they had in 20 years and still was able to see even at night. Great video But the KRL is just all wright off road, will do it but on the heavy side, and all 3 of these bikes are only good for slow off road when the going gets rough, but all great on dirt and gravel roads. The RD650 is the best of the three for off road longer suspension more ground clearance, and light compared to the KLR 650 ( weight KTM 390 352 lb. DR650 366 lb. KLR 456 lb. ) so I would not call the KLR a light bike, and the 2022 is even heaver. Like your videos watch a lot of them, take a DR650 off road then the KLR 650 and you will see the difference., when it gets to the rough stuff.
I'm never selling my 2007, love that thing.
Mine is also a 2007
Last year of the red hot mama's. Mine is 07 too!
'07 here too 😁
Finally! The KLR with sound. I like the bike a lot but, I'm not sure that it's an upgrade from my CB500X. If I had to pick a SHTFT bike the KLR would be up top of the list. Thanks guys!
I would imagine an air-cooled engine would be better suited for SHTF conditions as there is no coolant to look for
@@tonyrichengod9280 coolant would be easier to find than gas.
It’s 2020. Just got back from sitting on many bikes. Sat on Honda 250, Suzuki vstroms and the dr, and Ktm small displaced adventure 390? I gotta say... my butt makes the decisions and the saddle on the 2018 KLR is sooooooo comfortable compared to anything I have sat on. Reminds me of the saddles on my 1980 Honda 175 XL. Really impressed. My butt says, buy a KLR
I have had a few of the older klr's. I love them. Even though I have a 2019 Harley Street glide special, I am going to buy a new klr for myself on my birthday.
Kawasaki has announced there will be no 2019 KLR 650. What can I say? Adios, old friend. Thank you for the memories.
They're reliable enough with parts aplenty. They'll be around for a long time, even without kawasaki making new ones.
They are still making them. Just all going to be model year 2018. To avoid updating emissions and raising the price to consumer. From kawi
Man my 1995 has 60000 and going strong. These bikes will be around for years!!!!
HarleyDvdsn is this true? Or will they stop making it and will be hard to find a new one?
@@joseandrescastanedabernot5417 according to the dealer I bought mine from they said in order to keep price where it is they will continue to make them just all be model year 2018 to avoid EPA regulations which would mean air injection. Fuel injection etc to get smog rating down. Which would drive price way up.
My 08 has been reliable as a hammer! Add a dyno jet kit, open up the airbox and an exhaust and it rally wakes up the big girl! Love my klr!
love my 08 green silver,oil is fine that a myth
Does the dyno kit reduce gas mileage? How much hp do you get?
@@AlanTrades If you have the money get a Lectron carb and be done with carb issues be it tuning or altitude. Better power, better gas mileage, never have to choke it to crank again. It's basically a $800 fuel injection conversion without all the computer gunk.
I run 70/30 combo tire...i ride 80% gravel 20 % road, i get about 4000 miles on the rear and about 6,000 on the front....I ride fast on the gravel staying on the gas alot...I love my KLR650...Live and Ride in Pennsylvania State Forest Gravel Roads....
I have one myself. My 2nd KLR. Old school technology. It is truly the AK 47 of motorcycles. I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Yeah the klr is a good tank but I'd trade my klr for any other bike simply because the klr 650 has pathetic power to the wheel I mean seriously it only puts 32hp to the wheel I got a 476cc dirt bike that puts 64 hp to the wheel and that thing drips but the klr is just too slow and weak for my liking, but like you I won't get any other bike because I just got approved for a loan to make my klr 650 the most powerful klr 650 on youtube, I'm putting a 705cc big bore kit, ported head, oversized valves, stage 4 carb, stage 6 air box, and hotcams, I already got a $800 racing exhaust for mine so I don't need a new one
@@eragonshadeslayer1 borrowing money to make your bike faster? cool
Good scripture reference, Praise God! I got an 88 model, that performs flawlessly. Tires last 5k miles no matter what brand or tread. I think cuz of heat with tubes. Don't ride much dirt anymore (64 years old) just got a Sprint GT now that I'm 'mature'. Now the klr seems light and nimble but not near as fast as GT triple with 130 hp. They say it will do 160 mph but not with me on it! The klr will always have a special place and is always a keeper! Ride on....
I love this guy!! He totally drives strait thru the round a bout, and thanks for adding Gods word in, we all need more of that
434 lbs (stock) and top heavy!
It has many virtues however.....but in 25000 km I have dropped it 9 times. In 15000 km I have yet 😳 to drop my Super Tenere......low centre of gravity although 140ish lbs heavier.
Very reliable and loaded with the charm of primitive simplicity.
Maybe the KLR just made you a better rider 🤔
I've never had an off-road motorcycle, only cruisers, but I'm thinking the KLR650 might be the one that puts a bike back in the garage without worrying my wife that I'm tangling with cars and trucks on town roads, while still being able to get to fun spots without trailering. Hits the sweet spot of not too pricey and decent enough at most things to probably be a good place to start.
I love my 2014.5, it just turned 30k miles, I've done 3 IBA cert rides on it including a BBG, these can be made into good touring bikes and for not much money.
Glad to hear!! I just rolled 22k on my 2014.5. Bought it with 3500mikes for $3k.. Iit still runs mint with just basic maintenance. It's my only bike. I drop it almost every time I'm out on the trails :) Blown away how it fires up and idols like when I bought it.
The KLR is such a diverse bike. The accessibility for for doing your own maintenance is a great bonus. My 2018 has been rock solid and has taken all sorts of conditions from highway to deep woods trails. Good review brother.
Klr is a legend.
I agree. My donkey is legendary.
It’s legend.... wait for it....dary..legendary.. and it’s back with a new 2021 model
The Phoenix has risen again
Just bought a 2016, can't wait until spring to ride it more.
same man, Im itching to get out there more
Leave bike aside. What an amazing n beautiful environment.
Had a 1984 klr 600 that was excellent. Would like to have another one.
Found a 2008 with 5000 km 2400m looking at it for my 1st bike
Nah Sean, Suzuki DR650 all day! Mad respect for the KLR though
Dr less weigh.
Edward Martinez I haven’t ridden a Dr 650, but I want one. Had a Klr and that was so top heavy, it was ridiculous. I have had many many bikes and that has been the most too heavy bike. Vstron 650 #2 but that is basically a street bike anyway, so who cares.
Tom Smith ‘03 klr was my first bike and I found out how top heavy it was the hard way. It hit some gravel in an intersection while turning and lowsided. Bent the front forks but was actually able to ride it home haha.
Just bought my first one I love it
I have an 06 and it has been one of the most reliable bikes I’ve ever owned.
I'm a member of another "cult". All hail the DR650. I'm currently looking for a good deal on a KLR. I'm not going after one with a passion of any sort, I'm just keeping my ears open for a good deal. My DR is great off road, for me personally. I thought the KLR would be better for the street. I don't want a "street bike"; I won't have a bike that won't go on and off road. Just the prepper thing in me, I guess. But a KLR is on my "to get" list. I enjoyed the video.
Thanks for your presentation. I bought a KLR last year after owning BMW’s and large Honda road bikes. I am enjoying the KLR on And off road (the 2 miles of dirt to get to my house) more than any other. It just feels so comfortable with Progressive shocks. I have Metal panniers that I can carry anything ( full tool kit) plus a Couple of bags of groceries. I strap a McCloud vertical on one side (from Northern California) in the summer. Tomorrow I will purchase a car battery , strap it on and take a run around the Lake and then some (100+ miles). Get my drift?
I have a 2013,Your right the rear shock is passable, but better changed to a Top Dog spring for your weight, and change to Progressive fork springs, preload adjuster fork caps and 15W fork oil, transforms the bike.
mal62
Thanks, I have a progressive rear shock and some aftermarket spring on a donor bike I will be putting on when the rains come (and the fires stop).
RESEARCH... I"m so proud of you Sean
I had an '06 ZX6R that I sold and bought a '98 klr 650,, !!best decition ever!!, it makes me way WAY more happy than the zx6r did 😁😁 I dont think I'll ever sell it 😅
How much is an 08 KLR650 worth?
And are they easy to sell?
I just bought a 2022 with 6000 miles and no dust no dirt anywhere, like you said the previous owner probably never had it on the dirt. I decided to take it out the first night and smart me wearing smooth bottom boots decided to stop on rhe edge of my driveway and put my foot down which slid on wet leaves down the bank and of course the bike followed tank first down the hill. Being dark i couldnt see how upside down it was until i shined my cell phone light and after removing the twigs that were jamed under my faceshield from the bushes I decide to he-man it up hill and it was not working until i watched a video on how to lift it by holding the handlebar and the luggage rack with your back to the bike. So tomorrow I shall buy me a real pair of motorcycle boots with deep tread. Oh next will be crash bars and hard saddle bags too. The bike rode great on the highway at 65 and 70 my normal speed on my street bike, which will be up for sale in the spring. Oh and the insurance on this thing was 6 dollars per year above my old 1997 harley sportster. The low end torque reminds me of my old harley too.
It's probably best if you read your "devotional" deal before you start rolling. Just to be safer, practice safe habits, and set a good example for the aspiring rider. Do what you do brother. Your choice, have a good one👍.
In the mid 80s this became my favorite bike, especially if you can just have one. I never got one but year after year after year it’s still my favorite bike. It’s just come up for me anyway, the perfect dual sport it street legal yet you can still get off road with it and have some fun wherever you go.
The only thing I would really change on it other than minor things would be put a V-twin in there but the thumper is still pretty practical and not bad at all.
Would it be considered a good starter bike?
I bought the last new 2018 klr in the state of Nevada. Still have it and I ride the hell outta it.
Ridenowpkwersports?
Goobers yep, the one on boulder highway.
I miss my klr, big mistake selling it. Planning to buy a 22 model when it comes out though.
Any idea which make/model of windscreen is on this bike? I've got the same KLR dash but the windshields I have don't keep the wind and buffeting off of my head (I'm 6'2" with a long torso) at highway speeds.
Thanks for adding scripture to your video.
I too am a bearded biker minister.
Still waiting for him to go through that field
Had a 2008 loved it did some work to it. Jet kit exhaust down 1 on front and rear sprocket. It was a beast.
That's the kind of thing that I love about bikes like these - "ooo should I go ride in that field?" lmao you probably won't be asking yourself questions like that on an R6 xD
I think The Kleb would try his R1 out there but, then again he's a different animal altogether. x D
I have a 95 model , tons of fun , great bikes , easy to maintain
A Legend.
going to look at a 2016 klr this evening, pretty freakin excited. i do plan on using it for more on road long trips, is it a good bike for that use?
No you don't want to ride this on long trips unless it is mostly gravel dirt roads.
I just took mine on a 3,000 mile trip last week. Stay off the highway and take a break every 100 miles or something and you're good to go😍
It depends on your highway riding brother. I've got 130k on mine with about 80k on roads and highways, took it from Oregon to AZ no issues. Keep in mind it can't go much higher than 90, and that's finding the rev limiter in 5th. The engine is comfortable cruising at 70, anything past that you won't have the power to accelerate and pass as you need to. And I have had to maintenance a fair amount to go that far on one engine
I found a 2012 KLR 650 for $2800 it has 26000 miles on it , it's in great condition. Is it worth it ❓ and how many miles is to many miles for the KLR ❓
Really interested in getting a kit 650 I’ve seen lots for sale. How risky is buying one older then 2010 with over 30km on It? I’m planing on taking a big trip and am wondering if I should strictly buy newer. Any feedback is appreciated
i joined the cult. bought a lime 2006 today. went on ebay and spent a g on accessories.
Amen Bro! Ride safe homie!
Seriously, the ugliest bike on the road, anemic power, heavy, goofy gas tank, BUT, why do I have more miles on my '08 KLR than any other bike I've owned?
Old school adventure bike. The best ever made.
I sold a Harley and bought a klr! I absolutely love mine! Got tired of a 400 dollar a month payment that repeatedly needed to go to the shop for one thing or another. Ive had my klr for 9 years now and 33,000 miles and never to the shop once. Has been as reliable as a hammer! Dyno jet kit air box mod and a lexx slip on exhaust really woke up the old girl!!! Just regular maintenance and tires n brakes
These are proven beast! Reliable, dependable, powerful!
For how big bulky & heavy it is , it's shit power
Well, I am looking forward to the 2022 KLR with all amazing updates Kawasaki has done. But I wonder if Kawasaki fixed the problem with blowback due to bad piston rings? If the is one thing that scares me about this bike is the several issues I've seen people complain about in UA-cam. I want a bike that can take me through Central and South America with no problems. As a solo female rider that last thing I want is a bike that will leave me stranded on the side of a lonely middle of now where dirt road in some third world country.
In one video I saw of some guy traveling to Panama and back from the US, the bike broke down several times due to a electrical short. On the way back the his bike was consuming a quart of oil per day. In some comments in another video I read that a buy said that his KLR had burned a lot of oil in a long trip in which he maintained 80mph and RPM's over 5,000 for extended periods of time. So for his next trip he changed the front gear and lost one tooth. The first guy's bike was a 2008 and the second's was a 2007.
My 2008 has just over 18k with never an issue. Keep the oil topped off and they’ll just run and run.
Shinko 705’s . 5000 miles rear - 15000 miles front. Mine is also a 2011.LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love the word of the day, AMEN! Keep the good work up!
I love your reviews, so welcoming to fun shit like this! And yes I did want you to go through the field but I appreciate the respect for the plants xD KLR650 looks awesome. I outta start with a dirt bike, but it seems like KLR650 would be a great first road bike maybe, low weight. I wonder how good it is as a commuter bike given that it seems more like an off-roader?
I got 4000 miles on stock tires. I replaced them with MOTOZ tractionator GPS 50/50. I should get 10,000 miles or more. These are the best in my opinion for mostly street and sometimes trails.
Best bike klr 650 I’ve had two of them so far. Eats up tires. Best tire is Shinko 705. Lasts about 7500 mi.
I went from a Suzuki dr350 dirt model to a klr650. Felt right at home just a lot quicker. Best bike of had so far
Try riding the yamaha TT600
great bike one of my favs tires about 3k depending on the mfg some tires will last up to 6k
The tires I got on mine will last me up to 11k miles, there the k60 scout tires the best of the best, as in the best off road and on road traction with the ultimate longevity
Kawasaki was a fool for not fixing HICKEY from day 1. Slop alone is terrible not to mention breakage
I guess you Americans missed out on having the Yamaha xt660z tenere... Probably the only competition the KLR Really has. The xtz was fuel injection but the KLR was carburettor.
Did 31k km on XT660Z over last two years, next week buying KLR650 '18 to do the South America trip, will check the difference ;)
Amen brother beatiful words of wisdom
Already have a kx250F dirt bike so wouldn’t be doing a lot of trails riding unless I’m board and decide to head off road or something but debating on the Vulcan 650 or KLR 650 S. Don’t know…
I wanted a rokon checked market place. 10,000 got a kawi 650 instead
Mans just rode straight through a roundabout
It's a torque monster!
@mld not in the burst sense but it will tractor up any hill.
@mld I surrender. Let's go on a 4 hour highway ride and discuss it.
How are these for new riders? I'm kind of torn between this and the Vulcan S.
My first road bike. I've rode dirt bikes in the past and it's similar. I'm a tall guy, 6'6" and it fits me nicely. I love it. Great on gas, not too powerful but still plenty of HP. I call it the donkey, load it down and it will haul you and your shit just about anywhere. Slowly. A great bike. They wouldn't have made them over 30 years if they were junk.
I took my klr off road going 65mph and hit a bump I high sided and laid the bike down going 65mph and tore up the entire side but I picked it back up and kept going
you need to revisit this with the fuel injected abs 2022 model, i may be a godless heathen for liking the "upgrades" but this may be my first fuel injected motrocycle. i want a motorcycle for back country access for hunting and i dont want to have carb issues in the middle of nowhere as a non-mechanic
I almost would go the ktm route but not sure how reliable they are & parts are $$
Stockers 3k rear 6k front.