I have mirrored your riding history and outlook. Having started out with a Honda XR75 as a kid and somehow drifting into owning a 2008 KLR650 and a 2006 KLX250. I am also risk and high speed adverse. I got the KLR in 2009 and it has taken me on weeks long trips to the middle of Australia with no issues and it suits my riding style so perfectly I have never considered replacing it. Being a carpenter I believe you should always use the right tool for the job and the KLX is perfect for when I want to ride the tighter, steeper tracks around my home town. Both bikes are simple to maintain and have proven to be extremely reliable. The only issue is trying to find fellow riders who are like minded to go out on some relaxed rides with. Every group ride I have gone on I usually volunteer to be tail end Charlie so I don’t hold everyone up. I’m sure you will enjoy the KLX for many years to come. Thanks for making the video!
Nice! Thanks for putting this together. I’m coming from only riding cruisers for 15 years and am buying my first dual sport. I ordered the KLX 300. This video let me know I made the right choice. Cheers!
Are you getting younger, stronger, tougher? Are you getting older, weaker, more fragile? Do you see yourself taking longer or shorter trips? Therein lies your answer. I like the digital camo too.
Interesting video and I agree with you on several points. I got a KLR about two months ago and that was my introduction to riding on the dirt. I quickly realized it is dirt capable but NOT A dirt bike. However, after watching several “adventure bike“ riding tips videos, I realized how capable the KLR can be off road. And once you learn how to pick it up (Deadlift work out🏋🏼♂️) and accept the fact that you can get wherever you want to get just a bit slower, the KLR 650 is still a fantastic machine! I think after you build up your dirt writing skills on the KLX that you would enjoy throwing your leg over the KLR and attempting some of those dirt roads again.
Very thoughtful vid, Matt! I had the same dilemma. One of my buddies cannot pick up his KLR alone. I had a 2000 KLR250 but it's carburetor did not like our high Colorado mtn. passes. Dilemma - which way do I go. My KLR250 weighed under 260 lbs. I was in my '60s and didn't want a heavy bike for off road. I realize not everyone can own 3 bikes, but that's where I am now. #1 is a Husaberg FE390, 40 hp and 251 lbs dry & great torque, but NOT a highway bike with its VERY aggressive knobbies. So I also bought #2 a Kawasaki Versys X300, 40 hp, 386 lbs wet. I CAN pick it up, but I grunt when I do. GREAT bike, and very easy to ride - OK on highway, but NOT up steep hills at highway speeds at 8-9000 ft. elevation. SO...I get #3 is a Suzuki Vstrom 650XT, 70 hp and 485 lbs. (I've not lifted it yet, probably can't without help.) Overall, I pick the best tool for the day or trip at hand. But on a day to day basis I still have the dilemma of what to ride any particular day. Everyone knows any dual sport is going to be a compromise one way or another, and something like a DRZ 400 or KTM 350 (four stroke, over 40 hp and 230 lbs!) may be the best compromise, but multiple bikes is a nice alternative! Thanks for your great vid. -Ray, in the hills near Durango, CO.
Loved the video. I've also owned a KLR but needed something faster & even more road oriented so I got a Versys 650 but missed the KLR. That was several yrs ago. Now at 72 yrs old & living in an area with lots of hilly gravel rds some of which are more like logging rds I decided on a small dual sport 250 . In my area it's either a Honda CRF250L or the KLX250 which I have now & it really is what I need for my Intended purpose. It's like a mini KLR , but like any bike I need to make some adjustments to it for my personal preference & needs. A rear rack & Rotopaks system is #1 cause it cheaper than a bigger tank & that's all I need. Best of luck to you in your decision.
The 2 things I have found with my KLR. That helped me do well off road are full knobby tires as well as the KLR likes to be ridden at speed. It's a little intimidating at first, but once you commit to riding this way you can even do single track. Also I found the knobbys not to bad on the highway.
I'm new to riding a think I'll go for the KLX, seems like an easier/more forgiving bike to manage and learn on plus I already have a truck and planned on doing what you described. Riding in air-conditioned comfort to my destination before hoping out to tear up trails and backroads.
Good video and thanks for sharing your honest thoughts. I have owned both bikes for over 4 years. I am 5'10", 160 lbs, 57 yo, not strong at all and totally out of shape office worker. I can pick up the KLR easy enough and I would not need help unless it was stuck in mud. About the same with the KLX (it is pig too), but I could probably drag it out of the mud on its side though. To me, there is no difference between these bikes either on or off road, with one exception. The KLX cannot cruise on the interstate at 80 mph period - it just cannot go that fast. I am trying to frame the conversation with that statement, so let me explain. I have driven my KLR 1000 miles to Key West at mostly 80mph in a single day. No problem for the bike, but I never want to do it again - the vibrations numb you everywhere. You cannot sustain 80mph on a KLX, but if it could, and you put a KLR seat on it, it would do it better than a KLR by a huge margin. There is zero vibration form the KLX motor at any rpm, and the KLX is way better than a KLR on the street in every way until you must go over 65 mph for a sustained period of time. Off road, I have pushed my KLX through some very gnarly stuff and it got me to the other side, but I did not enjoy it one bit. The bike is rediculusly front heavy and has less than zero usable torque to ever be real fun off road. I could do anything on my KLR that I can do on my KLX, and I would enjoy it much more on the KLR - shy of pulling it out of the mud. The KLR has some kind of foo foo magic that makes it work really well off road - it makes zero sense to me. My wild ass guess is that the KLR has suspension appropriate for the weight of the bike and a torque profile that makes the rear wheel plant and pull exceptionally well in sketchy terrain. As long the rear wheel is pulling you are still on two wheels and the KLR rear wheel just keeps wanting to pull. The KLX is so front heavy it just plain stinks off road, the rear wheel never hooks up and wants to fly. At the end of the day, both are awesome bikes if used appropriately, but if you want to ride off road, neither is less even 10% as good off road as the cheapest non-street legal trail bike you could buy - like a Honda CRF230F, Yamaha TTR230, or Kawasaki KLX230R. I agree the KLR is the better bike for the grand adventure, it is designed to load up like a pack mule, the KLX subframe and suspension will need some work if that is your plan, but it is not too expensive to modify. For reader reference, I am a mediocre intermediate rider; I ride with my feet on pegs off road so bike weight is zero issue until I fall. I will be a KLR owner until I cannot ride a bike - it really is the only do it all bike. I sold a perfect 2006 KLX 6 months ago and I am buying a fixer up 2007 tomorrow for more money. So, despite me telling you they are the same bike, I want one of each in my stable. Kawasaki focuses on making the KLX a street bike, and focuses on making the KLR a dirt bike,
Wow! What a great response. You must be very strong! I'm 5'11" 180 lbs. and I cannot lift the KLR by myself. Maybe I need to start either working out or learning a better way to pick up the bike. I saw a very small woman pick up the KLR, but I simply cannot do it. I'm just not strong enough or smart enough (probably the latter). You're right, the KLX will not maintain highway speeds and can't replace the KLR for that. If I were to bike around the world, it would be the KLR for sure over the KLX, but I"m not biking around the world. I just like to go on fire roads, and I put my KLX in the back of my truck to get to my destination. Thanks for such a well-thought out response. Take Care!
Had a klr for about 5 years and had the same love / hate relationship with it. Also hated the seat and the aftermarket seat. On the 250 now and pretty happy. I also should say I do have a Harley for street riding. If your gonna ride a 250 you still need something for the road because it won’t cut it.
Just got a 2023 Adventure and I love it; I knew what I was getting and not getting when I bought it. My Harley Sportster and FXRS have higher ground clearance and much lower seat heights and center of gravity (not to mention double the HP). Still, I feel the KLR will get me over Engineer ir Schofield Pass faster than those bikes, and with less critical route choices required. I am looking forward to getting a KLX soon, especially for Singletrack and cross country .
My klx250 has the air box opened and a fmf slipon. It rips it up on any trail and screams on the highway at 85mph. It dosnt like to putt around it likes 5-7000 rpm
I love my klr650! To me its as good off road as it is on. Ive dropped mine and picked it right up. The only time it was hard to pick up is when I was going up this goat single track trail. That was definitely hard due to the hill and how narrow it was. But as far as forest road the klr650 shines as far as am concerned! I love it!
I bought a brand new camo '18 klx 250 4 years ago, regret selling it. So much that I bought another one two weeks ago LOL. Before anyone thinks they are under powered, they are geared waaaay too high OEM. For $40 a 13t front sprocket, O2 delete and air lid/snorkel off feels like a different bike. A pipe adds good torque if u want to spend. If u are 200lbs or over, get the KLX250 Jack Up kit. Just tierod/dog bones on linkage, easy to change. The suspension is good enough for our weight, this puts more weight on the front tire closer to suggested sag. Iv had a ton of big ADV bikes and high performance enduro's, this KLX is just the unicorn for me.
dos excelentes motos , en mi opinión , me quedaría con las dos jaja son para diferentes cosas liviana para llevar en la pick-up up y el klr para la ruta y una salida fuera de la ruta
I totally agree with you and your assessment of the KLR. Here's something I recently discovered. My daughter has a Versys X300. It's every bit as fast as the KLR. I'd say it matches it on the highway. It's got a lower center of gravity and is much lighter. It's easier to ride on the dirt and gravel roads in TX hill country. Yes, you have to rev the crap out of it, but it's engine is made for that. It really is the replacement for the KLR we have been waiting for as far as I'm concerned. So, here's my thinking. I'm looking at trading in my KLR650 for a lightly used KLX250. That will be for trail riding, something to put in the toy hauler and take to Big Bend or New Mexico. I'll take my daughter's Versys X300 to replace the KLR on the street and dirt roads (she doesn't really want a motorcycle any more). When/if I feel the KLX doesn't have enough power, I'll get a 351 kit for it. The new KLX300 is just a bored out KLX250, so I won't really be missing out on anything new and can save quite a bit of money by going this route.
KLR 750 using the Brute Force 750 atv vtwin engine, that would be interesting. KLR 1000 would be awesome to! Great video! Have you considered a Yamaha Tenere 700 as a KLR replacement?
I’m in the same boat, love my KLR, not a professional off road rider. Keep the KLR, install cruise control & a stereo, & buy a KLR 250 & deck it out the way you want. That’s what I’m gonna do, also selling A/T for the same reason(s).
I have both, not on purpose except the klr. The klx I got used, and really just wanted a camping bike. But it is way more then a tw200. It is a better dt175..
I think U have it figured out Matt!…IF you still want to do some road touring (especially interstate) keep the KLR…If not, then go with the more “tossible” KLX!…I am a KLR owner, but I just might end up doing the same! 😉👌👍
I was in a sense in the same spot as you i have a vstrom 650 and i beat the shit out of it since 4 years trying to convince myself Yeah its a big bike but if i practice enough i can do it! Finally this spring after putting it in really narly trail and dropping it i finally made my mind and bought a klx. I still wanted to keep my V for the roads but i am glad because i have the good of both worlds in my hands.
I Understand the dilemma. been riding a 500LB cruiser for the past 12 years and wanted to get into something different. I kept debating back and forth on many different models and styles. Ultimately decided I would likely have the most fun on a small enduro. So I put a deposit on one of the last KLX300 Camos available in my area. Hope I made the right choice.
You'll probably miss the highway capability of the KLR. I got the KLX and my rationale was highway speeds aren't fun anyways. If I was going to hit the highway might as well take the back roads and see some scenery along the way.
The KLR is a great highway motorcycle. It can handle the interstate easily. The KLX? Not so much. But I do like the smaller highways and backroads. I've decided to keep the KLR and buy the KLX and keep both.
I have owned my 2002 KLR 650 for almost 20 years. I have dropped and picked it up a couple dozen times...........My KLR fell over in my driveway last year. I am 70 years old and I discovered what that actually meant when I found that I could no longer put the Brush Ape back on her side stand. She's old now.....She has a tougher time getting up when she falls. Would I buy a smaller bike? Hell no....I ain't no two-timer.....I'm loyal. Because I know she is......
No front end wobble at 85 on a pre-2014 1/2 KLR is respectable. For that alone your bike is a keeper. lol I’ve been wanting a KLX 250 or the new 230 for a while now. I’d really love the KTM 350 but that is out of my budget right now. I do t know if you’ve seen MasonsADV but they’ve done portions of the Canadian TAT on his KLR, a Husky 701, and a Honda CRF250L. None of those bikes had an issues handling those kinds of roads and the lil 250 looked fun to ride.
Can't compare the klr 650 and 250 have only owned a 99 650. In my opinion the stock klr650 is terrible, stock bike suspension is next to useless wont even handle double track very well. After adding stiffer front and rear springs, ricor intiminators to the front end and a fork brace and set up the sag for my weight it absolutely transformed the bike I would ride that bike hard on single track anytime and I'm an average rider, it was awesome. Also added, I'm 5ft 7, 200 lbs and have never had a problem lifting the bike after my many drops LOL
Sounds like you really made the bike your own. I don't know why I can't lift it. I saw a woman half my size pick one up. LOL. I'm just weak. :) Thanks for the comment.
@@matthewarnold8100 your not weak you just don't know the technique to use. Try and find a video to show you how and then it's easy, well doable anyway.
I think you've already made up your mind since you mentioned in the video how the KLR is maybe just not the bike for you. I will agree with you that the KLR is heavy and picking mine up is not something I enjoy (I'm 5'8, btw) but I wouldn't trade it's ability to get me into random places for anything. And small people picking up big bikes is all about technique. Check out Jocelin Snow riding on and picking up her 1250 GS.
Hello mate Here in Australia 🇦🇺 we do not get the klx 300 as it does not have abs, now mandatory. So the other option is the crf300 So now I'm looking at the klr it's very frustrating
Matthew - the answer is simple: get a used KLX250S and drop the beautiful Bill Blue 351 kit into it. OR, wait until the KLX300S is launched later this year! OR, See what Kawi has lurking under the cover that is rumored to replace the beloved KLR650... perhaps they'll launch a KLR500 or KLX500S... hmmm has me hoping and dreaming.
@@matthewarnold8100 excellent choice. I started my dual sport life with an ‘07 KLR that I absolutely love, and I’ve now added a 2020 KLX right beside her.
That 90lb girl can lift it, any average person can. Use your head and use some leverage ☮️+❤️ I sat on the KLX before I bought my KLR and it felt like a toy. I owned a 2017 KLR and I can tell you, my new 2022 Adventure model is better in every way than the gen 2 🙂 Also, I feel like if you give up your KLR for the KLX you'll regret it. I regretted selling my KLR 5 minutes after it was gone
Thanks for your comment! The KLR is perfectly capable of managing the highway miles. In fact, I've driven the KLR all over the Southwestern United States. That being said, I'd rather tow the bike to beautiful locations than ride it long distance on a highway. That's just my personal opinion.
Well maybe try the KLX 300 (292cc) rent it for a weekend see if it does better then the KLX250 (259cc) they are essentially the same bike with the cc might make a little bit of a difference I know it’s a lot more cc but a little bit more makes a can feel like a lot with a small engine like that I know when I was riding my wife’s Honda vision FI (110cc) scooter then got a Honda future FI (125cc) it made what felt like a huge difference on the highway in Vietnam yes I drove both on the highway in Vietnam and I was speeding Vietnam’s speed limit at maximum is 80 KMH and that’s for people on 4 wheels not 2 it’s at max 60KMH even the police think you’re gonna die could drive any faster which is retarded but anyway I drove both at 100KMH but my future got there faster and was able to get to 120kmh so far I’ve only had it 2 mouths and usually the traffic is too sick to get any faster than that and I did have to use a down hill to get to that top speed but I wasn’t trying to go that fast of a time I was just trying to drive fast getting home at night on a dark highway with A lot of semi trucks on it and no traffic cops on that road to tell me no
At sixty years old, I m selling my KLR 650 and keeping my KLX 250 for the same reasons as your video describes.
I also have a KLR, and recently got a KLX from a buddy, I love both, ride both, keeping both!.. and the pair cost less than just a new KLR
I have mirrored your riding history and outlook. Having started out with a Honda XR75 as a kid and somehow drifting into owning a 2008 KLR650 and a 2006 KLX250. I am also risk and high speed adverse. I got the KLR in 2009 and it has taken me on weeks long trips to the middle of Australia with no issues and it suits my riding style so perfectly I have never considered replacing it. Being a carpenter I believe you should always use the right tool for the job and the KLX is perfect for when I want to ride the tighter, steeper tracks around my home town. Both bikes are simple to maintain and have proven to be extremely reliable. The only issue is trying to find fellow riders who are like minded to go out on some relaxed rides with. Every group ride I have gone on I usually volunteer to be tail end Charlie so I don’t hold everyone up. I’m sure you will enjoy the KLX for many years to come. Thanks for making the video!
Enjoyed the video, saw a lot of pretty scenery,,! Thanks, Matt. Happy biking!
Thanks for watching!
Nice! Thanks for putting this together. I’m coming from only riding cruisers for 15 years and am buying my first dual sport. I ordered the KLX 300. This video let me know I made the right choice. Cheers!
Love both these bikes! Great video. Stay safe out there.
Are you getting younger, stronger, tougher? Are you getting older, weaker, more fragile? Do you see yourself taking longer or shorter trips? Therein lies your answer. I like the digital camo too.
Yep.......That's about right.
Interesting video and I agree with you on several points. I got a KLR about two months ago and that was my introduction to riding on the dirt. I quickly realized it is dirt capable but NOT A dirt bike. However, after watching several “adventure bike“ riding tips videos, I realized how capable the KLR can be off road. And once you learn how to pick it up (Deadlift work out🏋🏼♂️) and accept the fact that you can get wherever you want to get just a bit slower, the KLR 650 is still a fantastic machine! I think after you build up your dirt writing skills on the KLX that you would enjoy throwing your leg over the KLR and attempting some of those dirt roads again.
Very thoughtful vid, Matt! I had the same dilemma. One of my buddies cannot pick up his KLR alone. I had a 2000 KLR250 but it's carburetor did not like our high Colorado mtn. passes. Dilemma - which way do I go. My KLR250 weighed under 260 lbs. I was in my '60s and didn't want a heavy bike for off road. I realize not everyone can own 3 bikes, but that's where I am now. #1 is a Husaberg FE390, 40 hp and 251 lbs dry & great torque, but NOT a highway bike with its VERY aggressive knobbies. So I also bought #2 a Kawasaki Versys X300, 40 hp, 386 lbs wet. I CAN pick it up, but I grunt when I do. GREAT bike, and very easy to ride - OK on highway, but NOT up steep hills at highway speeds at 8-9000 ft. elevation. SO...I get #3 is a Suzuki Vstrom 650XT, 70 hp and 485 lbs. (I've not lifted it yet, probably can't without help.) Overall, I pick the best tool for the day or trip at hand. But on a day to day basis I still have the dilemma of what to ride any particular day. Everyone knows any dual sport is going to be a compromise one way or another, and something like a DRZ 400 or KTM 350 (four stroke, over 40 hp and 230 lbs!) may be the best compromise, but multiple bikes is a nice alternative! Thanks for your great vid. -Ray, in the hills near Durango, CO.
Thanks for the video.
Loved the video. I've also owned a KLR but needed something faster & even more road oriented so I got a Versys 650 but missed the KLR.
That was several yrs ago. Now at 72 yrs old & living in an area with lots of hilly gravel rds some of which are more like logging rds I decided on a small dual sport 250 . In my area it's either a Honda CRF250L or the KLX250 which I have now & it really is what I need for my Intended purpose.
It's like a mini KLR , but like any bike I need to make some adjustments to it for my personal preference & needs. A rear rack & Rotopaks system is #1 cause it cheaper than a bigger tank & that's all I need.
Best of luck to you in your decision.
Thanks so much for watching! I had a great time making the video.
Good call on the Rotopaks!👍
Cool video!
The 2 things I have found with my KLR. That helped me do well off road are full knobby tires as well as the KLR likes to be ridden at speed.
It's a little intimidating at first, but once you commit to riding this way you can even do single track. Also I found the knobbys not to bad on the highway.
I'm new to riding a think I'll go for the KLX, seems like an easier/more forgiving bike to manage and learn on plus I already have a truck and planned on doing what you described. Riding in air-conditioned comfort to my destination before hoping out to tear up trails and backroads.
Good video and thanks for sharing your honest thoughts. I have owned both bikes for over 4 years. I am 5'10", 160 lbs, 57 yo, not strong at all and totally out of shape office worker. I can pick up the KLR easy enough and I would not need help unless it was stuck in mud. About the same with the KLX (it is pig too), but I could probably drag it out of the mud on its side though. To me, there is no difference between these bikes either on or off road, with one exception. The KLX cannot cruise on the interstate at 80 mph period - it just cannot go that fast. I am trying to frame the conversation with that statement, so let me explain. I have driven my KLR 1000 miles to Key West at mostly 80mph in a single day. No problem for the bike, but I never want to do it again - the vibrations numb you everywhere. You cannot sustain 80mph on a KLX, but if it could, and you put a KLR seat on it, it would do it better than a KLR by a huge margin. There is zero vibration form the KLX motor at any rpm, and the KLX is way better than a KLR on the street in every way until you must go over 65 mph for a sustained period of time. Off road, I have pushed my KLX through some very gnarly stuff and it got me to the other side, but I did not enjoy it one bit. The bike is rediculusly front heavy and has less than zero usable torque to ever be real fun off road. I could do anything on my KLR that I can do on my KLX, and I would enjoy it much more on the KLR - shy of pulling it out of the mud. The KLR has some kind of foo foo magic that makes it work really well off road - it makes zero sense to me. My wild ass guess is that the KLR has suspension appropriate for the weight of the bike and a torque profile that makes the rear wheel plant and pull exceptionally well in sketchy terrain. As long the rear wheel is pulling you are still on two wheels and the KLR rear wheel just keeps wanting to pull. The KLX is so front heavy it just plain stinks off road, the rear wheel never hooks up and wants to fly. At the end of the day, both are awesome bikes if used appropriately, but if you want to ride off road, neither is less even 10% as good off road as the cheapest non-street legal trail bike you could buy - like a Honda CRF230F, Yamaha TTR230, or Kawasaki KLX230R. I agree the KLR is the better bike for the grand adventure, it is designed to load up like a pack mule, the KLX subframe and suspension will need some work if that is your plan, but it is not too expensive to modify. For reader reference, I am a mediocre intermediate rider; I ride with my feet on pegs off road so bike weight is zero issue until I fall. I will be a KLR owner until I cannot ride a bike - it really is the only do it all bike. I sold a perfect 2006 KLX 6 months ago and I am buying a fixer up 2007 tomorrow for more money. So, despite me telling you they are the same bike, I want one of each in my stable.
Kawasaki focuses on making the KLX a street bike, and focuses on making the KLR a dirt bike,
Wow! What a great response. You must be very strong! I'm 5'11" 180 lbs. and I cannot lift the KLR by myself. Maybe I need to start either working out or learning a better way to pick up the bike. I saw a very small woman pick up the KLR, but I simply cannot do it. I'm just not strong enough or smart enough (probably the latter). You're right, the KLX will not maintain highway speeds and can't replace the KLR for that. If I were to bike around the world, it would be the KLR for sure over the KLX, but I"m not biking around the world. I just like to go on fire roads, and I put my KLX in the back of my truck to get to my destination. Thanks for such a well-thought out response. Take Care!
Had a klr for about 5 years and had the same love / hate relationship with it. Also hated the seat and the aftermarket seat. On the 250 now and pretty happy. I also should say I do have a Harley for street riding. If your gonna ride a 250 you still need something for the road because it won’t cut it.
I am the new subscriber...i enjoy your video...thanks my friend
Thanks for watching!
Just got a 2023 Adventure and I love it; I knew what I was getting and not getting when I bought it. My Harley Sportster and FXRS have higher ground clearance and much lower seat heights and center of gravity (not to mention double the HP). Still, I feel the KLR will get me over Engineer ir Schofield Pass faster than those bikes, and with less critical route choices required. I am looking forward to getting a KLX soon, especially for Singletrack and cross country .
My klx250 has the air box opened and a fmf slipon. It rips it up on any trail and screams on the highway at 85mph. It dosnt like to putt around it likes 5-7000 rpm
I'm not much of a mechanic or gearhead, but I've heard you could do stuff like that and make the 250 zippier. Thanks for watching!
What kind of bags do you have on the KLX? Love them!
I love my klr650! To me its as good off road as it is on. Ive dropped mine and picked it right up. The only time it was hard to pick up is when I was going up this goat single track trail. That was definitely hard due to the hill and how narrow it was. But as far as forest road the klr650 shines as far as am concerned! I love it!
What brand is your motorcycle carrier for your pickup? Has it worked well for you?
I bought a brand new camo '18 klx 250 4 years ago, regret selling it. So much that I bought another one two weeks ago LOL. Before anyone thinks they are under powered, they are geared waaaay too high OEM. For $40 a 13t front sprocket, O2 delete and air lid/snorkel off feels like a different bike. A pipe adds good torque if u want to spend. If u are 200lbs or over, get the KLX250 Jack Up kit. Just tierod/dog bones on linkage, easy to change. The suspension is good enough for our weight, this puts more weight on the front tire closer to suggested sag. Iv had a ton of big ADV bikes and high performance enduro's, this KLX is just the unicorn for me.
You sold me. I'll take the KLX300
dos excelentes motos , en mi opinión , me quedaría con las dos jaja son para diferentes cosas liviana para llevar en la pick-up up y el klr para la ruta y una salida fuera de la ruta
I totally agree with you and your assessment of the KLR. Here's something I recently discovered. My daughter has a Versys X300. It's every bit as fast as the KLR. I'd say it matches it on the highway. It's got a lower center of gravity and is much lighter. It's easier to ride on the dirt and gravel roads in TX hill country. Yes, you have to rev the crap out of it, but it's engine is made for that. It really is the replacement for the KLR we have been waiting for as far as I'm concerned. So, here's my thinking. I'm looking at trading in my KLR650 for a lightly used KLX250. That will be for trail riding, something to put in the toy hauler and take to Big Bend or New Mexico. I'll take my daughter's Versys X300 to replace the KLR on the street and dirt roads (she doesn't really want a motorcycle any more). When/if I feel the KLX doesn't have enough power, I'll get a 351 kit for it. The new KLX300 is just a bored out KLX250, so I won't really be missing out on anything new and can save quite a bit of money by going this route.
Sounds like a plan! Thanks for watching.
KLR 750 using the Brute Force 750 atv vtwin engine, that would be interesting. KLR 1000 would be awesome to! Great video! Have you considered a Yamaha Tenere 700 as a KLR replacement?
I’m in the same boat, love my KLR, not a professional off road rider. Keep the KLR, install cruise control & a stereo, & buy a KLR 250 & deck it out the way you want. That’s what I’m gonna do, also selling A/T for the same reason(s).
I have both, not on purpose except the klr. The klx I got used, and really just wanted a camping bike. But it is way more then a tw200. It is a better dt175..
I also have a KLR and have been looking at switching to a 250 or drz400 for the same reason, the KLR is too heavy and sucks off road.
I think U have it figured out Matt!…IF you still want to do some road touring (especially interstate) keep the KLR…If not, then go with the more “tossible” KLX!…I am a KLR owner, but I just might end up doing the same! 😉👌👍
I was in a sense in the same spot as you i have a vstrom 650 and i beat the shit out of it since 4 years trying to convince myself
Yeah its a big bike but if i practice enough i can do it!
Finally this spring after putting it in really narly trail and dropping it i finally made my mind and bought a klx.
I still wanted to keep my V for the roads but i am glad because i have the good of both worlds in my hands.
Check out the dr650 the weight is somewhere in the middle and lots of hwy speed. Low to the ground makes it better off road than the klr650.
I Understand the dilemma. been riding a 500LB cruiser for the past 12 years and wanted to get into something different. I kept debating back and forth on many different models and styles. Ultimately decided I would likely have the most fun on a small enduro. So I put a deposit on one of the last KLX300 Camos available in my area. Hope I made the right choice.
Hey man, it's been 2 years. How's it going?
@@adamr6498 it’s a decent bike that fits my needs well. Anything particular you want to know?
You'll probably miss the highway capability of the KLR. I got the KLX and my rationale was highway speeds aren't fun anyways. If I was going to hit the highway might as well take the back roads and see some scenery along the way.
The KLR is a great highway motorcycle. It can handle the interstate easily. The KLX? Not so much. But I do like the smaller highways and backroads. I've decided to keep the KLR and buy the KLX and keep both.
@@matthewarnold8100 Don't they make a 300 KLX now? Might do better on the road and still be excellent off road..
I have owned my 2002 KLR 650 for almost 20 years. I have dropped and picked it up a couple dozen times...........My KLR fell over in my driveway last year. I am 70 years old and I discovered what that actually meant when I found that I could no longer put the Brush Ape back on her side stand.
She's old now.....She has a tougher time getting up when she falls. Would I buy a smaller bike? Hell no....I ain't no two-timer.....I'm loyal. Because I know she is......
Nice job explaining my own dilemma. KLR or KLX?
I now have both, but I'm about to sell the KLR. The KLX just suits me better.
I have both, a 2007 klr650 and 2021 klx300. For my riding, the lighter, lower center of gravity, more capable off road klx is the winner for me.
No front end wobble at 85 on a pre-2014 1/2 KLR is respectable. For that alone your bike is a keeper. lol I’ve been wanting a KLX 250 or the new 230 for a while now. I’d really love the KTM 350 but that is out of my budget right now. I do t know if you’ve seen MasonsADV but they’ve done portions of the Canadian TAT on his KLR, a Husky 701, and a Honda CRF250L. None of those bikes had an issues handling those kinds of roads and the lil 250 looked fun to ride.
Yeah, the KTM is overpriced. I suppose it's worth it if you have the money, but for my money I'm sticking with the KLX.
matthew arnold I’d say go for the KLX. You’re already trucking the KLR, might as well have a lighter, more nimble bike on the trails.
I’m about to buy the CRF300L. I have an Africa Twin that’s I’d like to keep, but I don’t have room for both of them.
O own both. Like them both.
Can't compare the klr 650 and 250 have only owned a 99 650. In my opinion the stock klr650 is terrible, stock bike suspension is next to useless wont even handle double track very well. After adding stiffer front and rear springs, ricor intiminators to the front end and a fork brace and set up the sag for my weight it absolutely transformed the bike I would ride that bike hard on single track anytime and I'm an average rider, it was awesome. Also added, I'm 5ft 7, 200 lbs and have never had a problem lifting the bike after my many drops LOL
Sounds like you really made the bike your own. I don't know why I can't lift it. I saw a woman half my size pick one up. LOL. I'm just weak. :) Thanks for the comment.
@@matthewarnold8100 your not weak you just don't know the technique to use. Try and find a video to show you how and then it's easy, well doable anyway.
I think you've already made up your mind since you mentioned in the video how the KLR is maybe just not the bike for you.
I will agree with you that the KLR is heavy and picking mine up is not something I enjoy (I'm 5'8, btw) but I wouldn't trade it's ability to get me into random places for anything.
And small people picking up big bikes is all about technique. Check out Jocelin Snow riding on and picking up her 1250 GS.
Thanks for watching! I've decided to keep both of them for now.
Two fantastic bikes...650..vibrations...My vote for the klx
PS; how did it all work out? Maybe do an update episode?
Not a bad idea. I've been so busy I haven't had time to upload and make videos. Soon maybe?
Hello mate
Here in Australia 🇦🇺 we do not get the klx 300 as it does not have abs, now mandatory.
So the other option is the crf300
So now I'm looking at the klr it's very frustrating
Simple.... both. Then grab a concourse for those interstate rides.
I have a 2006 klr650 I'm 5'10'' and does amazing on worse roads then what u went up
Love my.klr, it is pretty heavy I guess but I'm a big guy I'm 6"4 and 150kg so I don't really have any problems with the bike being to heavy for me
Matthew - the answer is simple: get a used KLX250S and drop the beautiful Bill Blue 351 kit into it. OR, wait until the KLX300S is launched later this year! OR, See what Kawi has lurking under the cover that is rumored to replace the beloved KLR650... perhaps they'll launch a KLR500 or KLX500S... hmmm has me hoping and dreaming.
Keep the klr, you already have it,still enjoying it why sell it
Keep the KLR, buy the KLX.
They're two different animals.
That's exactly what I've decided to do. I'm keeping the KLR and buying the KLX.
@@matthewarnold8100 this may not be what you want, but why don't you get a ninja and a klx?
@@matthewarnold8100 excellent choice. I started my dual sport life with an ‘07 KLR that I absolutely love, and I’ve now added a 2020 KLX right beside her.
Pick
Get a KLX 300 or even an older KLR 250 to stay in the KLR club!
That 90lb girl can lift it, any average person can. Use your head and use some leverage ☮️+❤️ I sat on the KLX before I bought my KLR and it felt like a toy. I owned a 2017 KLR and I can tell you, my new 2022 Adventure model is better in every way than the gen 2 🙂 Also, I feel like if you give up your KLR for the KLX you'll regret it. I regretted selling my KLR 5 minutes after it was gone
like
You can buy an old 98 klr 250 for $2,500 like me.
Why tf would you tow a klr650 that makes no sense, having said that i did enjoy your outlook and honesty about life
Thanks for your comment! The KLR is perfectly capable of managing the highway miles. In fact, I've driven the KLR all over the Southwestern United States. That being said, I'd rather tow the bike to beautiful locations than ride it long distance on a highway. That's just my personal opinion.
Well maybe try the KLX 300 (292cc) rent it for a weekend see if it does better then the KLX250 (259cc) they are essentially the same bike with the cc might make a little bit of a difference I know it’s a lot more cc but a little bit more makes a can feel like a lot with a small engine like that
I know when I was riding my wife’s Honda vision FI (110cc) scooter then got a Honda future FI (125cc) it made what felt like a huge difference on the highway in Vietnam yes I drove both on the highway in Vietnam and I was speeding Vietnam’s speed limit at maximum is 80 KMH and that’s for people on 4 wheels not 2 it’s at max 60KMH even the police think you’re gonna die could drive any faster which is retarded but anyway I drove both at 100KMH but my future got there faster and was able to get to 120kmh so far I’ve only had it 2 mouths and usually the traffic is too sick to get any faster than that and I did have to use a down hill to get to that top speed but I wasn’t trying to go that fast of a time I was just trying to drive fast getting home at night on a dark highway with A lot of semi trucks on it and no traffic cops on that road to tell me no
KLX 300 ???
Buy KLX and Keep the KLR
Buy a t7 2021 Yamaha
Get a used KLR 250 and spend the $ you saved on the KLX for new suspension! Problem solved!