2022 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure Review | Daily Rider
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 30 сен 2024
- rvz.la/3LA0t8J | Need new tires? Check out Michelin!
As one of the most legendary adventure bikes of all time, the KLR650 certainly deserves a spot on the Daily Rider leaderboard. The time has finally come for the new-and-improved KLR to take on the DR route!
SPECS:
MSRP: $8,199
Engine: 652 cc single cylinder
Measured weight: 488 lb. / 221.4 kg
Fuel capacity: 6.1 gal. / 23 liters
Seat height: 34.3 in. / 871 mm
Claimed torque: 39.1 foot-pounds @ 4,500 rpm
Read the KLR650 article here: rvz.la/3RU26jK
Zack’s gear:
REV’IT GT-R Air 3 Jacket: rvz.la/3UfJpbI
REV’IT! Fly 3 Gloves: rvz.la/3UtruyH
RokkerTech Rider Jeans: rvz.la/3BJmL4r
Sidi Performer Air Boots: rvz.la/3Dwa9yY
Shoei RF-1400 Helmet: rvz.la/3BMCdwF
Read more about the KLR650 on Common Tread! rvz.la/3QUsg4y
Check out Michelin for all your tire options here! rvz.la/3Sc2b1S
RevZilla - could you give your personal preference for lets say rural daily driving with gravel and potholes, KLR650 vs. slightly older BMW G650GS (let's say 2009-2013). Where woudl the BMWG650GS fit on the leader board around the KLR 650? for a 5''9 Rider who wants it to be all around bike. But not constant touring or motorcross tracks
You love the KLR for what it is, not hate it for what it isn't.
Also love it for what it isn't
I think this is the best way to put it.
very well said
But it doesn't love me for what I am: a short inseam older rider! If I lowered it enough for me, it would lose it's off road clearance/capability.
its all fun and games till you ride an africa twin though
Some people would call me crazy. I sold my year old Pan America and bought a KLR adventure. Simple...simple ...simple, as opposed to being a "computer with pistons". Some might say I'm crazy.....I say I'm very satisfied!
Very understandable, im thinking about trading in my 2020 mt07 for one
I went from a 2014 honda valkyrie 1832cc to a klr650, from a klr650 to a crf300l.
@@ThinkBeforeYouSheep how does crf300l compare to klr 650? It's more nible I would imagine. It's not too small? I am 6ft.
@@mrdato116 It's not too small for me at 5'11" The torque feels almost the same as the 650, it is very nimble and flicky, the one thing which everyone says and I can absolutely confirm is the suspension, it definitely needs help, I'm going to revalve the front and put a heavier spring on the rear so I can haul my gear, I personally like the bike more than the 650, the major difference is weight, if you plan on soloing for a trip then be cautious about the 650 it is difficult to pick back up, the 300l is way way lighter so I feel more comfortable soloing it, the 300l is not a highway capable bike from what I've tested, it will do 75 it's just not happy about it, it'll cruise 65 all day though comfortably, I hope some of these personal experiences with this bike help I'm still low on the mileage and have yet to try any technical trails with it so I can't help there but it is a better bike in my opinion compared to the 650, also the 650 still has the doohickey spring issue, on the 300l all I have to do is set a quart of oil beside the crankcase on the honda and it'll get half a million miles.
@@mrdato116 Oh and I have one main gripe on the 300l, it has a shift light that is great and all but when you're in sixth gear when you hit 72 or 73mph it will start flashing at 7,100rpms non-stop speeding up in repetition at 75mph, I'm curious as to why I need a shift light in 6th gear, I and many others already tried to find 7th but we know it isn't there, it's obviously not a deal breaker but it is definitely a nuisance.
Hard to tell from the video, but I am guessing that the enormous USB cover is designed to allow you to plug in a USB cable and then cover the entire connection and protect it from water/mud/dirt, maybe even coil up a USB cable and keep it stored in there for convenient use.
That would be a very nice little feature
That's a great point and something I would enjoy on my personal bike as I have had water issues on my unprotected plug. Very cool.
Nail on the head. It's the same kind of USB system they use on watercraft. It keeps rain from running down the cord and getting into the electrics. Brilliant move by Kawasaki.
@Paul B Believe it or not, triumph not having a very well designed product is actually the most characteristic thing triumph could have done.
A 3'(feet) long usb cable fits perfectly as you described.
The KLR650 IS THE KALASHINKOV OF MOTORCYCLES
You dang right!!!! Best way to put it!!!!
Well put!
As someone new to bikes but proficient in freedom sticks, I find this comment very helpful
I bought a '23 KLR650 ADV as my 1st bike a week ago and i love it!! Already at 500miles and thousands more to come!!
I bought a basic one a few weeks ago. 1,500 miles on the odometer few chips in the plastic😂 a bike made to be used and i don't feel bad for beating it up on the dirt, mud, and sand.
I've lusted after a KLR ever since it was introduced. I love that it's not overpowered, very simple and basically unkillable. My first choice for around the world or the zombie apocalypse.
Definitely not overpowered. 207kg and 39hp near 1/4 of the power/weight of a MT-09 no wonder it 0nly needs 1 300mm brake disc
I suppose I'm an unsophisticated Neanderthal myself, but I love it for all the same reasons. I don't want crazy power and speed. I want reliable, simply and able to take me virtually anywhere I'm brave enough (or dumb enough) to go!
Hahaha. That would be another ladder: the zombie meter. What would your go-to bike be in an apocalypse. Definitely not European? :P
@@m3lvn415 BMW f800gs with a spare fuel pump. I'm building it now. I don't think the Japanese bikes are what they once were.
What happens when you're in some far away jungle doing your "around the world" on that KLR (that will weight OVER 500 pounds with gear loaded) and you drop it (for the 50th time) and some 1-inch diameter, snapped off branch punches a hole right thru your radiator????...then what???.... gimmie a DR650 ANYTIME over that KLR.
I have a 2019 KLR650 the last of the carburettor models with a host of upgrades.
I'm 59 and hoping this bike sees me out.
No doubt it will if you want it too
Everything on the KRL is forgiven.. Whiskey throttle, No problem. Jamming on the brakes, not to worry. Big unexpected pothole or bump, No issues! Love my KLR. Is my 1st bike @42 and many of mistakes have been made that would have destroyed me on other motorcycles. EDIT: 16:54 It's to leave room to wind up extra cable and store so as not to be flopping in the wind.
So you're on 1st bike commenting about how it is compared to other bikes, i see.
Also if you have a right angle USB connector, you can let the lead out the hole at the bottom of the cover while it's fully closed.
You have chosen wisely!
My first "big" bike was a KLE 650, I've been riding for over 10 years, I wouldn't say my KTM 1290 SA R is a good first bike, but it's definitely not out to kill you unless you ask it to. Traction control in wet, ABS if you grab too much brake, throttle control to keep you from flipping it if you grab too much throttle, but you "could" turn all of the aids off with the touch of a button and have a 160 horsepower dirt bike that wheelies effortlessly at 5000 rpm of its 10500 redline. I usually keep ABS and TC on, but leave it in sport mode so it's an in-town teleporter. I started on a XT225, I miss the size, but I don't miss the engine fueling.
@@donniebunkerboi9975 it is not difficult to understand that if he found his limits on a 650 then he most definitely would have gone far past the limits on a 1290.
Answered my question exactly as I'd hoped! Its a bike that will almost do it all with a little coaxing. You broke it down perfectly early on with the "just needs this, and this, and this, ope its 10k!" The KLR has a unique spot in the market with its blend of affordability and capability. Bang for buck its a great bike. Many better bikes out there but you gotta pay for them. Solid video as usual!
I’ve always thought of the KLR as more of an upsized farm bike rather than a a big trail bike. Sit down & chug along all day keeping your eyes on the task at hand and basically forgetting about the machine taking you down the track.
I had a KLR for 3yrs and couldn't get a wheelie like that out of it!! These are one of the most endearing motorcycles on the planet. The memories and places mine took me will always be cherished.. I loved my little donkey!
It's the indian, not the arrow
A 650 that is a 650 and not a 628 or a 634 , how refreshing.
I own 5 very different bikes.
I have a gen1 KLR with tusk panniers and racetech suspension. I rebuilt the carb, added a thermobob and a doohickey. Without a doubt, it’s my most useful bike. I can put 1/2 cart of groceries in the panniers, a sack of chicken feed over the back seat and more stuff in my jacket pockets. I can go camping over some pretty tough ground or ride the highway. It was a beatup barn find with low mileage, so I got it cheap, and it’s cheap to maintain, and upgrades are plentiful, if you want to go that route.
It’s the best at nothing, except it’s the best at doing everything OK. Truly a jack-of-all-trades master of none.
Also, it always starts easy, even in very cold weather or at 6500 feet elevation. If I could only have one bike, it’ll be the KLR.
My father has a KLR650. It pleasantly surprises me each time that I ride it. It handles much better than it has any right to. There's something quite fun, yet equally terrifying, about riding it hard through a twisty mountain pass.
Wow, the "why not-KLR thread pulling" analogy was spot on. I've never heard someone describe that dilemma in such an understandable and perfect way. Well done, Z!
KLR650: The Volkswagen Beetle of the motorcycle world...yes I've taken my Beetle off road lots.
My gen 2 KLR has 17,000 trouble free miles. This week I will be starting a 3,000 mile adventure on The Mighty KLR. It’s a capable, forgiving and cheap motorcycle. I love it and would absolutely buy it again.
I've had a number of sport bikes, and I just bought a 2022 KLR. I find it to be a fantastic bike. I won't get rid of my zx12r, but I have a feeling the KLR will be ridden more. I like it a lot as a commuter to work and back.
The yardstick with fuel injection and a stronger subframe bolt yet still haven't "fixed" the doohickey? Classic Kawasaki move, I love it! Would buy, 10/10! Miss my 2013 sometimes, despite it being the "uncool" 2nd gen KLR, at the time. Never had an issue with the carbs. Great video, Zachariah!!
Yeah.... why not take care of the "doohickey"? It has been a known shortcoming since Moses came down from the mountain.
They kinda took care of it. They don't break anymore. They just run out of spring travel and do nothing.
I more hated the oil consumption. And dangerously bad front brakes.
Kawa said they didn't address the doohickey cause of the very small warranty claims against it.
What they don't know (or maybe they do) is most riders address the dookickey before it becomes a warranty claim.
I ride a 2018 gen 2, living in oz. Bike currently has over 40,000kms- doohickey not replaced. Have talked with numerous M/cycle mechanics, some in rural areas including Kawa specialists and none have had to do work on doohickey. Service interval adjustment of doohickey recommended. Seems in US that doohickey concerns are overvalued.
I could be wrong though but so far not a problem on my bike-touchwood.
Because there is nothing wrong with it, that is why. Have you ever heard of one failing in the last 20 years?
Good placing - and just under the Tiger Sport 660 with all the bits people might think the KLR should get - extra cylinder(s), gear, instrumentation, power etc but still in an easy going form. More a mule than a donkey. But I do wish the Klr was available here in the UK, as a charming plodder this might be a keeper. "Surely" with FI it could be made euro5...
The KLR in a nutshell: Add weight, and simplify. Best bike I've ever owned.
I have the same bike and old enough that if I was so inclined back in 1987 I would have bought one and probably acquired others as the model very slowly evolved over the years. Now after owning several other cruiser bikes including a Harley I've found the bike that defines the simple core reason I like being out on a motorcycle. Everything said about the KLR in this great review was spot on. I use mine as a daily commuter and upgraded a few things to enhance a already comfortable platform that include some Grip Puppies, slightly taller aftermarket smoke screen along with a awesome adjustable screen riser developed by a gentleman named Cody Stevens. Oh, and a aftermarket exhaust by Leo Vince adds a little more thump and burble to the recipe. Good job Kawasaki resurrecting the KLR so more people can enjoy it. Aloha 🌴
two of my favorite things.. The Gen 3 KLR and RevZilla! I Picked up a 2022 (NoABS) in Pearl Sand and outfitted the Farkle myself. Love the bike!
The Tractor that rules speed bumps!! Love this! 😊🔥🤟🏼
Heavy = feels top heavy and very tall (I’m under 6 ft)
Gutless = all bottom end no top end power
Shitty gauges = no gear indicator, no temp, no tach
On road vibration at high speed sucks
Bought a 2008. Takes me everywhere. Never has issues, has never let me down.
Best 2 thousand I ever spent!
So here's my lengthy "2 cents worth". I've had many many bikes in my day. I've watched really good bikes get overly changed, updated, techy and therefore ruined. The KLR falls into a category of bikes that work, so they don't do "too much" to change it. As a matter of fact...THAT should be their commercial slogan..."KLR 650..because if it works, don't fix it". Personally i like the general simplicity of KLR's. If i'm gonna to be hitting trails, riding on dirt and gravel, traversing rocks and bumps in the terrain, etc.....i would like a bike that has "Less to go wrong". There ya go, yet another possible KLR slogan... "KLR 650, with less to go wrong, its gotta be right!". Over the years i have bought several brands and models of bikes but i always end up back on a KLR. They won't get anywhere in stellar fashion ...but they will get there. My neighbor spent $30k (i think thats what he said) on a Ducati Multistrada V4 and he has had his fair share of downtime after having issues with all the latest technology in that bike...I, on the other hand, have been out riding :) Thats my 2...or 3 cents worth. Stay safe everybody!
Probably the best review of all the KLR reviews out there. Your ending is spot on about the KLR. And that’s why we love it for what it is.
I consider Ryan f9's review of KLR to be the best ever. Check it out. Not a review of the new one but a great ode.
2K on my 2022 KLR, and I agree with everything in this video. Bike is a joy to own.
I've owned both a xsr900 and a dr650.
The dr is definitely a better daily rider.
I've been really tempted by the new xsr900! Really nice to look at and seems to need nothing. Also my daily scoot is a dr650 and I adore the thing. A good low maintenance machine that can go almost anywhere
This new trend of manufacturers not giving the horsepower (and some other specs as well) is so annoying, it's not like you can't find out from a reviewer or some other source. Instead I read some useless marketing garbage on the model's official page... for a technical person it is sad to see this trend, the customer does not need to be informed on the actual specifications of the product, he only needs to be told how awesome it will be to own that particulat bike and how wonderfull he will feel after he buys it. And no I am not a fan of the horsepower wars of not too long ago, I just want to know what I am being sold.
Lawyers is why. People sued lawnmower makers years ago because the 5hp mowers weren't making 5hp. Insurance is probably another.
I'm a professional test rider for a major manufacturer. I ride all kinds of cool bikes, every day. My personal bike of choice is a KLR. I can own any bike I want and have done that. The KLR is my go to every time.
Have you ridden the versys x 300? I’m weighing it against the KLR650 as my first ADV bike.
@3thn Dv15 yes, that's a great bike too. The 300 is more street based than the klr. So on pavement, it will be very good but in my opinion won't be as good as the klr on off road rides. Now any bike is fine for smooth gravel roads. I'm talking about more trail type of riding. If you take a KLR and put a 16 tooth front sprocket on, it will do much better on the paved roads and still do good off road. Another bike I would suggest more than the 300 is the Honda cb500x . Very easy to set up for serious off road and makes a great small adv bike. The BMW 310 gs is another option if you don't want a 1200cc monster that is just a waste of money.
@@Orban_Rides great info. Thank you!
Thx for your sincerely experienced perspective!…Much appreciated!👌
Id argue the versys 300 may be more buzzy than the klr simply because of how high strung it is by comparison. I think it may actually have more offroad potential than the klr with afew mods simply because of how light it is. Stock for stock i think id take the klr though.@3thndv155
This is a lot of motorcycle for the money.
for sure. paid $5500 on a leftover 2018 in 2019 and have rode 11k trouble free miles so far.
I’ve owned my KLR for 22yrs, mileage unknown(notorious speedo cables munchers)clock says 39,000. It’s never left me stranded, the tool kit can take the whole thing apart. It’s an amazing commuter and fun on forest roads. Kinda heavy for the woods. Cool review:-)
Watt man, inventor of the thermobob for the KLR described a speedo cable mod where you use a 'E model' speedo cable guide to remove a kink. Maybe its worth a shot and a new cable?
You mean to tell us that a big old Thumper vibrates? Say it ain’t so!🤣
some of my most memorable rides were on a KLR, never got in trouble with it, always encouraged me to ride sensibly, says the guy who broke his leg on a DRZ last fall
I love my 2008 KLR. It’s old and slow like me. It’s like one of my old Chevrolets because I can maintain it myself. I did the Idaho BCDR on it and had a great time.
Hey Zack, You laughed and patted the tank on this stone hammer at least twice during the ride. That tells me it would have scored pretty well on the giggle meter (if it had one). Riding my KLR always makes me feel good, regardless of the particular road we're rolling. Thanks for a fun ride!
I have 7000mi on my 2022 Adventure in under a year. I love this bike. I feel safe on it and have been through some bad situations conditions wise at night and it always gets me home!
I have a 2022. In Arizona, it does an outstanding job. I was even really impressed with the stock tires! Super stable on the forest service roads hard pack. Nice and comfy on the ride home. I don't recall even felling worn out on it? The torque is great off road. It's a simple fantastic bike! Love it.
Have you ridden uphill towards Payson/Flagstaff/Sedona/Grand Canyon? My biggest worry is I'm gonna be stuck going 50mph on the 87 from Phoenix.
@@sr.flipflop5951 I did not on the KLR. I ended up selling it and switched over to a T7. On the T7, I rode up the 87 to Payson, shot across the 260, then back down the 17. Love riding up there. I'd say go for it! It will do it. Beautiful riding to do!
@@jm6918 Agreed, the Mogollon Rim is my favorite spot and it's always beautiful. Thanks
Great ride - the KLR an DR650 are unparalleled bang for buck. Swiss army knife bikes!
The fuel tank capacity is why I like this bike. Can’t understand or deal with a Harley sportster that has a 1200 engine and stupid range. I’ll keep the KLR.
I have a crf250 rally as my backup bike (well primary now that my XSR900 and I got hit by a car 😞) and it's a simple but usable little thumper. I do feel like getting something a bit more travel friendly since I want to be able to travel to farther reaches and this little 250 is screaming for its life at 75mph (indicated) on the highways
I put nearly 9000 milkes on my CRF250L Rally - ended up using it more as a city bike because I live 2 hours or so from any legal backroads, but it could get me out to the mountains when I had the time for it (I preferred taking backroads to the highway, better gas mileage) - ended up with a Versys 650LT instead of something like a KLR, when I did upgrade, but if I lived out West or in a rural area I might have gone for the KLR
Great Review, Zach!!
Might I add, If you want to get rid of that campsite generator sound, LeoVince makes an awesome 94 DB silencer. And it's not that horrible fiberglass packing (like most).
It comes with a few different removable options (it will go louder) and a spark arrestor. Nice bark, but not loud by any means.
Revzilla has them for $475 (you're welcome, Zack) 🙂
Pricey, yes.....but they are a work of art, quality wise....and you lose 6 pounds.
And now! The KLR 650 is available for short people. I am 6' and 200#, but have been intimidated by the 35" seat height. Now it is available with an approximate 32" seat hight. 🤗
I don’t like my legs too bent while riding, and it sounds like the leg positioning on the KLR isn’t too aggressive and a bit more relaxed for longer rides, correct?
I absolutely love my first Gen 2004 KLR. It's got lots of mods such as a mild 685 big bore kit, Progressive Suspension rear shock, Race Tech gold valve emulators in the forks, oversized front rotor with steel braided brake line, rim locks in both wheels (very important), heated grips running off a relay correctly, Cycleops Adventures LED headlight bulb, LED driving lights, etc. She's still a tractor, but I've taken it just about on everything. BDR tours, pretty gnarly singletrack (I ride trials too, so....😆), commuting, and exploring. It always gets me there eventually. On paper, it's awful. In reality, it's a stone reliable workhorse that just is what it is. It does nothing great, yet everything ok.
Do you think KLR 650 is a good bike for first time adventure rider? I learnt motorbike only for adventure riding :)
yes you do need tacho on singles especially.... mine on ktm 640 adventure doesnt work and it drives me mad ;
I ride a 1200GSA most of the time but I still hop on my KLR from time to time. She’ll sit for months sometimes and fires right up. Still a fun bike. I love it.
A 6th gear would've been better for the overall usability vs fuel injection. Emissions laws got their way on this one
Yes finally you review a good motorcycle! Lol
But could Ryan F9 put this one back together?
You know what works for a gear indicator, speed to engine rpm and you should be able to determine gear ur in having ridden the bike more than once.if u need indicators you should probably be in a car.
Could be wrong, but I'd bet that large cover over the usb port is to wrap up and store your phone charger when it's not being used.
My buddy has a 2022 klr650 that I ride while he prefers his crf300l
Spent all day Saturday on that KLR and I loved it. It was a comfortable and smooth ride all day long. Took curvy roads very very well All in all, It’s a wonderful machine.
One of the only relatable motorcycle riders that really know what he's talking about
I have owned two, the second was that oil burner. burn up the cam bushings. It did run 70-80 mph but only until it consumed all its oil in a few miles. what's that taste in my mouth?
This one's dedicated to Spite... obviously.
TLDR: The klr is 1000cc frame bike with a 250cc engine
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE Add the full updated daily rider list to the notes under the video below the SPECS of the most recent motorcycle reviewed.
The video showing the list is always shaky and often out of focus. All you would have to do is cut and paste the prior list and add the new bike to the list.
Seriously, it is nearly impossible to find a video wherein we can see the full list. At year-end please also create an all-time top ten daily rider list.
I owned a 2012 KLR 650, put 15K adventurous mountain riding on it, and sold it after 5 years. I have owned a different motorcycle since and sold it after only one year. It was a great bike in many ways, but it just did not meet up to the KLR standard to which I was used to. I will likely own another KLR650 as it is the jack of all trades and master of none. It is all that you will ever need.
Good bike, but needs more power. Absolutely no reason Kawasaki can't get more power out of a 650.
My 96 klx650 makes more power than a new klr and yes mine is street legal from factory lol
They *could* get more, but it would jeapordize the KLRs legendary reliability.
Such a ridiculously low compression engine with such a low redline is nearly impossible to grenade.
Start adding compression and you will sacrifice reliability.
If you want a "faster" Kawi 650 ADV, you gotta go Versys.
@@wizardmoto I absolutely disagree. New EFI motors and synthetic lubricants with a mildly turned up engine would provide superior longevity and reliability to the motor. This is why no one uses carburetors anymore, and why cars run for hundreds of thousands of miles instead of needing a new motor ever hundred thousand miles. The idea that adding more power creates less reliability in the arena of a 38 hp bike is just silly especially when in full trim weighs in at about 500lbs.
@@drush525 I hate to admit it but I can't disagree with anything you said, especially the first segment. I fully retract my statement, leaving it up so I don't look like a lunatic though lmao
Yeah, not often that your hands are almost out of the frame 😁😁 great review as usual, thanks for the upload
I feel like aftermarket support can be an important variable. The bikes that have been manufactured, owned, and loved for decades have a benefit we don't pay homage to enough. Bikes like the KLR or DR have uuuuggggggggghhhhh aftermarket advantage.
On Puerto Rico Kawasaki they are selling the motorcycle on $11,500 usd. I report the scam to Kawasaki and they don’t do shit
Peak hp and/or torque isn't everything, how it's spread out means more.
I have a Versys and I can tell you, it vibrates significantly. You mostly realize this in longer trips.
Can't immagine how shaky this one gets with a single piston.
I ride my '18 at 75-80 all the time. It is amazingly smooth. my 2000 1000cc Concours would put your hands to sleep at that speed.
The KLR engine is amazingly counterbalanced. Only vibration I ever really feel is at 4000 rpm (62mph) and through the seat.
Honest Injun (can I still say that?) 🤔
@@joeblow5037 After I finished watching this video I'd hinestly would like to try one.
@@littlefrank90 being honest I will tell you it doesn't have near the power of the Versys. You might be disappointed.
just sayin (if its the 650....300, no problemo)
Of all my bikes this vibrates no worse than any of them including multiple inline 4s. I do have a nice set of grips on the bike which helps but nothing like a foam set or anything. Surprisingly smooth in the bars
Your Versys needs a bigger front sprocket or smaller rear sprocket (or both) 👍
IMO, a KLR fan-base may be very much like the Royal Enfield fan-base. There's an expectation for what you're getting and nothing more.
I do not need to ride something legendary or has no soul. Something dependable, cost effective, good aesthetics, with good dealer network as motorcycles need more checkups vs cars especially gas stuff. I am willing to pay extra if a competitor offers options I might be interested in. There is the Yamaha and Aprilia that come to mind.
Guys....Yamaha Tenere 700. Much better bike in the long run & worth the extra price. Superior engine, better suspension for real off road action, better dash, 6 speed transmission (better hwy riding), less weight for off roading & city riding, & looks alot cooler! No doo hickie (cam chain tensioner) to replace, no thermobob (engine coolant temp mod) to install. Just sayin.
Klr is half the price ish and you can actually find one easy
Mine made it 2000 miles before the fuel pump stopped working and its been sitting in a kawasaki shop for about 3 months waiting for a pump that has been on back order because they had to make a pump just for this bike so nobody makes an aftermarket one and there were no OE pumps in the entire US. As soon as this bike comes out of the shop im trading it in for something else and ill never buy kawasaki again.
so glad I got the '18 model
I've also heard of electrical gremlins on the new ones
Carbs are underrated imho
so far only issues (9500 miles in 4 years) are a battery and getting ready to put on my fourth rear tire...lol
'18 KLR rider here grabs coffee.....and hopes feelings are not hurt too much.
I love that thing 😊
💪
Is the milk crate option a late add on?
I am 5 seconds into the video and the dust on the bike tells me that Zach already took her places... 😉👍
Hmmm … that cross bar above the dash display does what? Ahh, you hold that ala Tom Cruise launching off a carrier? 😊
Fun non-fact:
KLR stands for Kawasaki Land and Road
My 1st bike was a used 2013 KLR with a 685 kit and a few low side scars - aside from me being a bit short for it, I loved it - it’s an endearing bike if you haven’t been spoiled by the latest and greatest bikes out there. My personal best was 59mpg doing mostly 70+mph commuting.
Sold it to go to a ‘21 Versys650 LT, and loved that too - thoroughly enjoyed shy of 8k miles on it, but ultimately traded it in for a silly low mile ‘19 Road King Special, which I’m also loving for its own reasons.
But the KLR has a place in my heart, you really never forget your first. I’m glad it’s still here chugging along.
Could the big USB input be for cord storage?
Bought one this year. Haven’t ridden it for 12 weeks. Fuel pump quit working and replacement is still on back order. Disappointed.
Dr650? Carbs don't take 12 weeks to fix just sayin.
💯 Just wanted to buy it back in the 90s, went instead for a DR 600. Imagine that bike is still build after more than 30 years 👍
I bought a 2015 klr 650 new in 2015 I put 19,000 trouble free miles on it in seven years I kept it bone stock as for as the engine goes (no do hickey). I love it super comfy all day even with stock seat. I did so some off road but mainly road trips and daily committing to work. It's a tractor of sorts, but does well on freeway and long trips loved the 6.1 gallon tank, I could go around 230 miles before hitting the reserve petcock . I never felt like it needed a 6th gear the only negative thing I have to say about the klr is that it does not like a direct cross wind it pushes that 21" front wheel out very hard!! To bad the new one is 30lbs heaver than gen 2 as well. I traded my KLr in for a 2017 Yamaha SCR950 scrambler with only 1000 miles on it!! I do miss that big tank!!
How do you like the SCR950 vs the KLR?
@@Stephnist The scr is a fun bike to ride of course it's a totally different bike than the KLR, I do not plan on going off road with it on purpose anyway..but wouldn't be afraid to. I loved my KLR I just wanted something different to buzz to work and around local road and backcountry. I do miss that 6.1 gal tank though haha The seat on the scr is my only issue hard as hell...I just ordered a Corbin seat for it hopping that will do the trick for that. I'm getting 56mpg with the scr which I didn't expect but sweet, got 48-52 on the KLR., I do enjoy the torque of the 950 twin zippy around town and plenty of power on the freeway to pass anything without down shifting. I like the character of the engine you know your on a twin!, Thanks and God Bless!!
@@Bashe1965 Bless Bill! I have an 02 KLR and really enjoy the heck out of it for island life. But I cant ignore the look of the SCR and how much I enjoy the aesthetic. But the 02KLR has been my workhouse for years and I don't plan to sell it until I have too. Thanks for the vicarious ride on your SCR.
"Buckle up, everybody" is a funny thing to say to a bunch of motorcyclists.
Nice one...
i feel like the room for the usb port is to store the extra length of a usb cable
Awesome bike!! AWESOME DANK NOONER in 3rd!!! the proof is in the pudding!! ....I have a cb500x, similar in nostalgia, I just drive more pavement, if I had more earth the klr would have been my choice!! ❤️😃💪
KLR650: I am a bike
A pretty good overall review of the 2022 KLR. I bought a new one in the spring of 2022 the non ABS and here's my 2 cents worth. I have owned a Gen 1 and Gen 2 KLR so I was eager to try the new Gen 3, overall a much better bike than the previous two if you are doing more road vs off road riding. I put over 6000km on the bike this past summer, but will be selling it in the spring for something else. My decision is based on two reasons, one I realize that I'm more of a street rider and although if I was to ever take a RTW ride, the KLR would be great, but for mostly street riding it has it's flaws and secondly I was never able to take a test ride before I bought the bike and afterwards there are some things that make it less appealing to me. The worst of it is in the highway speed vibrations. I knew from owning other KLRs that they are uncomfortably buzzy motorcycles at highway speed, but I based my decision on all the positive reviews that the press gave of the new KLR. While I will agree that the rubber insolated pegs and bars do a good job, the vibration through the seat and tank make it just as uncomfortable as the older versions at speed. The other thing that makes it not so great is the snatchy fueling at low speed. The KLR forums are full of unhappy riders struggling with low speed fueling issues. There is the clutch lever bypass hack that makes it better, but Kawasaki did a poor job at the FI fueling. The last thing and it's extremely subjective, but the exhaust note on the new KLR is so bland and agricultural that it just doesn't add to the overall motorcycling experience. Putting an aftermarket exhaust only makes it sound worse, but louder. You can't adjust the idle speed so the bike idles at like 1200-1500RPM depending on the temperature and it just feels too high when your stopped at a light. No tachometer?? WTF was Kawasaki thinking. Sure I bought and installed a digital tach for like $50 but still?? Dollar for dollar its still the best "adventure" bike out there. It's affordable, reliable and the Gen 3 looks great. It has much better lighting than any other KLR, and the stock seat was fine for me. The brakes are still mediocre and well 37hp at the rear wheel will never thrill you too much but it does have some low end grunt. For now I'm on to something else and I think that's what is fun about motorcycling, there are so many different bikes out there that I've found it fun to trade up for something different. Worse comes to worse, you sell it in the spring and buy something else.
I have heard stories of the “doo-hickey.” I had hoped to see a mention of it (and some more details about it) here.
Dork in the Road talked about it with a mechanic a few weeks ago.
I’ve had a 2012 for 9 years this is the best sum up of what the klr is... great perspective!
The simplicity of this bike is what I am looking for. Thanks for the ride!
It's exactly the kind of bike I would never buy - just a matter of style. That said, the KLR seems just PERFECT for its purpose: simple, no frills, does it all, goes anywhere, gets any job done. No wonder it's become a legend over the years. Thank you for yet another excellent video, Zack!
I got my '22 ABS because I wanted a highway capable commuter that could handle the occasional dirt trail that looks interesting. The only things I'd really want to change are (and obviously weren't deal killers): 6th gear and a tach.
Gotta love a KLR! Maybe the large cover is to coil the charge cable up in to keep it out of the weather?
Why is no one talking about the steering bearing issues?
I've narrowed my next and only bike down to the new KLR or the CB500x. How do these two compare? Leaning towards the Honda but have a soft spot for the Donkey. Great review as always!
Same boat. Leaning toward the KLR. I like those logging roads.
the donkey after a thermo bob and doohickey leaves you at the same price as a cb500, and the cb500 has more power and better MPG...
KLR has much better suspension.
@@Zenzawa125 No need to do either, 1000's of KLR's going around without either mod for years without a worry in the world. The need for these mods has been way overrated. CB500x needs mods (and money) as well to make it comparable to a klr in semi off road conditions
Good luck finding a cb500x if you wanted one.
I just sold my gen 1 after 6 years of ownership. Will probably buy the new one next year. My only gripe about about the Klr is people’s descriptions of it. It’s time to come up with something more creative than ‘jack knife of motorcycles’, ‘Swiss army knife’, ‘jack of all trades’. Or the classic ‘it does everything, it just doesn’t do it well’.
Put a Seat concepts comfort seat on it and its definitely the best daily rider.
I have so much love for these bikes, best adventure bike on the planet by far. Come at me GS riders.
Zack compares 2022 KLR to his dad's 40 year old BMW and confesses they are very similar in functionality & capability! LMAO
That pretty much sums up this review for me 😫
Great video, your description of the KLR is very good, I just sold my 2015 and got a more powerful multi-cylinder machine, a Z900RS and I find my rides on the new bike not as enjoyable, and I do find myself longing for the familiar comfort, and versatility of the KLR, I do believe that a 6th gear would definitely be a big plus for the bike, and from what I understand the 2024 model will have duel discs up front, ABS, and a fully adjustable suspension, but sadly no 6th gear. I am actually thinking of going back to simple and usable.