Want to thank you. Several months ago I watched your 5 things to do on a new/ used KLR. Kept telling myself to do your suggested checklist. Just did it today. Was getting popping like crazy on deceleration. Exhaust was definitely loose including the sleeve behind the brake reservoir. I had upgraded the subframe bolts and loctited them several k miles ago. My foot peg bolts were loose as well. Pulled them blues them and re torqued. Great stuff Mason. Thanks again for making life on the bike safer, more reliable and most important enjoyable.
Hey Fish! I'm glad you got around to the list. Losing a foot peg would really suck at speed! Nice catch :)I hope you notice a difference with the exhaust tightened and keep an eye on those, they will loosen off again. I did mine 3 or 4 times before they snugged up ;) Ride safe and thanks for the update! Cheers.
Already notice a difference. No back firing and the doohickey adjustment( will be doing the eagle mike upgrade soon) seemed to quiet down the engine slightly.
Except for the Sportster the KLR has to be one of top longest largest quantity selling bikes. Aside from popularity it has to be the most studied and modified bikes on the planet. I'm certain some owners know more about the bike than the manufacturers that built them. Your channel is a great source maybe the best for advice and how to on KLRs.
Absolutely! There is wealth of information on the KLR in the forum's and online resources and parts, both OEM and aftermarket are readily available too. It really makes it one of the easiest to customize and maintain. Cheers AZ, I appreciate that 👍
I have learned a ton from your videos. And help me out substantially on setting my KLR up to the way. I like it. I will continue to be a faithful Watcher of your videos. Be safe out there Dave Page
Thanks to MasonsADV I discovered ADV and how to do it without breaking the bank. This particular video is very much appreciated, it will save me time and money. I can't wait for this Spring's build; I'd like to start sooner but the garage is another project in itself. I've started my own maintenance/upgrade book, my A&P friend said, "of course you need that!". Thanks again Mason!
I hear you! It takes me longer to clean the garage than it does to shoot a video out there! 😄 I think you will find the book super handy especially in a couple of years when your recollection starts to fade ;) Cheers Joe!
Great report. I have 2008 Gen2 with 80k km. Just too much fun to give. I do some work my self but my Kawasaki shop is 10 minutes from my house and he dose most of the heavy lifting. Anyway great report and enjoy your adventures. I have had a few as well. 👍😉
If I was buying your bike and you pulled that binder out I would give you your asking price and then some. You are the guy I look for when buying used anything. I keep good documentation but I don't have a binder. I'll step my game up sir.
Again. Another great video. I have a 2000 KLR, the O.D. just flipped 4k miles. I have done the E.M. doohickey mod with the torsion spring. I swapped out the stock rear spring for a Yamaha YZ 450 450# weighted spring. I find this to be a perfect upgrade for my weight. A friend in Chesapeake Via recommended it. He is big into suspension. For $65 how could I go wrong? The rear doesn't squat when I open her up. But the front sure does come up easy. I really have to be careful. I am in the middle of a custom seat build, thanks for that vid, and I have flood lights that have not even mounted yet. Mounted the TKC 80s. First time ever doing that. Klx needle kit swap, with an aftetmarket pipe. The power really comes on down low, Mason, you have a special talent at producing videos. They are perfect! I appreciated the time you out in editing and all you do for the m/c community.
Wow it's just a baby! Low mileage for a 2000, nice 👍 Sounds like a great build. I'm sure you will have some fantastic adventures on it! Thank you for that, PJ, very kind. Hopefully some of the vids entertain and others help someone out :) Cheers mate!
A well sorted bike! I went back and forth on buying one of these bikes for years. I finally pulled the trigger after learning about the CD suspension and KLR dash. I am using Tusk pannier racks and crash bars and a bunch of JNS Enginerring parts.The huge aftermarket parts availability lets you build the bike to fit your specific need. It's been a fun build and a fun bike to ride.
You have I feel the best bike channel I have loved watching your videos and learning from successes and mistakes. You explain things well and find entertaining rides and commentary. Thank you!
Great work on your bike, I added a few of the same to mine. I also added a bigger front disk which really helps slow down when fully loaded. I have and will install the duhicky as well as a valve check soon. I am happy to say I will be taking all 5 of my bikes out for a ride today. Yesterday 28 degrees today 48 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ya and I went out for a ride in it! haha 28 here too, coldest ride on the klr yet. . I just ordered the thermbob and learned all about that. Wasnt having any problem, but temp gauge hardly left the cold mark
👍 well done! So far on my 07-Eagle Mike: fork brace, .7 bar risers, subframe bolt upgrade, magnetic drain plug, torsion spring doohickey, rear rack. Progressive springs. All Balls: steering stem bearing kit, front & rear master cylinder rebuild kits. Tusk: front & rear steel braided brake lines, brake pads, clutch & front brake levers, D-flex hand guards. Motion Pro clutch cable. The plan for this winter Pivot Works: linkage rebuild kit, swing arm bearing kit. Progressive 465 rear shock. Eagle Mike raising link. Or maybe a new Yamaha Tenere 700 😳. Enjoyed the show as always, thanks ☕️ Have a Merry Christmas 🎄.
My KLR650 is similar to yours with Outback Motortek crashbars/skid plate, Barkbusters and happy trails luggage frames. Added upper and lower dash, better footpegs and I still have the Top Gun rear spring and fork springs. I also changed to a slip on muffler. I still love mine after 20000km and can't see me changing anytime soon.
Hi Mason, I just love that bike. (Mine is still pretty standard, but I have done the frame bolts). Looking good forward to watching you recheck your doohickey mod. Wishing you and your family a Blessed Christmas and a safe New Year. Regards from S Africa Clive
Glad I can help and yeah I get that a lot ;) I just don't want the KLR loud. The small power gain isn't worth it too me but if I could get one as quiet as stock with the weight reduction I would do it. Cheers Patrick!!
Great video, Thanks, have done many of the same mods and a few different ones also due to mine being an 09 model. my next step is the EM raising links and the cogent adv shock, did the cogent kit on the front already.
Nice! You may find that you don't need the raising links after the Cogent shock. It does give it a bit of a boost ;) It your tall you still may but mine sits up nice now. Cheers SupRBee :)
Hmm. should I install the one that's sitting here? Haha. I may have to try it, your not the first to mention how much it helps. Cheers, I may just do that.
It is odd that most upgrade videos I have watched about the KLR650 are... not upgrades per se. Whether accessories are upgrade is open to debate but when I mean upgrade, it should improve somehow the performance and handling of the bike. The most obvious I would start with just like I would with a DR650 is seeking better more adventure capable suspensions while dropping weight. The exhaust mufflers on both KLR and DR are absolutely monstrous and super heavy (even more so on the KLR), the KLR also has a ton of humongous fat ass looking plastic bits at the rear. All you should see at the rear is a light enduro mudguard and rear light with minimalist plate holder and light aluminium central luggage carrier. The exhaust is easy, replace with titanium Akrapovic, Yoshimura, GPR (my personal favorite exhaust lines best weight loss), SC Project (second fav best sound and rally design), Remus (best modern looking design), you name it there is a truckload of options that will save you anywhere between 1 to 2.5kgs easy. The stock KLR is a tank of an exhaust, must go straight to the rubbish bin. Then comes the most useful and compulsary upgrade: the suspensions. Both KLR and DR have chewing gum like front and rear shock absorbers producing the more than occasional front dive and loss of traction. This would be my three first upgrades, then handlebar, protections, footpegs, etc. Two other major upgrades would be gear lever and sprocket and carburator, maybe the radiator. Lighter battery maybe? Smaller LED lights? If I was to ever upgrade the tank, I would probably look at a rear tank addition rather than getting a larger capacity front tank as much as I would like to keep the rear light so it would not be more than a 5 litres expansion really to keep the rear reasonably light and balanced on both sides. Anyone can buy accessories, they are a matter of taste, budget, weight and how much you're going to really need them. I bloody hate rigid suitcases on a bike, I don't see the point. What are they for, your king size mattress? Unless you need to carry an expensive camera or drone, your best bet remains some luggage to the front over the tank (hence the reason why I would not upgrade the front tank) or in your backpack which is the more vibration free options. This is the type of video I would like to see. Upgrades that don't make the bike impossible to ride and control off road.
Hi Mason, got myself a nice KLR 2015, looking to add a quadlock phone charger base, as well as heated grips eventually.. Just wondered, from wich wires did you hook your power for your accessories
Awesome walk through. I've done crash bars, skid plate and shifter. Mama is getting tired of the UPS and Fed Ex trucks pulling up to the house so I've cooled it a bit. Really need to get on my doohickey and possibly replace my chain and brake pads. Cool video oh and those pants look like something I need with all the pockets. What are they?
Masons ADV Is going to be my next motorcycle KLR I love it, I’m 55 years old and I want something that would last me. Thanks for your review 👍🏼. I ride a t 120 Truimph, But I want a second bike.
Nice mods Mason. I’m new to dual sport and klr650. Got it few months ago My mods so far. -Peg bracket bigger bolts, ( got bike with all of them stripped) drilled and tapped m8 thread. - cut and modified (welded) foot peg brackets. Moved pegs about 1” back to get more room to shifter and brake. - cut and extended shifter lever about 1/2 to get more room for my big feet. At 13kmiles still have oem doohickey any way to get the pulley without specialty tools?
Just bought an 08 yesterday. I think I'd like to do the same stuff to mine. Pretty sure I want the fmf exhaust. Not certain yet if the suspension has been upgraded or is stock. Don't think the previous owner could remember. I might msg him to ask.
Love watching your videos. Rewatched this one to see some of the bags and a rough set up. What do you think about what I’m doing to my Harley? I’ve got a 2004 Sportster 1200R that I’m making into an ADV style bike!
Yes it's a popular mod for sure. I like the quiet of the stock pipe especially when riding trails near residential areas or crawling through the campsites but If I can find a quiet pipe I would consider it.
I’ve heard Santa is getting me the doohickey upgrade kit for Xmas! I’m also going to switch out the petcock for the manual one.. with around 10,500 miles on my bike I’m very curious to see how the doohickey/spring is doing. I did the klx kit last season and I’m not happy with the stock idle mixture screw setup. I think I found a different screw meant for a Harley-Davidson that will allow me to adjust it with my fingers while the bike is running.. apparently the Harley-Davidson cv carbs and the cvk Kawasaki carbs are nearly identical.. we’ll see.. I’ll try and do some videos and see what happens.. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays 😎
if anyone has a gen2 and is having a really hard time adapting to off road but still like the klr then i would suggest just trying it with out the plastics especially if you have a guard. maybe trailer it to be leagal but I have found that those big bulky plastics feel very awkward when turning and off roading. I broke off all my plastics on my 2009 8 years ago. 2 days ago I bout a 2017 and when I went to do the test drive I immediately felt uncomfortable and unfamiliar on a bike I have spent 220k on. I switched my old muffler and took off the plastics and I felt ready for some gnarly trails again.! now I'm designing a build around not having them.
Hi! Thank you for your great and informative video’s. I have a 2011 that I am resuscitating since a run in with a Bambi. I want to add more lighting. Have you done any stator mods to your bike?
Hi Bevan, no I haven't. The KLR has more than enough headroom for heated grips and a couple led lights no problem. I still have the original headlight bulbs but have switched my dash lights to LEDs.
When you installed the Rox risers, was everyting ok with with stock cable lengths? Thanks for the videos. New to the KLR club and your channel is amazing!
very nice job Mason, any thoughts on replacing the rotors with a different brand than stock? I believe Everide did a video about his mods and he recommended new pads and rotors. I also wanted to inquire about the mirrors, what are those and are you still happy with them? Merry Christmas hope you have a wonderful holidays!
The pre 08 KLR's had a smaller rotor than the 2nd gen bikes if i'm not mistaken and Tylers was a 1st gen so a rotor upgrade was likely a good call. I have had no issues with the stock rotors and the addition of the braided front brake line and pads was all it needed. Stops on a dime now ;) Cheers!
Nice update, you certainly have done lots to it. A couple of questions about the chain. How often do you find it needs adjustment and how many kms did you have when you changed it out? I know it varies from bike to bike depending on riding styles etc..
Thanks! I adjust it a couple of times per season, usually when I change tires and i think I got about 18000 kms out of the first set. It may have gone longer but I was headed out for a week on the bike and didn't want any issues ;) Cheers!
Do you have any issues with handlebar vibration? I have a 2016 with 1700 miles on it. I have Barkbuster hand/brush guards on it with bar end weights and Rox Speed FX Risers. My hands start to fall asleep on a 20 mile ride. I'm going to try adding more weight to the bars and check my counterbalancer and do the Doohickey mod.
Hi Paul, Mine doesn't seem to buzz much at all through the bars. I did notice it got vibey without the bar end weights and quickly reinstalled them ;) Good luck!
Awesome videos, thank you. I just bought a KLR 650 and the previous owner did the same fender removal/license plate location change. He gave me the stock fender that he removed. Have you noticed any downsides to removing that extended fender? Any additional mud flinging up?
Thanks for watching! I haven't noticed any change really. The mud seems to fling no matter what fender configuration I use 😄 I would say it's personal preference. Cheers!
I’m about to buy a 2018, 0km KLR650 and I’d like to know the BEST mods for improving longevity, reliability and keep the bike healthy and safe for the long run. What things should I put on it or _do to it?_
Hello Mason! Do you run the accesories straight out of the battery? Or is there any like, distribuiting box or something? How much power can we run off the bike? Great video as always!
I have a main line from the battery up under the dash and make all my connections there. I have 2 relays for switched power for the lights and the heated grips run directly to the battery. The Gen 2 produces 17 amps at 14 volts = 238 watts and uses 140 watts on OEM lighting leaving us about 100 watts for accessories. More can be gained by switching to LED lighs.
This is a tough question. I don't like looking through a screen so the original screen works just fine for me and I don't mind the wind. Hopefully someone with a big screen on can chime in here and help you out.
Looking good that bike. I have the bike your subconscious want so l do not have a equipment list on a KLR for you sir😀😀. Looking forward to some maintenence video during winter. Is that a ebay tooltube?
Mason do you have any issues with the bike shutting down after small water crossings... i noticed you didn't mentioned a TMod ... i am considering doing it i just wanted to get your opinion on what you have done to it to get it water friendly
My poor old KLR has been way deeper than I want but I haven't had any issues and it has never quit due to water. My airbox is stock except for the snorkel removal and the T mod is a great idea for sure. Other than that, some dielectric grease in the connections, keep your rear swing-arm and suspension linkage well greased and keep an eye on your wheel bearings 👍 Cheers!
Yes, it's the Mosko Moto scout 25 ltr duffle and it retails on their site for $150 USD. Super tough bag, mounts easily and the included "beaver tail" is super for stashing a coat or I use it with a Molle 4 ltr storage pouch (also Mosko Moto) for holding my water bladder. This is my day trip bag and I replace it with my Mosko Moto R80 for trips. Hope that helps. Cheers!
I noticed that you kept the original muffler. Everyone seems to recommend replacing the OEM muffler if you do the air-box snorkel and KLX needle mods? Beside the cost of an aftermarket exhaust, any reason why you didn't change yours?
No they are liquid cooled but when you stop the air isn't moving through the rad so the temps do climb. the fan will kick in and hold it at a certain point. The thermo bob mod is a great addition and helps keep a steady temp. Cheers.
The manual says 15000 miles but mine were tight from the factory and taking them to max spec made a world of difference. I check them yearly in the winter. It's easy to check and not that much more difficult to change them.
Thanks for the videos Mason! I wonder, have you experienced any oil burning issues at all? I have a 2011 with 30,000 Km and I am sure she's burning oil!
I have a 2011 also and it seems to, but only really after 5K RPMs for me. It really gets bad after 6500 or so. I rarely get up that high though, she not built for speed ;)
I did the 685 kit on my 06 due to doohickey failure. It will cure your oil issues while giving power and smoothness that makes you think you dropped a whole new animal into the frame.
I think you copied me! LOL. Ive done all the same mods with the exception of the lights and your charging system is next level. Have you done a detailed video on that?
A question: I have a well modified 08 I ride 50/50 in Utah, including the KLX carb mods. I can live with it's freeway performance (80 mph legal) but I'd like a bit more. Re-gearing is out because it hurts offroad performance. What is your opinion on going to a 685cc or larger bore? Any other ideas? Thanks
I haven't had any first hand experience with the big bore kits but lot's of guys really enjoy that mod. It's something I may experiment with at some point but for now mine will stay stock :) Good luck, I'm sure you will enjoy it!
Yes, I did it right away because we do some longer trips and I didn't trust the vacuum petcock not to let me down. If your running mostly local it may not be an issue.
I only have the fender bags that I use on the crash bars but the quality has been amazing especially considering when the bike is set down on the side it rests fully on the bags. Zippers all still work and the stitching is in good shape.
I don't know the brand exactly because it's an old used version but it's a typical motorcycle jack like you would find at harbor freight. Cheers Justin!
Hello from Alaska. I just picked up a used 2008 KLR650 with high mileage (36000) in part to your videos and another CZcamsr itchy boots. I have a big cruiser I have been riding the last couple of summers but I would like to go more places, gravel/dirt and fire roads. I don’t have off-road riding experience. My plan is to go thru the bike and get it ready for spring. It had the 685 kit installed about 10,000 miles ago. My question is for the riding I’m planning on doing do you think a cogent front end and a top gun rear would be a good choice for my needs? I’m 6’4” about 275. Just curious about your opinion. Thanks
Hello Alaska!! Yeah, any suspension mods will be noticed and the Cogent front suspension is fantastic! The top gear coil will certainly help too and I ran one for a couple seasons while saving up for the Cogent Moab Pro. Just remember that the Top Gun coil only helps the spring rate and doesn't help the compression or rebound damping at all. That said though it is an improvement ;) Cheers and ride safe! (sorry for the delay ;)
How tall are you, etc., as it relates to your ability to flat foot the beast? I share many of your mods on my 2013 model (also with 24K) but am getting real tired of dropping the thing.
More $$ in accessories than the cost of the bike? I need a better seat for sure. Do hicky I don’t care until the warranty is out. Doubt I will need all that you have on yours. I’m not that hard on her.
![KAWASAKI KLR 650 UPGRADES AND MODS [Part 2]](/img/n.gif)
Thank you so much for the videos! You, Swanky, BOC, and Scratch helped me decide to go ahead and get me a KLR650.
Awesome :) Welcome to the club! Thanks for watching and ride safe :)
Want to thank you. Several months ago I watched your 5 things to do on a new/ used KLR. Kept telling myself to do your suggested checklist. Just did it today. Was getting popping like crazy on deceleration. Exhaust was definitely loose including the sleeve behind the brake reservoir. I had upgraded the subframe bolts and loctited them several k miles ago. My foot peg bolts were loose as well. Pulled them blues them and re torqued. Great stuff Mason. Thanks again for making life on the bike safer, more reliable and most important enjoyable.
Hey Fish! I'm glad you got around to the list. Losing a foot peg would really suck at speed! Nice catch :)I hope you notice a difference with the exhaust tightened and keep an eye on those, they will loosen off again. I did mine 3 or 4 times before they snugged up ;) Ride safe and thanks for the update! Cheers.
Already notice a difference. No back firing and the doohickey adjustment( will be doing the eagle mike upgrade soon) seemed to quiet down the engine slightly.
Except for the Sportster the KLR has to be one of top longest largest quantity selling bikes. Aside from popularity it has to be the most studied and modified bikes on the planet. I'm certain some owners know more about the bike than the manufacturers that built them. Your channel is a great source maybe the best for advice and how to on KLRs.
Absolutely! There is wealth of information on the KLR in the forum's and online resources and parts, both OEM and aftermarket are readily available too. It really makes it one of the easiest to customize and maintain. Cheers AZ, I appreciate that 👍
I have learned a ton from your videos. And help me out substantially on setting my KLR up to the way. I like it. I will continue to be a faithful Watcher of your videos. Be safe out there Dave Page
Hello Dave, Thanks for watching, glad to help :) Cheers and ride safe!
Thanks to MasonsADV I discovered ADV and how to do it without breaking the bank. This particular video is very much appreciated, it will save me time and money. I can't wait for this Spring's build; I'd like to start sooner but the garage is another project in itself. I've started my own maintenance/upgrade book, my A&P friend said, "of course you need that!". Thanks again Mason!
I hear you! It takes me longer to clean the garage than it does to shoot a video out there! 😄 I think you will find the book super handy especially in a couple of years when your recollection starts to fade ;) Cheers Joe!
Great report. I have 2008 Gen2 with 80k km. Just too much fun to give. I do some work my self but my Kawasaki shop is 10 minutes from my house and he dose most of the heavy lifting. Anyway great report and enjoy your adventures. I have had a few as well. 👍😉
You're too organized. I'm jealous. Great video. Wish you the best.
If I was buying your bike and you pulled that binder out I would give you your asking price and then some. You are the guy I look for when buying used anything. I keep good documentation but I don't have a binder. I'll step my game up sir.
It all stems from a poor memory 😄 Without the binder I would be lost!!
100%👍
Again. Another great video. I have a 2000 KLR, the O.D. just flipped 4k miles. I have done the E.M. doohickey mod with the torsion spring. I swapped out the stock rear spring for a Yamaha YZ 450 450# weighted spring. I find this to be a perfect upgrade for my weight. A friend in Chesapeake Via recommended it. He is big into suspension. For $65 how could I go wrong? The rear doesn't squat when I open her up. But the front sure does come up easy. I really have to be careful. I am in the middle of a custom seat build, thanks for that vid, and I have flood lights that have not even mounted yet. Mounted the TKC 80s. First time ever doing that. Klx needle kit swap, with an aftetmarket pipe. The power really comes on down low, Mason, you have a special talent at producing videos. They are perfect! I appreciated the time you out in editing and all you do for the m/c community.
Wow it's just a baby! Low mileage for a 2000, nice 👍 Sounds like a great build. I'm sure you will have some fantastic adventures on it! Thank you for that, PJ, very kind. Hopefully some of the vids entertain and others help someone out :) Cheers mate!
A well sorted bike! I went back and forth on buying one of these bikes for years. I finally pulled the trigger after learning about the CD suspension and KLR dash. I am using Tusk pannier racks and crash bars and a bunch of JNS Enginerring parts.The huge aftermarket parts availability lets you build the bike to fit your specific need. It's been a fun build and a fun bike to ride.
Nice! and I agree that the ability to build it to suit your needs makes the KLR a great option for most of us. Cheers AzMtn!
About to take delivery of a Klr this weekend, I just wanted to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this vid, thanks a mil.
Congrats! Enjoy the ride 👍
Wow impressive modding.
Love the helmet hook
Great Video! As a new KLR650 owner, your video is very much appreciated. Regards, Jude @CoastalADV
You have I feel the best bike channel I have loved watching your videos and learning from successes and mistakes. You explain things well and find entertaining rides and commentary. Thank you!
I appreciate that! and thanks for watching. Cheers Sean :)
Great video Mason! That’s a well farkled KLR. The best thing about the KLR is the ability to make it anything you want.
Thank you and I couldn't agree more! Cheers :)
You forgot your double take mirror add on. You’ve got a very well modded bike.
Merry Christmas and looking forward to more videos.
Yes I did! Haha, I was wondering how long it would take for that to be spotted! 😄👍 Merry Christmas!
Great work on your bike, I added a few of the same to mine. I also added a bigger front disk which really helps slow down when fully loaded. I have and will install the duhicky as well as a valve check soon. I am happy to say I will be taking all 5 of my bikes out for a ride today. Yesterday 28 degrees today 48 degrees Fahrenheit.
Wow, lucky!! That's fantastic! It will be awhile here before my next ride ;) Cheers and ride safe!
Ya and I went out for a ride in it! haha 28 here too, coldest ride on the klr yet. . I just ordered the thermbob and learned all about that. Wasnt having any problem, but temp gauge hardly left the cold mark
@@olneymaryland77 I added a thermobob last year, it's a great product.
👍 well done! So far on my 07-Eagle Mike: fork brace, .7 bar risers, subframe bolt upgrade, magnetic drain plug, torsion spring doohickey, rear rack. Progressive springs. All Balls: steering stem bearing kit, front & rear master cylinder rebuild kits. Tusk: front & rear steel braided brake lines, brake pads, clutch & front brake levers, D-flex hand guards. Motion Pro clutch cable. The plan for this winter Pivot Works: linkage rebuild kit, swing arm bearing kit. Progressive 465 rear shock. Eagle Mike raising link. Or maybe a new Yamaha Tenere 700 😳. Enjoyed the show as always, thanks ☕️ Have a Merry Christmas 🎄.
Haha, Nice build! That T7 sure is interesting ;) Cheers Steve!
My KLR650 is similar to yours with Outback Motortek crashbars/skid plate, Barkbusters and happy trails luggage frames. Added upper and lower dash, better footpegs and I still have the Top Gun rear spring and fork springs. I also changed to a slip on muffler. I still love mine after 20000km and can't see me changing anytime soon.
Sounds like a nice build Drew! I feel the same, not going anywhere ;) Cheers!
Clear , concise, good summary of your klr upgrades , thankyou !
Cheers :)
Lots of cool stuff! Great walk around makes me want to get a KLR!
👍 Another one for the stable! haha. Cheers Robert!
Nice bike, nice shop! Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Cheers CM! Merry Christmas to you and yours as well :)
Hi Mason,
I just love that bike.
(Mine is still pretty standard, but I have done the frame bolts).
Looking good forward to watching you recheck your doohickey mod.
Wishing you and your family a Blessed Christmas and a safe New Year.
Regards from S Africa
Clive
Thanks Clive! Merry Christmas to you and yours. Cheers :)
Just found you guys! Rode my KLR and then Versys around Springmount , Owensound , SouthHampton, etc. Great Video's!
Awesome! welcome aboard :) Great area for riding 👍
Looking for one now great bike
Great video. May reconsider the dr650 plan for a klr650.
Thank you for all the useful information
Just surprised no exhaust mod
Glad I can help and yeah I get that a lot ;) I just don't want the KLR loud. The small power gain isn't worth it too me but if I could get one as quiet as stock with the weight reduction I would do it. Cheers Patrick!!
Great video, Thanks, have done many of the same mods and a few different ones also due to mine being an 09 model. my next step is the EM raising links and the cogent adv shock, did the cogent kit on the front already.
Nice! You may find that you don't need the raising links after the Cogent shock. It does give it a bit of a boost ;) It your tall you still may but mine sits up nice now. Cheers SupRBee :)
Get a fork brace. It feels like a whole new bike!
Hmm. should I install the one that's sitting here? Haha. I may have to try it, your not the first to mention how much it helps. Cheers, I may just do that.
Nice run down. Thanks for sharing. 👍
Thanks for watching :) Cheers!
Nice KLR,
Thank you :)
Excellent Mason ! Thanks. Very informative.
Your welcome Coach. Cheers 👍
It is odd that most upgrade videos I have watched about the KLR650 are... not upgrades per se. Whether accessories are upgrade is open to debate but when I mean upgrade, it should improve somehow the performance and handling of the bike. The most obvious I would start with just like I would with a DR650 is seeking better more adventure capable suspensions while dropping weight. The exhaust mufflers on both KLR and DR are absolutely monstrous and super heavy (even more so on the KLR), the KLR also has a ton of humongous fat ass looking plastic bits at the rear. All you should see at the rear is a light enduro mudguard and rear light with minimalist plate holder and light aluminium central luggage carrier. The exhaust is easy, replace with titanium Akrapovic, Yoshimura, GPR (my personal favorite exhaust lines best weight loss), SC Project (second fav best sound and rally design), Remus (best modern looking design), you name it there is a truckload of options that will save you anywhere between 1 to 2.5kgs easy. The stock KLR is a tank of an exhaust, must go straight to the rubbish bin. Then comes the most useful and compulsary upgrade: the suspensions. Both KLR and DR have chewing gum like front and rear shock absorbers producing the more than occasional front dive and loss of traction. This would be my three first upgrades, then handlebar, protections, footpegs, etc. Two other major upgrades would be gear lever and sprocket and carburator, maybe the radiator. Lighter battery maybe? Smaller LED lights? If I was to ever upgrade the tank, I would probably look at a rear tank addition rather than getting a larger capacity front tank as much as I would like to keep the rear light so it would not be more than a 5 litres expansion really to keep the rear reasonably light and balanced on both sides. Anyone can buy accessories, they are a matter of taste, budget, weight and how much you're going to really need them. I bloody hate rigid suitcases on a bike, I don't see the point. What are they for, your king size mattress? Unless you need to carry an expensive camera or drone, your best bet remains some luggage to the front over the tank (hence the reason why I would not upgrade the front tank) or in your backpack which is the more vibration free options. This is the type of video I would like to see. Upgrades that don't make the bike impossible to ride and control off road.
Love your bike.
Thanks Sergio!
Hi Mason, got myself a nice KLR 2015, looking to add a quadlock phone charger base, as well as heated grips eventually.. Just wondered, from wich wires did you hook your power for your accessories
Awesome walk through. I've done crash bars, skid plate and shifter. Mama is getting tired of the UPS and Fed Ex trucks pulling up to the house so I've cooled it a bit. Really need to get on my doohickey and possibly replace my chain and brake pads. Cool video oh and those pants look like something I need with all the pockets. What are they?
oh yeah, I know that look here too 😄 The pants are Wrangler Riggs workwear with ripstop. Tough pants 👍
Nice bike Mason ,still saving for mine lol.Merry Christmas 🎄 dude!oh by the way I m from the Peterborough area I will join you for a ride one day 👍
Merry Christmas to you too Mike! Good luck with the search 👍
Very nice Mason 👍👍
Thanks Ian. Cheers man :)
Your channel just popped up in my feed. Great content here!
Nice! Glad you are enjoying it. Thanks for stopping by :)
Great video! Thanks!
Glad you liked it! Cheers :)
Strong motorcycle. 😎👍🏼
Yeah, works good ;) Cheers Danilo!
Masons ADV Is going to be my next motorcycle KLR I love it, I’m 55 years old and I want something that would last me. Thanks for your review 👍🏼. I ride a t 120 Truimph, But I want a second bike.
Nice mods Mason. I’m new to dual sport and klr650. Got it few months ago
My mods so far.
-Peg bracket bigger bolts, ( got bike with all of them stripped) drilled and tapped m8 thread.
- cut and modified (welded) foot peg brackets. Moved pegs about 1” back to get more room to shifter and brake.
- cut and extended shifter lever about 1/2 to get more room for my big feet.
At 13kmiles still have oem doohickey any way to get the pulley without specialty tools?
Great video, helpful info, thanks !!!
Cheers! Thanks for watching :)
That's a sexy KLR I must say.....
🙂👍 Cheers MB!
Just bought an 08 yesterday. I think I'd like to do the same stuff to mine. Pretty sure I want the fmf exhaust. Not certain yet if the suspension has been upgraded or is stock. Don't think the previous owner could remember. I might msg him to ask.
Surprised you're using the stock muffler. Sucker is heavy!
Hi there! Where can I find more information about carburetor modification?
Come back with new videos please
Are U thinking about upgrading to the new 2022 fuel injected KLR650 model?
It has crossed my mind ;)
Is the OEM doohickey still an issue on the KLR since the latest 2020 versions?
I would like to think Kawasaki has addressed it.
great work on a great bike. how did you manage to keep your bar end weights while having your handguards though?? good stuff man
I just packed them out with washers and bought longer bolts ;)
Ah - it snows where you live!!! Bob
It sure does! 😄
Went and looked at a 2008 klr 650 with 5000 k . Looking at it for 1st bike
Nice! Good luck with the search 👍
Very informative. Just wish I had the know-how. What tires do you favor? I'm on the fence between a KLR or a T700.
Love watching your videos. Rewatched this one to see some of the bags and a rough set up. What do you think about what I’m doing to my Harley? I’ve got a 2004 Sportster 1200R that I’m making into an ADV style bike!
Thanks for watching! Ha awesome, That sounds like a fun build!! Enjoy :)
Masons ADV thanks! I’ll post on another video with an update lol
I noticed you didn't fit an aftermarket exhaust pipe, I've seen so many KLR's fitted with them.
Yes it's a popular mod for sure. I like the quiet of the stock pipe especially when riding trails near residential areas or crawling through the campsites but If I can find a quiet pipe I would consider it.
I put a set of metzler Karoos on my klr two pairs of dunlops had bad sidewall cracks .have you ever tried the metzler Karoos?
No I haven't Charles. Another one to try out if I do a longer road trip. Cheers.
I’ve heard Santa is getting me the doohickey upgrade kit for Xmas! I’m also going to switch out the petcock for the manual one.. with around 10,500 miles on my bike I’m very curious to see how the doohickey/spring is doing. I did the klx kit last season and I’m not happy with the stock idle mixture screw setup. I think I found a different screw meant for a Harley-Davidson that will allow me to adjust it with my fingers while the bike is running.. apparently the Harley-Davidson cv carbs and the cvk Kawasaki carbs are nearly identical.. we’ll see.. I’ll try and do some videos and see what happens.. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays 😎
Awesome! Always nice to find a farkle or two under the tree :) Merry Christmas Supertrucker! Cheers :)
if anyone has a gen2 and is having a really hard time adapting to off road but still like the klr then i would suggest just trying it with out the plastics especially if you have a guard. maybe trailer it to be leagal but I have found that those big bulky plastics feel very awkward when turning and off roading. I broke off all my plastics on my 2009 8 years ago. 2 days ago I bout a 2017 and when I went to do the test drive I immediately felt uncomfortable and unfamiliar on a bike I have spent 220k on. I switched my old muffler and took off the plastics and I felt ready for some gnarly trails again.! now I'm designing a build around not having them.
Hi! Thank you for your great and informative video’s. I have a 2011 that I am resuscitating since a run in with a Bambi. I want to add more lighting. Have you done any stator mods to your bike?
Hi Bevan, no I haven't. The KLR has more than enough headroom for heated grips and a couple led lights no problem. I still have the original headlight bulbs but have switched my dash lights to LEDs.
When you installed the Rox risers, was everyting ok with with stock cable lengths? Thanks for the videos. New to the KLR club and your channel is amazing!
Thanks :) yes everything was fine but I had to reroute the cables to a route where they didn't bind. Not hard to do and nothing needed to be replaced.
@@masonsadv Thanks!
What size is the tool tube? Thanks
Hi, great bike, did I hear you say you carry a jack on the bike? Can you tell me the brand or where to find one?
Not a jack. More of a prop. I believe its made by happy trails
very nice job Mason, any thoughts on replacing the rotors with a different brand than stock? I believe Everide did a video about his mods and he recommended new pads and rotors. I also wanted to inquire about the mirrors, what are those and are you still happy with them?
Merry Christmas hope you have a wonderful holidays!
The pre 08 KLR's had a smaller rotor than the 2nd gen bikes if i'm not mistaken and Tylers was a 1st gen so a rotor upgrade was likely a good call. I have had no issues with the stock rotors and the addition of the braided front brake line and pads was all it needed. Stops on a dime now ;) Cheers!
Nice update, you certainly have done lots to it. A couple of questions about the chain. How often do you find it needs adjustment and how many kms did you have when you changed it out? I know it varies from bike to bike depending on riding styles etc..
Thanks! I adjust it a couple of times per season, usually when I change tires and i think I got about 18000 kms out of the first set. It may have gone longer but I was headed out for a week on the bike and didn't want any issues ;) Cheers!
I think you also have a metal cover on your master cylinder btw
There are quite a few things I forgot about ;) Almost time for an update! Cheers Matthew
@@masonsadv I hear that. Ride safe
Do you have any issues with handlebar vibration? I have a 2016 with 1700 miles on it. I have Barkbuster hand/brush guards on it with bar end weights and Rox Speed FX Risers. My hands start to fall asleep on a 20 mile ride. I'm going to try adding more weight to the bars and check my counterbalancer and do the Doohickey mod.
Hi Paul, Mine doesn't seem to buzz much at all through the bars. I did notice it got vibey without the bar end weights and quickly reinstalled them ;) Good luck!
Awesome videos, thank you. I just bought a KLR 650 and the previous owner did the same fender removal/license plate location change. He gave me the stock fender that he removed. Have you noticed any downsides to removing that extended fender? Any additional mud flinging up?
Thanks for watching! I haven't noticed any change really. The mud seems to fling no matter what fender configuration I use 😄 I would say it's personal preference. Cheers!
I’m about to buy a 2018, 0km KLR650 and I’d like to know the BEST mods for improving longevity, reliability and keep the bike healthy and safe for the long run. What things should I put on it or _do to it?_
This is a good place to start, Duke. czcams.com/video/ubGTArjU-QY/video.html
Hello Mason! Do you run the accesories straight out of the battery? Or is there any like, distribuiting box or something? How much power can we run off the bike? Great video as always!
I have a main line from the battery up under the dash and make all my connections there. I have 2 relays for switched power for the lights and the heated grips run directly to the battery. The Gen 2 produces 17 amps at 14 volts = 238 watts and uses 140 watts on OEM lighting leaving us about 100 watts for accessories. More can be gained by switching to LED lighs.
Great vlog Mason lots of info. Where do you get your Kawasaki parts? Through the guy at the beach? Or from 2 wheel ? Thx Eamon
Thanks Eamon :) I get most of them out at the beach. Cheers!
Im 6'1". If you get a chance, do you have insight on how well the factory windshield on the riser blocks the wind? Where does it hit you now?
This is a tough question. I don't like looking through a screen so the original screen works just fine for me and I don't mind the wind. Hopefully someone with a big screen on can chime in here and help you out.
My KLR has Mason's ADV KLR jealousy issues. lol I tell him that it's OK, we'll get there like Johnny Cash, one piece at a time...
Absolutely! I'm over 4 years at this build ;) Cheers Pinkie!
Looking good that bike. I have the bike your subconscious want so l do not have a equipment list on a KLR for you sir😀😀. Looking forward to some maintenence video during winter.
Is that a ebay tooltube?
Thanks Toby! haha. I think the tool tube came from Twisted Throttle. Cheers!
@@masonsadv 😀😀 thanks.
Mason do you have any issues with the bike shutting down after small water crossings... i noticed you didn't mentioned a TMod ... i am considering doing it i just wanted to get your opinion on what you have done to it to get it water friendly
My poor old KLR has been way deeper than I want but I haven't had any issues and it has never quit due to water. My airbox is stock except for the snorkel removal and the T mod is a great idea for sure. Other than that, some dielectric grease in the connections, keep your rear swing-arm and suspension linkage well greased and keep an eye on your wheel bearings 👍 Cheers!
How many mile do you have on your klr
Mason, the soft rear tail bag can you tell me more about it. Brand, price etc.
Yes, it's the Mosko Moto scout 25 ltr duffle and it retails on their site for $150 USD. Super tough bag, mounts easily and the included "beaver tail" is super for stashing a coat or I use it with a Molle 4 ltr storage pouch (also Mosko Moto) for holding my water bladder. This is my day trip bag and I replace it with my Mosko Moto R80 for trips. Hope that helps. Cheers!
I noticed that you kept the original muffler. Everyone seems to recommend replacing the OEM muffler if you do the air-box snorkel and KLX needle mods? Beside the cost of an aftermarket exhaust, any reason why you didn't change yours?
Yeah, the noise, Marty. If I could find one as quiet as the OEM that didn't require repacking, I would totally pull the trigger.
What is the quick release pin that you use for your castle nut?
Just a generic clip pin. You should be able to find one at almost any hardware store. Cheers
Are these bikes air cooled or something? I have an older 2007/2009 klr650 and noticed the temperature rises when I'm stopped at lights
No they are liquid cooled but when you stop the air isn't moving through the rad so the temps do climb. the fan will kick in and hold it at a certain point. The thermo bob mod is a great addition and helps keep a steady temp. Cheers.
how often do you need to check the valve clearance on this bikes?
The manual says 15000 miles but mine were tight from the factory and taking them to max spec made a world of difference. I check them yearly in the winter. It's easy to check and not that much more difficult to change them.
Does your KLR have the California emissions package?
No it didn't Jeffrey.
Thanks for your videos! Do you have the 15T front sprocket or did you change for a 16T?
I kept the 15 tooth until recently when I switched to the 14 tooth and I love it so far :)
Thanks for the videos Mason! I wonder, have you experienced any oil burning issues at all? I have a 2011 with 30,000 Km and I am sure she's burning oil!
Hey Brian, Thanks for watching! No, mine doesn't use a drop. Even on the long highway days at high rpm's
I have a 2011 also and it seems to, but only really after 5K RPMs for me. It really gets bad after 6500 or so. I rarely get up that high though, she not built for speed ;)
I did the 685 kit on my 06 due to doohickey failure. It will cure your oil issues while giving power and smoothness that makes you think you dropped a whole new animal into the frame.
I think you copied me! LOL. Ive done all the same mods with the exception of the lights and your charging system is next level. Have you done a detailed video on that?
Nice :) I haven't really done a detailed vid on the charging system but I did cover some of it here czcams.com/video/24c87T-0tXU/video.html
Do you have the measurements on the windshield riser. So I can make my own like you did?
No I don't John but I just measured the existing screen for the hole distance and went from there.
A question: I have a well modified 08 I ride 50/50 in Utah, including the KLX carb mods. I can live with it's freeway performance (80 mph legal) but I'd like a bit more. Re-gearing is out because it hurts offroad performance. What is your opinion on going to a 685cc or larger bore? Any other ideas? Thanks
I haven't had any first hand experience with the big bore kits but lot's of guys really enjoy that mod. It's something I may experiment with at some point but for now mine will stay stock :) Good luck, I'm sure you will enjoy it!
@@masonsadv Thanks for the reply! I really enjoy your channel.
Quick question. Have you done the petcock upgrade on your KLR? What are your thoughts on doing it vs keeping it stock?
Yes, I did it right away because we do some longer trips and I didn't trust the vacuum petcock not to let me down. If your running mostly local it may not be an issue.
Did you replace with the Yamaha one?
How much of the Moose Racing stuff have you used? Any thoughts on Moose quality?
I only have the fender bags that I use on the crash bars but the quality has been amazing especially considering when the bike is set down on the side it rests fully on the bags. Zippers all still work and the stitching is in good shape.
What mirrors are those? Thanks
Doubletake mirrors amzn.to/2KgFSY0
What lift do you use for your bike? I need one for my klr but can't find one
I don't know the brand exactly because it's an old used version but it's a typical motorcycle jack like you would find at harbor freight. Cheers Justin!
Hello from Alaska. I just picked up a used 2008 KLR650 with high mileage (36000) in part to your videos and another CZcamsr itchy boots. I have a big cruiser I have been riding the last couple of summers but I would like to go more places, gravel/dirt and fire roads. I don’t have off-road riding experience. My plan is to go thru the bike and get it ready for spring. It had the 685 kit installed about 10,000 miles ago. My question is for the riding I’m planning on doing do you think a cogent front end and a top gun rear would be a good choice for my needs? I’m 6’4” about 275. Just curious about your opinion. Thanks
Hello Alaska!! Yeah, any suspension mods will be noticed and the Cogent front suspension is fantastic! The top gear coil will certainly help too and I ran one for a couple seasons while saving up for the Cogent Moab Pro. Just remember that the Top Gun coil only helps the spring rate and doesn't help the compression or rebound damping at all. That said though it is an improvement ;) Cheers and ride safe! (sorry for the delay ;)
Masons ADV thanks for taking the time to reply and I’m enjoying your channel.
How tall are you, etc., as it relates to your ability to flat foot the beast? I share many of your mods on my 2013 model (also with 24K) but am getting real tired of dropping the thing.
I'm 5' 10" Rob, not quite flat foot with both feet down.
I'm 5'10" too and with both feet down, both are on there toes. cant really flat foot with one foot either. . too much lean.
How do i know if i need the doohickey change
From my experience with mine I wouldn't leave it much longer than 10,000 miles. My spring was weak by that point. Hope that helps. Cheers!
Do you run stock sprockets or did you go to a 16t front?
I have used the stock configuration up until this year when I switched to a 14 tooth front. So far I'm really enjoying it. More on that to come
Buy a KTM and you do not have to do so much mods... hahaha! Nice one! Thanks!
But that's the fun of it Chris!! What else am I to do during the long winters ;) haha, Cheers man!
@@masonsadv riding KLX in the warm? :-)
@@chrisenduroadv1405 Haha, too right! Cheers man :)
Man I sure hope to get many of these done to my own KLR! May I ask where you purchased those floodlights you added?
I got them on Amazon but the exact ones aren't available now. There is a link to one close here www.masonsadv.com/gear
Another Excellent video #masonsadv.com
More $$ in accessories than the cost of the bike? I need a better seat for sure. Do hicky I don’t care until the warranty is out. Doubt I will need all that you have on yours. I’m not that hard on her.