Thanks for the honest review, I traded my KTM 790 adventure for a '23 KLR traveler model and have zero regrets. The KLR is simply fun to ride and can go anywhere reliably, plus it is simple to maintain. The bike is an absolute blast to ride through state forest roads and for camping trips, which is exactly what i got it for. I love how i can just tractor along through anything now. Enjoy the bike, the "smiles per gallon" are worth it.
I got the same 2023 KLRs model . Luv it stock with stock Kawasaki Bags, top trunk , & crash bars. I did add a windshield adjuster . This bike has taken me to the top of Mt. Washington twice already! Luv it !
Crazy heavy chem trail spray in some of those shots! Great video. Love all the original perspectives. This is not your average review! This is extremely helpful and well done! Thank you!
I have the Gen 2 and I agree with you . I have had mine since 2012 . Got it off of another TH-cam creator. It has been on TH-cam it's entire life. I say it is the jeep of motorcycles and great for old timers or riders getting to be old timers . You get to see the world with them .
I’m downsizing from a 1000lb Harley Touring bike to this. I’m about to turn 62. A over 500lb weight reduction will be welcome. The engine sounds like a tractor but that doesn’t bother me. Speed is not important. Being retired all I have is time. I don’t mind driving 65 or less I prefer it. I hate interstates and we don’t have one real close. Reliable and most importantly the ability to take dirt or gravel roads is something I missed on my bagger. It’s not going to cost me anything as my trade in value is double that of a new KLR. Win Win. This bike looks fun to ride and that’s exactly what I’m looking for. Thanks for your review.
My KLR is my mule. I can load all my crap on it, It'll take me where I want to go. I won't get there in a hurry but I'll get there. It'll run on interstate highways, 2 lane highways, two track back roads and some trails that aren't challenging. I camp with it, I get groceries with it, I go to the auto parts store and stuff like that. It always starts. You have to maintain it by adjusting the doohickey and putting oil in it. It's burned oil since I got it. I've changed many parts because they make it better, not faster or louder. I love it. I've gone from the Great Lakes to the West Coast many times. As far as the biggest best changes was one tooth bigger on the front and one tooth bigger in the back. Didn't need to use a longer chain, the new one I put on with the sprockets fit perfectly. Get up mule!
Roger on the gearing upgrade. On my 2008 Vstrom 650, they come stock with 15t / 47t sprockets. The engine buzzed a but much for easy highway cruising. Texas is 75 mph most highways & 85 in West Texas. I JUST upped the front 1 tooth to a 16t JT brand cog: Total Game changer ! RPM is now relaxed & engine can easily w/ no strain pull the slightly higher gear. I'm sure mpg will increase & I'm told speedo inaccuracy will be fixed. What an improvement for an $18 cog lol !
As far as wind protection, I got a shield extender and added a wind deflector. Made a substantial difference in buffeting. Also, adding mirror extenders helped, believe it or not.
I have a 2013. The previous owner put a slightly raised wind screen on it I'm only 5'7 so if I hunch just a little it can sustain 80 mph on the highway without too much head buffeting but, I do get pushed around by cross wind and the wind from big trucks. I really like the bike it rides super plush. other than only being able to put one foot flat on the ground at stop lights, it is super easy to ride, basically you don't have to pay so much attention to the bike itself - it just pulls you along. It's not too noisy, it is amazingly smooth for a thumper. I did the basic bitch KLR owner thing by, bungeeing an old milk crate to the cargo rack.
I have exactly the same bike (plus skid plate and a lot more scratches and dirt), and I freakin' love it. It can feel top-heavy at times, and every once in a long while I'll air down the front if it gets too squirrelly in loose gravel. I don't usually bother, but I did figure out when it's a step worth the stop for me. Same thing with the preload--unless I have camp gear loaded, I actually find the squishiness easier to manage, and a bit more stable. I scrape it over
Great timing for this video. I’m supposed to finally get a test ride on a KLR650 this week. It will probably have to be the regular height KLR but if I buy I’m much more interested in the “S” version as I am 5’ 8”, 30” inseam. I would like to try placing the shorter S seat on the regular KLR to see if that would be enough of a seat height drop, but I do like the feel of the shorter bike. I’m like you in that I don’t plan to do any mods that aren’t really necessary, just the bark busters, the crash bars, and maybe the skid plate. I live in Arizona so our highway speeds are 75mph+, but I’ll try to keep to the slower roads, hopefully dirt roads. My only real concern is getting a flat with a tube-tire. I guess I need to get a center stand too and an extensive repair kit. If I buy one it would be my first KLR, but my 22nd motorcycle so I’m not a newbie. Thanks for your video, you speak my language for sure!
Im not sure of the dealer inventory in your area, but i think an S would be worth waiting for in your scenario. The KLRs are so top heavy, once you give it a little lean at a stop light, it goes from 20 lbs to 500 lbs pretty quickly. I went for the S because i enjoy flat footing. Before the S, some people would just switch the seat out, I know Corbin and seat concepts make a low profile seat. to get that extra inch lower. For the highway, just raise the wind screen a bit, it is adjustable. 70 mph is what i consider my top cruising speed, saving some for passing
@@getlostbrandon My local dealer has several KLR’s of all types so I had my pick. I basically bought it today but I’ll pick it up in the next day or two. Since I rode my 550lb Bandit over there I thought the Adventure model I rode was pretty light actually, no issues with its weight. I can’t say I like it better or worse than my 1250, it’s a completely different feeling, but I liked it, it felt like an easier machine to ride and maneuver. My new adventure starts this weekend. Oh, I decided on the 650 S model, in that attractive gloss gray color.
ah good choice, i originally wanted an Adventure model, but quickly learned the factory accessories are weak. (the panniers are fragile plastic, the crash protection isn't really protection) the light bar is cool though@@louislopez55
Mee too I have a 2008 Vstrom 650. Perfect condition, never been off-road. I'd say the Vee & KLR occupy opposite territory, biased of road / off road opposite like 70/30. In a perfect world I'd have a KLR for when the "dirt mood" strikes. Until then.....
In Oct '23, I did a 2 day 925 mile all hwy/interstate ride. The second day was 550 miles. The KLR is capable and fun. I have a tall windscreen, custom touring seat and a GoCruise throttle lock. I am 6'1", 245 and 69 yoa. If u can do it, a KLR can do it.
Very mater of fact and practical review. You have completed a nice array of adventures during your 1200 miles. I just got over 1200 on mine and have really only had one good adventure so far. I need to catch up. Best of luck on your next 1200 miles and the adventures yet to come.
People have been complaining about steering issues with the 2023 KLR’s. Apparently a nut in the steering assembly was torqued improperly from the factory and they not only have to be re-torqued but some bearings need to be replaced. Have you noticed any problems taking corners at low speeds, like 10 or15 mph ? Thanks.
i've had zero issues with my steering. I am aware of the issue, but i believe it was only a few hundred KLR 650s that had the issue out of a certain batch number, it had to be an early 2023 model to be affected because Kawasaki caught the defect on their machinery and alerted dealers.
@@getlostbrandon Thanks. Someone in my area is selling their 2023 KLR S. Looks just like yours. Only 600 miles on it and they’re asking about $4,000. I’m think’n that might be a good deal.
I have a 2023 KLR 650 and I am hearing the same thing about the steering bearings. My KLR feels kind of sketchy, doing sharp, low speed turns. I am not sure if it is just me, or the KLR's possibly over-torqued steering nut.
@@lincolnscott5547 I'd take it to the dealer if you haven't yet. It might be one of the few problem ones. I did a lot of slow speed turns when i got mine. I still do, never felt sketchy.
Has anyone in here had issues with their 2023 KLR 650's steering bearings? I own a 2023 KLR and I am hearing that many of them had their steering nuts over torqued at the factory. Does anyone else know anything about this issue with some of the '23 models?
I just bought that exact same bike. Candy lime green. Picking it up tuesday. Watching your video helped me make that decision. Thanks for the straightforward info. Is there any Sasquatch activity reported in that area?
Ha! My daughter and i just passed an orange KLR 10 minutes ago and had this same discussion. I wanted an orange but settled for green, which grew on me
Being new to off pavement riding I figure the safety orange color made sense. Just kidding. It was the one they had in the "basic" model @@getlostbrandon
I love the Kawasski Green. Mine is the orange colour. I got it for a good price, but if I had it my way I'd rather the green. Colour doesn't matter so much in the end though. I love the bike.
@@getlostbrandon I like it a lot. Mine is the red/orange, not bad, as I got it for a good price. If I had bought brand new, I would have insisted on the Green.
I got a KLR650S for all the reasons you covered here. We don't have any interstates where I live, so I never really have to go above 65. It's really comfortable at 65. I haven't taken it off road yet. I just got my Barkbusters in the mail and I am going to be ordering the Tusk crash guards and pannier racks right soon. Then it's Katy bar the door! One of the things I really appreciate about the S version as a short rider (27" inseam") is that they narrowed the seat as well as lowering the bike. That makes all the difference in the world for me. Thanks for validating my purchase!
i admit im a little on the top end of the "s" height at 5'11" with a 32" inseam. I do find when the bike is more laden with overnight gear, that my knees hit a less than desirable 90 degree angle. It's not quite honda monkey uncomfortable yet, but i am contemplating trading for the full height KLR, or maybe just switching the suspension back. I didn't know that the seat was narrower, that is a good thing for comfort reasons. I already wear padded shorts and find it extends the hours i can ride quite a bit
I've seen some people install the standard KLR Seat to raise the sitting position. I'm the same height as you and the standard KLR minus about an 1 inch would be close to perfect. But, other than the more difficult trails, the standard height is fine. I bet the corbin rally seat would be perfect for you. The better you can reach the ground the better it is in harder off road situations at least for me. I have a new set of tires coming, rear is a slightly taller tire 90 instead of the stock 80, which is suppose to help a little to lower the rpm's at highway speeds and will be changing the front sprocket to the 16t also. the slightly taller rear tire will also raise the bike slightly. For now I'm setting it up for more on road capabilities and for sure will get back to more off road adventures in the near future. just fun to play with it and eventually land on the perfect setup. But, they are great bikes @@getlostbrandon
Yeah that was an issue that came up. I think Bodeans Adventures did a video on it. Its only a small percentage of bikes made in early 2023. Mine has had no issues up to 2,500 miles now. It's also possible some shops also just knew of the issue and fix it before leaving the showroom
@@getlostbrandon: Thanks, I've looked at Revzilli briefly. Now I need to know how to lengthen the chain for the change. Thanks for your answer to finding a sprocket.
as i understand, the reason people recommend the front sprocket is because you don't need to lengthen the chain. Changing the rear sprocket would require that im told @@CaliforniaFly
Oh honestly if you are looking for the single track lifestyle, any of the true dual sports will fit the bill. If you're tall, KTM 350 EXC-F for example, Honda CRF 450L, shorter riders might end up on a TW-200 even. A lighter sub 300 lb bike is really what you want for single track. Not a 500 lb tank which the KLR is.
Hey Bran, how tall are you? I'm 6 ft., but felt that the standard height was too high on my test ride. 73 yo and not an aggressive rider. Considering an S...fire roads and easy ATV trails. thx!
Im just shy of 5'11. if you swap a standard model KLR seat on to the S it will feel taller. My knees get cramped every now and then on the S, and i'm still running a stock seat. The suspension does settle a bit to over time. So what is too tall yesterday may be just right today. I think i would consider the standard model in your case and just expect the added weight of of bars and spare parts on the back to help it settle down.
That gearing problem - 1st a bit too long, last gear - too short with a feeling tor one more missing top gear is a problem not only on KLR but maybe the majority of old J adv bikes that where designed in the 80's and they never changed them. It's baffling why they don't fix this things
It's easily fixed but YOU have to wrench a bit. Just upped my Vstrom 650s front cog from stock 15 to 16 tooth. The improvement is unbelievable. The bike now acts like a Highway Gobbler, with relaxed rpms & smoothness like never before. Total cost was $18 for a JT brand cog & 1 hour of my time. I DID watch a great TH-cam tutorial & got to "fine tune & lube" my chain - which is crucial to longevity anyways.
@@getlostbrandon no. I put it on yesterday and it takes two people to get the bike pull the bike backwards to use it. And that was in the dirt. Concrete is impossible. It adjustable.
thats why i always bring a book of matches. A machine with 6 gallons of fuel is sure to send up a large enough mushroom cloud that I will be seen from at least 10 miles away if something goes wrong, and $6,000 is cheaper than search and rescue!
@@xnihilo1044 You're right! And so does the XR650L. So, I don't know why I only hear this complaint about the KLR. They all have 5 gears, and there's probably a good reason for it. I apologize, I just never heard anyone complain that the DR650 only has 5 gears, and I thought i heard someone recently day it had 6 🙂 anyway, so does my 1971 CB350 and 1971 R60/5 only have 5 gears. I checked the Suzuki website, and it doesn't say how many gears in the specifications. Thanks for the correction.
Meeehhhh. It's more like your grandpas gravel road bike. I have found on the technical or more challenging terrain or road surfaces, it can not cut it.
Thanks for the honest review, I traded my KTM 790 adventure for a '23 KLR traveler model and have zero regrets. The KLR is simply fun to ride and can go anywhere reliably, plus it is simple to maintain. The bike is an absolute blast to ride through state forest roads and for camping trips, which is exactly what i got it for. I love how i can just tractor along through anything now. Enjoy the bike, the "smiles per gallon" are worth it.
I bought my 2012 KLR new. I will never sell it.
I got the same 2023 KLRs model . Luv it stock with stock Kawasaki Bags, top trunk , & crash bars. I did add a windshield adjuster . This bike has taken me to the top of Mt. Washington twice already! Luv it !
Great and honest review. I am considering a KLRs.
Crazy heavy chem trail spray in some of those shots! Great video. Love all the original perspectives. This is not your average review! This is extremely helpful and well done! Thank you!
I have the Gen 2 and I agree with you . I have had mine since 2012 . Got it off of another TH-cam creator. It has been on TH-cam it's entire life. I say it is the jeep of motorcycles and great for old timers or riders getting to be old timers . You get to see the world with them .
"the Jeep of mtorcycles" .....couldn't have made a better description 👏👏
I’m downsizing from a 1000lb Harley Touring bike to this. I’m about to turn 62. A over 500lb weight reduction will be welcome. The engine sounds like a tractor but that doesn’t bother me. Speed is not important. Being retired all I have is time. I don’t mind driving 65 or less I prefer it. I hate interstates and we don’t have one real close. Reliable and most importantly the ability to take dirt or gravel roads is something I missed on my bagger. It’s not going to cost me anything as my trade in value is double that of a new KLR. Win Win. This bike looks fun to ride and that’s exactly what I’m looking for. Thanks for your review.
It's one of the few things that is still made "like they used to make em" . A few modifications required, but that is actually the fun part
Cool beans bud. Appreciate your take on what was my very first bike and is now again my bike of choice, like you it fits me. Ride on👍🏾
My KLR is my mule. I can load all my crap on it, It'll take me where I want to go. I won't get there in a hurry but I'll get there. It'll run on interstate highways, 2 lane highways, two track back roads and some trails that aren't challenging. I camp with it, I get groceries with it, I go to the auto parts store and stuff like that. It always starts. You have to maintain it by adjusting the doohickey and putting oil in it. It's burned oil since I got it. I've changed many parts because they make it better, not faster or louder. I love it. I've gone from the Great Lakes to the West Coast many times. As far as the biggest best changes was one tooth bigger on the front and one tooth bigger in the back. Didn't need to use a longer chain, the new one I put on with the sprockets fit perfectly. Get up mule!
sounds like that KLR found the right owner. 👍 At least that's the kind of use i would want if i was born a motorcycle 😅
Roger on the gearing upgrade.
On my 2008 Vstrom 650, they come stock with 15t / 47t sprockets.
The engine buzzed a but much for easy highway cruising.
Texas is 75 mph most highways & 85 in West Texas.
I JUST upped the front 1 tooth to a 16t JT brand cog:
Total Game changer !
RPM is now relaxed & engine can easily w/ no strain pull the slightly higher gear.
I'm sure mpg will increase & I'm told speedo inaccuracy will be fixed.
What an improvement for an $18 cog lol !
As far as wind protection, I got a shield extender and added a wind deflector. Made a substantial difference in buffeting. Also, adding mirror extenders helped, believe it or not.
Great down to earth Oregonian review, good for you! Appreciate the aftermarket thoughts. Best, Rola
Great video! It’s a secondary highway machine. For an interstate machine, one needs to look at a highway cruiser.
I had a 2005 klr and everything you said is true, I doesn't do anything pretty but it will take you anywhere you want to go.
I have a 2013. The previous owner put a slightly raised wind screen on it I'm only 5'7 so if I hunch just a little it can sustain 80 mph on the highway without too much head buffeting but, I do get pushed around by cross wind and the wind from big trucks. I really like the bike it rides super plush. other than only being able to put one foot flat on the ground at stop lights, it is super easy to ride, basically you don't have to pay so much attention to the bike itself - it just pulls you along. It's not too noisy, it is amazingly smooth for a thumper. I did the basic bitch KLR owner thing by, bungeeing an old milk crate to the cargo rack.
Welcome to the club!
I have exactly the same bike (plus skid plate and a lot more scratches and dirt), and I freakin' love it.
It can feel top-heavy at times, and every once in a long while I'll air down the front if it gets too squirrelly in loose gravel. I don't usually bother, but I did figure out when it's a step worth the stop for me. Same thing with the preload--unless I have camp gear loaded, I actually find the squishiness easier to manage, and a bit more stable.
I scrape it over
Great timing for this video. I’m supposed to finally get a test ride on a KLR650 this week. It will probably have to be the regular height KLR but if I buy I’m much more interested in the “S” version as I am 5’ 8”, 30” inseam. I would like to try placing the shorter S seat on the regular KLR to see if that would be enough of a seat height drop, but I do like the feel of the shorter bike. I’m like you in that I don’t plan to do any mods that aren’t really necessary, just the bark busters, the crash bars, and maybe the skid plate. I live in Arizona so our highway speeds are 75mph+, but I’ll try to keep to the slower roads, hopefully dirt roads. My only real concern is getting a flat with a tube-tire. I guess I need to get a center stand too and an extensive repair kit. If I buy one it would be my first KLR, but my 22nd motorcycle so I’m not a newbie. Thanks for your video, you speak my language for sure!
Im not sure of the dealer inventory in your area, but i think an S would be worth waiting for in your scenario. The KLRs are so top heavy, once you give it a little lean at a stop light, it goes from 20 lbs to 500 lbs pretty quickly. I went for the S because i enjoy flat footing. Before the S, some people would just switch the seat out, I know Corbin and seat concepts make a low profile seat. to get that extra inch lower. For the highway, just raise the wind screen a bit, it is adjustable. 70 mph is what i consider my top cruising speed, saving some for passing
@@getlostbrandon My local dealer has several KLR’s of all types so I had my pick. I basically bought it today but I’ll pick it up in the next day or two. Since I rode my 550lb Bandit over there I thought the Adventure model I rode was pretty light actually, no issues with its weight. I can’t say I like it better or worse than my 1250, it’s a completely different feeling, but I liked it, it felt like an easier machine to ride and maneuver. My new adventure starts this weekend. Oh, I decided on the 650 S model, in that attractive gloss gray color.
ah good choice, i originally wanted an Adventure model, but quickly learned the factory accessories are weak. (the panniers are fragile plastic, the crash protection isn't really protection) the light bar is cool though@@louislopez55
I bought a 2023 S. My third KLR over the last 17yrs. Love this bike. The S is the way to go. It is my 28th bike. I’m 3/4 of a hundred yrs old.
Thank you for the review - I ride a 650 V Strom, and I don't think I will ever down to a KLR
Mee too I have a 2008 Vstrom 650.
Perfect condition, never been off-road.
I'd say the Vee & KLR occupy opposite territory, biased of road / off road opposite like 70/30.
In a perfect world I'd have a KLR for when the "dirt mood" strikes.
Until then.....
Me too. World be replacing my RE Himalayan though. One for the highway, one for the backroads..
In Oct '23, I did a 2 day 925 mile all hwy/interstate ride. The second day was 550 miles. The KLR is capable and fun. I have a tall windscreen, custom touring seat and a GoCruise throttle lock. I am 6'1", 245 and 69 yoa. If u can do it, a KLR can do it.
Amen brother
Very mater of fact and practical review.
You have completed a nice array of adventures during your 1200 miles. I just got over 1200 on mine and have really only had one good adventure so far. I need to catch up.
Best of luck on your next 1200 miles and the adventures yet to come.
People have been complaining about steering issues with the 2023 KLR’s. Apparently a nut in the steering assembly was torqued improperly from the factory
and they not only have to be re-torqued but some bearings need to be replaced. Have you noticed any problems taking corners at low speeds, like 10 or15 mph ? Thanks.
i've had zero issues with my steering. I am aware of the issue, but i believe it was only a few hundred KLR 650s that had the issue out of a certain batch number, it had to be an early 2023 model to be affected because Kawasaki caught the defect on their machinery and alerted dealers.
@@getlostbrandon Thanks. Someone in my area is selling their 2023 KLR S. Looks just like yours. Only 600 miles on it and they’re asking about $4,000.
I’m think’n that might be a good deal.
I have a 2023 KLR 650 and I am hearing the same thing about the steering bearings. My KLR feels kind of sketchy, doing sharp, low speed turns. I am not sure if it is just me, or the KLR's possibly over-torqued steering nut.
@@lincolnscott5547 I'd take it to the dealer if you haven't yet. It might be one of the few problem ones. I did a lot of slow speed turns when i got mine. I still do, never felt sketchy.
Has anyone in here had issues with their 2023 KLR 650's steering bearings? I own a 2023 KLR and I am hearing that many of them had their steering nuts over torqued at the factory. Does anyone else know anything about this issue with some of the '23 models?
I just bought that exact same bike. Candy lime green. Picking it up tuesday. Watching your video helped me make that decision. Thanks for the straightforward info. Is there any Sasquatch activity reported in that area?
Sometimes I see Bigfoot in the morning, and then I just realize i forgot to put a shirt on
Thanks for the info
I love my Orange 2022 but that green. Damn.
Ha! My daughter and i just passed an orange KLR 10 minutes ago and had this same discussion. I wanted an orange but settled for green, which grew on me
Being new to off pavement riding I figure the safety orange color made sense. Just kidding. It was the one they had in the "basic" model @@getlostbrandon
I love the Kawasski Green. Mine is the orange colour. I got it for a good price, but if I had it my way I'd rather the green. Colour doesn't matter so much in the end though. I love the bike.
What do you think of the 24' color schemes? The green seriously grew on me, but i can't say i haven't double taked for a white or red.
@@getlostbrandon I like it a lot. Mine is the red/orange, not bad, as I got it for a good price. If I had bought brand new, I would have insisted on the Green.
Kawasaki Green is Beautiful!
getting lost sounds fun. always loved that bike.
I got a KLR650S for all the reasons you covered here. We don't have any interstates where I live, so I never really have to go above 65. It's really comfortable at 65.
I haven't taken it off road yet. I just got my Barkbusters in the mail and I am going to be ordering the Tusk crash guards and pannier racks right soon. Then it's Katy bar the door!
One of the things I really appreciate about the S version as a short rider (27" inseam") is that they narrowed the seat as well as lowering the bike. That makes all the difference in the world for me.
Thanks for validating my purchase!
i admit im a little on the top end of the "s" height at 5'11" with a 32" inseam. I do find when the bike is more laden with overnight gear, that my knees hit a less than desirable 90 degree angle. It's not quite honda monkey uncomfortable yet, but i am contemplating trading for the full height KLR, or maybe just switching the suspension back. I didn't know that the seat was narrower, that is a good thing for comfort reasons. I already wear padded shorts and find it extends the hours i can ride quite a bit
I've seen some people install the standard KLR Seat to raise the sitting position. I'm the same height as you and the standard KLR minus about an 1 inch would be close to perfect. But, other than the more difficult trails, the standard height is fine. I bet the corbin rally seat would be perfect for you. The better you can reach the ground the better it is in harder off road situations at least for me. I have a new set of tires coming, rear is a slightly taller tire 90 instead of the stock 80, which is suppose to help a little to lower the rpm's at highway speeds and will be changing the front sprocket to the 16t also. the slightly taller rear tire will also raise the bike slightly. For now I'm setting it up for more on road capabilities and for sure will get back to more off road adventures in the near future. just fun to play with it and eventually land on the perfect setup. But, they are great bikes @@getlostbrandon
great info, thanks! @@eminiscalperpro9729
Has anyone has an issue with the steering bearings being to tight and creating a steering issue with the 2023 model?
Yeah that was an issue that came up. I think Bodeans Adventures did a video on it. Its only a small percentage of bikes made in early 2023. Mine has had no issues up to 2,500 miles now. It's also possible some shops also just knew of the issue and fix it before leaving the showroom
Good Job!
It’s a Cj7 WW2 jeep with 2 wheels
Nice info! Who sells the 16 tooth front sprockets? Is it a Kawasaki item or is it fairly common item for bikes?
Im sure Revzilla, Rocky Mountain, or 3D cycle parts have it. I've heard JT, Sunstar and primary drive are all good brands
@@getlostbrandon: Thanks, I've looked at Revzilli briefly. Now I need to know how to lengthen the chain for the change. Thanks for your answer to finding a sprocket.
as i understand, the reason people recommend the front sprocket is because you don't need to lengthen the chain. Changing the rear sprocket would require that im told @@CaliforniaFly
@@CaliforniaFly
I'll concurr: a 1 tooth front cog enlargement (lower hwy revs) won't require new chain, just minor adjustment.
Thank you, I appreciate the advice. @@psalm2forliberty577
Lets ride! Just got mine.
Let's do it!
Well said!
What other bike would you recommend when you come across going over logs and all that. You mentioned you had other toys.
Oh honestly if you are looking for the single track lifestyle, any of the true dual sports will fit the bill. If you're tall, KTM 350 EXC-F for example, Honda CRF 450L, shorter riders might end up on a TW-200 even. A lighter sub 300 lb bike is really what you want for single track. Not a 500 lb tank which the KLR is.
Hey Bran, how tall are you? I'm 6 ft., but felt that the standard height was too high on my test ride. 73 yo and not an aggressive rider. Considering an S...fire roads and easy ATV trails. thx!
Im just shy of 5'11. if you swap a standard model KLR seat on to the S it will feel taller. My knees get cramped every now and then on the S, and i'm still running a stock seat. The suspension does settle a bit to over time. So what is too tall yesterday may be just right today. I think i would consider the standard model in your case and just expect the added weight of of bars and spare parts on the back to help it settle down.
That gearing problem - 1st a bit too long, last gear - too short with a feeling tor one more missing top gear is a problem not only on KLR but maybe the majority of old J adv bikes that where designed in the 80's and they never changed them. It's baffling why they don't fix this things
It's easily fixed but YOU have to wrench a bit.
Just upped my Vstrom 650s front cog from stock 15 to 16 tooth.
The improvement is unbelievable.
The bike now acts like a Highway Gobbler, with relaxed rpms & smoothness like never before.
Total cost was $18 for a JT brand cog & 1 hour of my time.
I DID watch a great TH-cam tutorial & got to "fine tune & lube" my chain - which is crucial to longevity anyways.
@@psalm2forliberty577wouldn't that make 1st even taller though?
@@Roger_Ramjet
Yes Sir that's the only downside / tradeoff.
I'm ok with it our Texas Highways are all 75+ mph !
Debating on getting one. I think they still have a 1k rebate going on. Wanna use it for a commuter.
they'll commute great, and you can always drive over a curb or two for fun
I'm having trouble finding a center stand for my S model klr. Happy trails does not work.
hmmm, that's a tough one. Im assuming you tried the adjustable one and it isn't short enough on it's lowest setting?
@@getlostbrandon no. I put it on yesterday and it takes two people to get the bike pull the bike backwards to use it. And that was in the dirt. Concrete is impossible. It adjustable.
Get the thermo bob
I can only comment from 2 friends that sold there klr s disappointed even on street. And hated on dirt. So true not great at anything
It ALL DEPENDS upon your expectations, your goals for the machine.
At 1384 miles my 2023 KLR 650 S ate its doohicky. Dealer fixed under warranty. You have been warned.
What did the bike do when it happened?
"Brandon" "is" "LOST", LOL,
LGB
Хочу клр 650 , дуже хочу, а придбати неможна.Я вибачаюсь. Україна.
Your smile is from the relief that you actually made it to your destination and this POS machine's engine didnt explode on the way
thats why i always bring a book of matches. A machine with 6 gallons of fuel is sure to send up a large enough mushroom cloud that I will be seen from at least 10 miles away if something goes wrong, and $6,000 is cheaper than search and rescue!
@@getlostbrandon lol that works. Use the windshield to fan the flames into SOS signals. We'll drive over the mountain for ya
The DR650 has 6 gears. Doesn't really make any difference on the highway.
Hmm....6 gears? My DR had only 5.
@@xnihilo1044
You're right! And so does the XR650L. So, I don't know why I only hear this complaint about the KLR. They all have 5 gears, and there's probably a good reason for it. I apologize, I just never heard anyone complain that the DR650 only has 5 gears, and I thought i heard someone recently day it had 6 🙂 anyway, so does my 1971 CB350 and 1971 R60/5 only have 5 gears.
I checked the Suzuki website, and it doesn't say how many gears in the specifications. Thanks for the correction.
Meeehhhh. It's more like your grandpas gravel road bike. I have found on the technical or more challenging terrain or road surfaces, it can not cut it.