My 1,900 mile review. It takes a ride like nothing. That's a great bike right there 😸 Doohickey Schmoohickey. I didn't worry about it on my gen 2, I won't mess with this one either. I hit 90mph on it every morning and I'm a chonky boy 😄
I must say, I am so greatfull for your honest review of this bike. At 60 I have owned 25 diff. Bikes from motocross to zx-10's. But now my money and age...and your reviews have steered me right to this machine.🤝
I’ve owned two of these bikes and commuted to work on them in the late 80’s/early 90’s. They were bulletproof. Took them several times from Southern California to the Central Valley to visit friends. 500 mile round trips. The bike never broke a sweat. 75mph all day long. Great review by the way.
A darn fine review and I agree 100% on your assessment! People should not overlook this bike. It offers so much capability and comfort for the money. PS: The doohickey sometimes gets confused with the cam chain, it's actually the balancer chain tensioner. The updates Kawasaki did to the cam chain system have nothing to do with the doohickey. But you're right, it's more of a long term slow death thing and not an immediate issue on the newer bikes.
I did the doohicky just for piece of mind. I did find the motor had less vibration afterwards due to the higher tension on the chain that what the stock spring provided.
I bought a 2014 1/2 KLR with 1000 miles on it. I thought oh the doohickey will be be good to 10k. It broke apart at 7k. I had to install the Eagle Mike unit and am well pleased with it.
FYI, even though they (KLR's) feel like they're struggling on the FWY/HWY, they will do it all day, every day for 1000's of miles with no issue's. The KLR engine is a rock solid, old design that is super reliable. Just check the oil often and give her a little love and she'll treat you good!
I am having a feud with a local gang of squirrels that have made it their purpose to chew the plastic front fender and eat the right-hand Bark Busters hand guard (strangely the left-hand one is intact). My dawgs are just too lazy to scare them away. Love my KLR650 which my son calls a farm tractor. 🤣 It's the perfect bike to go to work, around town for errands, and fresh air bushes here in Alabama. Your video is just among the best I have enjoyed. 😀 One of my buds owns a second-generation KLR 650 and he bolted an ice cooler on the back rack and takes his collapsible fishing rod and fishing gear on his side plastic bags. Sometimes he fills his ice cooler with beer and returns home with a couple catfish in place of the beer. Now, that is KLR650 life. 👍
I'm purchasing my KLR this weekend, and saw your post - I'm glad I did. I'm in my 50's and just getting into biking, and I wanted something I could ride on the city streets, and on our local trails (my backyard is the desert). I could really care less about the highway driving on a bike - done it and it scares the hell out of me, I'm white knuckling it the whole time - because I know people out here can't drive, got people from the West and East coast who live here and they're driving skills are lacking to say the least. Anyway I got it for more off roading and street and I'm not looking for a crotch rocket, something simple, good and works - and you sold me brother! You got a new subscriber!! 😃
I have a 2022 KLR and it can do 85-90mph all day on the freeway with all 280 pounds of me . Gas mileage does go down at those speeds but it's got no issues doing it. Haven't burnt off any oil but it does darken the oil quicker if I do run it at those higher speeds. Absolutely love this bike and your longer videos! Keep them coming!
How tall are you? Im 280 6’4” and am looking to get this bike with my son. He is 6’ and about half my weight would be my guess. He wants a bike. I told him if he gets a bike, I will get one too 😅
I've subscribed to your channel ever since I wanted to get back into mild adventure riding. After your T7/901 reviews I put a deposit on a T7 3 months ago, then I started going back through your previous bikes/adventures. After seeing the KLR videos I realised my skill level and actual requirements in a bike were closer to a KLR than a T7. Switched my deposit to a KLR. Your honest assessments of the bikes and your ability is very refreshing. Excellent work.
Im mainly a street rider commuting to work etc.. but bought a 2022 KLR . I love it , actually traded my 2017 Indian chief , maybe a down grade but I enjoy it. I already have a dirt bike and use it regulary so this really is going to mainly be a road bike for me. I enjoy your videos, thanks
Great video - thank you for taking the time to put it out there - A note for tall riders - I am 6’1” tall with a 33 inseam, size 13 boot. I was thinking about handle bar risers, but approached this project stepwise…. I got rid of the pegs, and installed an IMS peg lowering bracket, and went with Tusk pegs, along with a Happy Trails extended shift lever. I refined my riding technique a bit, and now standing on the pegs is no problem with the stock (in riser) bars. I chose the shifter because it made of wide steel. If the shifter bends I can be straightened, and it is wide so if it hits the engine cases it will distribute the load and hopefully mot crack them. The IMS shifter is narrow, and the Tusk is aluminum. Prior to the modifications, I had a tough time getting my boot under the shifter, and stood a bit too tall - I also rotated the bars to about 10 degrees forward. Both highway and off-road are significantly improved. I hope this helps the community out there
Excellent review! I bought mine new in 2006 with few regrets. It's exactly what you describe. Nothing fancy, without a fancy starting price. It's not the road bike my R100GS/PD was, but it's also not the boat anchor the PD was. It's also not the lightweight dual sport that my WR250R is. What it is, is a fantastic two lane, back road road carver, smile generator, pack mule, and incredibly comfortable bike for my 6'3" frame. Wrinkly grey butt, and all. I'm not a fan of the new style body works, but underneath it all, is a bullet proof platform that will take you around the world if you can get the time off to go. Great review!
Great review, I am an old Honda XR 600 rider ( that was years ago) and now thinking about a dual sport for local street and trail riding. I am looking at the KLR and the Honda 650 , after watching your video I am leaning more towards the KLR. At 65 the will probably be more manageable.... Thanks again for your in depth review..
I test rode both bikes mentioned. The Honda 650 while lighter and more powerful, it was uncomfortable and harsh like a dirt bike. The klr was very plush and just cruised along. I chose the klr and couldn't be happier
Thank you for your review. I just finalized my purchase of the exact bike which you presented. I would not have felt as confident without watching your Nal
Good job in doing these videos. I bought a KLR-650 partially because of your videos and I am very happy with it. I got an KLR-650 2023 Adventure on sale for $6,199. It was a great deal. I am very happy with the bike and the way it rides.
Well said, great review! Only 100 miles in on my 22’ KLR from a KLX250 and I LOVE IT. It’s got everything you said and I can’t emphasize enough the power is there, just not enough to get you in trouble lol. Never had so much fun in the dirt and an awesome platform that makes riding on the street a pleasure and actually fun.
I just bought a 2022 KLR about a month ago. This is very reassuring for me. I’ve always been a fan of these but never owned one , until now. Thanks for the update and the informative videos.
Loved the review, thanks for doing it. I have a Gen 2 2018 KLR and really enjoy it. The thing I like about it that it sets expectations. I am a very average rider who just likes getting out off road. I'd rather be underestimated, and still be plugging along with everyone at the end of the day than be overestimated and then be thought of as the "all hat, no cattle" kind of a guy.
Love your honest reviews. Much better than the Magazine reviews that get invited to far off lands and the test rides. But if they invited me to so cool place I would be hard pressed to have too many negative comments. I feel your reviews are spot on for everyday riders. keep them coming
Very good review of the klr. You and I have a similar story. I hopped off my trusty 2018 klr (I purchased new) and bought a used 2017 Africa Twin-DCT earlier this year….thinking that would be a good upgrade. I initially thought I would enjoy a bigger bike with more power, but that wasn’t the case. It proved to be much more heavier, bulkier, and too powerful for me and my casual riding style. 6 months after purchasing my AT, I sold it and picked up a new 2022 klr. Owned it for a couple months now logging 2k on the odo, and I plan on running this one for as long as it’ll go. You can’t beat em!
Your straight forward honesty made me a subscriber! Great review! I couldn’t agree more. If you’re looking for adventure NOT just a super cool fast bike, KLR all day!!!
I’ve actually been waiting for you to put this out and I’m very happy with it! I had said before that I wanted an Africa Twin but I could buy 2 of these for the price of one of those AND this thing is adventure ready out the door. Personally I also think it looks better, but the main selling point is cost and durability and the fact that this thing has such a huge following and many nicknames known throughout the world is downright awesome and what I needed to know and hear. I think this is the move and thank you very much for the awesome content. I live in AZ and I’ve traveled up the I-5 to Portland a lot as a trucker. Maybe one day I can take it up and ride with ya some day!
I had a KLR 650 and sold it to step up to the Africa Twin. I believe you are 100% correct on you statements and I do miss my KLR and may go back to it again. Thanks!
I too recently purchased the 22 KRL and now have 650 miles on it. Did my first oil change and used Kawa10/40 Syn and it's actually not a bad price at about $12.00 qt. It does run a bit better since changing the fluid. I agree with what you have stated and recommend the bike. One change I will make when riding on rougher dirt hilly fire roads and trails is to drop down to a 14 tooth counter shaft sprocket as I feel 2nd is a bit tall and I found myself slipping the clutch a lot coming out of tight turns and 1st is just to slow and not a preferred gear for trail riding. It is so comfortable and fun to ride. My other bike is a 2015 BMW R1200RT. Great long distance bike but so heavy and the KLR is so light feeling for its 460 lbs. I really enjoy your channel. Thanks
@@GetTheFO so far I have 850 miles on my bike with no oil consumption issues. Changed oil at 600 miles and put in the Kawasaki 10-40 synthetic. Try to keep the rpm's under 5,000 or up to 5,500 for short bursts.
Really appreciate your analysis of this bike and definitely swaying me in this direction vs. the DR650 based on what I'm looking for in a first bike. My thanks!
Thanks so much for posting this video! I have about 700 miles on my 2022 KLR Adventure and I'm also experiencing 'closed-to-open throttle surge issue'. (you mention this issue in minute ~8:20 of this video) For me, the surge issue happens around 3K RPM and up in any gear. (It does not happen in lower RPM ranges) I filed a support case with Kawasaki and reported the issue to my dealer. No updates from Kawasaki or dealer. I live in the hills of western MA, trying to maintain steady speed down hill (46MPH and above in 5 gear) is when the surge issue happens a lot. I've also mentioned this issue on the advrider forum '2022 KLR 650 EFI' and many other 2022 KLR owner's are experiencing the same surge issue. I have a few other options to try and will not give up on resolving this issue. :) Thanks again for the great content!
I just saw a few of these at my local Kawasaki dealer. Man, they are beautiful. I've owned 2 Honda dual sports in my life - still have my 07 XR650L. I've ridden that bike across the proverbial mountains, valleys, deserts and plains. I've made it work on the freeway. I'm sure the KLR would be far more comfortable. I now have a RZR too so that's how I do my off roading. The KLR just makes sense to me. So glad I came across your vid - very helpful!
I was looking at that orange one and thinking “man that thing looks like it’s leaning over really far?” Then you said “it leans over really far!” Btw, it looks like a blast to own!
I appreciate your review! I had made up my mind many years ago to buy a KLR as soon as they switched to fuel injection, then by the time they did KTM had introduced the 390 Adventure which offers lower weight, more tech, and higher horsepower at a lower price. So far, I'm happy with the KTM, but I think I'd be just as happy with the KLR.
Yes.. the KTM does all those things better. But all those things require more intense maintenance and more frequent. In my area there are no KTM dealers within 200 miles. So getting service is an issue. So I can't see a KTM in my future....ever.
Thank for the info, very much valuable, I just bought the Adv model 2024 2 weeks ago and love it 😊…also made the windshield mod you propose on another video, work perfectly 😊
Your video may be 2 years old but ! All the reasons that i purchased my KLR where mentioned, iam 68 don't need to go fast, budget 7k total otd, reliability and seat height ( got the S model). If you read comments on bikes your head will explode. People comment without knowing all of the reasons for something but they know everything just ask them. Anyways very happy with my KLR no regrets
Love my Fully Restored 88 KLR.Finally took her on a 900 mile trip to Northern Wisconsin last yr. I stole it for $600 n then proceeded to dump $2600 into it. She was on the Zero maintenance plan so....It only had 15,000 miles on it when I bought it 3 yrs ago but when I opened her up to do the Doo it was crunched springs in the bottom case..thankfully nothing got messed up and she runs great. Got 21,000 on it now.
Love my 2023 KLR650! Can go anywhere and do anything! Just don't expect any real power. Super fun romping through the gears in the city! Holds its own on the highway. Shreds dirt if you have the skill. The gas tank lasts forever. Aaand its reliable so far(mind you it's a year old).. never rode my old bike (R6)... Ride the crap out of the new KLR!!
Great video, great bike. I had an older KLR it was awesome. One of the most fun bikes I have ever had. It is very capable for highway riding but it is not a Goldwing and was never meant to be. Stick to pavement with a yellow line down the middle or dirt for the most fun. The KLR will tear up dirt roads all day long. Of all the motorcycles I have owned, I think I miss the KLR the most.
Thank you! I was in a serious battle between the Africa Twin and the KLR. Being you had a lot of time on an AT and more on a Gen3 helped me out tons. Excellent pros and cons on both. Very helpful in my direction of what kind of riding I’ll be doing. Looking forward to more content 🤘🏻👍🏻
Thanks for the best review yet, I'm in Australia and have a 2004 one with 32,000ks with offroad chunky tyres, the dohicky upgrade and also the front and rear suspension upgrades. I do love the bike for bush riding during the 6 cooler months and with being 60 plus I'm seriously looking at a 2022 to 2024 one some big savings for the 2022/23 models. I'm thinking one of these will do me for my last ever bike and I'll sell my 2004 one and my 2020 Royal Enfield to downsize a little.
I test rode the 23 Orange colored one and was impressed. I bought a new aftica twin in 2021 and love the bike.... But riding the klr around town and 10 miles on the freeway during my test ride it left me 2nd guesing spending the $$$ I did on my AT. If I was doing it again Id buy the KLR and then id have money left over to buy a street bike as well. I'm 160 lbs, 5'9 and travelled at 80mph in complete comfort on the KLR. Impossible to beat if you need a BDR motocamping bike.
I have to agree with you Ben. I have never ridden a KLR 650 but I own a Honda NC700X and have the same complaints about it. I love the bike for ridding on the highway it is also about 50 horse power and weighs 470 LB and it is very comfortable and gets 70 mpg. I have ridden it off road also and have had no issues with it at all and that is in 16000 miles. My only Con is that because it weighs so much I can not lift it at the ripe old age of 70 with bad knees and back. So I now have a new CRF300L Rally and I think it is going to work for me. If you just want to explore and not into ridding like a crazy person the KLR and the XR or a DR are all great reliable bikes at a good price and they all are dead pan reliable.
I like DITR. He seems like a stand-up dude. He tells me the KLR is the one to get for beginners. I'm a beginner. About every other YT bike content (aside Yammie) says "you can't beat this value for that amount of money". I'm in Québec, which means i'll probably have 3 to 5 hours of riding per summer before it snows again (i'm exaggerating), so the Doohickey won't be an issue before long. I'm pulling the trigger. After months going back and forth between the Himalayan and the CB500X and an entire Québec MSF course (that lasts months here), i'm going with a bike I didn't even consider first (because the bike is about three times my weight). KLR 650 Adventure it will be. PLUS!...and i'm not kidding about this part: the KLR community is second to none. While asking questions on forums for other bikes leads you to unprovoked insults even if you clearly underline the fact you're a beginner and don't know what the heck you're talking about yet, the KLR folks are so cool, friendly and will throw themselves towards you to give you tips and advices. You can say it doesn't matter, but personally, it's a very convincing buying factor for me.
I attended a Kawasaki demo day a couple months ago. I own a 2020 Ninja 650 KRT. I'm 6'2", 180#. First bike was the 900RS. Having owned 2 Ninja 1000's this bike has a little less grunt, but you never use all the power anyway. Very nice suspension. Handles regular road bumps smoothly. This bike was perfect. All it needs for touring is a windshield and heated grips. Honestly. Second bike up was the Versys 650. I owned a 2005 Suzuki V-Strom. This is heavier. The demo bike came loaded with luggage. Nice bike. Just way to expensive for what it is. I mean, I'd buy this over a Yamaha Tracer. It's not a dual sport. I'd never want to do that and I never did that with the V-Strom. It's like a phone that comes with too much bloatware. Next up was the KLR. I'm 60 years old and never rode one before. I always thought it looked like it sat too high. I was wrong. This bike was the loaded Adventure. It was so new that they hadn't connected the fog lamps on it yet. I LOVE THIS BIKE!!! It feels like it weighs 400lbs. So comfy! I never saw anyone really trying the bike out during the test rides. I was standing on the pegs on the highway, in the city... I was having a blast! I didn't really notice the side cases but I like them. I have 22 litre Hepco Becker side cases on my Ninja 650 so these are fine for my purposes. I didn't notice any snatchy throttle. That's mostly because it's a single. I am seriously considering replacing my Ninja 650 with this bike. I'd use it mostly for commuting. And also... Buying a KLX300sm! That bike was pure SMILES!!! Sorry, but FUCK the DRZ400 and it's carburetor, and price. This KLX was so nature and light and just BEGS to lean over. I might just get this bike and keep my Ninja! Brakes are fantastic. I ended up having to stop quickly and ended up on the front wheel. The trail rider just smiled at me instead of scolding me. I've never done that in my life and you couldn't wipe off my grin. I want one. But hell yes, the KLR is fantastic. I'm still on the fence. If they made that KLR Adventure in super moto form I'd be all over it and it would be the only bike I'd own. I liked it so much I tested it twice. I think I'm sold. You can't beat that price!!! The Adventure is cheaper than a stock Versys!!! Everything right now is on back order. THANKS COVID! DORK... Next time try Koso heated grips. Take a look. Talk about easy install!
I have found that fuel injection on some Kawasaki bikes is funky. My W800 was also, but my VersysX 300 is rock solid. Honda and Yamaha FI just seems to work a lot better on all of the bikes. I had a KLR 650 (carbs) and I loved it, but like most riders I only rode it on the highway (who rides a KLR on the highway? MOST riders. We want the ambiance of an adventure bike but most guys never go off road, just like jeep owners). The Versys X 300 does almost everything the KLR does, weighs a lot less, so it's very nimble both on and off road, it looks and feels just like a KLR when you're sitting on it (but with the Ninja sport bike engine scream of a super bike, 12,000 rpm redline), gets better mpg than the KLR and goes faster down the highway (supposedly 103 mph top speed) but will cruise all day long at 85 mph. Very comfortable on long rides too (rode it 400 miles today and was not tired at all). And the Versys doesn't have a "doohickey" and it has a real water pump. And it costs less than the lowest price KLR ($5899 vs $6899). A 300cc engine vs a 650cc? It's amazing what you can get out of a 300cc engine when you run it at high rpms. Will the engine last as long as a KLR? Nobody knows. But a water-cooled engine usually outlasts an air-cooled (with a little bit of water cooling that doesn't work very well), and the Versys doesn't have a reputation for oil burning like some KLRs do (but not all of them. Mine never used any oil).
Fantastic review very well said. I have a 2005 gen1 that I will keep to the day I die. When moving it around in the garage or trails if you have never use the kick stand to do a 180 give it a try. Stand on kick stand side of the bike, pull the bike toward you and balance it on the stand. Carefully spin the bike to where you want it to face. Easy but takes practice. Put a small chunk of carpet under your stand so you don’t scratch your garage floor. There are TH-cam videos on it. Best regards Rasty
This is the video that cemented my decision to buy a 2022 KLR 650. I wanted a bike that will be a decent commuter bike on a 30-mile round trip commute on a 55 mph rural highway, then be able to go 25 miles the other way into the Idaho woods to explore endless logging roads in millions of acres of wilderness. I've had my base non-ABS pearl khaki model for four days now and have already added a bunch of mods and rode it as much as possible between storms. I am super happy with it! I am skeptical of taking it on a 300-mile road trip to Seattle, however. It seems to be most comfortable at 65 mph or less. I have added the 3D Cycle windscreen risers, which made a HUGE difference. But, the lack of tach and incredible amount of wind noise makes me nervous to go a ton of miles in a 75 mph zone.
I had an 08 first year 2nd gen. Doo Hickey was fine. What sucked was it burned oil. I mean a lot. Unusually a lot. That door hickey thing is blown out of proportion as far as I'm concerned. Rock on Dork!
Out of all the people that have commented on the KLR which I own one you are the first it’s giving it a decent rating I think the bike is great I have owned 5 KLR R’s the only thing I see wrong with this bike it has no first gear either way it runs like a rabbit and I love it and your comment is a good comment and I like it
Just bought the 2024 KLR650. Love it. Stable and definitely a step up from the DRZ. The USB port has two parts: The actual USB port with a dust cover, and a secondary larger cover with a well around the port. The well is designed so you can wrap long usb cords around the center port and only have the amount you need extending out. It is actually well designed. I do not like the placement of the fog-light switch though...you have to use your non-throttle hand (left) to reach across to switch it on. It should have been incorporated into the high-beam system. They added a high beam flash trigger, why not use that for the fog lights instead...apart from that, it's a great bike.
Thank you for putting out good content. It is nice to have "regular folk" reviews without all the false hype and blasting techno music. 😆 Don't change a thing with the way you are presenting your channel. I enjoy it exceeeeedingly!🤙
I was surprised at how low the 650S seat is...sat on a lightly pre-owned one yesterday and it was bone stock. I'm 5'9" with a 30ish" inseam and on the S my feet were completely flat with a bend in my knees. I was expecting it to be lower, of course, but not that low. Ive always avoided the KLR because of the seat height and now I'm thinking maybe i should've looked into this earlier. Now I'm going to find a new or like new (stock) regular seat height KLR and see how I fit. Hopefully its not too tall and I'm stuck in between two seat heights.
The only motorcycle that got me off my 2009 KLR 650 is my 2022 KLR 650 Adventure, I absolutely love it. And my good friend Scott finally got me to sell him my 2009 KLR.
Excellent nonbiased review. I agree 100% with your assessment. I watched you transition from your A-twin to this bike and paid attention. Your honest and thoughtful reviews helped me immensely, - make my decision to buy. Now with 510 miles of both on and off road riding I'm truly a fan. Working on getting to know this machine and heading to the Continental Divide in late August 22. I asked for a block of instruction on rear shock adjustment and you came through! Now I'm asking for some instruction on adjusting the balancer chain tensioner....it's in the owners manual and the service manual. Make it happen Dork! 😉 And thanks for great content!
@@DorkintheRoad Well my "Internet riding buddy", I need you to break-it-down Barney Style for us hand-fisted helicopter mechanics of 30+ years! 🤣🤣🤣 You're killing it Dork! I'm going to watch your channel grow! Thx! "BE EXCELLENT TO EACH OTHER......"
I bought the first, 2nd generation KLR in 08'. I went for a major tour of North America in 11' and put over 17k on the bike in less than 6 months. Never had any major issues and I keep up with all factory recommendations for maintenance. I currently have 50k miles on it and the only major fix I've had on it was fixing the doohickey. Otherwise, brakes, chains, sprockets, and tires have been my biggest expense.
Ive owned about a dozen bikes in my life from dirt bikes to crotch rockets to sport cruisers. I can say without a doubt; my 2008 KLR is the funnest, most practical, most reliable, simply the best bike of any of them. Of coarse its not as fast as my Kawasaki 1000. Of coarse its not as capable off road as my Husqvarna 450.. But they are just simply a great bike. The KLR dosent do anything incredibly, but it does almost everything pretty darn good. If I could only own one bike, it would definetly be a KLR 650.
Thanks for the review!! I am seriously considering one 🧐. I really love this machine. It would be my first dual; current a road only guy but looking to change that. Ride safe! 👍🏼
@@DorkintheRoad Yeah, that’s pretty much what everyone is saying. I don’t need that much power. Just looking to comfortably drive to some trails and hit some trails to take in some nature. 👍🏼
Just went to look at the 2022 KLR and they had about $2000 add on fees, crazy, with taxes it was $10, 800! Great video. I want something for the BDRs. Have narrowed it down to DR and KLR, maybe I should just flip a coin.
I did 2600 kms last summer, loaded down on my 2013 klr. Not enough power when loaded down, used too much oil. My 2021 ATAS is much better and makes getting to the trails easier. But for the price and with your eyes wide open it’s awesome(after a bunch of mods). Love your channel btw!
Rode a KLR to Tierra Del Fuego, 2006 model. It was very reliable and handled everything like a champ. Only downside is not much part availability in latin america. Suzuki is better on that point and what I should've brought if I'd known. That being said, no regret, my KLR was a super reliable jack of all trade and master of none. The guy I sold it too down there is still riding it, 10 years later.
I've found the KLR to be quite good on the highway. I weigh 220, not sure your weight or how much extra weight you've loaded it with. But with just my weight and my laptop bag in the top case it will cruise easily at 75 to 80 without feeling strained at all. It still has significant speed above 80 as well. As for passing, same configuration as before it easily passes. With a passenger, it was more sluggish, but still has sufficient power to get around folks. The only thing I wish it had for highway would be a cruise control, because the vibration and the driving position on the highway can begin to cause my hand to go a little numb after an hour or so.
Someone once summed up the KLR perfectly:
"It's the Toyota Hilux of Motorcycles" And honestly? That made me want one.
My 1,900 mile review. It takes a ride like nothing. That's a great bike right there 😸 Doohickey Schmoohickey. I didn't worry about it on my gen 2, I won't mess with this one either. I hit 90mph on it every morning and I'm a chonky boy 😄
I’m short and “chonky “ too! I’m going to go look at a KLR this week
@@corriecole4687 The new one actually sits a little lower than the old one. This one feels much easier to ride 🙂 prepare to fall in love with it
Man, the dohickey is mostly U-tube chatter !
@@markcollins5026 no its not, mine failed at 7,000 miles
And your day job is as a fiction writer.
I must say, I am so greatfull for your honest review of this bike. At 60 I have owned 25 diff. Bikes from motocross to zx-10's. But now my money and age...and your reviews have steered me right to this machine.🤝
I’ve owned two of these bikes and commuted to work on them in the late 80’s/early 90’s. They were bulletproof. Took them several times from Southern California to the Central Valley to visit friends. 500 mile round trips. The bike never broke a sweat. 75mph all day long. Great review by the way.
A darn fine review and I agree 100% on your assessment! People should not overlook this bike. It offers so much capability and comfort for the money. PS: The doohickey sometimes gets confused with the cam chain, it's actually the balancer chain tensioner. The updates Kawasaki did to the cam chain system have nothing to do with the doohickey. But you're right, it's more of a long term slow death thing and not an immediate issue on the newer bikes.
Lol I'm so mechanically ignorant. I even tried to do my research and cite my sources this time and I still screwed it up. 😂😂
I did the doohicky just for piece of mind. I did find the motor had less vibration afterwards due to the higher tension on the chain that what the stock spring provided.
I bought a 2014 1/2 KLR with 1000 miles on it. I thought oh the doohickey will be be good to 10k. It broke apart at 7k. I had to install the Eagle Mike unit and am well pleased with it.
@@lunarluna *peace
@@DorkintheRoad which year(s) did the doohickeys had issues? I have a 05 klr 650 @ 13k miles, should I be worried?
FYI, even though they (KLR's) feel like they're struggling on the FWY/HWY, they will do it all day, every day for 1000's of miles with no issue's. The KLR engine is a rock solid, old design that is super reliable. Just check the oil often and give her a little love and she'll treat you good!
I am having a feud with a local gang of squirrels that have made it their purpose to chew the plastic front fender and eat the right-hand Bark Busters hand guard (strangely the left-hand one is intact). My dawgs are just too lazy to scare them away. Love my KLR650 which my son calls a farm tractor. 🤣 It's the perfect bike to go to work, around town for errands, and fresh air bushes here in Alabama. Your video is just among the best I have enjoyed. 😀 One of my buds owns a second-generation KLR 650 and he bolted an ice cooler on the back rack and takes his collapsible fishing rod and fishing gear on his side plastic bags. Sometimes he fills his ice cooler with beer and returns home with a couple catfish in place of the beer. Now, that is KLR650 life. 👍
I'm purchasing my KLR this weekend, and saw your post - I'm glad I did. I'm in my 50's and just getting into biking, and I wanted something I could ride on the city streets, and on our local trails (my backyard is the desert). I could really care less about the highway driving on a bike - done it and it scares the hell out of me, I'm white knuckling it the whole time - because I know people out here can't drive, got people from the West and East coast who live here and they're driving skills are lacking to say the least. Anyway I got it for more off roading and street and I'm not looking for a crotch rocket, something simple, good and works - and you sold me brother! You got a new subscriber!! 😃
I have a 2022 KLR and it can do 85-90mph all day on the freeway with all 280 pounds of me . Gas mileage does go down at those speeds but it's got no issues doing it. Haven't burnt off any oil but it does darken the oil quicker if I do run it at those higher speeds. Absolutely love this bike and your longer videos! Keep them coming!
How tall are you? Im 280 6’4” and am looking to get this bike with my son. He is 6’ and about half my weight would be my guess. He wants a bike. I told him if he gets a bike, I will get one too 😅
@@LordDeadSpider I'm 6'-4" and 280. The bike fits me well. I have no complaints.
I've subscribed to your channel ever since I wanted to get back into mild adventure riding. After your T7/901 reviews I put a deposit on a T7 3 months ago, then I started going back through your previous bikes/adventures. After seeing the KLR videos I realised my skill level and actual requirements in a bike were closer to a KLR than a T7. Switched my deposit to a KLR. Your honest assessments of the bikes and your ability is very refreshing. Excellent work.
Im mainly a street rider commuting to work etc.. but bought a 2022 KLR . I love it , actually traded my 2017 Indian chief , maybe a down grade but I enjoy it. I already have a dirt bike and use it regulary so this really is going to mainly be a road bike for me. I enjoy your videos, thanks
I just got my first bike 2023 KLR650 adventure and I love it
Great video - thank you for taking the time to put it out there - A note for tall riders - I am 6’1” tall with a 33 inseam, size 13 boot. I was thinking about handle bar risers, but approached this project stepwise…. I got rid of the pegs, and installed an IMS peg lowering bracket, and went with Tusk pegs, along with a Happy Trails extended shift lever. I refined my riding technique a bit, and now standing on the pegs is no problem with the stock (in riser) bars. I chose the shifter because it made of wide steel. If the shifter bends I can be straightened, and it is wide so if it hits the engine cases it will distribute the load and hopefully mot crack them. The IMS shifter is narrow, and the Tusk is aluminum. Prior to the modifications, I had a tough time getting my boot under the shifter, and stood a bit too tall - I also rotated the bars to about 10 degrees forward. Both highway and off-road are significantly improved. I hope this helps the community out there
Forget KLRs, This is one of the best MOTORCYCLE reviews EVER, on the entire internet. Period.
Excellent review! I bought mine new in 2006 with few regrets. It's exactly what you describe. Nothing fancy, without a fancy starting price. It's not the road bike my R100GS/PD was, but it's also not the boat anchor the PD was. It's also not the lightweight dual sport that my WR250R is.
What it is, is a fantastic two lane, back road road carver, smile generator, pack mule, and incredibly comfortable bike for my 6'3" frame. Wrinkly grey butt, and all.
I'm not a fan of the new style body works, but underneath it all, is a bullet proof platform that will take you around the world if you can get the time off to go.
Great review!
Great review, I am an old Honda XR 600 rider ( that was years ago) and now thinking about a dual sport for local street and trail riding. I am looking at the KLR and the Honda 650 , after watching your video I am leaning more towards the KLR. At 65 the will probably be more manageable.... Thanks again for your in depth review..
I test rode both bikes mentioned. The Honda 650 while lighter and more powerful, it was uncomfortable and harsh like a dirt bike. The klr was very plush and just cruised along. I chose the klr and couldn't be happier
Thank you for your review. I just finalized my purchase of the exact bike which you presented. I would not have felt as confident without watching your Nal
Can you tell me more about the chain tensioner doohickey?
Good job in doing these videos. I bought a KLR-650 partially because of your videos and I am very happy with it. I got an KLR-650 2023 Adventure on sale for $6,199. It was a great deal. I am very happy with the bike and the way it rides.
Well said, great review! Only 100 miles in on my 22’ KLR from a KLX250 and I LOVE IT. It’s got everything you said and I can’t emphasize enough the power is there, just not enough to get you in trouble lol. Never had so much fun in the dirt and an awesome platform that makes riding on the street a pleasure and actually fun.
Glad to hear you're enjoying it!
Thanks! Keep the content coming pal, love this channel
I just bought this exact bike, a '22 Adventure with 12k miles on the clock for $7k NZ which is just under $4k US. Couldn't be happier.
Great real world review. Got to love the travel range the KLR has from it's stock 6.1 gal fuel tank.
That is pretty amazing, for sure.
I just bought a 2022 KLR about a month ago. This is very reassuring for me. I’ve always been a fan of these but never owned one , until now. Thanks for the update and the informative videos.
Loved the review, thanks for doing it. I have a Gen 2 2018 KLR and really enjoy it. The thing I like about it that it sets expectations. I am a very average rider who just likes getting out off road. I'd rather be underestimated, and still be plugging along with everyone at the end of the day than be overestimated and then be thought of as the "all hat, no cattle" kind of a guy.
Love your honest reviews. Much better than the Magazine reviews that get invited to far off lands and the test rides. But if they invited me to so cool place I would be hard pressed to have too many negative comments. I feel your reviews are spot on for everyday riders. keep them coming
Very good review of the klr. You and I have a similar story. I hopped off my trusty 2018 klr (I purchased new) and bought a used 2017 Africa Twin-DCT earlier this year….thinking that would be a good upgrade.
I initially thought I would enjoy a bigger bike with more power, but that wasn’t the case. It proved to be much more heavier, bulkier, and too powerful for me and my casual riding style.
6 months after purchasing my AT, I sold it and picked up a new 2022 klr. Owned it for a couple months now logging 2k on the odo, and I plan on running this one for as long as it’ll go. You can’t beat em!
Your straight forward honesty made me a subscriber! Great review! I couldn’t agree more. If you’re looking for adventure NOT just a super cool fast bike, KLR all day!!!
I’ve actually been waiting for you to put this out and I’m very happy with it! I had said before that I wanted an Africa Twin but I could buy 2 of these for the price of one of those AND this thing is adventure ready out the door. Personally I also think it looks better, but the main selling point is cost and durability and the fact that this thing has such a huge following and many nicknames known throughout the world is downright awesome and what I needed to know and hear. I think this is the move and thank you very much for the awesome content. I live in AZ and I’ve traveled up the I-5 to Portland a lot as a trucker. Maybe one day I can take it up and ride with ya some day!
Greatest bike. You will never regret your memories on a KLR650
I had a KLR 650 and sold it to step up to the Africa Twin. I believe you are 100% correct on you statements and I do miss my KLR and may go back to it again. Thanks!
I too recently purchased the 22 KRL and now have 650 miles on it. Did my first oil change and used Kawa10/40 Syn and it's actually not a bad price at about $12.00 qt. It does run a bit better since changing the fluid. I agree with what you have stated and recommend the bike. One change I will make when riding on rougher dirt hilly fire roads and trails is to drop down to a 14 tooth counter shaft sprocket as I feel 2nd is a bit tall and I found myself slipping the clutch a lot coming out of tight turns and 1st is just to slow and not a preferred gear for trail riding. It is so comfortable and fun to ride. My other bike is a 2015 BMW R1200RT. Great long distance bike but so heavy and the KLR is so light feeling for its 460 lbs.
I really enjoy your channel. Thanks
Have you put many highway miles on it? I’m curious if anyone’s been experiencing oil burn off like the 2nd gens around the 70-75mph mark.
@@GetTheFO so far I have 850 miles on my bike with no oil consumption issues. Changed oil at 600 miles and put in the Kawasaki 10-40 synthetic. Try to keep the rpm's under 5,000 or up to 5,500 for short bursts.
I just got a 2023 ADV i love her. I put 500 mile round trip 80 most of the way no issues and she did great.
Really appreciate your analysis of this bike and definitely swaying me in this direction vs. the DR650 based on what I'm looking for in a first bike. My thanks!
Thanks so much for posting this video! I have about 700 miles on my 2022 KLR Adventure and I'm also experiencing 'closed-to-open throttle surge issue'. (you mention this issue in minute ~8:20 of this video)
For me, the surge issue happens around 3K RPM and up in any gear. (It does not happen in lower RPM ranges)
I filed a support case with Kawasaki and reported the issue to my dealer.
No updates from Kawasaki or dealer.
I live in the hills of western MA, trying to maintain steady speed down hill (46MPH and above in 5 gear) is when the surge issue happens a lot.
I've also mentioned this issue on the advrider forum '2022 KLR 650 EFI' and many other 2022 KLR owner's are experiencing the same surge issue.
I have a few other options to try and will not give up on resolving this issue. :)
Thanks again for the great content!
I just saw a few of these at my local Kawasaki dealer. Man, they are beautiful. I've owned 2 Honda dual sports in my life - still have my 07 XR650L. I've ridden that bike across the proverbial mountains, valleys, deserts and plains. I've made it work on the freeway. I'm sure the KLR would be far more comfortable. I now have a RZR too so that's how I do my off roading. The KLR just makes sense to me. So glad I came across your vid - very helpful!
I was looking at that orange one and thinking “man that thing looks like it’s leaning over really far?” Then you said “it leans over really far!”
Btw, it looks like a blast to own!
I appreciate your review! I had made up my mind many years ago to buy a KLR as soon as they switched to fuel injection, then by the time they did KTM had introduced the 390 Adventure which offers lower weight, more tech, and higher horsepower at a lower price. So far, I'm happy with the KTM, but I think I'd be just as happy with the KLR.
I like the 390, but I could not get over the foot peg canting forward so much. That stopped me from getting one this past winter.
Yes.. the KTM does all those things better. But all those things require more intense maintenance and more frequent. In my area there are no KTM dealers within 200 miles. So getting service is an issue. So I can't see a KTM in my future....ever.
Thank for the info, very much valuable, I just bought the Adv model 2024 2 weeks ago and love it 😊…also made the windshield mod you propose on another video, work perfectly 😊
Great review! The KLR is legendary and it sounds like the new one carries on the tradition.
What a great review. Every question I had answered. Thanks a lot. I'm seriously considering one. Love the ktm orange 🍊 colorway.
Your video may be 2 years old but ! All the reasons that i purchased my KLR where mentioned, iam 68 don't need to go fast, budget 7k total otd, reliability and seat height ( got the S model). If you read comments on bikes your head will explode. People comment without knowing all of the reasons for something but they know everything just ask them. Anyways very happy with my KLR no regrets
I love mine sadly I only got 308 miles before I had to put it away for the winter. Keep up the great content!!!!
At least you got a few hundred miles in before you had to put it away!
I agree,I have owned a few liter bikes and I’m so happy with this bike.
Love my Fully Restored 88 KLR.Finally took her on a 900 mile trip to Northern Wisconsin last yr. I stole it for $600 n then proceeded to dump $2600 into it. She was on the Zero maintenance plan so....It only had 15,000 miles on it when I bought it 3 yrs ago but when I opened her up to do the Doo it was crunched springs in the bottom case..thankfully nothing got messed up and she runs great. Got 21,000 on it now.
Dork, I like your style… and the KLR. I ride a Softtail… yet MotoCamp/Tour… not much gravel, no dirt, but love packing the bike, and hitting the road.
Love my 2023 KLR650! Can go anywhere and do anything! Just don't expect any real power. Super fun romping through the gears in the city! Holds its own on the highway. Shreds dirt if you have the skill. The gas tank lasts forever. Aaand its reliable so far(mind you it's a year old).. never rode my old bike (R6)... Ride the crap out of the new KLR!!
I subscribed immediately after the ExciteBike clip. Holy blast from the past...
Welcome to the community!
Great video, great bike. I had an older KLR it was awesome. One of the most fun bikes I have ever had. It is very capable for highway riding but it is not a Goldwing and was never meant to be. Stick to pavement with a yellow line down the middle or dirt for the most fun. The KLR will tear up dirt roads all day long. Of all the motorcycles I have owned, I think I miss the KLR the most.
Yep. This is the review I needed to push me 100% towards this bike. Much appreciated. Love the channel too!
Enjoy your new ride 😁
Thank you! I was in a serious battle between the Africa Twin and the KLR. Being you had a lot of time on an AT and more on a Gen3 helped me out tons. Excellent pros and cons on both. Very helpful in my direction of what kind of riding I’ll be doing. Looking forward to more content 🤘🏻👍🏻
Another fine video. I'm looking forward to more of your KLR adventures and mods.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the best review yet, I'm in Australia and have a 2004 one with 32,000ks with offroad chunky tyres, the dohicky upgrade and also the front and rear suspension upgrades.
I do love the bike for bush riding during the 6 cooler months and with being 60 plus I'm seriously looking at a 2022 to 2024 one some big savings for the 2022/23 models. I'm thinking one of these will do me for my last ever bike and I'll sell my 2004 one and my 2020 Royal Enfield to downsize a little.
Fantastic video! very honest and well done! I have a 2018 KLR 650 and love it! 100 percent agree with you! have a wonderful riding season!
I test rode the 23 Orange colored one and was impressed. I bought a new aftica twin in 2021 and love the bike.... But riding the klr around town and 10 miles on the freeway during my test ride it left me 2nd guesing spending the $$$ I did on my AT. If I was doing it again Id buy the KLR and then id have money left over to buy a street bike as well. I'm 160 lbs, 5'9 and travelled at 80mph in complete comfort on the KLR.
Impossible to beat if you need a BDR motocamping bike.
Excellent video, very helpful details, pros and cons. I found a 2022 Adventure at a good price. I'm going for it
I have to agree with you Ben. I have never ridden a KLR 650 but I own a Honda NC700X and have the same complaints about it. I love the bike for ridding on the highway it is also about 50 horse power and weighs 470 LB and it is very comfortable and gets 70 mpg. I have ridden it off road also and have had no issues with it at all and that is in 16000 miles. My only Con is that because it weighs so much I can not lift it at the ripe old age of 70 with bad knees and back. So I now have a new CRF300L Rally and I think it is going to work for me. If you just want to explore and not into ridding like a crazy person the KLR and the XR or a DR are all great reliable bikes at a good price and they all are dead pan reliable.
Just watched your previous vid of the klr 650 and very much appreciated this one too!
I like DITR. He seems like a stand-up dude. He tells me the KLR is the one to get for beginners. I'm a beginner. About every other YT bike content (aside Yammie) says "you can't beat this value for that amount of money". I'm in Québec, which means i'll probably have 3 to 5 hours of riding per summer before it snows again (i'm exaggerating), so the Doohickey won't be an issue before long.
I'm pulling the trigger. After months going back and forth between the Himalayan and the CB500X and an entire Québec MSF course (that lasts months here), i'm going with a bike I didn't even consider first (because the bike is about three times my weight). KLR 650 Adventure it will be.
PLUS!...and i'm not kidding about this part: the KLR community is second to none. While asking questions on forums for other bikes leads you to unprovoked insults even if you clearly underline the fact you're a beginner and don't know what the heck you're talking about yet, the KLR folks are so cool, friendly and will throw themselves towards you to give you tips and advices. You can say it doesn't matter, but personally, it's a very convincing buying factor for me.
Agreed. Very good community for that bike
I attended a Kawasaki demo day a couple months ago. I own a 2020 Ninja 650 KRT. I'm 6'2", 180#.
First bike was the 900RS. Having owned 2 Ninja 1000's this bike has a little less grunt, but you never use all the power anyway. Very nice suspension. Handles regular road bumps smoothly. This bike was perfect. All it needs for touring is a windshield and heated grips. Honestly.
Second bike up was the Versys 650. I owned a 2005 Suzuki V-Strom. This is heavier. The demo bike came loaded with luggage. Nice bike. Just way to expensive for what it is. I mean, I'd buy this over a Yamaha Tracer. It's not a dual sport. I'd never want to do that and I never did that with the V-Strom. It's like a phone that comes with too much bloatware.
Next up was the KLR. I'm 60 years old and never rode one before. I always thought it looked like it sat too high. I was wrong. This bike was the loaded Adventure. It was so new that they hadn't connected the fog lamps on it yet. I LOVE THIS BIKE!!! It feels like it weighs 400lbs. So comfy! I never saw anyone really trying the bike out during the test rides. I was standing on the pegs on the highway, in the city... I was having a blast! I didn't really notice the side cases but I like them. I have 22 litre Hepco Becker side cases on my Ninja 650 so these are fine for my purposes. I didn't notice any snatchy throttle. That's mostly because it's a single. I am seriously considering replacing my Ninja 650 with this bike. I'd use it mostly for commuting. And also...
Buying a KLX300sm! That bike was pure SMILES!!! Sorry, but FUCK the DRZ400 and it's carburetor, and price. This KLX was so nature and light and just BEGS to lean over. I might just get this bike and keep my Ninja! Brakes are fantastic. I ended up having to stop quickly and ended up on the front wheel. The trail rider just smiled at me instead of scolding me. I've never done that in my life and you couldn't wipe off my grin. I want one.
But hell yes, the KLR is fantastic. I'm still on the fence. If they made that KLR Adventure in super moto form I'd be all over it and it would be the only bike I'd own. I liked it so much I tested it twice. I think I'm sold. You can't beat that price!!! The Adventure is cheaper than a stock Versys!!!
Everything right now is on back order. THANKS COVID!
DORK... Next time try Koso heated grips. Take a look. Talk about easy install!
super fair review of the KLR650. thank you
I have found that fuel injection on some Kawasaki bikes is funky. My W800 was also, but my VersysX 300 is rock solid. Honda and Yamaha FI just seems to work a lot better on all of the bikes. I had a KLR 650 (carbs) and I loved it, but like most riders I only rode it on the highway (who rides a KLR on the highway? MOST riders. We want the ambiance of an adventure bike but most guys never go off road, just like jeep owners). The Versys X 300 does almost everything the KLR does, weighs a lot less, so it's very nimble both on and off road, it looks and feels just like a KLR when you're sitting on it (but with the Ninja sport bike engine scream of a super bike, 12,000 rpm redline), gets better mpg than the KLR and goes faster down the highway (supposedly 103 mph top speed) but will cruise all day long at 85 mph. Very comfortable on long rides too (rode it 400 miles today and was not tired at all). And the Versys doesn't have a "doohickey" and it has a real water pump. And it costs less than the lowest price KLR ($5899 vs $6899). A 300cc engine vs a 650cc? It's amazing what you can get out of a 300cc engine when you run it at high rpms. Will the engine last as long as a KLR? Nobody knows. But a water-cooled engine usually outlasts an air-cooled (with a little bit of water cooling that doesn't work very well), and the Versys doesn't have a reputation for oil burning like some KLRs do (but not all of them. Mine never used any oil).
Fantastic review very well said. I have a 2005 gen1 that I will keep to the day I die.
When moving it around in the garage or trails if you have never use the kick stand to do a 180 give it a try. Stand on kick stand side of the bike, pull the bike toward you and balance it on the stand. Carefully spin the bike to where you want it to face. Easy but takes practice. Put a small chunk of carpet under your stand so you don’t scratch your garage floor. There are TH-cam videos on it.
Best regards
Rasty
Dang good review, I love my 23 KLR 650s! {after I fixed the steering!}
This is the video that cemented my decision to buy a 2022 KLR 650. I wanted a bike that will be a decent commuter bike on a 30-mile round trip commute on a 55 mph rural highway, then be able to go 25 miles the other way into the Idaho woods to explore endless logging roads in millions of acres of wilderness.
I've had my base non-ABS pearl khaki model for four days now and have already added a bunch of mods and rode it as much as possible between storms. I am super happy with it!
I am skeptical of taking it on a 300-mile road trip to Seattle, however. It seems to be most comfortable at 65 mph or less. I have added the 3D Cycle windscreen risers, which made a HUGE difference. But, the lack of tach and incredible amount of wind noise makes me nervous to go a ton of miles in a 75 mph zone.
I had an 08 first year 2nd gen. Doo Hickey was fine. What sucked was it burned oil. I mean a lot. Unusually a lot. That door hickey thing is blown out of proportion as far as I'm concerned. Rock on Dork!
Thanks, Mark!
I have a 08 with. 48 k never has used oil between services.
@@rusty4150 mine used half a qt. Every other fill up . never ever have I had a bike that didn't leak use that much oil.
Great & thorough review as always. You may not know it, but you are in love with this bike! :)
I kinda know it.
I had a 2018 a while ago. I'm wanting another one. I miss my old tractor ❤.
Out of all the people that have commented on the KLR which I own one you are the first it’s giving it a decent rating I think the bike is great I have owned 5 KLR R’s the only thing I see wrong with this bike it has no first gear either way it runs like a rabbit and I love it and your comment is a good comment and I like it
Just bought the 2024 KLR650. Love it. Stable and definitely a step up from the DRZ. The USB port has two parts: The actual USB port with a dust cover, and a secondary larger cover with a well around the port. The well is designed so you can wrap long usb cords around the center port and only have the amount you need extending out. It is actually well designed. I do not like the placement of the fog-light switch though...you have to use your non-throttle hand (left) to reach across to switch it on. It should have been incorporated into the high-beam system. They added a high beam flash trigger, why not use that for the fog lights instead...apart from that, it's a great bike.
Thank you for putting out good content. It is nice to have "regular folk" reviews without all the false hype and blasting techno music. 😆
Don't change a thing with the way you are presenting your channel. I enjoy it exceeeeedingly!🤙
Thank you!
With Suzuki almost out of business I think this KLR is the new GOAT :- 1
I was surprised at how low the 650S seat is...sat on a lightly pre-owned one yesterday and it was bone stock. I'm 5'9" with a 30ish" inseam and on the S my feet were completely flat with a bend in my knees. I was expecting it to be lower, of course, but not that low. Ive always avoided the KLR because of the seat height and now I'm thinking maybe i should've looked into this earlier. Now I'm going to find a new or like new (stock) regular seat height KLR and see how I fit. Hopefully its not too tall and I'm stuck in between two seat heights.
Put a airhawk type seat cover on the S ?
Love the excitebike intro.
The only motorcycle that got me off my 2009 KLR 650 is my 2022 KLR 650 Adventure, I absolutely love it. And my good friend Scott finally got me to sell him my 2009 KLR.
Excellent! I may have one in a few days. Trading in a 2017 KLR.
It was Itchy boots who got me here. Her Argentina to Alaska run. She keeps trying.
I just bought the 2022 KLR650 black camo. Its my first bike. Very exciting.
Sweet bike!
Excellent nonbiased review. I agree 100% with your assessment. I watched you transition from your A-twin to this bike and paid attention.
Your honest and thoughtful reviews helped me immensely, - make my decision to buy.
Now with 510 miles of both on and off road riding I'm truly a fan. Working on getting to know this machine and heading to the Continental Divide in late August 22.
I asked for a block of instruction on rear shock adjustment and you came through! Now I'm asking for some instruction on adjusting the balancer chain tensioner....it's in the owners manual and the service manual. Make it happen Dork! 😉 And thanks for great content!
I mean...if it's in the manual, what do you need a video for? ;)
Super stoked to hear you're enjoying your bike!
@@DorkintheRoad Well my "Internet riding buddy", I need you to break-it-down Barney Style for us hand-fisted helicopter mechanics of 30+ years! 🤣🤣🤣 You're killing it Dork! I'm going to watch your channel grow! Thx! "BE EXCELLENT TO EACH OTHER......"
Got my first bike 2 days ago. A green DRZ400 aka a KLX400. So happy to finally be on 2 wheels
Great bike!
Kawasaki should throw some dollars to you bro! You convinced my uncle to buy one KLR650... I already have mine... Greetings from Guadalajara Mexico
Very honest review, I like it very much
Moving to Northern Arkansas ... a lot of dirt roads and wilderness ... the klr looks like a good bike for the job.
I bought the first, 2nd generation KLR in 08'. I went for a major tour of North America in 11' and put over 17k on the bike in less than 6 months. Never had any major issues and I keep up with all factory recommendations for maintenance. I currently have 50k miles on it and the only major fix I've had on it was fixing the doohickey. Otherwise, brakes, chains, sprockets, and tires have been my biggest expense.
Gonna have one on loan for awhile, the ultimate try before you buy.
Those Giant Loop bags sure look good on that thing ;)
Really well done review.
Ive owned about a dozen bikes in my life from dirt bikes to crotch rockets to sport cruisers. I can say without a doubt; my 2008 KLR is the funnest, most practical, most reliable, simply the best bike of any of them. Of coarse its not as fast as my Kawasaki 1000. Of coarse its not as capable off road as my Husqvarna 450.. But they are just simply a great bike. The KLR dosent do anything incredibly, but it does almost everything pretty darn good. If I could only own one bike, it would definetly be a KLR 650.
Thanks for the review!! I am seriously considering one 🧐. I really love this machine. It would be my first dual; current a road only guy but looking to change that. Ride safe! 👍🏼
It's a great bike to start with for sure
@@DorkintheRoad Yeah, that’s pretty much what everyone is saying. I don’t need that much power. Just looking to comfortably drive to some trails and hit some trails to take in some nature. 👍🏼
Just went to look at the 2022 KLR and they had about $2000 add on fees, crazy, with taxes it was $10, 800! Great video. I want something for the BDRs. Have narrowed it down to DR and KLR, maybe I should just flip a coin.
Hahaha love the contrast from the idealistic opinions of a reveal or “just bought” to the real world “had it for awhile” review
Keep in mind the KLR’s high weight is due to the 23 litre tank that is full when you see 456lbs on the stat sheet for the base model.
Spot on mate, nailed it
Anything to add regarding oil consumption?
Ing
I personally think it's drastically better looking bike than any other bike out there, for what that's worth.
I'd buy this for commuting any day. At 60 years old the soft suspension was VERY welcoming. A range of 300 miles at highway speeds? Wow.
Absolutely a great review. I hope you do more reviews on Kaws.
I did 2600 kms last summer, loaded down on my 2013 klr. Not enough power when loaded down, used too much oil. My 2021 ATAS is much better and makes getting to the trails easier. But for the price and with your eyes wide open it’s awesome(after a bunch of mods).
Love your channel btw!
Isn't it funny how the bikes we actually own seem to be the best bikes ever made in the history of bikes .
Bought a new one in 17 and put 5000 miles on it in two trips. It's not a dirt bike or a street bike and that's exactly what it was ment to be!
Picking up my KLR on Saturday, looking forward to it.
Awesome!
Excellent video
Rode a KLR to Tierra Del Fuego, 2006 model. It was very reliable and handled everything like a champ. Only downside is not much part availability in latin america. Suzuki is better on that point and what I should've brought if I'd known. That being said, no regret, my KLR was a super reliable jack of all trade and master of none. The guy I sold it too down there is still riding it, 10 years later.
I've found the KLR to be quite good on the highway. I weigh 220, not sure your weight or how much extra weight you've loaded it with. But with just my weight and my laptop bag in the top case it will cruise easily at 75 to 80 without feeling strained at all. It still has significant speed above 80 as well. As for passing, same configuration as before it easily passes. With a passenger, it was more sluggish, but still has sufficient power to get around folks. The only thing I wish it had for highway would be a cruise control, because the vibration and the driving position on the highway can begin to cause my hand to go a little numb after an hour or so.
I added a Kaoko throttle lock…… perfect!