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- čas přidán 25. 08. 2024
- Part One: • o#o Part 1 KLR 650 Rev...
A great video about what bike is right for you size-wise: • o#o Dirtbikes & Dual S...
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+AFX FX 39 Dual Sport Helmet $110 amzn.to/1KItYBB
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![o#o Part 1 KLR 650 Review - Brutally Honest [mv]{](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/33WEgNLBG68/mqdefault.jpg)
![o#o Part 1 KLR 650 Review - Brutally Honest [mv]{](/img/tr.png)
I just bought a 2015 KLR650 about 2 months ago and just turned over 2000 miles. I've gone up the twisty roads on Palomar mountain chasing sport bikes and supermotos, ridden truck and OHV trails, ridden all over the freeway, and gone 2 up motorcycle camping in Big Bear. I have a Harley Sportster and a Buell 1125r as my other bikes so this is my first venture into the dual sport world and I love it. I could sell the other two at this point and not even feel a second of regret. Sure the other lightweight enduro bikes I ride with sometimes can outperform on the rough stuff but I have a much more comfy ride on the way to the trails, and sure the sport bikes take the twisties faster but I can go anywhere in an instant. For someone who isn't Valentino Rossi or a professional motocross racer but wants a taste of both worlds, there really isn't any better bike.
+Stealth Bobber "For someone who isn't Valentino Rossi or a professional motocross racer but wants a taste of both worlds, there really isn't any better bike." is definitely the quote of the day! Very well said, sir!
This really is the definitive KLR 650 review video. Here it is with all its rosebuds and warts.
The more I research the KLR 650, the more I want one. I like to prospect in the desert and am always limited in my range due to road conditions for my 2WD Toyota. I thought about going the ATV route but that has limitations as well. This machine appears to be an understated and capable pack mule. Less flash more substance. Good enough on the pavement to get me there and good enough on the dirt to go to the more out of the way places. I can see why they are popular.
Awesome review!! you were right on the spot!! congrats from Caracas, owner of a 2012 model and completely in love with it.
Cheers Mate
Right! Part one was a bit harsh, but part two sums up why it's such a fine motorcycle.
eveRide, nice and coplete, balanced, honest, intelligent review. I ride bikes since the 70's. Now own a Blue/Silver 2011 and quite happy with it. Exactly as you pointed out, KLR650 is a very good all around bike that does nothing perfectly but many things very nicely. "Perfect is not compatible with good". This bike is very good for many things. I like KLR's are good, reliable, strong, versatile, easy to ride, highly customizable and very affordable.
This is so true! It doesn't take much to make this bike excellent on the road or dirt-- and left alone it's just fine on either.
I'm riding near St. George, Utah in this video... particularly the area near Gunlock Reservoir. Thanks for the kind words. If you've got the skills to dip your kickstand so it leans just a bit more then I would do it.
The doo-hicky is the counter balance shaft chain-tension shoe. The balance shaft rides behind the crank shaft and helps smooth engine vibration. The first generation shoe was of welded design. It would break at the weld and damage the engine. The second evolution shoe was of thick stamped steel. After market shoes are made of solid machined steel.
Let the adventure begin. Got an 05 yesterday. Already put a hundred miles on it in the rain on pavement and gravel roads. Gonna love this bike! First things are needing tires though desperately. Great vid.
I'm sold. I'm getting a klr
Good review on the KLR. I think it is the true dual sport myself for just the reasons you pointed out. The added bonus is it's simplicity and abundance of parts since it is largely unchanged for years. Many parts are in stock at many places should one have a break down on their trip. There are more chances with the KLR that you don't have to order the part you need. Having a "common" bike means also that there are many that speak about it to solve specific problems, more aftermarket stuff for it etc...
Of all the seemingly ba-jillion KLR videos to be found here on CZcams, I gotta say brotha, I found this one to be the most objective and comprehensive. As a proud owner of a 2013 model (same color scheme, too) who traded my up cruiser for my KLR, I agree with pretty much everything you had to say...the good and the bad. For somebody looking into in the dual sport market, this video would be an excellent resource. Keep up the strong work!
Laz dude, this doesn't even compare to your review-- with the amazing shots you put together, that was honestly a pleasure to watch. Mine was a few angles shot of a rambling man. Truthfully, I think you and I have the ultimate dual sport bike, though... from what I've seen you're rarely on the road, and I try not to ride on pavement much, either. For 80-20 dirt to road, I think the DRZ400E converted with a street kit is perfect!
Excellent perspective. Thanks for the review.
I really want to get on one of those! I've heard excellent things about them, but many people say the KLR is way better on the road.
I would love to get an older KLR or XR for some real adventure riding. Thanks for the review!
Thanks! I'm glad you felt it was balanced. I didn't want to sound biased towards it since I had one and loved it, but I didn't want to sound like I didn't like it since I did get rid of mine for a DRZ. Truthfully it all depends on your riding style.
Two reasons to buy an aftermarket tank (e.g. IMS 10-gallon) is that it is lighter than stock (10lbs lighter (?) with a full 6-gallon tank and 6 gallons in 10 gallon tank) and you also do not need to get any crash bars because the tank protects it.
have 2013 KLR n I love just the way it looks n feels on the road. It had a few mods since I bought it used n I'm thankful one was the crash bars as I've dumped it getting use to it. I found you got to use more back brake then front while braking as due to the fact the front forks being mushy. Using more front brakes on stopping tends to allow the front to raise higher off the ground, which in turn can pull your feet off the ground. I learned the hard way as I ended up on the ground. But now that I been riding both worlds I can say I have alot more experience riding the KLR as every bike rides differently. The KLR is tough as nails, very dependable, fairly easy to work on n maintain, great on fuel n the huge tank takes you a long way although makes a heavier bike when it's full but may contribute to the better highway ride. The handling performance n cornering on the road is pretty darn good. It truly is a tank n not much power loss when fully loaded. It's not the smoothest running bike but the sound n vibration adds to the KLR n what it was built for.
You seriously can't go wrong with an older KLR. They're cheap, plentiful, have a huge following, and super reliable. I'm a bit surprised though, I thought after all this time you might go for a DRZ :)
The trip you describe right there is seriously KLR territory. The best thing about it is that it can probably do most of it on one tank! No need for a trailer, no need for a long-range tourer, either.
Thanks for posting the clips of the Kawasaki KLR 650. I really enjoyed them. Especially the area where you filmed the clips is very nice. I am a Kawasaki KLR 650 (model 1996) rider myself and it is a very reliable bike.I already ride the bike for about 7300 km without any problem this year. Thanks again for the information. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and keep on riding. Greetings from Dave in The Netherlands.
Thanks so much Davey! You too have a very Merry Christmas and an adventure-filled, safe new year!
You'd be surprised at what the KLR can do. It's not the best off road, like you said. However, I've taken mine on some burly trails, and I've been on trails that have tested me on the DRZ and friends on the KLR have come right along with me. They may have struggled a bit more than I did, but they were there doing the same things. Skidplates are a must if you plan on doing off-roading and not just easy dirt roads.
Awesome review Man! I ride a 2008 KLR in Victoria, BC, Canada, Love it!! Probably end up on a KTM 990 in the future though. Great Videos keep em coming. Let me know if you ever make it up this way. Cheers
Just started riding again this past May. I bought an old beat up '92 XT225 from a guy at work. As soon as I can I think I am going with a new V-Strom. I like to ride equally in the dirt and street but I am not into the real gnarly motocross kind of stuff. I am waiting for the day I stop crashing then I will get a new bike. For now the little XT. We should hook up and go riding some time.
Dude that is some awesome camera angles, for a self shot video/review that is done very well, I'm only going to have a look now at your other vid's hope you have something of the BMW F800 gs, If you don't please tray and organize!! And its true the KLR is not a great bike but is just right.
There is a seriously excellent group of KLR followers, and honestly I wish I was still "one" of them, but I think you made an excellent decision with the DR650!
And the thing you said about Top Gear? *gulp* that brought a tear to my eye! That's my ultra dream job and a half to do a show like Top Gear someday. Top Gear is great because they know that no car is perfect, and they never say any are... but they certainly love them despite their weaknesses.
I took my 2009 KLR from New York to Oregon, and found the Pacific Northwest to be quite possibly the perfect place to ride a KLR. I also have a KTM 950 adventure and an SV650. If I had to sell two of them the KLR would stay.
so cool, thanks so much for taking the time to make an unbiased review mate. I am choosing a bike to go from Tasmania to Scotland with. trying to decide between the KLR 650, DR 650, and GS 650 Dakar/Sertao.
This helped improve my knowledge. thanks again!
Ohhhh those are great bikes and make for tough choices! I'm sure whatever you choose, it will be an amazing adventure!
Thanks addie! I do miss my old tractor, that's for sure!
I'm thinking you bring your DRZ and the 650 next time you come. Leave the DRZ here, but have the DR650 ready to trailer back to Texas so the trailer doesn't bounce all over. That way we can do a solid review of the stock DRZ400 and the DR650, switch seats, then give our impressions. THAT would be a good review.
Nice review! I think of my '07 KLR as a Kawasaki Land Rover. It's the perfect bike for the eastern Pennsylvania roads. From the highway to rural rugged twisty farm roads to the unpaved mountain roads the KLR works for me. The fact that it's not the most elegant pony in the stable provides more entertainment for my money. Today I parked her in the garage within 10 miles of 60,000, all without any major issues.
I thought mine was "getting old" with about 19k on it... little did I know!
I warm her up before I ride and change the oil soon after 3,000 mi. I'm looking at the Tiger 800xc but can't bite just yet. My 1yr old Corbin seat keeps me off the fence for long and I prefer my old knock around shoes to something too nice...still, thoughts of 'new' entertain at times. Life! Ride On.
You're gonna love it! I should recommend that you test drive some other bikes that will do what you want the KLR to do for you. Definitely check out the DRZ400S and the DR650.
It's better than buying two bikes, that's for sure!
Great review! I have a 2013. The mean green machine. Put 7k on it in the past 6 months. My last bike was an '06 xr 650. I love the KLR 1000 times more! Agree with the kickstand issue. It sucks. Might cut an inch out and re-weld. Haven't done the doohickey. Bought the 5 year unlimited mile warranty. Hopefully it either doesn't fail or they will replace whatever it damages if it does. Love this bike!
Sir, you made an excellent decision on the KLR, and you're certainly getting good use out of it! Very good work! The kickstand is just one of those things where you wonder if they checked it out at the factory. Did the engineers think about slight gusts of wind? Ha! Otherwise the bike is phenomenal!
Thanks so much man! And good choice on the 2012! The KLR is definitely a worthy steed!
By the way I like that yellow helmet you have. What is it? I have a day glow helmet but it's a 12 year old Nolan that was given to me. I should probably replace it. Looking for a nice dual sport helmet.
EveRide, fantastic review on the KLR! I own a 2011 KLR and absolutely love it! It is truly made for a 50/50 rider. Keep the reviews coming!
Thanks Irish Lad! I think I need to do a review of a DRZ 400 here soon. There are already a million out there, but I might as well toss my hat in the ring :)
Great review! I too think the DR650 is right there with the KLR. The V-Strom's are more touring oriented but will go where pointed. As far as the KLR fairing, it's design helps move air to the electronics. Very similar to the Strom.
Love that millencolin shirt!
Thanks for posting this, considering getting one of these on trade
Soooo true! I took GoatCabeza's Honda CRF230F offroad and, no surprise, since it's a purpose-built dirt bike, it was fantastic off road. Easier to handle than the DRZ, for me. Purpose-built bikes will always do a better job for what they're built for, but dual sports have their place in the "do all" category. Jack of all trades, master of none.
Oh this is so spot on! Great KLRs can be had for sub $2000. The only thing even close is a DR650, and it has a bit more dirt purpose, it seems.
Only reason I could justify a larger aftermarket tank would be that it costs LESS than replacing the plastics (I have a 2006 and 2007 KLR) If the IMS tank can replace those, drop the fuel a tiny bit lower on the bike (when left 1/2 full) then I'm all for it! Great vid man! I have come to really appreciate what you review as much as how you review it. Meaning, I like the comments about real-life stuff. .....skid plate!!
the do-hicky is a simple fix, i think its like one bolt out of the motor, upgraded manual tensioner install (easy) then thats done
It's a AFX DS-39 and it does a good job. It's not a lightweight, but for $100 it's fantastic!
That is a seriously HUGE thing that I missed! The age of the bike, along with the following and sheer NUMBERS of the thing mean that parts are plentiful, cheap, and available almost everywhere in the world!
I don't think it was ever a "problem" but keeping the rectifier, stator etc cooler just a bit, adds some longevity. Only reason I know anything about it was from the BMW "beak" and looking into what that was all about. Of course I owned a DL1000 and they are changing over to that weird beak too. It splits the air AND adds cooling for the electronics. At least that's how I understand all I looked up.
I've got a 2011 KLR and I love it. I can wait to head out west next year. I road it all over the mid-west. Overall it a great bike..
Right, people compare the two like they're the same thing... sure they're both dual sports, but their purposes and capabilities are vastly different.
Great review! I’m currently on a KTM 690 and it too has some issues. It’s more powerful and performance oriented but, not great for packing luggage and the fuel capacity is only 3.2 gallons or about 150 ish miles. Gotta plan your stops carefully. I’ve really thought about a KLR lately!
Thanks for sharing!
I love my KLR, but I sure hate the interstate on it and find it a little scary. I thought it was just because I only have 2 years of motorcycling under my belt. Glad to hear others think so too.
I like my KLR because it can do either on or off with a little outfitting. In all honesty, I can take it from a full on road bike to a dirt machine in half a day easy. If I know I'm going to be doing more of one than the other (right now it's dirt) I just order the right tires, change the links, maybe swap sprockets, this and that, and off I go. And it's the only vehicle I have I'm not afraid to break because I know I can fix it. It's so
Funny enough, the DRZ has a similar problem with the cam chain tensioner. It seems that people should be getting these right out of the factory.
It's good to be independent and a former owner... I don't really have any bias towards or against it... I just wanted to let people know my thoughts.
Yeah, I'd love to borrow my brother's DR650 for a while and just put it through the paces. I've also heard I need to check out a Honda XR. I have a feeling that one of these days a company is going to create a SUPER dual sport motorcycle. Maybe a 500cc with 6 gears, planted on the road like a KLR, but light enough and with adjustable suspension like a DRZ.
Driving a KLR -98, best bike I ever tried and I will not only keep it, I'm gonna get one more, and I agree with most of the things you say as well. Over all it's just a great bike, and the older model look much better then the new ones I have to say.
I personally don't have any experience at all with that, but an extra 50 ccs couldn't hurt! As far as rider experience... I'm not really sure what to say about that. A KLR is like a Jeep... you can drive the Baja 1000 in a jeep. But you win it in a trophy truck. I think that if you're looking to up the skill level, go to a powerful mid-range bike with great suspension and ride! Skill level isn't so much about power IMO, it's about suspension and control. :)
Very good review. I do more on than off-road and I went up one tooth on the front sprocket. That gives me 55 mpg and it handles freeway riding without beating up the engine, while still being good on fire roads and okay on mild trails. But if it falls over I need help getting it upright.
I actually bought a larger sprocket for it for those reasons, too! I never got it on there before I sold mine, though. I sold it to my brother-in-law and he actually installed a smaller sprocket. To each his own... either way it's a great bike!
Good review. I've had both the drz400e and the klr650. Both have their places.
Soooo true! Then again, I haven't been on a DR650 much. When Jae and I did the UTBDR he had an easier time in the dirt and, weirdly enough, it seemed like he was more comfortable on the road, too. Perhaps the DRZ needs a test as well. I look forward to doing a SENA-inspired dual vlog where we both argue points about our bikes. Also, for our camp ride, what do you think about Enterprise on dirt? Too many excellent options around here!
It is what it is. If that's your ride, you'll learn to love it.
Soooooo true! The price of the KLR is definitely relevant, and I completely forgot about it. Honestly I think the KLR is a better bike (more reliable, cheaper to maintain, better 50-50) than any of those more expensive dual sport bikes.
We're going to need to get the DR650 back over here for a review, brother!
I just bought an 2018 KLR before they're gone and it isn't 50/50..." its 5150 time!"
Nailed it! But even if you CAN afford a GS, get a KLR... and then another KLR for your friend. And then another one for your other friends. And then another one for your other other friend. THEN with the money you still have left over, go on a big trip. :D
great vlog, also don't forget aftermarket accessories, an ocean full.
Great review, and great comments. I'd just like to wrap it up (if i may):
- If U plan to do more Off-Road, go for a Dirt-bikes/Motor-Cross, it'll make more sense and way more fun.
- If U plan to travel around paved roads, a Cruiser or even Street-Bikes will make more sense and way more comfortable.
- If U plan to do both, or just want the option of doing everything or go anywhere at anytime with reasonable function/fun/comfort, just go for the mighty KLR 650 (unless u can afford a BMW GS :) )
Planning on buying a 2014 New Edition in 6-8 months.
Not only is it as close to a true 50/50 experience as you will get (frankly, it's more 40 street/60 dirt considering the competition), but one could argue that it would be a great starter bike overall, particularly for taller guys because of the seat height.
Guys that aren't skilled mechanics will love this bike. It works. Relatively easy to fix, relatively easy to modify.
KLR - It won't get you there fast. But you will get there.
And in the end, isn't that what matters? :)
+Tom B Yes sir it is! Very nicely stated :)
Whoa! If you've ridden all those bikes, you should definitely do a review! I've only ridden a few bikes and don't have that kind of perspective. I just wish the DRZ400e was a 550 with a rear subframe and a sixth gear :)
Nicely done! Need to pick up a dual sport this season. 650s are what I'm going for...light off road to scenic places, looks like the KLR is in the running...V-Strom too, but it's more on road oriented...and you can pick up a KLR much cheaper!
madjak30 Any news yet on what you'll pick? If it's possible, test ride the DRZ 400 and DR 650, I really like Suzuki's dirt-oriented offerings, too. Honestly, if you get a bike that you like, then you've done it right no matter what anybody else says :)
I need to sell one of my road bikes first...snow and ice until April, so it might be a while yet
and you forgot one important thing , why the klr 650 is so popular, because the next bike that can do the same thing, like the ktm or the bmw, it is so stupedly expensive. Klr is good not because its a good bike but because it's a good of bike for the price, and nothing comes close!
love the review
Right on track! Road driving poses the problem of your body acting like a sail and well, it gets a bit hectic on the highway.
So true, there are definitely pros and cons to that upright riding position!
Some of those more expensive bikes have such massively glaring problems. For example, HalfThrottle cracked open his case because the skidplate on his GS mounts directly to the engine. Seriously BMW? I have a feeling that as Dual Sport/ Adventure Riding gets bigger, we'll see better bikes from all companies... and not just street legal dirt bikes or road bikes with knobbies :)
Love the review! im about to buy a 2013 KLR
Those two reasons are reason enough! In fact, add "the whole freakin' marine corps" to that list, and those really were HUGE reasons to get mine!
It's like sasquatch... everybody knows it's probably just a myth... but that doesn't mean you wouldn't be terrified if you actually encountered one!
The New Edition has fixed the seat a bit. It tapers into the tank now. narrower stance.
Great review and that is the first motovolg that the camera editting and views were great. Pro looking vedio. It was smooth and eazy to watch. Hope that makes sense. Now how to get you the rest of the duel sport bikes for a week or more and have you test them? Really the best test review motovolg I have seen. Love from SC
and now, after two videos, I'm sold. Just need to save up for next season and find a nice used one.
Wow man awesome review shat all over my simple quick drz one lol. Yeah i was tempted to get one of these, i also know a few people that are looking at them now. And the 0-60mph test is that like our 0-100kmh test? Awesome vid as always mate
Finally got around to watching pt 2 - thanks for the review, man, much appreciated. Have a feeling I'll be picking up a KLR in a few years for dirt oriented riding (more-so that 50-50 split you mentioned) and I was really curious as to your take on it.
.
As for the cam chain tensioner, *A LOT* of people hate auto tensioners. Pretty sure that's even a thing in the DRZ world (people putting a manual on). People hate auto tensioners, they see them as a weak point.
A friend and I were talking about the doohicky and came to a conclusion. It seems that there are some aftermarket upgrades for this part that would cease to exist if the factory had fixed it. We theorize that it's just a part of the "KLR650 culture" and the factory didn't want to put some machine shop guys out of business, it's bad for PR
You're going to have to send me a picture of that decal! Sounds awesome! I actually named mine "the tractor" :)
LOVED IT! Ever since your dual sport lunch break vid, I have loved the KLR. Buuuuuut I am going to want to tour, and mostly will do street riding 95% of the time. Soooo the Suzuki V-strom 650 not only has 6 gears... and Fuel Injection (I work 1500 feet above where I live and my college is 1000 feet below where I live), AND ABS as standard... Loved RebelYell's KLR (we go to the same college), but dat WeeStrom though!
Man when I do my intercontinental adventure, I'm thinking DL1000 all the way!
Boyaa! Man, that 2014 redesign is saweet! For me though, I'm 19, 118lbs and 5ft 9 sooo the 1000 is a tad bigger than I feel I could handle well. But awwww, it resembles Ewan's GS SOO much now! And liquid cooled!
RCFlyBoy314 Haha I didn't even realize there was a redesign... seriously I just checked it out and that looks awesome! I'm still probably too poor to get anything newer than 10 years, but goodness that's a pretty good looking bike!
I think, as with any bike over 325 lbs, you need to be an experienced dirt rider to be off road. There are so many things going on that you need muscle memory to react to the bike. What your body is doing and what the bike is doing and where your focus is are three different things all happening at once. I've seen guys do stuff on big bikes that many people cannot do on a 250. It is very important to fit your bike to you with the right handlebars, risers, foot pegs and seat height. Without this step(especially on a big bike) you will never get the "sweet spot" while cruising down a single track or technical terrain. I'm 6'0" and 220 lbs. All my height is in my upper body. In the sand I did not stand a chance until I lowered the foot pegs and raised the bars.Did I mention D606 on the rear, M21 on the front and lower air pressure? I've been riding for over 50 years off and on. Is there a perfect bike....my answer is there is not any single bike that will fit everyone's riding abilities and every type of terrain. So now, I have helped justify owning multiple bikes. :) Thanks eveRide (Tyler) for all you do. Bringing up and expressing our opinions on bikes and gear and discussing it helps all in the quest of finding the perfect bike. Stay up on two and have fun everyone.
My KLR 650 is definitely a 50/50 bike. 50% of the time I hate her and 50% of time I LOVE her! Nice review.
AfricanWhiskeyMonster Haha so true! It's a great bike for so many reasons, but it definitely has it's quirks. I am loving ***** 's bike right now for my adventure... such a solid machine!
I like the older style KLR..
When I look at the new ones I just think Ninja 250R with dirt tires.
Especially the front end, it looks like the headlight and radiator shroud of the 08+ ninja.
Scott Fricke I'm also a huge fan of the Gen 1 KLRs!
I own a 2018 and I actually dig how it has that ninja front end look... Then with some D 606 tires it's a total sleeper. I took all the decals off mine, changed the seat, put all the off road attachments it can take. People ask me all the time what kind of bike it is. When I tell them its a dirt bike they are even more confused.
Full on sleeper and I love it.
Some of the aftermarket gas tanks (IMS is the one I have) will function as a "good enough" set of radiator protection rather than a set of crash bars. I don't tend to get crazy on trails or roads so the tank is more of a brittle plastic part insurance policy. On the plus side the 350ish range before reserve comes in handy on road trips more often than I'd like to admit.
***** Very true! My perspective on a lot of things KLR has changed since this review... I rode a KLR with a 685 kit and a 10 gallon tank and loved it!
eveRide ADV Was the 685 kit a night and day difference in the bike? I have a 2008 that burns oil like it's cheap and will never run out (1 liter/1k miles). "Performance KLR parts" is an oxymoron I know, but I've heard that the 685 kit makes the idle and low RPM response less agricultural and more smooth due to a (much) lighter piston head. How did it feel to you?
***** Haha man I love that term "agricultural" :D The 685 kit could best be described as the "perfect KLR". Power, smooth torque, the whole package. The one I rode belonged to DRZcoffeegirl Ride's husband Casey. It's fantastic!
I do love the DR650! I'm going to get my brother out here with his someday and do a shootout review with the headsets. I'll argue that the 400 is better, then we'll switch bikes and reverse roles.
Hey I don't know what your back round is for riding but a motorcycle is designed for sitting & off road you sit unless with experience coming off a jump or over whoops you will be sitting. And as a X pro racer I know what I'm talking about. Race since that late 70's & all through the 80's motocross & still race today in desert.
DRZ is a tiny pocket bike for my Kalani height lol. I need me a bit of long distance comfort as well, hence the KLR.
Doohickey is a myth. I rode my KLR 30,000 miles and never had any issues. Only things I ever changed on that bike were oil, tires, chain, and I replaced the front and rear sprockets once. The only mods I had were a D.I.D. 720 X-Ring chain, full Vance & Hines exhaust, Dynojet Stage 2 jet kit, I opened up the air box, and switched it to Continental Twinduro tires and that bike became an absolute demon on and off road
My parts guy at the Kawasaki dealer said the bad part was a recall on only a few models in the early 2000s because the spring was not the right compound. It blew up even though it was totally unnecessary on every other iteration of the engine.
The doohicky is actually a counterbalancer chain tensioner.
Outstanding review!
Couldn't figure out how to send a picture since they changed my account but I stuck it in as my profile pic for now. You can kinda see it on the pannier in the profile picture:-)
Ahhh, see I didn't know about the airflow. Was airflow to the electronics a problem on the older KLR? Mine was rock solid reliable!
Love my 2013!........😎👍👏🎶✌️🍁
i think you really missed of the top resons for buying a KLR and thats the price. there are lots of dual sports bikes out there that sell for twice as much that arent as versatile. the big BMWs cost easily twice as much but are not nearly as nimble off road. if you are tearing through dirt roads that you can do 50mph+ theyre great bikes but going lets say less than 20mph, exploring maybe, id have the KLR. one of the main reason im considering the bike.
Granted the seat can be a tougher than a $2 steak, and the gas tank is only 3.2 gallons. It doesn't come with a back rack either. But, for simple function and dead simple reliability, it is hard to beat the DR650. It can do everything the KLR can do and do it better. I do love a good KLR though.