I own a 03 Gen 1 KLR it's obviously lighter do all the mods you can to improve it and its just as good as any dual sport at the price point mine is still running and its 2023 now yes Ive had to do all the maintenance expected to keep any bike running well I have already done all the mods and then some it still does what you'd expect from a KLR and still going strong yes I did 692cc top end also all E-Mike stuff.
The best klr video yet. You ask for corrections/comments. Both gen1 and gen2 use a DC rectified AC alternator for charging however gen1 has an added ignition coil (sometimes called a magneto) at its stator powering a CDI ignition module ie. makes its own sauce no battery needed. To me that is a major advantage over the newer bikes.
I agree with all 10 points. I bought my Gen 1 in 2004. I spent just as much on after market parts (and labour) as I did on the cost of the new bike. I love my bike. It does everything I need.
In 8 years of riding motorcycles, this is the first time I've seen anyone other than me comment on instrument dials as an important design element that spends a significant amount of time in front of our eyes. I consider Gen1 (with these perfectly calibrated fonts paired with asymmetry) to be one of the best panels of all 600-650cc (nx650 is also good and Aprilia), it is completely incomprehensible how it was possible to make SUCH a terrifying panel in Gen2.
I love my Gen 1. It has a more rugged look and is closser to the KLR 600 Air Cooled Army Scout Motorcycle that was in use when I was in the Army in the Mid 1980's.
@@GreaseAndGravelhave a 1989 with 22k miles. Problem is, I'm in Montana USA! Come to Montana and ride across Canada to Alaska and through Siberia as you make your way down through the Middle East and into the African continent which, you'll also have to cross!!! It'd probably make it too!!! As much as I like the look and power of the Gen 1, it's just a little bulky for me. I'm going to save for a DR 650.
Just got my 2008 klr650 w 10K miles. Trying to get back into riding after a 40 yr career. I love it. I just wish I didn’t have to drive like I am invisible. Be careful out there.
G'day, I've owned both Gen1 and Gen2.... in reverse order! I have a 1995 Gen1 now, IMHO my improvements (read accessories) this is better than the Gen2 I owned . As a man in his late 60's the biggest improvement/accessory/addition has been my side-car platform (it was a side-car with a seat and not much storage) Having the platform allows me to carry enough gear for my trip(s) It's well set up with dual battery power/enough charging outlets, all my camping gear, room for water, extra fuel and even a small fridge!
If had my gen1 for 2 years now and I'm so happy with my bike, it kills my lower back sometimes but other than that no complains, i an also almost done repainting my bike with some new mud guards on the front and back and it looks super sporty, but love the video thanks bud
Awesome video, was already thinking that I liked the Gen1 better over the Gen2, but this just solidified it. And honestly you're right the gen2 is ugly as hell imo
I love my 08 gen 2 , had it for about 10 yrs now , mostly do 100 mile or less rides . other than the usual oil consumption, ive had zero problems . 29,000 k miles now
@@GreaseAndGravel Just put LED headlight H4 and city in and all led front and rear and added LED running lights and second tail/brake light bar.....modern me!
2 things I will disagree is that the braking on the gen 2 its much better. Also I like the gen 2 instrument design much better as I think they r much easier to read. I agree with rest. I like both in terms of looks. On my 5th KLR650 now a gen 2 2016 model. Had the 87 91 98 06 as well.
The Gen 1 front forks are also a bit smaller in diameter than the Gen 2. I found this out when I had to replace a bent fork on my Gen 2 after a crash. I believe the Gen 2 and Gen 3 forks are the same though I could be mistaken.
Complete trippleclamp from gen 1 fits onto gen 2. Have to make two small cuts on the steering stopper. Gen 1 front assembly is much lighter then gen 2.
The Gen 3 still has the doohickey issue. Makes a nice key chain accessory but that's about all it's good for. Get the upgrade and look for it when buying used!!
Thank you, have an 07 and trying to decide if upgrades would be worth it. Keep leaning towards, that it would be. Probably the biggest $$ upgrade would be cogent suspension and most notable. ??
If I still had my Gen 1 (2007) I'd keep it. I upgraded my front and rear suspension and it made a huge difference. The issue I have with the Gen 2 is that when you drop it, there is a bigger chance of damaging something (hard plastics, mostly). Then again, if you can get a Gen 2 for a good price, it could work out cheaper than upgrading the Gen 1. Let me know what you decide!
Im confused.. so you can't pop start (bump, push, whatever lol) the gen 2? I just seen videos of people doing it. I was always able to pop start my non EFI crotch rockets so why not the gen 2 klr 650? This is troubling me because thats a big plus to me for getting a carb bike.
I had a 2001 model and liked it ,now I'm looking at a 2009 model with 25000 k,I'm a little reluctant myself but the bike is mint and 3500 is what I can get it for canadian, it hard to pass up.
Can you tell me what is the difference between gen 1 and gen 2 head. One oil delivery to the cams isover the head near the plug. And the other cam oil delivery is on the carb side. Why? And what are there year for each??? Can you help??
@@GreaseAndGravel i have converted my Gen1 KLR to a supermoto. The riding i do does not need the need the standard big tank. I also have been doing a lot to help the KLR lose weight 😃
@@GreaseAndGravel Here is a listb of the mods Mikini VM38 carb, Honda CBR250r wheels, Unifilter, Supertrapp IDS2 exhaust (modified), Universal Headlight - Husqvarna 701 clone
Ah, thanks! I didn't know that. I knew the Gen 2 was different, but didn't realize the length differs too. I wonder why they went for a shorter one again
It depends on its maintenance and the condition of the balancer chain sprockets etc. Friend of mine did 280000km on his before it burnt due to exhaust valve clearance being out
It really depends on how it was maintained... a friend of mine did 280 000km on his... others kill it after 30 000km. You do need to check the condition of the balancer chain sprockets before buying... also, in cold climates the engine runs too cool.. so without the thermoBob mod, it might not last as long... here, in the hear, that's not an issue
@@fxdf3696 Congrats on the KLR! If there aren't any funny noises coming from the engine (especially the side of the Doo), I think you're good. Check out the chats with Eagle Mike by Big Rock Moto. Very valuable info. Enjoy!
I have no idea about the 2nd-hand US market.. hopefully someone else will comment here... in SA that they go for about $2200. But it is the right bike to get! I miss mine a lot!
@@GreaseAndGravel absolutely! In fact I'm in the market. I probably should have said kind of late for 2021, yet well over due. I've not found a great video yet with someone comparing the pros and cons of each. I like the fairing of a Gen 2 but appropriate the utilitarian appearance of the Gen 1. I'd also like to travel in S. America and a video I watched talked about how the Gen 2 still has a bit of a modern look whereas the Gen 1 is clearly from the 80s and less appealing to thieves.
@@CoreyBrass Ah, I hear you! I also couldn't believe there are no videos on the differences (e.g the alternator vs generator, and shorter springs I had to find out from a local KLR expert). I am also in the market for an old KLR and really can't decide between the two. I LOVED by Gen1, but I am kinda curious how the Gen2 will be long term. Good luck with the hunt!
I just bought a 2015 KLR day before yesterday with 2500 miles. These bikes are the equivalent of Chevy pickups of the 80s and 90s. You could practically rebuild them with parts from Walmart. Super practical. Sure there are 2022 mods coming available this summer, but by the time I got one and added all the necessary stuff to it, likely this year's season would be over. Most KLR guys would agree I think. Maybe next year I will sell this one at a $1k loss and upgrade, maybe not. That's the beauty of these. Practical and super economical.
Nothing is late in motorcycles, only the riders, I started in 1965 at 15 years old, much dirt and street, still ride my 60’s dream bike a BMW, 2017RT. Ive wanted a KLR for years but never owned one, I’m thankful for info like this on old bikes, I like them much better.
The gen 2 has more charging output for the addition of accessories. I don’t know how much off the top of my head and I don’t want to lie to to you so I won’t guess but apparently it is significant. RIDE SAFE!!!!!!!
Hot tip for all you 08-09 Gen 2 owners trying to sell your bikes, mention oil-consumption in your ad. We all know about the problem. So either say you corrected it or quantify the problem in an honest sounding way. Ignoring it will only encourage potential buyers to think the worst---that the bike has a problem and that you are not honest, with the latter being the bigger problem.
I am sure there are more differences, but these are the 10 most significant differences I could think of. Please add more below ✌😁
I own a 03 Gen 1 KLR it's obviously lighter do all the mods you can to improve it and its just as good as
any dual sport at the price point mine is still running and its 2023 now yes Ive had to do all the maintenance expected to keep any bike running well I have already done all the mods and then some it still does what
you'd expect from a KLR and still going strong yes I did 692cc top end also all E-Mike stuff.
You're making me envious@@unclequack5445 I should have kept my 2007 :( Also did the E-Mike mods, carb mods, suspension. The bike was amazing.
The best klr video yet. You ask for corrections/comments. Both gen1 and gen2 use a DC rectified AC alternator for charging however gen1 has an added ignition coil (sometimes called a magneto) at its stator powering a CDI ignition module ie. makes its own sauce no battery needed. To me that is a major advantage over the newer bikes.
Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it! I didn't know that about the Gen 1's ignition. I miss mine!!
I agree with all 10 points. I bought my Gen 1 in 2004. I spent just as much on after market parts (and labour) as I did on the cost of the new bike. I love my bike. It does everything I need.
If I could buy my old 2007 back I’d do it in a heartbeat. Thanks for watching!
In 8 years of riding motorcycles, this is the first time I've seen anyone other than me comment on instrument dials as an important design element that spends a significant amount of time in front of our eyes. I consider Gen1 (with these perfectly calibrated fonts paired with asymmetry) to be one of the best panels of all 600-650cc (nx650 is also good and Aprilia), it is completely incomprehensible how it was possible to make SUCH a terrifying panel in Gen2.
Near Montana? Selling a Gen 1 for $1900 😂 22k miles
I just bought a gen 1 and am looking forward to a great summer of riding. Thanks for the video, great information.
Congrats, Bernie! Enjoy your KLR.
I just got one also. It’s soo fun! I like the ride height, to me it feels like I am riding a giraffe. May I ask how much you paid for it?
@@TrafficTravelDelight Enjoy your KLR man! I am very envious!
I love my Gen 1. It has a more rugged look and is closser to the KLR 600 Air Cooled Army Scout Motorcycle that was in use when I was in the Army in the Mid 1980's.
I miss my Gen1!! I am looking for one again. Wow, the you must know the KLRs very well. That is awesome!
@@GreaseAndGravelhave a 1989 with 22k miles. Problem is, I'm in Montana USA! Come to Montana and ride across Canada to Alaska and through Siberia as you make your way down through the Middle East and into the African continent which, you'll also have to cross!!!
It'd probably make it too!!!
As much as I like the look and power of the Gen 1, it's just a little bulky for me. I'm going to save for a DR 650.
Just got my 2008 klr650 w 10K miles. Trying to get back into riding after a 40 yr career. I love it. I just wish I didn’t have to drive like I am invisible. Be careful out there.
Hi Geoff! Congrats on the KLR. I'd love to own a Gen2 one day too. I totally agree! Safety on the roads has become a real issue.
#2 is HUGE for me. Thanks for the heads up!
Nice video.
I'm picking up a gen 1 today,
Already own a gen 2.
Love these bikes
Nice! Enjoy the bike! I still want to own a Gen2 one day
@@GreaseAndGravel my old one is for sale now.
G'day, I've owned both Gen1 and Gen2.... in reverse order! I have a 1995 Gen1 now, IMHO my improvements (read accessories) this is better than the Gen2 I owned . As a man in his late 60's the biggest improvement/accessory/addition has been my side-car platform (it was a side-car with a seat and not much storage) Having the platform allows me to carry enough gear for my trip(s) It's well set up with dual battery power/enough charging outlets, all my camping gear, room for water, extra fuel and even a small fridge!
If had my gen1 for 2 years now and I'm so happy with my bike, it kills my lower back sometimes but other than that no complains, i an also almost done repainting my bike with some new mud guards on the front and back and it looks super sporty, but love the video thanks bud
Great video! I had a Gen1 many years ago and getting a Gen 2 tomorrow, so I'm quite excited! 😁
How are you enjoying the Gen 2? I've always wanted one ever since I test rode it in 2008.
@@GreaseAndGravel Very nice! To tell the truth, I don't feel that much of a difference in the ride, but then it has been a few years. 😁
@@wilddogchilliandstuff5125 Luckily they didn't change much... :)
Great Job Explaining - Very Useful Information - Thank You for Producing this Video !
Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it. If you're looking for a KLR, I hope you find a good one. Cheers
Thank You G&G @@GreaseAndGravel
Awesome video, was already thinking that I liked the Gen1 better over the Gen2, but this just solidified it. And honestly you're right the gen2 is ugly as hell imo
Thanks, Matt! Glad you found it useful. For me, the biggest single advantage of the Gen1 is that there is less damage when you drop it.
I love my 08 gen 2 , had it for about 10 yrs now , mostly do 100 mile or less rides . other than the usual oil consumption, ive had zero problems .
29,000 k miles now
I still want to own one someday. They are great bikes!
Since 1987 KLR650A owner, I just did some minor maintenance, me 61 yo now, I keep the bike, still ok for me.36 years later….
It is an amazing bike and I still regret selling my 2007!
@@GreaseAndGravel Just put LED headlight H4 and city in and all led front and rear and added LED running lights and second tail/brake light bar.....modern me!
I love my gen2 but it's much better since rebuilding the carb the way they did in the 80s, needle & jets, mixture... more kudos to Eagle Mike 👍🏻🤙🏼
Thanks for the comment. I've always wanted to own a Gen2. Yeah, Eagle Mike is awesome and a big reason these KLRs last so long (I think)
2 things I will disagree is that the braking on the gen 2 its much better.
Also I like the gen 2 instrument design much better as I think they r much easier to read.
I agree with rest.
I like both in terms of looks.
On my 5th KLR650 now a gen 2 2016 model.
Had the 87 91 98 06 as well.
Just thinking...a white african english speaker with a french name talks about japanese bikes...how cool is that!?
Good detailed info, thanks for an excellent video!
Thanks for watching, Mike
Tx brother! Looking at buying a gen 1
You’ll love it!
The Gen 1 front forks are also a bit smaller in diameter than the Gen 2. I found this out when I had to replace a bent fork on my Gen 2 after a crash. I believe the Gen 2 and Gen 3 forks are the same though I could be mistaken.
Thanks for the info!!
Complete trippleclamp from gen 1 fits onto gen 2. Have to make two small cuts on the steering stopper. Gen 1 front assembly is much lighter then gen 2.
The Gen 3 still has the doohickey issue. Makes a nice key chain accessory but that's about all it's good for. Get the upgrade and look for it when buying used!!
Noce XT500 in the background. One my all time favorite thumpers.
My first bike was an XT500 with a 35 fuel tank. My two best friends also had XT's at the same time. Man, I should have kept it!
Believe that's a 2 stroke, maybe a DT 250. Look at the expansion chamber, and that small engine. Also, the early monoshock.
Thank you, have an 07 and trying to decide if upgrades would be worth it. Keep leaning towards, that it would be. Probably the biggest $$ upgrade would be cogent suspension and most notable. ??
If I still had my Gen 1 (2007) I'd keep it. I upgraded my front and rear suspension and it made a huge difference. The issue I have with the Gen 2 is that when you drop it, there is a bigger chance of damaging something (hard plastics, mostly). Then again, if you can get a Gen 2 for a good price, it could work out cheaper than upgrading the Gen 1. Let me know what you decide!
Awsome video, thank you!
Thanks John!
Im confused.. so you can't pop start (bump, push, whatever lol) the gen 2? I just seen videos of people doing it. I was always able to pop start my non EFI crotch rockets so why not the gen 2 klr 650? This is troubling me because thats a big plus to me for getting a carb bike.
You can, but it will be more difficult due to having an alternator instead of a generator. Without a battery there’s no way
Working on a Gen 2 getting it back road worthy after son had a high speed get off in the rain.
I hope your son is okay!!
Great video btw!
Thanks🙏🏼
Thanks for the info.
Anytime! Let me know if you learn of more differences.
I had a 2001 model and liked it ,now I'm looking at a 2009 model with 25000 k,I'm a little reluctant myself but the bike is mint and 3500 is what I can get it for canadian, it hard to pass up.
I think all the KLRs were great! Hope you got the one you were looking at!
Can you tell me what is the difference between gen 1 and gen 2 head. One oil delivery to the cams isover the head near the plug. And the other cam oil delivery is on the carb side. Why? And what are there year for each??? Can you help??
Great Video!
Thanks, Ed!
what gearing do you run on the Gen 1 to get it going to 140 km/h without revving it to the moon?
I revved it to the moon!🫣
What tires were on the gen 1? They look awesome.
I can’t remember which ones these were, but I often ran Dunlop D606s and loved them
which model has that dashboard where it has only speedo and no rev counter?
Does the Gen 1 have a carburetor or EFI? I’m doing research as to what works for me and right now KLR-650 Gen 1 is leading the the pack.
@Dual ADV Thank you, so I'll look at Gen 2.
I will never get rid of my gen one.
I miss mine every time a facebook memory of a trip pops up :( Enjoy yours!
Question...Can a KLR Cmodel gas tank fit the KLR A model?.
Hi Basil, I have no idea. 15 years ago I had to opposite quesiton... whether a model A tank can fit the C. Why do you want to go smaller?
@@GreaseAndGravel i have converted my Gen1 KLR to a supermoto. The riding i do does not need the need the standard big tank. I also have been doing a lot to help the KLR lose weight 😃
@@basilforsyth424 Ah, makes sense! Must be an awesome supermoto!
@@GreaseAndGravel i want to post a picture of it but i cant see where to do that.
@@GreaseAndGravel
Here is a listb of the mods
Mikini VM38 carb, Honda CBR250r wheels, Unifilter, Supertrapp IDS2 exhaust (modified), Universal Headlight - Husqvarna 701 clone
The swingarm is longer on the gen1 and gen3. I like the old Yamaha behind you!
Ah, thanks! I didn't know that. I knew the Gen 2 was different, but didn't realize the length differs too. I wonder why they went for a shorter one again
@@GreaseAndGravel
No, the gen2 is the shorter one!
@@upsidedowndog1256 Oops, I see now. Thanks!
Omg I just got a Jen 1 with only 2000 miles ❤
is the main frame different?
As far as I know, yes. The swing-arm was different for sure... I will try to find out.
How many miles is to many miles for the KLR 650 ❓
It depends on its maintenance and the condition of the balancer chain sprockets etc. Friend of mine did 280000km on his before it burnt due to exhaust valve clearance being out
what is considered high mileage for a klr?
It really depends on how it was maintained... a friend of mine did 280 000km on his... others kill it after 30 000km. You do need to check the condition of the balancer chain sprockets before buying... also, in cold climates the engine runs too cool.. so without the thermoBob mod, it might not last as long... here, in the hear, that's not an issue
@@GreaseAndGravel Just bought a 2001 with dohikey replacement and thermo bob probably not needed in Australia, any ideas 👍
@@fxdf3696 Congrats on the KLR! If there aren't any funny noises coming from the engine (especially the side of the Doo), I think you're good. Check out the chats with Eagle Mike by Big Rock Moto. Very valuable info. Enjoy!
2005 with 51.000 miles on it and completely original including doohickey. Maintenance and reset the doohickey every oil change.
@@tomvana4270 Exactly! That old pos mike started a rumor that he has a "solution" too lol
Have owned a Gen #2 for a while. I have Gen # 3 now 2023 much better bike Fuel Injection is a big update & the Dash
I wish they sold them here in SA... would have been my first choice
Is a 2006 KLR 650 in good condition worth $2800 ❓
I have no idea about the 2nd-hand US market.. hopefully someone else will comment here... in SA that they go for about $2200. But it is the right bike to get! I miss mine a lot!
Love my 1997
They are the best!
I have crash bar's and dropped it a couple of times and l have no damage. 😊
I dropped mine so many times, and it was fine even without crash bars. Had to zip tie the plastics a few times though :)
Is there any fuel ijenctio ?
Only on the Gen 3 that was recently launched... the Gen 1 and 2 are carbureted.
Lekker boet
✌
👍
This is kind of a late video for 2021.
Do you think so? I think people are going to buy Gen1&2 KLRs for many years to come 😜
@@GreaseAndGravel absolutely! In fact I'm in the market. I probably should have said kind of late for 2021, yet well over due. I've not found a great video yet with someone comparing the pros and cons of each. I like the fairing of a Gen 2 but appropriate the utilitarian appearance of the Gen 1. I'd also like to travel in S. America and a video I watched talked about how the Gen 2 still has a bit of a modern look whereas the Gen 1 is clearly from the 80s and less appealing to thieves.
@@CoreyBrass Ah, I hear you! I also couldn't believe there are no videos on the differences (e.g the alternator vs generator, and shorter springs I had to find out from a local KLR expert). I am also in the market for an old KLR and really can't decide between the two. I LOVED by Gen1, but I am kinda curious how the Gen2 will be long term. Good luck with the hunt!
I just bought a 2015 KLR day before yesterday with 2500 miles. These bikes are the equivalent of Chevy pickups of the 80s and 90s. You could practically rebuild them with parts from Walmart. Super practical. Sure there are 2022 mods coming available this summer, but by the time I got one and added all the necessary stuff to it, likely this year's season would be over. Most KLR guys would agree I think. Maybe next year I will sell this one at a $1k loss and upgrade, maybe not. That's the beauty of these. Practical and super economical.
Nothing is late in motorcycles, only the riders, I started in 1965 at 15 years old, much dirt and street, still ride my 60’s dream bike a BMW, 2017RT.
Ive wanted a KLR for years but never owned one, I’m thankful for info like this on old bikes, I like them much better.
The gen 2 has more charging output for the addition of accessories. I don’t know how much off the top of my head and I don’t want to lie to to you so I won’t guess but apparently it is significant. RIDE SAFE!!!!!!!
Yeah, the Gen 2 definitely has more output from the alternator. Cheers
Hot tip for all you 08-09 Gen 2 owners trying to sell your bikes, mention oil-consumption in your ad.
We all know about the problem. So either say you corrected it or quantify the problem in an honest sounding way. Ignoring it will only encourage potential buyers to think the worst---that the bike has a problem and that you are not honest, with the latter being the bigger problem.
Good advice!