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Shouldn't it technically be 'Dork ON the Road', not 'in' the road? I mean, it's not like you're embedded 'in' the road, unless this is a reference to you being stuck in the mud? In which case it should be 'Dork IN the MUD'?
I got the 500X. You have helped me feel pretty good about my choice. No disrespect to KLR people, its an iconic and venerable machine. But for me, the lower weight, smooth 2 cyl power, new Showa shocks and the fact that I really do more 2ndary roads for touring than gravel, dirt, sand, trail, etc. has sealed the deal. People who have only 1 bike will, if we are honest, let go of our self-imagined Dakkar / mountain pass / Itchy Boots dream of life off road, and live with the compromises that a non-Enduro non-CRF road capable bike offers. The 500X is so very comfortable and versatile. I fitted the bike with good 50/50 tires (Dunlop Trailmax) . I've been on trails, tracks, dirt, fields & streams etc and deep in the woods for motocamping. I slow down and stand on the pegs when the terrain gets really rough. I keep up with my KTM and BMW buddies, no problem. If I ever want to get more extreme, I'll invest in a dedicated Enduro. But I doubt that I will ever feel the need.The 500X is perfect for me. Did I mention 70 MPG? Thanks, man..
The CB500X has a lot going for it, I'm going to buy one in '24. I chose the DR650 for my needs, I have a '22 model, love the bike, very tall though, had to get the lowering links for it and do the fork mod to lower the front, I'm 6-foot and it still was crazy tall from the factory. The CB500X though would be great for general purpose riding and not overly challenging trail stuff. Good choice on your part.
@@BillySBC All true. I am also 6 ft, and still using the stock CB500X seat; I can comfortably reach the ground with both feet. Depending on the amount of offroad you're considering, you might want to invest in a handlebar riser and wider footpegs. I did both; a 2" Rox riser, and the SW Motech EVO pegs. This gives me an insanely comfortable standing position, with knees hugging the tank my back is pretty much straight. I am upright and in compete control of neutral position, shifting forward and back to distribute weight as needed without overstretching arms, without bending the waist. I could stand all day if I had to.
I sat on a friend's KLR. I didn't like it even just to sit on. Heavy with a high seat. Off road that bike would be hard to control. It would be OK for going up reasonably well maintained gravel roads but nothing tricky. Any bike can do that.
500x owner here. Ironically, I went to my local dealer to get a 2022 KLR 650 and they just happened to have a 2022 500x in stock (new). After sitting on the KLR 650 I knew it wasn't for me, but when I sat on the 500x I was instantly in love. And that's my story of how I ended up with a 500x instead of a KLR 650. I'm 6'2".
I wound up doing the reverse with a KLR 650S (5'4"). Was trying to get a 500X ordered, they had a 650S on the showroom floor, swung my leg over it and liked it. Saw there was a promo on the klr price and that sealed the deal for me.
The clutch & brakes feel soooo much better on the Honda, but the KLR community is absolutely awesome in the best of ways, so much help with none of the egos.
Solid comparison! Only thing I disagree with you on is the knock for cast wheels on the Honda. Ride Adventure says they haven't had anyone break the wheels on the CB500Xs they run, and they go places many won't on either of these bikes. Still respect your opinion and experience. You are, after all, THE Dork in the Road!
This video was perfect for me. My friend and I are riding to the Arctic Ocean in June 2024. He just bought the Honda and I have a KLR. I’ll let you know how it all turns out.
@@JeremyEStafford The first few day in Oregon and Washington were very hot. It rained on us through the Dease Lake area both ways. Saw 38 bears. BC is the most beautiful place I have ever seen. The Arctic Ocean is still frozen in early June but I got in anyway. If you google "East Dock Artic Ocean" and look at the google reviews, there is a video of me getting in the water. You'll know its me because i tell my brother Chris, "That was for you Chris." It was an amazing trip. We got some amazing pictures and some great stories. We left Reno NV on June 6th and I got home on June 28th. 7500 miles round trip. We used Dunlop Trailmax Mission tires the whole way and I swear they still have 1/2 tread.
@@elijahbrooks8589 Sorry for the wait. I have a bit of a rant about the KLR. I'll never buy another Kawasaki. It got me there and back but I burned 1/3 quart of oil every day. Had to rebuild my petcock because it stopped the flow of fuel to my carb. Also, I learned the KLR and the Ninja use the same carb bowl gasket because because I needed one and the parts lady in Fairbanks (Gabby) had to do a deep dive into the parts catalog to get me what I needed. My buddy on the Honda, he put gas in his. He didn't even look at his oil. Why would Kawasaki put a vacuum line on the petcock? Honda doesn't. Its just one more thing to malfunction 150 miles down a dirt road 3,500 miles from home. I heard Gabby make a comment to someone while I was there, 'They burn oil. They all burn oil but they will get you there." Why do we have to accept from Kawasaki that the KLR burns oil and has burned oil since the very first production year? All that being said, it was a great trip and I have great memories and great pictures. If you Google "East Dock Arctic Ocean" and then check the reviews, I posted a video of my arctic plunge. I had no idea the Arctic Ocean would still be frozen over in June, but it was.
I got the 23 klr with the adventure trim. It's so good. Especially being a big guy. I'm 6'4" and 375lbs. It's super comfortable and will go just about anywhere you steer it. I've done a few mods for extra comfort like windshield riser and a handlebar riser. I got the hard mount tusk pegs because the stock rubber mounted ones felt like I was gonna slip off anytime I stood up. It's a pack mule too. I can load it up with moto camping gear and head off into the hills. I'm happy I bought it. And excited to do some cross country rides in the future.
Many good points made here. If I may, and you hinted at it, both bikes have been designed for high mileage. They’ll both still be going strong after 30K miles, which is not the case with most other dual sort bikes. To achieve the lower weights found in typical dual sports, the designers have had to shave weight and sacrifice long-term durability. So, as you say, these bikes can last a lifetime, but they are heavier than most dual sports. There’s no free lunch. Another point, both these bike are “world” bikes, sold in almost all markets worldwide making parts availability and service when traveling in South and Central America, for example, relatively easier to come by. An important fact that rarely gets discussed, imho. All BMWs and KTMs are sold worldwide, for example, Honda CRF 300s and Suzuki DRZs are not. A small point but an important point for overseas adventure riding. All the best.
I may be wrong but I'm pretty sure the Honda 300 is at least also sold in Europe. I really thought it was sold in many other countries as well, but I may be wrong.
Crf300 shares its engine with cbr300 which is sold worldwide, so you can get parts anywhere. Also you can order parts in to a Honda dealer anywhere so no problem
@@slakk5093 I don't believe that's true. CBR300 not sold in Colombia, for example. CRF300 not in Colombia either, but is in Chili. Honda has a model made in Brazil for the South American market. And getting parts for a bike not sold in the country means DHL or FEDEX from someplace far away. I learned this the hard way. All the best.
Hello from Canada, I owned a 2016 KLR and found it too top heavy, too tall in challenging off camber situations, way to much vibration from that engine, shitty turn signal indicator light, and a side stand that kept the bike up too vertical - which I watched the bike crash to the ground twice because of a bit of wind. So I bought a 2022 CB500X, immediately installed TKC 80s and now have 31,000 kms on it. Easier to ride in the tuff stuff, smooth engine that can be ridden morning till night without wearing you out, good wind protection, very good gas mileage and comfortable for me at 6"1. The power pulse is very smooth and because of it I get 15,000 kms from a set of TKCs. Lot's of gravel here in Canada. I call it my Gravel Wing.
This. I'm 6'1" @ 200 lbs. I thought about the Honda, but the ergos are just too small for my frame. Nothing more I hate than feeling cramped on a bike.
Great report on both bikes, I own a BMW RT and a O7 KLR my son has a 09 KLR I have rode my klr all over the PNW a couple of times and to Alaska once. Not a fast bike take back roads you get to see more, never had a problem with the bike. I still l have the bike and ride it weekly will never get rid of it not worth much now and I enjoy riding it at 88 yrs. old.
I have fallen in love with the 500X! I have not found a single video that has a single bad thing to say about this bike. When I was introduced to Amanda Zitos channel, As the Magpie Flys, I was watching her cross country treks on her 500X and she wasn’t the only one out there. My first street bike was a VT500C Honda Shadow. That bike carried me EVERYWHERE! That was the beginning of my love affair with Honda. Thanks for the video, Ben. I can always count on you to be completely objective with your side by side reviews. Always appreciate your input. Be well and ride safe!
As a road rider I love my Cb500x '23 model. With my crap off-road ing skills I'd prefer something much cheaper and more crashable for going down the trails, my old XR250 comes to mind
Had my heart set on a brand new xr650l, been on old XR’s all my life. None to be had anywhere but KLRs were literally everywhere. Poked and prodded, rode one, liked it except the weight. Ended up getting lucky on a brand new 23 300 rally and LOVE IT!!! If I was going to go huge distances with very moderate off-road I’d honestly skip the mid range and go Africa Twin. Backroads and dispersed camping trips here in the bluegrass state are perfect for the rally. You hit on the answer, be realistic about what type of riding you’re going to do and what your budget is and ride on!!!
Love your videos! This one is no exception. I have been struggling between these two bikes for some time now and honestly, I don't know that this made it any better. Your input is EXACTLY what I am already thinking. Guess it comes down to a coin flip.....like you said, "You can't go wrong either way"......😝 All that being said, I'm likely getting the Honda as the wife wants the smoother ride when we actually get to do a little two up riding.
Just finished the Smoky Mountain 500 on my '22 500X. It was a handful and there were times I wish I had a true off-road lighter bike, but still loved the ability of the 500X to meet the challenges. I did switch out the OEM tires before the trip for Tractionators which are noisy but did well even on the tar sections.
When I first started dating my wife all I had to get around was my KLR... She lived an hour and a half interstate ride away. I traded in the KLR for a street triple after a month.
My Triumph Scrambler directed my attention to parallel twins and so I suggested that my wife get the CB500x. She loves it. We tend to ride anything that we end up on, but we usually have to slab it to get to the good stuff. Like the Scrambler, I feel the CB500x is more capable than it was intended to be whereas the KLR is exactly what it was intended to be.
The KLR was designed back in the mid 80's, so at the time it was actually more capable than it was designed to be as well. They made it primarily as an off-road bike and then found that people were touring on the highways for long distances. That's why the second gen got a big fairing
Great comparison video. I found your channel because of your KLR content. I have never ridden a CB500X, but I do own, partially thanks to your content, a 22 KLR. Why did I buy a KLR? I just sold my r1200GS and kept the Goldwing for 2-up travel. I wanted a bike I could do a BDR type ride on and also ride the pavement to and from the BDR. Did the COBDR this summer. I wanted also a gravel road bike. It's perfect for this. I didn't want BMW questionable reliability again. (I owned several over 12 years). I love the KLR for slowish, smell the roses, look at the scenery type of rides. The T7 was on my radar but my fugal personality could not deal with the nonrefundable deposits, long wait times, greedy dealers and overpriced used bikes. Can I say, "You are not a real motorcyclist unless you owned a KLR" ? 😁
Man, your videos are the best. Just keep doing what you’re doing. Also, I really hope Honda ends up building a new NX500 like the rumours were saying a while back. That would basically be the perfect all-around bike.
TH-cam “CRF 190L” pretty sure that’ll be the design language of the new NX line of bikes. It’s coming for sure but it’s going to be at least 3-4 years before they release it. Honda wants you to buy a transalp first lol
@@theeschatechannel2854 I hope you're right about the new NX resembling the CRF 190L in design. Give it the 500 engine and better components and you have basically the perfect motorcycle.
@@rochboulanger6565 That little 471cc in the CB500X is a great engine but maybe we’ll get lucky and honda will come out with a new 500/550cc engine. Everyone thought that the transalp was going to have the 745cc engine from the NC750 and then they surprised us with a new power plant. The CB500X engine has a 180 crank which is dated. 270 crank is the modern standard so maybe honda will step up their game.
I've put 2,200 miles on my KLR this year. With a bone stock KLR, I've soloed the western half of the ORBDR, driven in beach sand, taken it to the snow, and bounced my way down several hundred miles of nasty boulder strewn dirt roads.. Heck, it even hauled my camping gear while doing some of this stuff. If there is anything the KLR hasn't done for me yet, well im running out of things to try.. It's true the KLR is a time capsule from the 80's, but the old saying, they don't make them like they used to still applies... Someone recently told me on a review video i did of the KLR, that most modern bikes have more HP, but then the computer just derates all of that HP down to 40 HP anyways so you don't kill yourself... If you like a bike that you don't have to ask yourself if it can make it there.. get a KLR, if you want a bike because you meet the nicest people on a Honda, well then that is why you get the CB500x... to me the CB500 is a street bike with a bit of suspension travel... why else would they put the exhaust on the bottom??? One good boulder is gonna smash that thing really good and then you're in for a long ride home
2023 KLR 650 adventure owner here. 6” 170lbs, it’s a big bike for me but I can put both feet flat on the ground when I sit on the seat. Great bike, I need to ride MORE.
Very good video. My only suggestion is, if you think you are going to ride more than 50% off road in reality that turns out to be around 30% . At least here in the west where we my ride 50 miles pavement to get to the dirt road we want. As usual a great common sense review
Years ago when I was researching compact farm tractors I just couldn’t decide which brand, then I read some great advice that sounded something like this: “they’re all good and reliable, just pick a color”. I like red so I went with Massey Ferguson. I bought my Honda CRF250L Rally because I like red - and I don’t like black, green, blue or orange. 😉
Harleys rattle and shake so bad the carbs and shifters fall off and my klr vibrates a little bit at 65mph and its junk?? KLRs rule and so does Dork in the Road. Best TH-cam channel man!!!!
To be honest, the KLR is not the greatest or fastest bike but is a great bike to have as a back up to what ever bike you own. I own a KTM 890 and will never get rid of my KLR. It’s nice for dinking around and if someone doesn’t have a bike and wants to go for a ride they can ride it usually without an issue.
I had a 22 KLR. It got me back into motorcycles after about 10 years off bikes. Recently sold the KLR. Bought a KTM 690 Enduro R. KLR is ok for what it is. Really enjoying the KTM. I don't think the KLR was a good choice for me but I was overwhelmed by all the internet info. I can't say I regret the KLR but there are better bikes to be had. My biggest complaint was the weight among other things.
I'm with you on the weight. I have an XR650R. I put a 6.3gal. tank on it and with a dualsport kit and full fuel it weighs about 320. That's about 36 pounds of fuel. To me, light weight is EXTREMELY imortant. Because of that, I despise the KLR for its minor planetoid mass with a burning passion. And the engine is about as GUTless as an engine can be. The KLR was designed back in the Eighties, when there was no such thing as a LIGHT Kawasaki. There is no effing excuse for a dual purpose bike to weigh over 400 pounds -- or anything close to 400 pounds. I mean I hate that bike. The 2023 DR650 (366 pounds) weighs 90 POUNDS less than the 2023 KLR (456). And the DRZ400 weighs 45 pounds less than the DR650. I wouldn't spend money on a KLR no matter what. There's NO EXCUSE for that bike to weigh that much. Kawasaki insults the public every day that they keep selling that thing.
U helped me decide I bought a 23x back in November 3700 miles now miles great bike I’m an old A enduro rider I ride with my old race buddies they’re on AT’s BMW’s & Tigers no problem keeping up on pavement gravel roads light trails I ave 70 mpg they ave 40 plus it’s lighter I’m 5’9 fits me perfect !!! Happy Trails
I've had both. I killed my KLR engine commuting. I bought the CB500x specifically for commuting and long freeway riding. I like the cost-effectiveness, gas mileage, overall financial benefit of small CC engines, and the limit of them especially. If I had a race bike or a large CC motorcycle, I would be pushing it to its limits all the time. I've been over the Grapevine and up and down the California coast, and ride the same way I drive. Whatever I'm driving, I pass everyone.
@@JDT64 going over 80 mph for long stretches on the highway. My job is 30 mi away and the road is 55 mph that I go on - I usually end up with about 28 minutes to make it in. The KLR had 24k when I got it and 40 when I got rid of it. The rings were totally shot.
Dork, thanks for the video, was looking forward to this one. I purchased the KLR based on your advice from a previous video, and I love it as my first bike both for street and offroad. If you are like me and don't know any better, the vibrations are just "normal" for someone new to motorcycles. I actually like the feel of it, but I have lost a screw or two, and I rode up to the Oregon giant loop fest this year from North California, so it does well on long rides. I also think someone over 6'1 would look better and fit the KLR way better (IMO). I also think you looked better on it. The CB500 just looks too low for off-road shenanigans. There are problems getting tires and tubes in stock for the KLR, but your point on aftermarket is spot on. I hear some people complain about the KLR being too top-heavy for a beginner, but as one who never rode a bike before I can tell you it is not an issue and will make you a better rider. I feel quite confident about mine now, but agree at slow speeds you need to practice a lot to get proficient.
I bring my 500x deep offroad, even off path. Specs are not all that matter. I love it. Yet it's too small for long road trip and too heavy for technical trails. But it will go everywhere.
You should tell those people that have ridden around world, that it's too small for long road trips. You're mixing up motorcycle with ego, they're not the same.
@@jeeves6490 I think you got me wrong there. I say it's too small because it lack a bit of power and comfort for long rides on roads. It's too big for trail because it's too heavy to do very technical stuff or deep mud without excusing yourself. Yet it can do it all with some compromises. That's why I love mine and if I change it, it will be traded for 2 more specialized bikes: a bigger ADV bike for roads and easy trails and an Enduro bike for the deep stuff where I like to go.
I have owned my 22 KLR since it came out. I use it mostly for commuting to work so 99% on road but I don't think I would want to get rid of it or change it for the 500x what it lacks in smoothness and smallness it makes up in being able to strap anything to it and having the confidence to see any dirt road/path/park/hole or eldritch horror and know it'll chug through. I haven't done the Doohicky or thermobob and do not intend to.
Nearly same experience with my 23. It's my daily commuter so it's mostly 45 mph road to work on a 10 min ride back and forth. But I'm plenty comfy and with a milk crate and bungees moved a lot of stuff. Plus when I do have a trip out of town I can just hit the freeway and cruise and if I see any fun roads I know I can slow down and chug chug through it.
I’ve had a KLR since 2012. The 08 I am on now I’ve had since 2014. Got it for 2800$ with only skid plate, I’m 4th owner, and now up to 5300$ with everything I’ve added to it including the 685 and stainless steel oversized race valves. I made it mine. I love the bike. It is strictly a gravel grinder that hauls my camping gear. It’s taken me on the BDR. It’s gonna be doing the TAT and Alaska. had a Super Tenere you want to talk about top heavy? It made me appreciate the KLR. I got the KLR set up just the way I want it. No reason to change out bikes and start over again. The SuperT Made the KLR feel like a toy LoL. I got street bikes that do different things. It’s all good🏍……….
KLR 650 is really top heavy, which makes it harder for brand new riders to learn on. It's a fine bike but it isn't as easy to control in slow situations. Even the low version is still really top heavy.
I'm 6'7" tall, and I struggle to lift the gen 1 KLR, which is only 420lbs wet, and still the lightest one. My dad (5'11") asked me if the KLR is a beginner bike, and I gave him a vehement no.
It is, and I have the short one. But with even a couple of weeks doing Motojitsu's figure 8 drills, it feels lower and lighter every time I get on it. The Team Oregon braking clinic was great for getting a feel for it, too. I'd take that course again, any time. I figure if I can get really, really comfortable with this top-heavy thing, moving up to taller bikes later will be easier (if I ever decide to switch bikes at all). Besides, that top-heaviness is mostly from that 6.1 gallon tank, and I'm not sure I'd give up the range for a lower center of gravity--or I'd just not fill it up all the way. 😅
Agree 100%. Even my klr 250 can be a bitch to pick up out of sand, i cant imagine picking up the 650 loaded with gear, and im a big dude. I am of the firm opinion that beginners should not get a klr. The crappy suspension and top heavy shape just sucks to learn with.
Nice thought, test riding both. When I was motorcycle shopping I couldn't get test rides at the shops I visited. Hopefully you have friends who aren't scared to let you give theirs a spin.
The best thing about the KLR is the torque and how it delivers it. It has more torque 31 CB 40 KLR. I regularly ride my KLR at 65 to 75 mph with little issue. With a PUIG Racing Screen for the 2020 Ninja 1000 which looks identical shape wise but is about 30 percent bigger its comfy on hwy speeds.
I got a Honda XRE 300 which I believe it’s sold exclusively in Latin America, its like if these two motorcycles had a baby, great bike for Latin American conditions with low speed limits and highly inclined off-road
In June I finally bought my first new motorcycle in almost 30 years since I last owned one. The CB500X would have been more modern, smoother, and arguably a little more reliable but I felt a bit more cramped on it. Unfortunately the unknown with when the Transalp was coming to the US and a very good $2000 savings from Kawasaki made my decision easy. Yeah it's older tech with a few modern splashes added on the surface but it still feels a lot better than what I rode 30 years ago. I'm a driver/rider that tunes in to how the vehicle feels on the road, the feel of the engine, and transmission working together etc. so the vibrations in the KLR haven't really haven't been an issue even at highway speeds. I still wouldn't want to have to have it pegged on the highway for a long trip but for what I am doing I'm perfectly happy until I get the itch to do something different in maybe 3 years.
Great review and all the reasons why my 1st bike after 30 years of not riding was a 09 Versys. We know how those follow up models went and fortunately the Africa twin was reintroduced 😎
When i was a new rider and went back and forth on these two bikes for months before buying one. My advice is to just pull the trigger and buy one. Both are way better than no motorcycle.
I had a KLR 2023 for a few months , it's cool but not for me , you must be 6 foot tall atleast to handle it off road and it's top heavy as heck ! I wasn't impressed with it on the road basically not good and off road it's fine but don't lay it down because you may not get it upright without help or a crane. I now own a 2023 honda 500x and I can say if I knew of this before I bought the KLR I would have bought it. This bike has done a magnificent job for me. Great on the road and the fire roads along with open trails have been great ! MPG is crazy good and range is about 300 miles. Comfort is very good ,the KLR seat sucks! Not the honda. This is a fantastic bike to comute on and travel some which I have done plus it uses little fuel . Just a great all around bike from honda. I would say it's a small gem in the world of motorcycles.
The KLR is the bike we all see ourselves on, but the CB500X is the one we realistically need. I’d love a CB500X - but gosh are they expensive second hand
Had a klr for years. Good review. Can’t really make a comparison but your rite the after market and the community is incredible for the old thumper. Off road it has saved me numerous times by just pinning it and hanging on. If you lay it down it can be a bear but I do okay and I’m seventy. Hi way yes done go to fast
I have a 2014 500X. I was able to get it used for $2400. Kid didnt know what he had i guess. I ve do e a lot of upgrades and tune ups and ill keep that bike forever. I was looking at the KLR used as well, but ultimately went with the 500x. Its just more comfortable and checks all the boxes.
There is a huge difference in build quality between these 2 bikes. The KLR has quality shortcuts everywhere (except offroad) Honda is much better built. No comparison. Problem in US is that I couldn't find a CB500X new or used. KLR650 Adventure was easily available with a great rebate! KLR community is out of this world. CB500X no so much.
I am sorry I contributed to your two billion questions. XD I have been debating between these two bikes as a second bike AND my first adventure bike ever since I started looking. Having taken my sporty on long trips, I am thinking I wont notice the vibrations on either bike at highway speeds. Also, I feel like as I get better off road, the KLR is a bike I can grow into in the off road area of riding.
To bad people are such lemmings. The SWM Superdual 650 is about same price as these, is basically what the KLR should have evolved into. It's lighter, has way more power, has brembo brakes, ABS, 18/21 wheels, crash bars, axiuliry lights, center stand, rear rack, EFI, premium dual exhaust, perfect DS windshield (and I usually hate windshields). It cruises highway great, does offload very well and is a super versatile bike to spend the day exploring on. We shoud meet up some time for a ride and compare. Good stuff, thanks.
I had an 08 KLR for 5 years or so, but if I had to buy again I would go for the Honda. We all like the rough and tumble adv look of the KLR, but most of my riding ended up being street with a little gravel roads mixed in... Definitely the Honda would have been a better fit for that type of riding. The couple of times I took the KLR off the beaten path I swore I would never do that again, if I was going to ride single track and aggresive trails a lot I would go for a much lighter bike than the KLR.
Had a first gen 2007 KLR and loved it my sun is still riding it. did not care as much for the second gen just did not fit me right, I am now riding a 2023 Honda CB500 X great bike but lacking caring capacity on rear rack, my GIVI trekker 64 liter top box, toped out the weight capacity, Looking at the KLR650S thinking it might be more along my lines of what I want. I do not care for the CB500X off road, but is a very good road bike. The bags that come on the KLR 650 are to small, I use a GVI trekker 64- 33 liter bags and fine them abought right, but on the Honda had to go to a lighter top box. because of the weight of the trekker top box. Going to have to go sit on the KLR650S, like the color of the 2023, but the 2024 in white for get it, in Canada looks like the white but if so will weight till the 2025 comes out hopping for a better color. The Center stand is another thing I must have on a chain drive bike, can you get it on the KLR 650S do not show it on the Canada model.
After much TH-cam research I bought a 2022 CB500X Last year. Then I took it 1200miles to Florida on mostly secondary roads. I love this bike. However it is a little bit uncomfortable in my upper back after 200 miles. I have since purchased handlebar risers and a custom seat. Hopefully this will solve my pain. This bike gets incredible gas mileage. A true 65 mpg. My next ride is going to be 2000 miles to Utah. For me it's just got to be a parallel twin. A KLR 650 just can't do 80 mph all day long. My buddies got a KLR and when go down the highway together he'll be doing 65 mph when we should be doing 75. But I understand he needs to be nice to that thing. However his kLR is more dirt oriented than my CB. But he's not coming with me to Utah😅 Too slow.
I have a 2023 CB500X. My only complaint is the short gearing. All they needed to do is make 6th gear taller. Currently, it approaches 6000 rpm when getting near 70mph. The engine is just screaming. Otherwise, I like the ride, the balance, the handling. Oh, the wind buffeting is bad. Solved it with with a $30 screen extender from Amazon.
My own personal onroad/offroad combo is the cb500x/WR250R. When speaking of offroad riding, that very much depends on what kind of offroad riding you wish to do. Here in Pennsylvania, when young, my type of offroad riding was seeking out the steepest hills I could find, and climbing them. For THAT niche type of offroad riding, you never, ever want a 400+ behemoth bike. Why? You need a nimble bike, and one that will be relatively easy to handle and pick back UP after inevitable drops. That will never be true of 400+ lb bikes. My WR, OTOH, comes in at under 300 lbs wet, and has more offroad capability than either of these two bikes. For street riding, I love my cb500x. Smooth, capable, relatively comfortable, and very versatile. For the type of onroad riding I do -- country back roads and some in-town riding (small town) -- the 500x is perfect! IMO it's also great looking and great sounding. I don't ever plan to sell mine. Great review, thanks!!
I've always wanted to ride a 500X on some dual track trails and see how it stacks up next to my 390 Adventure and the Versys X-300 I recently took out to the trails at Brown's Camp. I bet it's a little more of a handful, with more weight and torque, but probably similarly capable.
@manugrend to some degree, I have owned a 390 for two years and have a number of videos you can check out if you like but no formal review. I also have just over 500 miles on a borrowed Versys X-300 (videos coming next month). In a nutshell, the Versys is a bit more road capable/comfortable, but still fun offroad on dual track trails. The 390 is more adaptable offroad and has a larger aftermarket of accessories, more tech and it costs more and is substantially taller.
I was amazed what mine could do but it had the full suspension upgrade that increased ground clearance etc. I did end up selling it simply because I ride in remote areas by myself alot so I prefer a dual sport I can lift off of myself or drag out of a mud hole if needed, also it's less likely to break my bones.
I was looking at buying a used KLR a few years ago but bought a 2013 NC700X insteard. I've seen that same KLR come up for sale twice since then by two different people. I think my next "adventure" bike will be something much smaller and lighter than either of them. I live on an island so speed is no concern. Maybe a tw200.
I don't think you can go wrong with a Honda, but I'm old & cranky, I like my KLR. I have never had or rode the afore mentioned Honda. I did have a Honda 90 3 wheeler & rode it to death & beyond.
My riding buddy owns a cb500x and i own a klr650s. We both run shinko 705s and let me tell yah. Buddy can ride the pants off the cb on and offroad. He scraps peg on the cb on road which is terrifying and can rip it down some of the more technical stuff with ease. My klr on the other hand you can feel the weight in corners..im a little guy 5'6 140lbs geared up and muscling the old pig around is not thay fun. If i follow him off road i cant keep up. The shinkos do not like loose stuff in corners at all. I can feel the front tire try and dig for traction while trying to turn in loose gravel or dirt but wants to lowside. I do appreciate some good torque tho out of the klr. The only complaint my buddy has with the cb is offroad you have to keep it high in the revs or else you'll have no power. Both are great bikes.... where i live my buddy is the only one who rides a cb500x and i haven't seen another one in the wild, ive seen plenty of klr650's in every generation. If i could, i would own the cb500x. Its smoother and has that horsepower, it also in my opinion more new rider friendly.
As someone who also has owned both at the exact same time, I can say that the klr is definitely going to be better off road.. but comparing it to any other dual sport and it's really not my cup of tea. I sold mine and still have the cb500x, and bought a drz400 that I love so much that I'm trying to also sell the cb500x. I just don't do enough street or adventure riding to keep it. My drz easily feels faster than the Honda until you get above 70mph. They both have a very similar top speed... This all depends heavily on your riding style. I've never felt like any of them were too tall, but the klr and CB are pigs in their own right. I have heard horrible noises come from my back picking up the cb500. Can't imagine dumping it or the klr in a really bad spot.
No bike you intend to take offroad should be liquid cooled, the last thing you want is for a rock or a stick to go through your radiator or puncture a coolant hose. If you intend to actually do some adventure riding you're much better off with the Suzuki DR650. I really like the CB500X for mostly street and some light trail stuff though, so long as it doesn't get too offroad-like.
The DR650 has a little radiator and hoses, and runs engine oil through it for cooling. Just sayin’. Yeah, it’s pretty small but perhaps even more critical regarding damage.
Great vid thanks. From South Africa and just a few notes. I would think torque is an important stat to add if you are doing long distance with paniers. Horsepower means nothing to me but I did convert to kiloWatt. Otherwise, very good channel. I would choose a Honda in most cases and definitely in this case too. Only concern is how it will handle carrying kit and a fat rider like myself. Keep up the good work.
If the KLR and 500X are basically neck to neck, how far of a distant third is the RE Himalayan? I keep going back and forth with these three for a beginner ADV bike. Most of the KLR's in my area, and there's a lot of them, range $2500 - $6500 depending on the age, shape, and mods/extras added on. There aren't too many 500x in my area. The few around range from $5500-$7000. The Himalayans in my area, which there are a good number of, range from $4000-$5500 depending on age, shape, and mods/add ons. The 500x seems a little pricey, but it probably has more and better tech than the other two.
I did lots of research before bought a brand new KLR most of the reviews were for the Gen 2. The gen 3 was the biggest mistake of my life, Was not happy with the KLR took a loss and sold it.
Me with my lil bsr raven 250 that desperately wants to grow up into a klr or cb500 some day 🤤. It's my first dual sport and I'm hooked on the idea of getting something more comfortable and reliable for long trips eventually 😁
KLR is a great bike but if you don't like buzzy bars its not for you. It does not bother me at all. What I love most about it is when it is laying on the ground I am not freaked out like I would on a $14K + bike. I payed $2800 with 6000 miles. It is hard to lift. I am 5'7 140lbs and have been able to lift it many times but it takes a lot of effort. It was easier to lift my 670 lb Kawasaki Concours.
If you're a cheapskate and want the off road of the klr(with a few mods)and the smooth power that the cb500 has buy a kle500 you won't be scared to drop it and they run forever and easier to service with it's screw an lock nut valve adjustment! Old school cool,check them out!
If you are looking at these bikes, and have some more money, test ride a Vstrom. 19/17, bulletproof reliability, more of a street orientation than the KLR. My 2006 was just lovely, and she went MANY places I had no business whatsoever taking her.
Funny thing is I’m completely on the inverse. The 500x was horrendous on the highway (at above 60mph) and my KLR is glass smooth at 65-70 mph … Coming from a 1200gs, the supposed weight issue in the dirt is nothing now …
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Shouldn't it technically be 'Dork ON the Road', not 'in' the road? I mean, it's not like you're embedded 'in' the road, unless this is a reference to you being stuck in the mud? In which case it should be 'Dork IN the MUD'?
I got the 500X. You have helped me feel pretty good about my choice. No disrespect to KLR people, its an iconic and venerable machine. But for me, the lower weight, smooth 2 cyl power, new Showa shocks and the fact that I really do more 2ndary roads for touring than gravel, dirt, sand, trail, etc. has sealed the deal. People who have only 1 bike will, if we are honest, let go of our self-imagined Dakkar / mountain pass / Itchy Boots dream of life off road, and live with the compromises that a non-Enduro non-CRF road capable bike offers. The 500X is so very comfortable and versatile. I fitted the bike with good 50/50 tires (Dunlop Trailmax) . I've been on trails, tracks, dirt, fields & streams etc and deep in the woods for motocamping. I slow down and stand on the pegs when the terrain gets really rough. I keep up with my KTM and BMW buddies, no problem. If I ever want to get more extreme, I'll invest in a dedicated Enduro. But I doubt that I will ever feel the need.The 500X is perfect for me. Did I mention 70 MPG? Thanks, man..
The CB500X has a lot going for it, I'm going to buy one in '24. I chose the DR650 for my needs, I have a '22 model, love the bike, very tall though, had to get the lowering links for it and do the fork mod to lower the front, I'm 6-foot and it still was crazy tall from the factory. The CB500X though would be great for general purpose riding and not overly challenging trail stuff. Good choice on your part.
@@BillySBC All true. I am also 6 ft, and still using the stock CB500X seat; I can comfortably reach the ground with both feet. Depending on the amount of offroad you're considering, you might want to invest in a handlebar riser and wider footpegs. I did both; a 2" Rox riser, and the SW Motech EVO pegs. This gives me an insanely comfortable standing position, with knees hugging the tank my back is pretty much straight. I am upright and in compete control of neutral position, shifting forward and back to distribute weight as needed without overstretching arms, without bending the waist. I could stand all day if I had to.
That's impressive mileage. I'm guessing the KLR gets 15 mpg less.
HOW dare you ! (Greta )
I sat on a friend's KLR. I didn't like it even just to sit on. Heavy with a high seat. Off road that bike would be hard to control. It would be OK for going up reasonably well maintained gravel roads but nothing tricky.
Any bike can do that.
500x owner here. Ironically, I went to my local dealer to get a 2022 KLR 650 and they just happened to have a 2022 500x in stock (new). After sitting on the KLR 650 I knew it wasn't for me, but when I sat on the 500x I was instantly in love. And that's my story of how I ended up with a 500x instead of a KLR 650. I'm 6'2".
I wound up doing the reverse with a KLR 650S (5'4"). Was trying to get a 500X ordered, they had a 650S on the showroom floor, swung my leg over it and liked it. Saw there was a promo on the klr price and that sealed the deal for me.
The clutch & brakes feel soooo much better on the Honda, but the KLR community is absolutely awesome in the best of ways, so much help with none of the egos.
Solid comparison! Only thing I disagree with you on is the knock for cast wheels on the Honda. Ride Adventure says they haven't had anyone break the wheels on the CB500Xs they run, and they go places many won't on either of these bikes. Still respect your opinion and experience. You are, after all, THE Dork in the Road!
This video was perfect for me. My friend and I are riding to the Arctic Ocean in June 2024. He just bought the Honda and I have a KLR. I’ll let you know how it all turns out.
And waiting
How did it go?
@@JeremyEStafford The first few day in Oregon and Washington were very hot. It rained on us through the Dease Lake area both ways. Saw 38 bears. BC is the most beautiful place I have ever seen. The Arctic Ocean is still frozen in early June but I got in anyway. If you google "East Dock Artic Ocean" and look at the google reviews, there is a video of me getting in the water. You'll know its me because i tell my brother Chris, "That was for you Chris." It was an amazing trip. We got some amazing pictures and some great stories. We left Reno NV on June 6th and I got home on June 28th. 7500 miles round trip. We used Dunlop Trailmax Mission tires the whole way and I swear they still have 1/2 tread.
Should be back in January?
@@elijahbrooks8589 Sorry for the wait. I have a bit of a rant about the KLR. I'll never buy another Kawasaki. It got me there and back but I burned 1/3 quart of oil every day. Had to rebuild my petcock because it stopped the flow of fuel to my carb. Also, I learned the KLR and the Ninja use the same carb bowl gasket because because I needed one and the parts lady in Fairbanks (Gabby) had to do a deep dive into the parts catalog to get me what I needed. My buddy on the Honda, he put gas in his. He didn't even look at his oil. Why would Kawasaki put a vacuum line on the petcock? Honda doesn't. Its just one more thing to malfunction 150 miles down a dirt road 3,500 miles from home. I heard Gabby make a comment to someone while I was there, 'They burn oil. They all burn oil but they will get you there." Why do we have to accept from Kawasaki that the KLR burns oil and has burned oil since the very first production year?
All that being said, it was a great trip and I have great memories and great pictures. If you Google "East Dock Arctic Ocean" and then check the reviews, I posted a video of my arctic plunge. I had no idea the Arctic Ocean would still be frozen over in June, but it was.
I got the 23 klr with the adventure trim. It's so good. Especially being a big guy. I'm 6'4" and 375lbs. It's super comfortable and will go just about anywhere you steer it. I've done a few mods for extra comfort like windshield riser and a handlebar riser. I got the hard mount tusk pegs because the stock rubber mounted ones felt like I was gonna slip off anytime I stood up. It's a pack mule too. I can load it up with moto camping gear and head off into the hills. I'm happy I bought it. And excited to do some cross country rides in the future.
Many good points made here. If I may, and you hinted at it, both bikes have been designed for high mileage. They’ll both still be going strong after 30K miles, which is not the case with most other dual sort bikes. To achieve the lower weights found in typical dual sports, the designers have had to shave weight and sacrifice long-term durability. So, as you say, these bikes can last a lifetime, but they are heavier than most dual sports. There’s no free lunch. Another point, both these bike are
“world” bikes, sold in almost all markets worldwide making parts availability and service when traveling in South and Central America, for example, relatively easier to come by. An important fact that rarely gets discussed, imho. All BMWs and KTMs are sold worldwide, for example, Honda CRF 300s and Suzuki DRZs are not. A small point but an important point for overseas adventure riding. All the best.
I may be wrong but I'm pretty sure the Honda 300 is at least also sold in Europe. I really thought it was sold in many other countries as well, but I may be wrong.
@@DevDog67They are.
Crf300 shares its engine with cbr300 which is sold worldwide, so you can get parts anywhere. Also you can order parts in to a Honda dealer anywhere so no problem
@@slakk5093 I don't believe that's true. CBR300 not sold in Colombia, for example. CRF300 not in Colombia either, but is in Chili. Honda has a model made in Brazil for the South American market. And getting parts for a bike not sold in the country means DHL or FEDEX from someplace far away. I learned this the hard way. All the best.
@@DevDog67 I think it is in Europe, too, but South America and Africa, not so much.
Thanks bro just bought a CB500X pick it up on Saturday looking forward to it
Hello from Canada,
I owned a 2016 KLR and found it too top heavy, too tall in challenging off camber situations, way to much vibration from that engine, shitty turn signal indicator light, and a side stand that kept the bike up too vertical - which I watched the bike crash to the ground twice because of a bit of wind.
So I bought a 2022 CB500X, immediately installed TKC 80s and now have 31,000 kms on it. Easier to ride in the tuff stuff, smooth engine that can be ridden morning till night without wearing you out, good wind protection, very good gas mileage and comfortable for me at 6"1. The power pulse is very smooth and because of it I get 15,000 kms from a set of TKCs.
Lot's of gravel here in Canada. I call it my Gravel Wing.
Being 6’2, the KLR was a better choice for me. Also, when cruising on the KLR, it’s like riding a couch. I’m happy with my 22 base model 👍
This.
I'm 6'1" @ 200 lbs. I thought about the Honda, but the ergos are just too small for my frame.
Nothing more I hate than feeling cramped on a bike.
Same situation for me.
Great report on both bikes, I own a BMW RT and a O7 KLR my son has a 09 KLR I have rode my klr all over the PNW a couple of times and to Alaska once. Not a fast bike take back roads you get to see more, never had a problem with the bike. I still l have the bike and ride it weekly will never get rid of it not worth much now and I enjoy riding it at 88 yrs. old.
I have fallen in love with the 500X! I have not found a single video that has a single bad thing to say about this bike. When I was introduced to Amanda Zitos channel, As the Magpie Flys, I was watching her cross country treks on her 500X and she wasn’t the only one out there. My first street bike was a VT500C Honda Shadow. That bike carried me EVERYWHERE! That was the beginning of my love affair with Honda. Thanks for the video, Ben. I can always count on you to be completely objective with your side by side reviews.
Always appreciate your input. Be well and ride safe!
Thank you for watching!
As a road rider I love my Cb500x '23 model. With my crap off-road ing skills I'd prefer something much cheaper and more crashable for going down the trails, my old XR250 comes to mind
Had my heart set on a brand new xr650l, been on old XR’s all my life. None to be had anywhere but KLRs were literally everywhere. Poked and prodded, rode one, liked it except the weight. Ended up getting lucky on a brand new 23 300 rally and LOVE IT!!! If I was going to go huge distances with very moderate off-road I’d honestly skip the mid range and go Africa Twin. Backroads and dispersed camping trips here in the bluegrass state are perfect for the rally. You hit on the answer, be realistic about what type of riding you’re going to do and what your budget is and ride on!!!
CB500X all day long for it's simplicity and ease to ride 😊
Love your videos! This one is no exception. I have been struggling between these two bikes for some time now and honestly, I don't know that this made it any better. Your input is EXACTLY what I am already thinking. Guess it comes down to a coin flip.....like you said, "You can't go wrong either way"......😝 All that being said, I'm likely getting the Honda as the wife wants the smoother ride when we actually get to do a little two up riding.
It technically has more power, as well. Might be a better choice for that.
Then save the money and get a KLE500 instead...
@@andrisjakubovs5297 That is not a good bike. And they stopped making them 17 years ago.
Just finished the Smoky Mountain 500 on my '22 500X. It was a handful and there were times I wish I had a true off-road lighter bike, but still loved the ability of the 500X to meet the challenges. I did switch out the OEM tires before the trip for Tractionators which are noisy but did well even on the tar sections.
When I first started dating my wife all I had to get around was my KLR... She lived an hour and a half interstate ride away. I traded in the KLR for a street triple after a month.
My Triumph Scrambler directed my attention to parallel twins and so I suggested that my wife get the CB500x. She loves it. We tend to ride anything that we end up on, but we usually have to slab it to get to the good stuff.
Like the Scrambler, I feel the CB500x is more capable than it was intended to be whereas the KLR is exactly what it was intended to be.
The KLR was designed back in the mid 80's, so at the time it was actually more capable than it was designed to be as well. They made it primarily as an off-road bike and then found that people were touring on the highways for long distances. That's why the second gen got a big fairing
Great comparison video. I found your channel because of your KLR content. I have never ridden a CB500X, but I do own, partially thanks to your content, a 22 KLR. Why did I buy a KLR? I just sold my r1200GS and kept the Goldwing for 2-up travel. I wanted a bike I could do a BDR type ride on and also ride the pavement to and from the BDR. Did the COBDR this summer. I wanted also a gravel road bike. It's perfect for this. I didn't want BMW questionable reliability again. (I owned several over 12 years). I love the KLR for slowish, smell the roses, look at the scenery type of rides. The T7 was on my radar but my fugal personality could not deal with the nonrefundable deposits, long wait times, greedy dealers and overpriced used bikes. Can I say, "You are not a real motorcyclist unless you owned a KLR" ? 😁
Nothing wrong with a KLR, my friend.
Man, your videos are the best. Just keep doing what you’re doing.
Also, I really hope Honda ends up building a new NX500 like the rumours were saying a while back. That would basically be the perfect all-around bike.
TH-cam “CRF 190L” pretty sure that’ll be the design language of the new NX line of bikes. It’s coming for sure but it’s going to be at least 3-4 years before they release it. Honda wants you to buy a transalp first lol
@@theeschatechannel2854 I hope you're right about the new NX resembling the CRF 190L in design. Give it the 500 engine and better components and you have basically the perfect motorcycle.
@@rochboulanger6565 That little 471cc in the CB500X is a great engine but maybe we’ll get lucky and honda will come out with a new 500/550cc engine. Everyone thought that the transalp was going to have the 745cc engine from the NC750 and then they surprised us with a new power plant. The CB500X engine has a 180 crank which is dated. 270 crank is the modern standard so maybe honda will step up their game.
I've put 2,200 miles on my KLR this year. With a bone stock KLR, I've soloed the western half of the ORBDR, driven in beach sand, taken it to the snow, and bounced my way down several hundred miles of nasty boulder strewn dirt roads.. Heck, it even hauled my camping gear while doing some of this stuff. If there is anything the KLR hasn't done for me yet, well im running out of things to try.. It's true the KLR is a time capsule from the 80's, but the old saying, they don't make them like they used to still applies... Someone recently told me on a review video i did of the KLR, that most modern bikes have more HP, but then the computer just derates all of that HP down to 40 HP anyways so you don't kill yourself... If you like a bike that you don't have to ask yourself if it can make it there.. get a KLR, if you want a bike because you meet the nicest people on a Honda, well then that is why you get the CB500x... to me the CB500 is a street bike with a bit of suspension travel... why else would they put the exhaust on the bottom??? One good boulder is gonna smash that thing really good and then you're in for a long ride home
Given the choice I’d pick the Honda over the Kawasaki. Both could be very reliable but the twin cylinder and 6th gear sells it for me
Great comparison review! You put out good, practical stuff. Thanks!
2023 KLR 650 adventure owner here. 6” 170lbs, it’s a big bike for me but I can put both feet flat on the ground when I sit on the seat. Great bike, I need to ride MORE.
Very good video. My only suggestion is, if you think you are going to ride more than 50% off road in reality that turns out to be around 30% . At least here in the west where we my ride 50 miles pavement to get to the dirt road we want. As usual a great common sense review
Yeah, I thought I would be offroad about 50% and I am like 20% :) Very true on this point for people here on the pacific side.
That sounds like the difference between hours and miles, for sure. I'm over 50% on hours, but absolutely more like 30% on miles.
Years ago when I was researching compact farm tractors I just couldn’t decide which brand, then I read some great advice that sounded something like this: “they’re all good and reliable, just pick a
color”. I like red so I went with Massey Ferguson. I bought my Honda CRF250L Rally because I like red - and I don’t like black, green, blue or orange. 😉
Harleys rattle and shake so bad the carbs and shifters fall off and my klr vibrates a little bit at 65mph and its junk?? KLRs rule and so does Dork in the Road. Best TH-cam channel man!!!!
Whar a great video, love the clarity at the end👏🏻
To be honest, the KLR is not the greatest or fastest bike but is a great bike to have as a back up to what ever bike you own. I own a KTM 890 and will never get rid of my KLR. It’s nice for dinking around and if someone doesn’t have a bike and wants to go for a ride they can ride it usually without an issue.
I have owned a klr and loved it. They are very archaic though. At this point in time I would lean toward the 500x
Flippin’ outstanding presentation, Sir! Thanks.
Your reviews are very insightful.
Great evaluation/comments brother
I had a 22 KLR. It got me back into motorcycles after about 10 years off bikes. Recently sold the KLR. Bought a KTM 690 Enduro R. KLR is ok for what it is. Really enjoying the KTM. I don't think the KLR was a good choice for me but I was overwhelmed by all the internet info. I can't say I regret the KLR but there are better bikes to be had. My biggest complaint was the weight among other things.
I'm with you on the weight.
I have an XR650R. I put a 6.3gal. tank on it and with a dualsport kit and full fuel it weighs about 320. That's about 36 pounds of fuel.
To me, light weight is EXTREMELY imortant. Because of that, I despise the KLR for its minor planetoid mass with a burning passion.
And the engine is about as GUTless as an engine can be.
The KLR was designed back in the Eighties, when there was no such thing as a LIGHT Kawasaki.
There is no effing excuse for a dual purpose bike to weigh over 400 pounds -- or anything close to 400 pounds.
I mean I hate that bike. The 2023 DR650 (366 pounds) weighs 90 POUNDS less than the 2023 KLR (456). And the DRZ400 weighs 45 pounds less than the DR650.
I wouldn't spend money on a KLR no matter what. There's NO EXCUSE for that bike to weigh that much.
Kawasaki insults the public every day that they keep selling that thing.
Power/weight ratio of the KLR isn't good.
U helped me decide I bought a 23x back in November 3700 miles now miles great bike I’m an old A enduro rider I ride with my old race buddies they’re on AT’s BMW’s & Tigers no problem keeping up on pavement gravel roads light trails I ave 70 mpg they ave 40 plus it’s lighter I’m 5’9 fits me perfect !!! Happy Trails
I've had both. I killed my KLR engine commuting. I bought the CB500x specifically for commuting and long freeway riding. I like the cost-effectiveness, gas mileage, overall financial benefit of small CC engines, and the limit of them especially. If I had a race bike or a large CC motorcycle, I would be pushing it to its limits all the time. I've been over the Grapevine and up and down the California coast, and ride the same way I drive. Whatever I'm driving, I pass everyone.
How on earth do you kill a KLR engine??
@@JDT64 going over 80 mph for long stretches on the highway. My job is 30 mi away and the road is 55 mph that I go on - I usually end up with about 28 minutes to make it in. The KLR had 24k when I got it and 40 when I got rid of it. The rings were totally shot.
Thanks! This is exactly what we wanted! Appreciate it, sir! #teamklr
Thank you!
Dork, thanks for the video, was looking forward to this one. I purchased the KLR based on your advice from a previous video, and I love it as my first bike both for street and offroad. If you are like me and don't know any better, the vibrations are just "normal" for someone new to motorcycles. I actually like the feel of it, but I have lost a screw or two, and I rode up to the Oregon giant loop fest this year from North California, so it does well on long rides. I also think someone over 6'1 would look better and fit the KLR way better (IMO). I also think you looked better on it. The CB500 just looks too low for off-road shenanigans. There are problems getting tires and tubes in stock for the KLR, but your point on aftermarket is spot on. I hear some people complain about the KLR being too top-heavy for a beginner, but as one who never rode a bike before I can tell you it is not an issue and will make you a better rider. I feel quite confident about mine now, but agree at slow speeds you need to practice a lot to get proficient.
Great insight from an actual owner. Thanks for sharing.
I bring my 500x deep offroad, even off path. Specs are not all that matter. I love it. Yet it's too small for long road trip and too heavy for technical trails. But it will go everywhere.
You should tell those people that have ridden around world, that it's too small for long road trips.
You're mixing up motorcycle with ego, they're not the same.
@@jeeves6490 I think you got me wrong there. I say it's too small because it lack a bit of power and comfort for long rides on roads. It's too big for trail because it's too heavy to do very technical stuff or deep mud without excusing yourself. Yet it can do it all with some compromises. That's why I love mine and if I change it, it will be traded for 2 more specialized bikes: a bigger ADV bike for roads and easy trails and an Enduro bike for the deep stuff where I like to go.
Had an 2011 KLR after 3 years of use I sold it.
But I missed it until I got my 21 CB500X.
Ah I'm at peace again.
I have owned my 22 KLR since it came out. I use it mostly for commuting to work so 99% on road but I don't think I would want to get rid of it or change it for the 500x what it lacks in smoothness and smallness it makes up in being able to strap anything to it and having the confidence to see any dirt road/path/park/hole or eldritch horror and know it'll chug through. I haven't done the Doohicky or thermobob and do not intend to.
Thermobob?
@@JessicaRodriguez-gi2cl th-cam.com/video/dX14t9AmOoE/w-d-xo.html
Nearly same experience with my 23. It's my daily commuter so it's mostly 45 mph road to work on a 10 min ride back and forth. But I'm plenty comfy and with a milk crate and bungees moved a lot of stuff. Plus when I do have a trip out of town I can just hit the freeway and cruise and if I see any fun roads I know I can slow down and chug chug through it.
I’ve had a KLR since 2012. The 08 I am on now I’ve had since 2014. Got it for 2800$ with only skid plate, I’m 4th owner, and now up to 5300$ with everything I’ve added to it including the 685 and stainless steel oversized race valves. I made it mine. I love the bike. It is strictly a gravel grinder that hauls my camping gear. It’s taken me on the BDR. It’s gonna be doing the TAT and Alaska. had a Super Tenere you want to talk about top heavy? It made me appreciate the KLR. I got the KLR set up just the way I want it. No reason to change out bikes and start over again. The SuperT Made the KLR feel like a toy LoL. I got street bikes that do different things. It’s all good🏍……….
KLR 650 is really top heavy, which makes it harder for brand new riders to learn on. It's a fine bike but it isn't as easy to control in slow situations. Even the low version is still really top heavy.
I'm 6'7" tall, and I struggle to lift the gen 1 KLR, which is only 420lbs wet, and still the lightest one. My dad (5'11") asked me if the KLR is a beginner bike, and I gave him a vehement no.
It is, and I have the short one. But with even a couple of weeks doing Motojitsu's figure 8 drills, it feels lower and lighter every time I get on it. The Team Oregon braking clinic was great for getting a feel for it, too. I'd take that course again, any time.
I figure if I can get really, really comfortable with this top-heavy thing, moving up to taller bikes later will be easier (if I ever decide to switch bikes at all).
Besides, that top-heaviness is mostly from that 6.1 gallon tank, and I'm not sure I'd give up the range for a lower center of gravity--or I'd just not fill it up all the way. 😅
@@roysteves mine's lifted 1.5"-2", but aye. My main issue is lifting the thing, especially with a full tank.
Agree 100%. Even my klr 250 can be a bitch to pick up out of sand, i cant imagine picking up the 650 loaded with gear, and im a big dude. I am of the firm opinion that beginners should not get a klr. The crappy suspension and top heavy shape just sucks to learn with.
On the plus side, it does absolutely force you to learn countersteering and some body position stuff.
Nice thought, test riding both. When I was motorcycle shopping I couldn't get test rides at the shops I visited. Hopefully you have friends who aren't scared to let you give theirs a spin.
The best thing about the KLR is the torque and how it delivers it. It has more torque 31 CB 40 KLR. I regularly ride my KLR at 65 to 75 mph with little issue. With a PUIG Racing Screen for the 2020 Ninja 1000 which looks identical shape wise but is about 30 percent bigger its comfy on hwy speeds.
I got a Honda XRE 300 which I believe it’s sold exclusively in Latin America, its like if these two motorcycles had a baby, great bike for Latin American conditions with low speed limits and highly inclined off-road
In June I finally bought my first new motorcycle in almost 30 years since I last owned one. The CB500X would have been more modern, smoother, and arguably a little more reliable but I felt a bit more cramped on it. Unfortunately the unknown with when the Transalp was coming to the US and a very good $2000 savings from Kawasaki made my decision easy. Yeah it's older tech with a few modern splashes added on the surface but it still feels a lot better than what I rode 30 years ago. I'm a driver/rider that tunes in to how the vehicle feels on the road, the feel of the engine, and transmission working together etc. so the vibrations in the KLR haven't really haven't been an issue even at highway speeds. I still wouldn't want to have to have it pegged on the highway for a long trip but for what I am doing I'm perfectly happy until I get the itch to do something different in maybe 3 years.
nicely done .. thank you from italy
Great review and all the reasons why my 1st bike after 30 years of not riding was a 09 Versys. We know how those follow up models went and fortunately the Africa twin was reintroduced 😎
When i was a new rider and went back and forth on these two bikes for months before buying one. My advice is to just pull the trigger and buy one. Both are way better than no motorcycle.
I had a KLR 2023 for a few months , it's cool but not for me , you must be 6 foot tall atleast to handle it off road and it's top heavy as heck ! I wasn't impressed with it on the road basically not good and off road it's fine but don't lay it down because you may not get it upright without help or a crane. I now own a 2023 honda 500x and I can say if I knew of this before I bought the KLR I would have bought it. This bike has done a magnificent job for me. Great on the road and the fire roads along with open trails have been great ! MPG is crazy good and range is about 300 miles. Comfort is very good ,the KLR seat sucks! Not the honda. This is a fantastic bike to comute on and travel some which I have done plus it uses little fuel . Just a great all around bike from honda. I would say it's a small gem in the world of motorcycles.
I had both. Kept the KLR with my T7 and sold the 500x, didn't regret once.
Got me an '01 KLR650 for 2k with under 4,000 miles. I'm 5'5" tall and have no issues on or off road.
I always appreciate more klr stuff.
The KLR is the bike we all see ourselves on, but the CB500X is the one we realistically need.
I’d love a CB500X - but gosh are they expensive second hand
Excellent presentation. I want one of each now!
Had a klr for years. Good review. Can’t really make a comparison but your rite the after market and the community is incredible for the old thumper.
Off road it has saved me numerous times by just pinning it and hanging on. If you lay it down it can be a bear but I do okay and I’m seventy. Hi way yes done go to fast
“The KLR feels like you’re riding a dryer.” That made me lol! I see the opportunity for a sticker or a tshirt with that one.
Great video, I would love to see you review the KTM 390 Adventure in a future video.
My current first bike is a 2022 klr 650 and I love it. 2,000 miles on it and the only complaint would be it's vibraty after 65ish mph
Hey Dork I think a lot of people would like to see a review from you on the suzuki vstrom 800de
I have a 2014 500X. I was able to get it used for $2400. Kid didnt know what he had i guess. I ve do e a lot of upgrades and tune ups and ill keep that bike forever. I was looking at the KLR used as well, but ultimately went with the 500x. Its just more comfortable and checks all the boxes.
There is a huge difference in build quality between these 2 bikes. The KLR has quality shortcuts everywhere (except offroad) Honda is much better built. No comparison. Problem in US is that I couldn't find a CB500X new or used. KLR650 Adventure was easily available with a great rebate! KLR community is out of this world. CB500X no so much.
Great videos man!
I am sorry I contributed to your two billion questions. XD I have been debating between these two bikes as a second bike AND my first adventure bike ever since I started looking.
Having taken my sporty on long trips, I am thinking I wont notice the vibrations on either bike at highway speeds. Also, I feel like as I get better off road, the KLR is a bike I can grow into in the off road area of riding.
To bad people are such lemmings. The SWM Superdual 650 is about same price as these, is basically what the KLR should have evolved into. It's lighter, has way more power, has brembo brakes, ABS, 18/21 wheels, crash bars, axiuliry lights, center stand, rear rack, EFI, premium dual exhaust, perfect DS windshield (and I usually hate windshields). It cruises highway great, does offload very well and is a super versatile bike to spend the day exploring on. We shoud meet up some time for a ride and compare. Good stuff, thanks.
I had an 08 KLR for 5 years or so, but if I had to buy again I would go for the Honda. We all like the rough and tumble adv look of the KLR, but most of my riding ended up being street with a little gravel roads mixed in... Definitely the Honda would have been a better fit for that type of riding. The couple of times I took the KLR off the beaten path I swore I would never do that again, if I was going to ride single track and aggresive trails a lot I would go for a much lighter bike than the KLR.
Had a first gen 2007 KLR and loved it my sun is still riding it. did not care as much for the second gen just did not fit me right, I am now riding a 2023 Honda CB500 X great bike but lacking caring capacity on rear rack, my GIVI trekker 64 liter top box, toped out the weight capacity, Looking at the KLR650S thinking it might be more along my lines of what I want. I do not care for the CB500X off road, but is a very good road bike. The bags that come on the KLR 650 are to small, I use a GVI trekker 64- 33 liter bags and fine them abought right, but on the Honda had to go to a lighter top box. because of the weight of the trekker top box. Going to have to go sit on the KLR650S, like the color of the 2023, but the 2024 in white for get it, in Canada looks like the white but if so will weight till the 2025 comes out hopping for a better color. The Center stand is another thing I must have on a chain drive bike, can you get it on the KLR 650S do not show it on the Canada model.
After much TH-cam research I bought a 2022 CB500X Last year. Then I took it 1200miles to Florida on mostly secondary roads. I love this bike. However it is a little bit uncomfortable in my upper back after 200 miles. I have since purchased handlebar risers and a custom seat. Hopefully this will solve my pain. This bike gets incredible gas mileage. A true 65 mpg. My next ride is going to be 2000 miles to Utah. For me it's just got to be a parallel twin. A KLR 650 just can't do 80 mph all day long. My buddies got a KLR and when go down the highway together he'll be doing 65 mph when we should be doing 75. But I understand he needs to be nice to that thing. However his kLR is more dirt oriented than my CB. But he's not coming with me to Utah😅 Too slow.
I have a 2023 CB500X. My only complaint is the short gearing. All they needed to do is make 6th gear taller. Currently, it approaches 6000 rpm when getting near 70mph. The engine is just screaming. Otherwise, I like the ride, the balance, the handling. Oh, the wind buffeting is bad. Solved it with with a $30 screen extender from Amazon.
I agree. I test rode a used one and it felt too revy. I ended up with an older 650 GS.
Great review style..thank you !!
My own personal onroad/offroad combo is the cb500x/WR250R. When speaking of offroad riding, that very much depends on what kind of offroad riding you wish to do. Here in Pennsylvania, when young, my type of offroad riding was seeking out the steepest hills I could find, and climbing them. For THAT niche type of offroad riding, you never, ever want a 400+ behemoth bike. Why? You need a nimble bike, and one that will be relatively easy to handle and pick back UP after inevitable drops. That will never be true of 400+ lb bikes. My WR, OTOH, comes in at under 300 lbs wet, and has more offroad capability than either of these two bikes.
For street riding, I love my cb500x. Smooth, capable, relatively comfortable, and very versatile. For the type of onroad riding I do -- country back roads and some in-town riding (small town) -- the 500x is perfect! IMO it's also great looking and great sounding. I don't ever plan to sell mine. Great review, thanks!!
I've always wanted to ride a 500X on some dual track trails and see how it stacks up next to my 390 Adventure and the Versys X-300 I recently took out to the trails at Brown's Camp. I bet it's a little more of a handful, with more weight and torque, but probably similarly capable.
Have you been able to test them? And if so how would you compare the 390 adventure vs the versys X-300 in a nutshell?
@manugrend to some degree, I have owned a 390 for two years and have a number of videos you can check out if you like but no formal review. I also have just over 500 miles on a borrowed Versys X-300 (videos coming next month).
In a nutshell, the Versys is a bit more road capable/comfortable, but still fun offroad on dual track trails.
The 390 is more adaptable offroad and has a larger aftermarket of accessories, more tech and it costs more and is substantially taller.
@@FreeTimeAdventures thanks for the response. I'll go check out your 390 adventure video and looking forward to your versys x 300 video as well. 👍
I was amazed what mine could do but it had the full suspension upgrade that increased ground clearance etc. I did end up selling it simply because I ride in remote areas by myself alot so I prefer a dual sport I can lift off of myself or drag out of a mud hole if needed, also it's less likely to break my bones.
I was looking at buying a used KLR a few years ago but bought a 2013 NC700X insteard. I've seen that same KLR come up for sale twice since then by two different people. I think my next "adventure" bike will be something much smaller and lighter than either of them. I live on an island so speed is no concern. Maybe a tw200.
Excellent review! Thank you!!
I don't think you can go wrong with a Honda, but I'm old & cranky, I like my KLR. I have never had or rode the afore mentioned Honda. I did have a Honda 90 3 wheeler & rode it to death & beyond.
What do you think of the new Royal Enfield 452?
My riding buddy owns a cb500x and i own a klr650s. We both run shinko 705s and let me tell yah. Buddy can ride the pants off the cb on and offroad. He scraps peg on the cb on road which is terrifying and can rip it down some of the more technical stuff with ease. My klr on the other hand you can feel the weight in corners..im a little guy 5'6 140lbs geared up and muscling the old pig around is not thay fun. If i follow him off road i cant keep up. The shinkos do not like loose stuff in corners at all. I can feel the front tire try and dig for traction while trying to turn in loose gravel or dirt but wants to lowside. I do appreciate some good torque tho out of the klr. The only complaint my buddy has with the cb is offroad you have to keep it high in the revs or else you'll have no power. Both are great bikes.... where i live my buddy is the only one who rides a cb500x and i haven't seen another one in the wild, ive seen plenty of klr650's in every generation. If i could, i would own the cb500x. Its smoother and has that horsepower, it also in my opinion more new rider friendly.
As someone who also has owned both at the exact same time, I can say that the klr is definitely going to be better off road.. but comparing it to any other dual sport and it's really not my cup of tea. I sold mine and still have the cb500x, and bought a drz400 that I love so much that I'm trying to also sell the cb500x. I just don't do enough street or adventure riding to keep it. My drz easily feels faster than the Honda until you get above 70mph. They both have a very similar top speed...
This all depends heavily on your riding style. I've never felt like any of them were too tall, but the klr and CB are pigs in their own right. I have heard horrible noises come from my back picking up the cb500. Can't imagine dumping it or the klr in a really bad spot.
I have a Himalayan and I’m looking at the Honda as I am riding more on the road than I anticipated.
I had a 2011 klr it was a good bike. I own a Africa Twin now and ❤it.
No bike you intend to take offroad should be liquid cooled, the last thing you want is for a rock or a stick to go through your radiator or puncture a coolant hose. If you intend to actually do some adventure riding you're much better off with the Suzuki DR650. I really like the CB500X for mostly street and some light trail stuff though, so long as it doesn't get too offroad-like.
The DR650 has a little radiator and hoses, and runs engine oil through it for cooling. Just sayin’. Yeah, it’s pretty small but perhaps even more critical regarding damage.
Great comparison, thanks! How about CB500X vs the KTM390 Adventure?
Thanks, that was helpful !
Great summary and sound advice
Nice review! Thanks
Great vid thanks. From South Africa and just a few notes. I would think torque is an important stat to add if you are doing long distance with paniers. Horsepower means nothing to me but I did convert to kiloWatt. Otherwise, very good channel. I would choose a Honda in most cases and definitely in this case too. Only concern is how it will handle carrying kit and a fat rider like myself.
Keep up the good work.
If the KLR and 500X are basically neck to neck, how far of a distant third is the RE Himalayan? I keep going back and forth with these three for a beginner ADV bike. Most of the KLR's in my area, and there's a lot of them, range $2500 - $6500 depending on the age, shape, and mods/extras added on. There aren't too many 500x in my area. The few around range from $5500-$7000. The Himalayans in my area, which there are a good number of, range from $4000-$5500 depending on age, shape, and mods/add ons. The 500x seems a little pricey, but it probably has more and better tech than the other two.
I did lots of research before bought a brand new KLR most of the reviews were for the Gen 2. The gen 3 was the biggest mistake of my life, Was not happy with the KLR took a loss and sold it.
Love this!
Me with my lil bsr raven 250 that desperately wants to grow up into a klr or cb500 some day 🤤. It's my first dual sport and I'm hooked on the idea of getting something more comfortable and reliable for long trips eventually 😁
KLR is a great bike but if you don't like buzzy bars its not for you. It does not bother me at all. What I love most about it is when it is laying on the ground I am not freaked out like I would on a $14K + bike. I payed $2800 with 6000 miles. It is hard to lift. I am 5'7 140lbs and have been able to lift it many times but it takes a lot of effort. It was easier to lift my 670 lb Kawasaki Concours.
If you're a cheapskate and want the off road of the klr(with a few mods)and the smooth power that the cb500 has buy a kle500 you won't be scared to drop it and they run forever and easier to service with it's screw an lock nut valve adjustment!
Old school cool,check them out!
Thanks dork that was some good advice
If you are looking at these bikes, and have some more money, test ride a Vstrom. 19/17, bulletproof reliability, more of a street orientation than the KLR. My 2006 was just lovely, and she went MANY places I had no business whatsoever taking her.
Funny thing is I’m completely on the inverse. The 500x was horrendous on the highway (at above 60mph) and my KLR is glass smooth at 65-70 mph …
Coming from a 1200gs, the supposed weight issue in the dirt is nothing now …
I want to hear your thoughts on the new Suzuki 800s that they are putting out there.
Good review.