I would add a center stand first. It's a must for lubing the chain or for flat tire repairs. Hard luggage bag and panniers would be my second item(s) but I hardly ever take my bike offroad. I did the "Doohickey" mod but honestly, I don't see how the factory chain tensioner can cause any problems if it's maintained properly. The factory spring had lots of adjustment travel left. I think the system fails because people don't torque the tension adjustment retainer bolt properly. It gets loose and the chain tensioner begins to move. Then it's a matter of time before it fails and the spring is destroyed. It won't take long. I also did the "Thermobob" mod but wasn't too happy with design and it's performance. There is very little space for the large new thermostat housing. It's very hard to position it where it won't rub on other engine components or the frame. I can't run regular fuel after the installation. The engine pings a lot with regular fuel. I had no pinging (detonation) issues with the factory system. Also, the engine runs a LOT hotter with "thermobob", especially in stop and go traffic on hot summer days. The cooling fan comes on a lot and stays on for a long time. My advice is: Don't modify things because someone tells you so. Kawasaki engineers are not dumb. They know what they are doing. Given a chance again, I would not modify anything in the engine and cooling system.
I'm new to adv's but have been riding since the '80's (cruisers) and just bought a '16 KLR this July. Just like my big bikes, I needed several mods to make this bike fit me (6'4", 260lbs). Besides all the ergonomics changed out (risers, lowering brackets for the pegs, taller seat) the two best mods I've done to date are 0.22cent mod (virtually free) that woke up the bike a bit and a suspension upgrade which completely turned this bike into something I'll ride all day long and have FUN doing it! Was going to do the progressive springs in front and Topgun spring replacement in the rear but after many forum inquiries and research I bit the bullet and went with Cogent front and back. Never gonna sell the bike now. I.fuckin'.love it!
Nice KLR, my boyfriend has a 2008 ( I have a 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure). I did that Manitoulin island ferry run too but on my old 1999 Honda CBR600F4 (still have it and its got 105,000 kms on it now), that was a fun ride. Great video, I took some notes for my boyfriends KLR
Hi Tracey, The Island on a sport bike is every bit as cool as on an adventure bike :) I have done several trips through there on my sportbikes in the past. What a blast! I hope you can get back up on the ADV bikes. Cheers and thanks for watching!
My priorities were brakes and suspension. My primary use is on the street and I was appalled by the dismal performance of the stock brakes. A Galfer rotor kit for the front, braided steel lines, and EBC pads solved the problem.Progressive Suspension fork springs and rear shock, together with an Eagle Mike fork brace, Motul fork oil, and Heidenau K75 tires transformed the handling.
changing the muffler is a pretty big one. stock muffler makes the klr feel sluggish and it weighs a friggin ton!! maybe find away to protect or change the rear tail lights. I've got to the site unloaded and went trail riding to drop it and snap those. also heated hand grips can be a godsend in colder climates.
That list is right on target, the only thing I might add is suspension if the bike is going to be used off road a lot or carrying heavy loads. Suspension, like tires, varies a lot with personal preference and intended use.
That's what I decided on. The Moab shock and DDC's with springs were a huge improvement for my uses and terrain (Arizona is very rocky in many places).
The Cogent upgrade was the best money I've spent on my KLR. 320mm front rotor and stainless line are also very worthwhile mods. OEM front brake is barely OK when not loaded, but in Adv trim it barely stops the bike
Good to hear about the Cogent suspension. I'm really looking forward to that upgrade. Not sure what year your KLR is but the front brakes on my 2015 are great!
Hey Mason without your channel I'd be lost Kawasaki KLR has come alone since the lost time I owned my first KLR . I'm planning on owning another one I hopping for spring
Ah, thats very possible. Mines a 2015 and wasn't too bad at first. I have since installed the top gun rear coil and put heavier weight oil in the front to hold me until I save up for the Cogent set ;)
I looking if to the new 2022 KLR 650 Had a 2007 and loved it, now a DR650 with a 20 liter tank and a KTM 390 Adventure bough great bikes, but thinking of getting the new KLR 650 for long distance touring, I have the Dunlop TrailMax Mission tires on the KTM and have a set ordered for the DR650, and will be putting them on the KLR if I get one. I do not do much mud, but for dirt and gravel roads and wet grass they handle great, also in wet sand. But I do not race off road I like to take my time and enjoy, I all so go with the GIVI Trekker 33/46 hard bags, like that you can load from the side or top. I have no wind protection on the DR and like it that way, love the feel of the wind on my chest, Most rides are between 200 and 400 Km , Also like the KTM but the 14.5 liter gas tank limits me to 400 Km per tank of gas, to bad they did not go with a 18 liter gas tank on the KTM. But 3 in the stable is great, that way if my sun comes, he will have something to ride he has my old KLR up in Newfoundland. Thanks for your Videos 1 & 2
Makes sense. Old Mason just got his Sargent seat in so he's looking forward to trying that out 👍 I'm sure I will make the jump to lithium at some point but the exhaust is a tough sell. I need a quiet bike for where we ride and refuse to repack cans. Did enough of that with the track bikes so at the moment nothing on the market appeals to me. Cheers ;)
TKCs next for me for sure but I need a "bumper to bumper" going over ASAP. Nothing wrong but I just keep putting it off. You should be back on the road soon!
Yeah, it pays to go over everything once in awhile. Takes most of the surprises out of the equation ;) As for the riding... we just had another 6" of snow this weekend :( It just won't stop. *Sigh
Hello Mason. I just bought a 2009 KLR with just shy of 16,000 miles. I'm 100% new to dual use bikes. Two weeks ago I didn't know what they were. Would you mind making a video that shows and explains what we should put in a tool bag to carry on the bike for keeping us moving along the road/trail? Maybe explain the factory tool kit too? I appreciate your content. I'm a new subscriber already. My very first ride on my KLR was 150 miles at night. I noticed I need better mirrors. The after market mirrors on it vibrate really bad and made it so I couldn't tell how close vehicles were behind me unless I let go of the grip and stabilized the mirror with my hand. Do the mirrors you have solve that?
The risers made it really comfortable for sitting and standing :) I have done most of the mechanical mods too. the Jetting and a valve adjust made the biggest difference on mine. Cheers!
Fantastic list, I have got a fair amount of those items, Rox risers I need and have been meaning too for a long time, need the lighting options as I only have the standard lights....smashed my plastic bashplate the other week so need to deal with that very shortly. Footpegs I havent touched yet as I havent felt the need but I will look at soon just for the sake of it. KLR Dash is a must for the long k's but I have found it a bit annoying for the off road sections as it blocks the view a bit so I go back and forth on having it on or not. I do more offroad riding than on. Tyres, I have gone for the D606 on the back and the Tractionator for the front, will get about 5000k's out of the D606 on the back and I dont know how good the tractionator does yet, but the tyres make the KLR an extremely capable off road beast and on road is still very usable at speed on the tarmac. Hand guards are an absolute non-negotiable! Drill through subframe I havent done as the new bolts supplied with my crash bars seem to be pretty good. Charging port is a great option for those longer trips and overnighters and the manual fuel petcock is standard over here in Aus, we dont have the vacuum based system and I am happy we don't. Thanks for the vid as always they are great quality!!!
Most of my rides are paved so the t63 are good but replace them often.the Anakee three last twice as long and suit my rides perfectly.great for mountain twisted (tail of the dragon) and old logging roads.
You're so right. Lot's to choose from and that makes these lists tough to do ;) Some are more important than others and some are just fun to do! Cheers! Thanks for watching :)
thanks again love your videos ive the same exact bike looking forward to doing some mods a little at a time nice to see what people think of some of the products that are available i know theres a lot of good stuff as well as a lot of not so good thanks
I agree. The KLR is a blank canvas that can support any style of build you can think of from highway touring to full adventure builds. There are so many great items and parts available. Thanks for watching! Cheers :)
Hey Mason, Very cool channel. Ive noticed on a few of your vids there is a blinking white LED near the rear shock on the left side. Can I ask what that is? Thanks. 300 miles on the new KLR learned a lot here from you,Cheers from Southern Connecticut.
When did they do away with the manual petcock? I had an 08 and it came factory with a manual petcock. I never had any problem with the pegs or the stock tires, and I rode off road alot. Also my taller windshield put the airflow right into my helmet, so that one might depend on how tall you are. Sometimes a shorter windshield is more comfortable. Personally I would change the suspension and seat as one of the first things. Definitely crash bars and skid plate, and if you do any kind of long distance riding, highway pegs are a must. 15 tooth front sprocket for highway, and 13 tooth for off road. Extra lights are always good.
I'm not sure what year they went to the vacuum petcock but going back to manual is high on my list. I found the pegs deadly when wet and I tend to ride in a fair bit of water, but otherwise work well. I kept the stock windscreen and just moved it away with the KLR dash riser and it works well. Full Cogent suspension is now done and I totally agree it should be a first item. Well worth the money. Cheers and thanks for the comment!
I have to admire how a new exhaust isn't in your top 10 list. It seems to be prevalent in a lot of mod videos and I've always wanted after market exhaust on my bikes but I've never ponied up for it. I'll spend $$$$ on luggage , ergos windscreens, and tires but I can't seem to let go of the dough for those few extra ponies and reduced weight.
@@masonsadv I'm looking at the LeoVince now. After my last ride, and I'm not sure if this is only on the California models but the catalytic converter is putting off an excess of heat. I'm still in the break in phase, so I'm taking it as easy as I can. I had a similar issue with the Cat on a 1500 Vulcan except the cat was on the bottom of the bike. I de californicated my ZZR but left the cats on that bike which are inside the cans. BTW, I like the heat shield on your bike, I bet that saves your side plastic.
@@pinkiewerewolf they run really lean from the factory pinkie. Mine would have the header portion of the pipe cherry red at idle so I adjusted the mixture screw to richen it up. Runs at a nice temp now. also keep an eye on the header bolts and their torque. they seem to need retorquing several time when new and will cause that exhaust pop.
Hey Chris, Old Mason gave that to me... or rather, I took it from him lol. I think you can get them at Princess Auto or Canadian tire up here in Canada.
I noticed you had your bike on a lift. Is this the Harbor Freight unit? My klr has the hard plastic engine guard; is there a chance of crushing this when lifting the bike? Any info tip/trick or video would be helpful. Thanks.
That's one way for sure but in the environments we ride chain lube turns into a cutting paste. Sand and dirt mixes with the oil and grinds away not to mention the mess or the cost. The purpose of the WD is just to flush out the debris and apply a thin lubricant that doesn't attract as much dirt and when used daily, it works well. Chain is always clean, slightly lubricated to avoid rust from the water crossings and it forces me to check it daily. I have used this method for 29 years with different motorcycles without a single catastrophic breakdown so for the price, it's my go too. To each their own and the chain oil debate, like the engine oil debate will out live all of us ;) Cheers and thanks for the comment! www.watt-man.com/uploads/WD40experiment.pdf
Is a center stand for easy tire changes while on a long road trip even on the radar, or is not a big deal even with a 500 lbs plus (loaded ) bike?? Just got a 09 Klr and making the transition from road to dual.
Its not on my radar Louis. I use a bike lift in the shop and carry a very small prop for trail side repairs. Its a great idea for some but where we ride it just turns into another piece of steel rattling around down there and catching on things. Congrats on the KLR! That's exciting. Enjoy 🙂👍
I see something blinking under that seat, what is that? Also, is it worth it to buy 2018 klr, which is the last model? I am lat 40's novice, what do you think?
The light is a battery monitor and my charge point for winter storage and it's totally worth buying the 18 if your in the market for a KLR. Lots of parts out there so nothing to be scared of. Cheers!
I did mine and I would do it on a 2018 model too. The Doo it's self is much better now but the spring is still weak IMHO. Best of luck and enjoy the ride, Vince! :)
@@masonsadv Thanks Mason. I love this bike. I've never worked on motorcycles before, but I've owned several. I plan to do this myself in the next few months. I'm always a bit surprised to see all the KLR hate out there, I enjoy riding this thing the best of all the bikes I've owned. Thanks for all the vids.
I had engine surging problems the idle would go up and down by itself after removing the carb and cleaning it 3 times I started reading forums I traced the problem to the stock vacuum petcock this was the problem cap off vac hose install manual petcock problem solved i'm telling you this one drove me crazy for 2 days but I beat it.
Nice! I did the manual petcock for peace of mind the first winter I had the bike. Great "no maintenance" mod :) Glad it solved your issues! Cheers Quack!
@@masonsadv the fuel on/off/ and reserve switch with a main fuel line that goes to the carb, but it also has another fuel line behind that one, because when i ride sometimes it pops off and i can hear the bike being starved of fuel then the bike shuts off and wont start until i hook it back in, tomorrow ill make a video of it and show the two fuel lines id appreciate it if you would go check it out and tell me what you think the second fuel line is for. I wont be able to send you a link, um ill comment on this video letting u know when its up id appreciate it, youll notice some damage on mine thats because i highsided it at 65mph
Oh right, That's a vacuum line Eragon. The front is fuel and the back is vacuum. when the vacuum line comes off there is no vacuum to open the diaphragm and the petcock closes. hence fuel starvation. Replacing the factory petcock with a manual one eliminates the vacuum line and any problems that diaphragm may cause when your miles from home.
Your bike looks way too clean... mother nature needs to let us canucks warm up again! Our KLRs are getting restless! Any cable troubles using ROX pivots? I'm trying to get handguards to clear my fairing.
Yes it does!! need some trail therapy :) I did have to reroute one of the cables, I think the clutch, but it worked fine and didn't need to be changed. The handguards clear easily if you go with the KLR dash kit. Cheers!
Masons ADV I added a solobox dash, got the screen out of the way, but my cheapo handguards still won't clear the body. I may go with model specific ones. Thanks for the reply.
I would add a center stand first. It's a must for lubing the chain or for flat tire repairs.
Hard luggage bag and panniers would be my second item(s) but I hardly ever take my bike offroad.
I did the "Doohickey" mod but honestly, I don't see how the factory chain tensioner can cause any problems if it's maintained properly. The factory spring had lots of adjustment travel left. I think the system fails because people don't torque the tension adjustment retainer bolt properly. It gets loose and the chain tensioner begins to move. Then it's a matter of time before it fails and the spring is destroyed. It won't take long.
I also did the "Thermobob" mod but wasn't too happy with design and it's performance. There is very little space for the large new thermostat housing. It's very hard to position it where it won't rub on other engine components or the frame. I can't run regular fuel after the installation. The engine pings a lot with regular fuel. I had no pinging (detonation) issues with the factory system. Also, the engine runs a LOT hotter with "thermobob", especially in stop and go traffic on hot summer days. The cooling fan comes on a lot and stays on for a long time.
My advice is: Don't modify things because someone tells you so. Kawasaki engineers are not dumb. They know what they are doing. Given a chance again, I would not modify anything in the engine and cooling system.
.love these vids. On my 3rd klr650 in 15 years. Bikers are the best people
Probably the best short video I've seen all year
Thank you very much 🙂👍
Solid info, I'm gearing up for the TAT, taking my 15 yr old son, grateful for the input.
Right on! Have fun :)
I'm new to adv's but have been riding since the '80's (cruisers) and just bought a '16 KLR this July. Just like my big bikes, I needed several mods to make this bike fit me (6'4", 260lbs). Besides all the ergonomics changed out (risers, lowering brackets for the pegs, taller seat) the two best mods I've done to date are 0.22cent mod (virtually free) that woke up the bike a bit and a suspension upgrade which completely turned this bike into something I'll ride all day long and have FUN doing it! Was going to do the progressive springs in front and Topgun spring replacement in the rear but after many forum inquiries and research I bit the bullet and went with Cogent front and back. Never gonna sell the bike now. I.fuckin'.love it!
Nice, The Cogent is on my list too. the mod list is short now (most everything done) so the suspension has moved closer to the top :) Cheers man.
Nice KLR, my boyfriend has a 2008 ( I have a 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure). I did that Manitoulin island ferry run too but on my old 1999 Honda CBR600F4 (still have it and its got 105,000 kms on it now), that was a fun ride. Great video, I took some notes for my boyfriends KLR
Hi Tracey, The Island on a sport bike is every bit as cool as on an adventure bike :) I have done several trips through there on my sportbikes in the past. What a blast! I hope you can get back up on the ADV bikes. Cheers and thanks for watching!
Oh my list of what an ADV Rider needs is short... Only one point: big balls...:-) nice one thanks for sharing!
Haha, good point Chris! Lol, Cheers man. Hope things are well :)
My priorities were brakes and suspension. My primary use is on the street and I was appalled by the dismal performance of the stock brakes. A Galfer rotor kit for the front, braided steel lines, and EBC pads solved the problem.Progressive Suspension fork springs and rear shock, together with an Eagle Mike fork brace, Motul fork oil, and Heidenau K75 tires transformed the handling.
changing the muffler is a pretty big one. stock muffler makes the klr feel sluggish and it weighs a friggin ton!! maybe find away to protect or change the rear tail lights. I've got to the site unloaded and went trail riding to drop it and snap those. also heated hand grips can be a godsend in colder climates.
That list is right on target, the only thing I might add is suspension if the bike is going to be used off road a lot or carrying heavy loads. Suspension, like tires, varies a lot with personal preference and intended use.
absolutely! So far I have done the top gun rear coil and heavier fork oil but I'm looking forward to a full cogent suspension at some point. Cheers!
That's what I decided on. The Moab shock and DDC's with springs were a huge improvement for my uses and terrain (Arizona is very rocky in many places).
Yeah it can be rocky up here too. That may be the combo i go with too.
The Cogent upgrade was the best money I've spent on my KLR. 320mm front rotor and stainless line are also very worthwhile mods. OEM front brake is barely OK when not loaded, but in Adv trim it barely stops the bike
Good to hear about the Cogent suspension. I'm really looking forward to that upgrade. Not sure what year your KLR is but the front brakes on my 2015 are great!
Hey Mason without your channel I'd be lost Kawasaki KLR has come alone since the lost time I owned my first KLR . I'm planning on owning another one I hopping for spring
Sorry, Aaron, this one slipped past me :) Spring is coming up man! Good luck with the search. Cheers :)
mounting bags on the crash bars is great to distribute weight better
Yes, it really helps. it's low and forward ;) Cheers GMansyd :)
Top mod to any KLR is a rear spring, followed up with front springs for 2014 and older klr's.
Ah, thats very possible. Mines a 2015 and wasn't too bad at first. I have since installed the top gun rear coil and put heavier weight oil in the front to hold me until I save up for the Cogent set ;)
I looking if to the new 2022 KLR 650 Had a 2007 and loved it, now a DR650 with a 20 liter tank and a KTM 390 Adventure bough great bikes, but thinking of getting the new KLR 650 for long distance touring, I have the Dunlop TrailMax Mission tires on the KTM and have a set ordered for the DR650, and will be putting them on the KLR if I get one. I do not do much mud, but for dirt and gravel roads and wet grass they handle great, also in wet sand. But I do not race off road I like to take my time and enjoy, I all so go with the GIVI Trekker 33/46 hard bags, like that you can load from the side or top. I have no wind protection on the DR and like it that way, love the feel of the wind on my chest, Most rides are between 200 and 400 Km , Also like the KTM but the 14.5 liter gas tank limits me to 400 Km per tank of gas, to bad they did not go with a 18 liter gas tank on the KTM. But 3 in the stable is great, that way if my sun comes, he will have something to ride he has my old KLR up in Newfoundland. Thanks for your Videos 1 & 2
Yo Mason I had an after market low seat but switched back to stock because it was softer. You need a Lithium battery and aftermarket exhaust can.
Makes sense. Old Mason just got his Sargent seat in so he's looking forward to trying that out 👍 I'm sure I will make the jump to lithium at some point but the exhaust is a tough sell. I need a quiet bike for where we ride and refuse to repack cans. Did enough of that with the track bikes so at the moment nothing on the market appeals to me. Cheers ;)
MasonsADV - My fuel mule 😂
Bahahaha
Awesome Upgrades! I've done several of them, but still need a few to improve the durability of the bike itself (bolt kit)...thanks for sharing!
Hey Ron, Thanks for watching :)
awesome video whats that blinking at the rear frame next to the suspension?
TKCs next for me for sure but I need a "bumper to bumper" going over ASAP. Nothing wrong but I just keep putting it off. You should be back on the road soon!
Yeah, it pays to go over everything once in awhile. Takes most of the surprises out of the equation ;) As for the riding... we just had another 6" of snow this weekend :( It just won't stop. *Sigh
I'm planning on buying a new one and your videos are really helpful
Glad to help Kayla. Cheers!
Hello Mason.
I just bought a 2009 KLR with just shy of 16,000 miles. I'm 100% new to dual use bikes. Two weeks ago I didn't know what they were.
Would you mind making a video that shows and explains what we should put in a tool bag to carry on the bike for keeping us moving along the road/trail? Maybe explain the factory tool kit too?
I appreciate your content. I'm a new subscriber already.
My very first ride on my KLR was 150 miles at night.
I noticed I need better mirrors. The after market mirrors on it vibrate really bad and made it so I couldn't tell how close vehicles were behind me unless I let go of the grip and stabilized the mirror with my hand. Do the mirrors you have solve that?
I felt like them risers I gotta do that, my first mods, jetted the carb, adjustable spring, aftermarket muffler, 14 gear to get more low end,
The risers made it really comfortable for sitting and standing :) I have done most of the mechanical mods too. the Jetting and a valve adjust made the biggest difference on mine. Cheers!
Fantastic list, I have got a fair amount of those items, Rox risers I need and have been meaning too for a long time, need the lighting options as I only have the standard lights....smashed my plastic bashplate the other week so need to deal with that very shortly. Footpegs I havent touched yet as I havent felt the need but I will look at soon just for the sake of it. KLR Dash is a must for the long k's but I have found it a bit annoying for the off road sections as it blocks the view a bit so I go back and forth on having it on or not. I do more offroad riding than on. Tyres, I have gone for the D606 on the back and the Tractionator for the front, will get about 5000k's out of the D606 on the back and I dont know how good the tractionator does yet, but the tyres make the KLR an extremely capable off road beast and on road is still very usable at speed on the tarmac. Hand guards are an absolute non-negotiable! Drill through subframe I havent done as the new bolts supplied with my crash bars seem to be pretty good. Charging port is a great option for those longer trips and overnighters and the manual fuel petcock is standard over here in Aus, we dont have the vacuum based system and I am happy we don't. Thanks for the vid as always they are great quality!!!
Thanks Vercos :) Sounds like your sorted! It would be nice to have the manual petcock here too but at least it's an easy swap.
Cheers man!
Most of my rides are paved so the t63 are good but replace them often.the Anakee three last twice as long and suit my rides perfectly.great for mountain twisted (tail of the dragon) and old logging roads.
Nice, glad you found a tire you like! Cheers.
@@masonsadv if you ever venture down to the South Carolina area hit me up
Best bike s on the Planted I love my KLR
I completely agree 👍 Cheers JJ!
hey mason
awesome adv bike mods,,man there are so many mods
ride safe bro,,liked (thumbs up)
You're so right. Lot's to choose from and that makes these lists tough to do ;) Some are more important than others and some are just fun to do! Cheers! Thanks for watching :)
There ya go!
Man I love watching ur videos,I'm thinking about getting a klr I ride a klx now
👍 Nice! Thanks for watching, Robert! Cheers and ride safe :)
thanks again love your videos ive the same exact bike looking forward to doing some mods a little at a time nice to see what people think of some of the products that are available i know theres a lot of good stuff as well as a lot of not so good thanks
I agree. The KLR is a blank canvas that can support any style of build you can think of from highway touring to full adventure builds. There are so many great items and parts available. Thanks for watching! Cheers :)
Good job mason.I ordered some shinko 804 805 see how they work out.
Oh, Nice Ian. Yeah, I hear they are good!
This was great. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great list! Great video as usual. What is the flashing led near the shock?
Thanks :) It's a voltage monitor. See more here ruclips.net/video/24c87T-0tXU/видео.html Cheers!
Awesome videos! Could you please comment on the mount for the auxiliary flood lights?
Sure, It's the Denali light bracket from Twisted Throttle. Install video here ruclips.net/video/Ai2GWVG5dnw/видео.html Cheers!
Thanks!
nice upgrades! do you have a link to the manual fuel petcock?
I do. Eagle Mike www.eaglemike.com/Manual-Petcock-for-KLR650-mpcy.htm
that's a great idea having it
So simple and it just works :)
we had 3 inches of snow in Muskoka this morning!
yeah, we did too. This just won't end :(
Hey Mason, Very cool channel. Ive noticed on a few of your vids there is a blinking white LED near the rear shock on the left side. Can I ask what that is? Thanks. 300 miles on the new KLR learned a lot here from you,Cheers from Southern Connecticut.
Hey Dean, yeah, that's a battery monitor. I can see the level of the battery at a glance. Cheers man and enjoy the new ride 🙂👍
Thanks for the reply Mason, good idea with accessories.
When did they do away with the manual petcock? I had an 08 and it came factory with a manual petcock. I never had any problem with the pegs or the stock tires, and I rode off road alot. Also my taller windshield put the airflow right into my helmet, so that one might depend on how tall you are. Sometimes a shorter windshield is more comfortable. Personally I would change the suspension and seat as one of the first things. Definitely crash bars and skid plate, and if you do any kind of long distance riding, highway pegs are a must. 15 tooth front sprocket for highway, and 13 tooth for off road. Extra lights are always good.
I'm not sure what year they went to the vacuum petcock but going back to manual is high on my list. I found the pegs deadly when wet and I tend to ride in a fair bit of water, but otherwise work well. I kept the stock windscreen and just moved it away with the KLR dash riser and it works well. Full Cogent suspension is now done and I totally agree it should be a first item. Well worth the money. Cheers and thanks for the comment!
I have to admire how a new exhaust isn't in your top 10 list. It seems to be prevalent in a lot of mod videos and I've always wanted after market exhaust on my bikes but I've never ponied up for it. I'll spend $$$$ on luggage , ergos windscreens, and tires but I can't seem to let go of the dough for those few extra ponies and reduced weight.
It's the noise for me Pinkie. If I could shed the weight with the same decibel level I would consider it. Cheers man!
@@masonsadv I'm looking at the LeoVince now. After my last ride, and I'm not sure if this is only on the California models but the catalytic converter is putting off an excess of heat. I'm still in the break in phase, so I'm taking it as easy as I can. I had a similar issue with the Cat on a 1500 Vulcan except the cat was on the bottom of the bike. I de californicated my ZZR but left the cats on that bike which are inside the cans. BTW, I like the heat shield on your bike, I bet that saves your side plastic.
@@pinkiewerewolf they run really lean from the factory pinkie. Mine would have the header portion of the pipe cherry red at idle so I adjusted the mixture screw to richen it up. Runs at a nice temp now. also keep an eye on the header bolts and their torque. they seem to need retorquing several time when new and will cause that exhaust pop.
@@masonsadv Thats some good info Mason. I'm gonna head out to the garage and enrich it a bit and see how it goes. Thanks again!
@@pinkiewerewolf your welcome. Hit the forrums for the how too on that. Cheers man!
My fav mod on my KLR is a gun rack for my 20 ga double barrel........
There ya go, everyone has a top mod ;) Cheers!
Well done Thanks
Hey Mason - great channel. Just curious where you got that swank bike stand from in your shop. Looks perfect.
Hey Chris, Old Mason gave that to me... or rather, I took it from him lol. I think you can get them at Princess Auto or Canadian tire up here in Canada.
Awesome video!
Thank you :)
What is that that is blinking in the middle of the bike.
Looks to be 5 let's green. One
Great stuff
Hey Mason, what's the green flashing LED on the side of the bike? Jim
Hey Jim, It's a battery monitor. At a glance I can see when it needs a day on the charger. More on that here ruclips.net/video/24c87T-0tXU/видео.html
I noticed you had your bike on a lift. Is this the Harbor Freight unit? My klr has the hard plastic engine guard; is there a chance of crushing this when lifting the bike? Any info tip/trick or video would be helpful. Thanks.
Did you have to reroute your cables or flip your throttle housing over to make more slack in the cables?
Yeah just a reroute of the clutch cable if i remember correctly. It was easy.
Hey Mason, have you modded the rear license plate lights?
yes. Moved the plate up onto the fender and installed led plate lights.
Whats the blinking green light in ftont of the rear shock for?
it's a plug for my charging system and a voltage monitor. Green means go ;)
Great video
Thank you :)
Why do you choose to run the factory exhaust and not an aftermarket pipe?
Purely for the low noise. Well, that and I hate repacking cans 😄
SUB FRAME BOLT IS ACQUIRED WHERE?
masonsadv.com/gear has a link or directly from Eagle mike
What’s the blinking LED with the red switch in front of the rear shock? 6:38
It's a voltage monitor/connector. No switch, just a plug. More on that here ruclips.net/video/24c87T-0tXU/видео.html
I always suffer with faulty charging units or ones that only last 3 or 4 months.think the constant vibration affects them
Oh, possibly. I haven't had a problem but That could be luck ;)
I bought one from Amazon ,took a pounding last year still going
New here, getting my feet in the water. What is a doohickey mod? Thank you.
The "Doohickey" is the balancer shaft chain tensioner. More info than you need on the forums ;)
how often do you do the wd40 to the chain? big john from Erie pa. 08 klr650
Every other ride usually. I try to remember as soon as I get back to the shop or before we set out for the day if we are on a trip.
Thanks mason
I used to use WD40 but it trashed the rings. Best thing for cleaning is Kerosene then dry it off and apply a chain wax type lube to a hot chain.
That's one way for sure but in the environments we ride chain lube turns into a cutting paste. Sand and dirt mixes with the oil and grinds away not to mention the mess or the cost. The purpose of the WD is just to flush out the debris and apply a thin lubricant that doesn't attract as much dirt and when used daily, it works well. Chain is always clean, slightly lubricated to avoid rust from the water crossings and it forces me to check it daily. I have used this method for 29 years with different motorcycles without a single catastrophic breakdown so for the price, it's my go too.
To each their own and the chain oil debate, like the engine oil debate will out live all of us ;) Cheers and thanks for the comment! www.watt-man.com/uploads/WD40experiment.pdf
Yes, I do clean with diesel fuel. It's similar to kero and I have it readily available here ;) cheers!
great video keep them going!
Yea I upgraded the subframe and red lock tited it
I think it's a good idea. Cheers CR!
Is a center stand for easy tire changes while on a long road trip even on the radar, or is not a big deal even with a 500 lbs plus (loaded ) bike?? Just got a 09 Klr and making the transition from road to dual.
Its not on my radar Louis. I use a bike lift in the shop and carry a very small prop for trail side repairs. Its a great idea for some but where we ride it just turns into another piece of steel rattling around down there and catching on things. Congrats on the KLR! That's exciting. Enjoy 🙂👍
I see something blinking under that seat, what is that? Also, is it worth it to buy 2018 klr, which is the last model?
I am lat 40's novice, what do you think?
The light is a battery monitor and my charge point for winter storage and it's totally worth buying the 18 if your in the market for a KLR. Lots of parts out there so nothing to be scared of. Cheers!
Hello, I just bought a 2016 KLR650, and I was told the doohickey mod did not need to be done on this year; is that true do you know?
I did mine and I would do it on a 2018 model too. The Doo it's self is much better now but the spring is still weak IMHO. Best of luck and enjoy the ride, Vince! :)
@@masonsadv Thanks Mason. I love this bike. I've never worked on motorcycles before, but I've owned several. I plan to do this myself in the next few months. I'm always a bit surprised to see all the KLR hate out there, I enjoy riding this thing the best of all the bikes I've owned. Thanks for all the vids.
I had a waterproof usb charger system but it got wet and no longer works
Haha, isn't that the way? Yeah it's touch and go with most. Cheers man!
I had engine surging problems the idle would go up and down by itself after removing the carb and cleaning it 3 times I started reading forums I traced the problem to the stock vacuum petcock this was the problem cap off vac hose install manual petcock problem solved i'm telling you this one drove me crazy for 2 days but I beat it.
Nice! I did the manual petcock for peace of mind the first winter I had the bike. Great "no maintenance" mod :) Glad it solved your issues! Cheers Quack!
All good stuff. :))
Thanks Coyote!! Cheers man :)
Would like to talk to you and get your input on a few things
My klr 650 has 2 fuel lines i also have that switch but im pretty sure all dirt bikes/ enduro/ touring bike have these
Sorry, you lost me there. 2 fuel lines and what switch are you referring to?
@@masonsadv the fuel on/off/ and reserve switch with a main fuel line that goes to the carb, but it also has another fuel line behind that one, because when i ride sometimes it pops off and i can hear the bike being starved of fuel then the bike shuts off and wont start until i hook it back in, tomorrow ill make a video of it and show the two fuel lines id appreciate it if you would go check it out and tell me what you think the second fuel line is for. I wont be able to send you a link, um ill comment on this video letting u know when its up id appreciate it, youll notice some damage on mine thats because i highsided it at 65mph
Oh right, That's a vacuum line Eragon. The front is fuel and the back is vacuum. when the vacuum line comes off there is no vacuum to open the diaphragm and the petcock closes. hence fuel starvation. Replacing the factory petcock with a manual one eliminates the vacuum line and any problems that diaphragm may cause when your miles from home.
I have replaced mine
www.eaglemike.com/Manual-Petcock-for-KLR650-mpcy.htm
My top mod was selling my KLR and buying a farkle-free 100 lb lighter XR650.
lol, whats the top mod for the XR? Selling it and buying a 100lb lighter CRF 250L?
Zing! Had that coming LOL
Haha, Cheers man!
Your bike looks way too clean... mother nature needs to let us canucks warm up again! Our KLRs are getting restless! Any cable troubles using ROX pivots? I'm trying to get handguards to clear my fairing.
Yes it does!! need some trail therapy :) I did have to reroute one of the cables, I think the clutch, but it worked fine and didn't need to be changed. The handguards clear easily if you go with the KLR dash kit. Cheers!
Masons ADV
I added a solobox dash, got the screen out of the way, but my cheapo handguards still won't clear the body. I may go with model specific ones. Thanks for the reply.
oh, I see, well good luck!!
Do I hear a hoser accent?
You do. It's a bit muffled through the toque ;)
Anakee3