Hey man, thanks for this. I bought the same model crashbars due to this video and the ease of installation plus the great looks. It was a simple 45 minute installation thanks to your video. I let my son start learning to drive a motorcycle with it around the neighborhood. He dropped it 4 or 5 times (low speed, just learning to start and stop) and the crash bars did their job 100%). No damage to the bike, bars lightly scratched. 45 minutes beginning to end, plus "professionally tested" by total NOOB rider!!! LOL
That's awesome!!! I'm glad to hear the video helped and I'm glad they worked out well! I dropped my dad's Manga 750 a few times when I was learning and that did NOT have crash bars haha I felt really bad.
Thanks for your time , effort and expense for purchasing , installing and putting a video together on KLR crashbar install and appearance . Well done !!!
Thanks Stew!!! Side note though, when I said Big thanks to DirtRacks for sending them to me, I meant they sent them to me at no cost. I've been working with them on videos like this for a few years. I don't get paid or anything though and I can say whatever I want about them.
I just ordered these crash bars... I dropped my KLR.. the cost was 300$ to repair. I could have added the crash bars earlier.. and they would have been free. I replaced the radiator, LH fairing.. AND installed these crash bars. All in the game. I got them from 3d parts. See you all out on the road.
Thank you, thank you for pioneering with the latest equipment for our Gen 3 KLRs. Your videos are so thorough and helpful. I'll buy my DirtRacks through your link and install them after my 600 mi break in service. The more I watch your RUclips channel, the swankier my motor gets!
Hey there. I bought the adventure model and I love it!! Looking for crash bars on Gen 3 KLR and stumbled across this one. Thanks for your time. Great job
Thanks for your effort, this video allowed me to install my Dirt Tracks crash bars in less than a hour. Now I need to by some of your Merchandise for your time you put in to make all your great 2022 KLR vids.
Just pick up a 22 KLR. I bought the 3D cycle crash and pannier bars because of the high quality and parts the company produces. Just came across your video after seeing they did not have one on their site for install. Your ride looks tough and the bars give the KLRs rugged cool looks, huge protection factor and extra points for aux lights and strapping down gear. Win win win in my book. Great video. Thanks
Dude just got these too a couple days ago! I think the pics don’t do justice I love the look on the bike with the rear protection. Seem pretty damn sturdy for having to 2 mounting points, time will tell. Now we can finally take this bike where we want to…I wasn’t headed anywhere off-road without crash protection :)
It looks like the top mounting point could use a gusset to close the front up to prevent folding in case of a hit. Look forward to see what other options come out.
I think the top side mounts would have been better off as hollow tube type with a bolt straight through the middle of the tube rather than the angled tab type. Definitely a weak point there.
It actually seems pretty sturdy, I was sceptical at first but after messing with it my confidence increased. I agree it is decently the weak point but with the 3 other points of contact I think it'll hold... Only one way to find out though!
DirtRacks out of the gate with the crash bars for the 2022 in record time. love it. I also love the front bar arrangement. It looks great for strapping on crash bar bags.
I really like the look of the Gen 3 also. I’m not sure I care for the looks of the crash bars. I am having trouble deciding on ordering them because of that. I was actually waiting for your review/video. They look very well made and thanks for showing the weight!
I agree, I'm going to wait until next spring. I'm sure other manufacturers will come up with something else . I like the looks of the Tusk brand , but they don't work on the 2022.
I thought the same, camera doesn’t do it justice here or on the website. Installed these cause that’s all there is right now and was surprised! They look badass in person especially with the rear protection tying it together. Those are biggg fairings and the bars suited them nicely. Very pleased and excited to get off-road with it. Give ‘em a try!
Yes I would have weighed the bars as a lark, just to know. Crash bars are an absolute necessity, for off-roading. They do make the KLR look even tougher, just a tad beefy. All in all, that’s a sharp bike, ready for most anything. And now you’ve got some peace of mind ripping down those gorgeous single tracks. 👍🏼 😎 🇺🇸 🌎
The crashbars look strong enough to protect the bike which is exactly what you want. The rear side racks will protect the bike as well as being a good base for soft luggage. Thank you for weighing them. 16.5 pounds is a lot for sure, but probably worth it. It’s always nice to have the extra handholds when picking up the bike too. The install looked very easy. Nice video! $360.40 for front and rear crash bars with discount. That seems reasonable. You could potentially use a pannier rack in the rear instead of the rear crash bars..
Thanks Swanky for reviewing the soundtracks bars.been debating and waiting on some protection for this new bike. I think I like the look, might pull the trigger on those. Keep up the kids on that thing,I got the orange one to do its like virtual preview. 😁 I gonna hold out for the Tusk panniers racks though for the back.
I love the DirtRacks bars on my Gen 1. I have the wrap around style as well. One good fall and they sit a little askew on the bike now, but nothing on the bike was damages.
Yeah I think there's a fine line between to hard and to soft. Depending on the intensity of the crash it can be good if they deform. Better the bars than the frame! But you also don't want them getting pushed around at the slightest drop either.
Truth is crash bars aren’t optional on a klr(or any adventure bike you use off road) - have them or be ready to replace plastics, or keep it parked( although I have knocked/dropped mine while parked)They do look a little tank like but I’m sure there will come a time that’s a plus. The first ones I ever installed were Givi they were a fatherless child to install and looked like a tank but saved me thousands. The next set were the gen 2 Dirt tracks and although a little pricey compared to the Givi the ease of installing them made me think I’d never buy anything else. They look great on the Gen 3 and I have to agree they sort of ruin that nice simple logo but you probably won’t notice that in a few days. I also like the rough finish- after a few scrapes I bet you could easily touch up with black paint or even truck bed liner and they will go back to new. I have to confess that I usually paint all my crash parts in truck bed liner before I put them on- it’s a great hard finish and so easy to touch up after a boo-boo. ( lol anything short of what happened to you) . That front bar is a great place to mount a couple accessory lights. You’ve gotta admit playing dress up with a klr is fun. Stay Swanky!
Truck bed liner is a good idea and should hold up to most off road crashes pretty well with no maintenance required. I'll be honest though, I just let the wounds on mine rust over haha.
I put those on my gen2 because I felt that if both sides are tied together they're immensely stronger, no harmonic buzzing, plus place to mount things. you'll appreciate them
Yeah I really like that they are tied together, like you said it literally doubles the amount of contact points with the bike. I can't wait to test mine out!
Can't break loose the two engine mount bolts. Would heating them with a fire starter (flick your Bic!) help? Other suggestions? This is on 2023 KLR650 TRAVELER.
Just a tiny adjustment and they couldve cleared the KLR logo. Its a tiny point. But it does bug me with mine. bars themselves are well made and will protect your bike.
Absolutely would 100% add crash protection to any of these heavier bikes with alot of plastic body panels. Deez nuts what?! Bahahaha! I do really like that color. It's a good-looking bike. Looking forward to seeing what you do for your skidplate. Happy riding buddy! Hope you had a great Thanksgiving.
Newbie question So if you get pannier racks you can't Do the side crash bars. It's one or the other... But maybe the pannier racks offer some protection? Thank you.
I am looking to buy a KLR in the next two months. I don’t know if I want the Tan or the Orange KLR. My son and his wife live in Milwaukee and I live in Sioux City. I would like to drive the bike through Wisconsin to visit them. Maybe someday we could meet up. Take care!
Mine arrived today, will probably get them on tomorrow. This vid is a big help. Have you reached a conclusion on the issue of how close the plastic is to the top connect point?
I'm about to grab these for myself, but I'm trying to see how much room you have between your knees and the bars when riding. I'm 5'10", and it looks like my knee caps rest right at that point of the orange plastic, just to the left of the top bolt of the fairing behind the crash bars. How do you feel about the room? I'm considering the ADV bars from them for that extra space, in case there's a head on collision.
upper bolt is weak, with that rabbit-ear support, to hold 400lb impact? if you replace the exhaust drum with Al one you will gaine 10lbs in weig ht. I have similar guards, when I dropped the bike, my handlebar was absorbing the weight and not the crash bar...they look good, but ..see a Beemer crash and where does that bike stands on the side... Thanks for the video!
Yeah it's the weak point for sure but I think the 4 contact points together will have enough strength to support the load. Handlebars and Handguards do help keep the bike off the ground but when your off road you never know where your going to land and if there's rocks or uneven ground you'll need the coverage.
With those rear crash bars installed, can you still remove the left and right side panel plastics to have access to the battery and airbox without removing them. Thanx
@@SwankyCatProductions Ok thanx. I had them on my 2018 and had to remove them to take off the plastics. I am getting the soft luggage DirtRacks supports for my 2022, so they should have the same clearance as the crash bars.
So Swank I just bought the 2022 camo with the installed light bar. Will I be able to instal these crash bars and still keep the existing light bar???????
since this is from a year ago.... do these bars get in the way of any regular maintenance or anything you routinely do? Any upgrades you might want to do before putting these on? Like would this add any difficulty to thermobob or dohickey work?
They actually are a bit of a pain when installing just about anything that requires removing the fairings yeah. But that's going to be the case with any crash bars that mount to the frame up top. I'd suggest doing everything you can beforehand, but it's also not all that big of a deal to remove them, just takes some time. I've done it several times already haha.
Do you think you'd be able to fit side pannier racks on the bike with the side crash bars? Looking at pics, it doesn't seem like both can be on, but I'd love to know what you think!
DirtRacks actually has a version of the side bars built to hang panniers on. Not sure how well attaching panniers or pannier racks would work with the ones I've got.
Question: where do those 2 tubes under bike connect to? I can’t figure it out and I’m stuck :( any help would be appreciated. Especially the one tube on the right side of the bike
@@SwankyCatProductions dude you rock so much, saved my butt from having to go to the dealer an hour away or calling a mechanic haha. My first bike so I was like where the heck did this come out of hahahaha. Thank you thank you thank you
@@ovgum1996 glad I could help you out! Every bike has some sort of drain hoses but these are definitely the strangest I've ever seen. Usually they are nicely tucked away and don't fall out when you remove the skid plate.
Do you have the specifics on the bolts that mount them onto the cowling? Mine didnt come with bolts (it just says use the oem ones) but the oem ones are too short.
It's been a while now but from watching the video it looks like I got a slightly longer bolt with my bars to replace the stock one. Your saying they don't send you that one now?
Since I am a 90/10 rider, I am wanting to change the front sprocket from 15t=>16t so hopefully it is better at cruising. With the longer wheelbase and larger rake, it seems like it would be good for long distance cruising and touring for men over 6ft. Feel free to let me know if this is bad thinking :)
I just ordered a set along with the soft panniers frames. I should have got them earlier, but wanted to see what was to come. IMO these are still the best looking and look the strongest. Now comes the wait till there delivered 😒
I should state that this review is what made me get them. I’d have you on a pro-staff if I was in the industry, Swanky. There’s a few aspects that go into a good review or instructional videos. I haven’t watched a swanky video yet that didn’t excel at every aspect. Thanks Bud.
Just ordered mine but with the luggage support racks. 20% off thanks Black Friday. My idea is to put some old military soft bags on. I have the khaki version and they should fit perfectly. Thanks for the links and I like the fact I can get them in Canada.
Good video! Informative and positive. This is the first I've watched in a long time because so many of your videos were negative and shitting all over the bikes that most of us own. Keep the positive Swank. Well done. Get rid of the negative shit/tone Swank for good. - Long-term subscriber here.
@@chadkline4268 WELL SAID CHAD, that is exactly why I watch Swankys vids because he does give us the good and the bad about bikes. And if you happen to own one of the bikes he pans on sorry but this might help someone who is thinking about buying the same bike. Cheers
@@SwankyCatProductions when I am back from my deployment I am going to get a 2023 klr and definitely don't want to get it scratched up from lack of crash bars. hopefully they are as good as they seem.
No but that is s ok something I hear off and on about a lot of crash bars. As long as all your crash bar hardware's torqued properly and your fairing hardware is tight my guess is it's just something to do with either the bike or the particular set of bars that makes them resonate at certain frequencies. You could try loosening the bars up and shifting them around slightly to see if that helps. The front connection point between the two would be a good, easy place to start.
I don’t have the bike yet but I bought the same setup from Dirtracks, for the rear do you think they can provide good soft luggage support even if it’s not the “soft luggage” version ?
I checked with DirtRacks and they said they have them for my 2023 KLR650 TRAVELER so I ordered them. Installing today 11/5/23 but can't break loose the front engine mount nuts.
Do you have any plans for suspension upgrades? Adding weight to the bike without a corresponding change in suspension is why the KLR community shortens side stands. I had Cogent suspension on my Gen 1…I now have a 22 KLR with dirt racks pannier mounts and I’m building the suspension out next. A KLR with custom suspension changes the bike immeasurably. I cannot recommend it enough.
@@SwankyCatProductions If you do the suspension it’ll chase T7s in the rough stuff all day long. I ran right along with T7s KTMs and everything else in rough stuff. So much so other riders would scratch their heads in disbelief, and that was on my Gen 1…This new chassis ought to be a lot better!
Too bad we have to weight our bikes even more but I agree its probably a wise move. Looks good though. I'm hoping to hear more about an after market exhaust to replace the obvious heavy OE exhaust system. I'm interested in how that will work with the Catalytic gone and ignition mapping. Definitely can get rid of some extra weight there.
Negative ghost rider the pattern is full! The front crash bars make a relatively sleek looking machine look like a tug-boat. All in for the front and back $430? Nope, nope, nope! There are mock-ups running around which show Left and Right independently mounted at all the points you used with a bracket to the fog-light rail which you so much detest. Lol. One things for sure that nice bike now looks like a military Humvee....
Something smaller would be nice but honestly I'm not sure I'd trust a two point mounting system. Especially with one being that fog light mount, I think the frame rails that bolt goes into are pretty small?
@@SwankyCatProductions I see what you're saying. I'm referring 2 the center frame mount, the mount at the plastic fairing and a small bracket aft of each fog light....I'll see if I can find the mockup.
That's a common issue I've seen dealers fixing in some cases. Something to do with exhaust cam profile or something like that. Should be info on it in KLR forums.
I actually locked the back up with very little effort while testing response time on a video which surprised me a bit. Might have subconsciously not let the front lock up... darn self preservation instinct. But I wasn't that impressed with it and felt like it might not have enough power to warrant abs. I think it would still be nice to have and is probably the safer option... does cross my mind once in a while but as of today I can't say I regret my decision.
Going to hold off on purchasing until I see what happy trails/others come up with. I have the factory crash bars and unfortunately have put them to test a few times already. Yea I am not a great rider. They did a good job protecting engine but my fairing took some minor damage.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
Hey man, thanks for this. I bought the same model crashbars due to this video and the ease of installation plus the great looks. It was a simple 45 minute installation thanks to your video. I let my son start learning to drive a motorcycle with it around the neighborhood. He dropped it 4 or 5 times (low speed, just learning to start and stop) and the crash bars did their job 100%). No damage to the bike, bars lightly scratched. 45 minutes beginning to end, plus "professionally tested" by total NOOB rider!!! LOL
That's awesome!!! I'm glad to hear the video helped and I'm glad they worked out well! I dropped my dad's Manga 750 a few times when I was learning and that did NOT have crash bars haha I felt really bad.
You're a very brave man 👍
Thanks for your time , effort and expense for purchasing , installing and putting a video together on KLR crashbar install and appearance . Well done !!!
Thanks Stew!!! Side note though, when I said Big thanks to DirtRacks for sending them to me, I meant they sent them to me at no cost. I've been working with them on videos like this for a few years. I don't get paid or anything though and I can say whatever I want about them.
I just ordered these crash bars... I dropped my KLR.. the cost was 300$ to repair. I could have added the crash bars earlier.. and they would have been free. I replaced the radiator, LH fairing.. AND installed these crash bars. All in the game. I got them from 3d parts. See you all out on the road.
Thank you, thank you for pioneering with the latest equipment for our Gen 3 KLRs. Your videos are so thorough and helpful. I'll buy my DirtRacks through your link and install them after my 600 mi break in service. The more I watch your RUclips channel, the swankier my motor gets!
Hey there. I bought the adventure model and I love it!! Looking for crash bars on Gen 3 KLR and stumbled across this one. Thanks for your time. Great job
Hey thanks William! DirtRacks actually has a set specifically made for the adventure model now I believe.
Thanks for your effort, this video allowed me to install my Dirt Tracks crash bars in less than a hour. Now I need to by some of your Merchandise for your time you put in to make all your great 2022 KLR vids.
Glad to hear it helped!
Just pick up a 22 KLR. I bought the 3D cycle
crash and pannier bars because of the high quality and parts the company produces. Just came across your video after seeing they did not have one on their site for install.
Your ride looks tough and the bars give the KLRs rugged cool looks, huge protection factor and extra points for aux lights and strapping down gear. Win win win in my book.
Great video. Thanks
Thanks!
Dude just got these too a couple days ago! I think the pics don’t do justice I love the look on the bike with the rear protection. Seem pretty damn sturdy for having to 2 mounting points, time will tell. Now we can finally take this bike where we want to…I wasn’t headed anywhere off-road without crash protection :)
Nice! Haha yeah I've been REALLY nervous the few times I hit the trails on mine!
It looks like the top mounting point could use a gusset to close the front up to prevent folding in case of a hit. Look forward to see what other options come out.
I think the top side mounts would have been better off as hollow tube type with a bolt straight through the middle of the tube rather than the angled tab type. Definitely a weak point there.
It actually seems pretty sturdy, I was sceptical at first but after messing with it my confidence increased. I agree it is decently the weak point but with the 3 other points of contact I think it'll hold... Only one way to find out though!
@@SwankyCatProductions I'm sure you'll put it through the test lol
Man, nice I already got the dirtracks rear crash bar's installed, just waiting for the front crash bar's to come in, looking good !
I like the rear crash bars.
Thanks Mark! I think you'll like em!
Hey thanks again Swanky. The details in your videos are great!
DirtRacks out of the gate with the crash bars for the 2022 in record time. love it. I also love the front bar arrangement. It looks great for strapping on crash bar bags.
Right haha I posted this way out of order just to get it out there for them since they got on making them so fast.
I really like the look of the Gen 3 also. I’m not sure I care for the looks of the crash bars. I am having trouble deciding on ordering them because of that. I was actually waiting for your review/video. They look very well made and thanks for showing the weight!
I agree, I'm going to wait until next spring. I'm sure other manufacturers will come up with something else . I like the looks of the Tusk brand , but they don't work on the 2022.
I thought the same, camera doesn’t do it justice here or on the website. Installed these cause that’s all there is right now and was surprised! They look badass in person especially with the rear protection tying it together. Those are biggg fairings and the bars suited them nicely. Very pleased and excited to get off-road with it. Give ‘em a try!
Yes I would have weighed the bars as a lark, just to know. Crash bars are an absolute necessity, for off-roading. They do make the KLR look even tougher, just a tad beefy. All in all, that’s a sharp bike, ready for most anything. And now you’ve got some peace of mind ripping down those gorgeous single tracks. 👍🏼 😎 🇺🇸 🌎
They definitely do make it look like it's ready for battle! I think the added weight will be well worth it even and especially on the single track!
The crashbars look strong enough to protect the bike which is exactly what you want. The rear side racks will protect the bike as well as being a good base for soft luggage. Thank you for weighing them. 16.5 pounds is a lot for sure, but probably worth it. It’s always nice to have the extra handholds when picking up the bike too. The install looked very easy. Nice video!
$360.40 for front and rear crash bars with discount. That seems reasonable. You could potentially use a pannier rack in the rear instead of the rear crash bars..
I forgot to mention it but the rear bars are soooo nice for dragging the back around!!!
So smart making the back ones both protection and a place to attach bags
And an awesome spot to pick the bike up by since they are a little lower and have a spot for two hands!
@@SwankyCatProductions I feel a how to video coming. The Swanky way to lift your KLR
Thanks Swanky for reviewing the soundtracks bars.been debating and waiting on some protection for this new bike. I think I like the look, might pull the trigger on those. Keep up the kids on that thing,I got the orange one to do its like virtual preview. 😁 I gonna hold out for the Tusk panniers racks though for the back.
DirtRacks does have some pannier racks but I'm not sure how they'll compare to Tusk. Cool, glad I could give you a sneak peek!
They do look good on the bike Swanky.
Thanks Bill!
Hmmmmm... not feeling the tank-look of the wrap-around but I do believe they are totally necessary. Great information!!
Thanks! Yeah I'll be interested to see if DirtRacks or anyone else comes out with a non wrap around option, I do prefer that as well.
Peace of mind worth the time putting them on
Agreed!
I love the DirtRacks bars on my Gen 1. I have the wrap around style as well. One good fall and they sit a little askew on the bike now, but nothing on the bike was damages.
Yeah I think there's a fine line between to hard and to soft. Depending on the intensity of the crash it can be good if they deform. Better the bars than the frame! But you also don't want them getting pushed around at the slightest drop either.
Truth is crash bars aren’t optional on a klr(or any adventure bike you use off road) - have them or be ready to replace plastics, or keep it parked( although I have knocked/dropped mine while parked)They do look a little tank like but I’m sure there will come a time that’s a plus. The first ones I ever installed were Givi they were a fatherless child to install and looked like a tank but saved me thousands. The next set were the gen 2 Dirt tracks and although a little pricey compared to the Givi the ease of installing them made me think I’d never buy anything else. They look great on the Gen 3 and I have to agree they sort of ruin that nice simple logo but you probably won’t notice that in a few days. I also like the rough finish- after a few scrapes I bet you could easily touch up with black paint or even truck bed liner and they will go back to new. I have to confess that I usually paint all my crash parts in truck bed liner before I put them on- it’s a great hard finish and so easy to touch up after a boo-boo. ( lol anything short of what happened to you) . That front bar is a great place to mount a couple accessory lights. You’ve gotta admit playing dress up with a klr is fun. Stay Swanky!
Truck bed liner is a good idea and should hold up to most off road crashes pretty well with no maintenance required. I'll be honest though, I just let the wounds on mine rust over haha.
I put those on my gen2 because I felt that if both sides are tied together they're immensely stronger, no harmonic buzzing, plus place to mount things. you'll appreciate them
Yeah I really like that they are tied together, like you said it literally doubles the amount of contact points with the bike. I can't wait to test mine out!
Nice, they look good on the bike.
Thanks!
Can't break loose the two engine mount bolts. Would heating them with a fire starter (flick your Bic!) help? Other suggestions? This is on 2023 KLR650 TRAVELER.
Would the rear crash bars also serve as pannier racks? Keep the bags from getting burned on the exhaust?
Hey dude I really like your videos of you sledding you would love the trails in northern Maine
Thanks Lance, I'll bet I would!
If I had a brand new bike I would do that to
Yeah I think it's worth it, especially to protect the radiator!
@@SwankyCatProductions anyone know why they went with a radiator instead of an oil cooler? It would've been simpler and lighter to use an oil cooler.
Great install video!! Smart idea to protect the machine. 💪🔥
Thank you!
Do the back bars get in the way of a passengers legs when they try to mount the foot pegs?
Just a tiny adjustment and they couldve cleared the KLR logo. Its a tiny point. But it does bug me with mine. bars themselves are well made and will protect your bike.
What'd you take the rear foot peg off with , I stripped the damn bolt
Is there any way to figure out if a skid plate will work with these without just buying and testing it out?
Absolutely would 100% add crash protection to any of these heavier bikes with alot of plastic body panels. Deez nuts what?! Bahahaha! I do really like that color. It's a good-looking bike. Looking forward to seeing what you do for your skidplate. Happy riding buddy! Hope you had a great Thanksgiving.
Thanks! I did yeah, you?
@@SwankyCatProductions I did as well. Thanks for asking.
Is there enough room to add fog lights on that bar without touching fairing? Thank you!
Depends on the mount and light but yes I would think so!
What is the size of socket needed for the 2 engine mount bolts?
Newbie question
So if you get pannier racks you can't Do the side crash bars. It's one or the other...
But maybe the pannier racks offer some protection?
Thank you.
Right now I'm getting the front full body bars so I can also mount some lights on them.
The rear pannier racks would also provide some protection but you can only mount one or the other.
@@SwankyCatProductions Thank you!
I am looking to buy a KLR in the next two months. I don’t know if I want the Tan or the Orange KLR. My son and his wife live in Milwaukee and I live in Sioux City. I would like to drive the bike through Wisconsin to visit them. Maybe someday we could meet up. Take care!
Mine arrived today, will probably get them on tomorrow. This vid is a big help. Have you reached a conclusion on the issue of how close the plastic is to the top connect point?
I haven't dropped it but buy I'm not really concerned, I think they are definitely tough enough to take a good blow without bending.
I'm about to grab these for myself, but I'm trying to see how much room you have between your knees and the bars when riding. I'm 5'10", and it looks like my knee caps rest right at that point of the orange plastic, just to the left of the top bolt of the fairing behind the crash bars.
How do you feel about the room? I'm considering the ADV bars from them for that extra space, in case there's a head on collision.
I'm also 5'10" and don't have any interference with my legs. Very happy with mine so far.
@@SwankyCatProductions Awesome, thank you! I went ahead and ordered these, as well as the soft pannier racks.
upper bolt is weak, with that rabbit-ear support, to hold 400lb impact?
if you replace the exhaust drum with Al one you will gaine 10lbs in weig
ht. I have similar guards, when I dropped the bike, my handlebar was absorbing the weight and not the crash bar...they look good, but ..see a Beemer crash and where does that bike stands on the side...
Thanks for the video!
Yeah it's the weak point for sure but I think the 4 contact points together will have enough strength to support the load. Handlebars and Handguards do help keep the bike off the ground but when your off road you never know where your going to land and if there's rocks or uneven ground you'll need the coverage.
@@SwankyCatProductions have you tried laying it on a side to see where the contact happens? It would suck if cause the handle bars to bend.
With those rear crash bars installed, can you still remove the left and right side panel plastics to have access to the battery and airbox without removing them. Thanx
I took the right side off when I installed my exhaust without any issues. Not sure about the left, don't think I've had to remove that at all yet.
@@SwankyCatProductions Ok thanx. I had them on my 2018 and had to remove them to take off the plastics. I am getting the soft luggage DirtRacks supports for my 2022, so they should have the same clearance as the crash bars.
So Swank I just bought the 2022 camo with the installed light bar. Will I be able to instal these crash bars and still keep the existing light bar???????
Nope, they have a set out now that will work though!
Just curious why I'd have to get rid of the skid plate on my adventure?
Uh I think the skid plate is the same as mine isn't it? I thought it was just the light bar that was the issue.
Would u list other bikes you own other than the KLR650 and T700 thanks for videos etc ..
I have those two and a TW200 right now and a 70s mini bike I guess haha.
since this is from a year ago.... do these bars get in the way of any regular maintenance or anything you routinely do? Any upgrades you might want to do before putting these on? Like would this add any difficulty to thermobob or dohickey work?
They actually are a bit of a pain when installing just about anything that requires removing the fairings yeah. But that's going to be the case with any crash bars that mount to the frame up top. I'd suggest doing everything you can beforehand, but it's also not all that big of a deal to remove them, just takes some time. I've done it several times already haha.
I had the rear bars on my KLR650. Great product.
Yeah I liked mine too, great place to grab hold of the bike too!
And the rear doubles as panier frame?
They have a set made for cases, these might work if you rigged something up.
@@SwankyCatProductions cool thanks
Do you think you'd be able to fit side pannier racks on the bike with the side crash bars? Looking at pics, it doesn't seem like both can be on, but I'd love to know what you think!
DirtRacks actually has a version of the side bars built to hang panniers on. Not sure how well attaching panniers or pannier racks would work with the ones I've got.
Question: where do those 2 tubes under bike connect to? I can’t figure it out and I’m stuck :( any help would be appreciated. Especially the one tube on the right side of the bike
The long ones that come down from the front? They're just drain tubes. They lay in the bottom of the skid plate and poke out the back.
@@SwankyCatProductions dude you rock so much, saved my butt from having to go to the dealer an hour away or calling a mechanic haha. My first bike so I was like where the heck did this come out of hahahaha. Thank you thank you thank you
@@ovgum1996 glad I could help you out! Every bike has some sort of drain hoses but these are definitely the strangest I've ever seen. Usually they are nicely tucked away and don't fall out when you remove the skid plate.
Do you have the specifics on the bolts that mount them onto the cowling? Mine didnt come with bolts (it just says use the oem ones) but the oem ones are too short.
It's been a while now but from watching the video it looks like I got a slightly longer bolt with my bars to replace the stock one. Your saying they don't send you that one now?
Swanky Cat, can the 2022 KLR 650 cruise on the highway at 75MPH for long road trips?
Yeah, it's actually not bad at 75 considering it's a single cylinder. Still not as smooth as a parallel twin or anything but it's manageable.
@@SwankyCatProductions Lots of reports of hand-numbing on the cb500x. So, I hope it is better than some parallel twins.
Since I am a 90/10 rider, I am wanting to change the front sprocket from 15t=>16t so hopefully it is better at cruising. With the longer wheelbase and larger rake, it seems like it would be good for long distance cruising and touring for men over 6ft. Feel free to let me know if this is bad thinking :)
where did you get that red lift under the KLR?
This is a super old video but this is about the lift. ruclips.net/video/4oCwyRkyjEU/видео.html
Have you found a skid plate that will fit the 2022 KLR650 Adventure?
No don't think I have, sorry!
I just ordered a set along with the soft panniers frames. I should have got them earlier, but wanted to see what was to come.
IMO these are still the best looking and look the strongest. Now comes the wait till there delivered 😒
I should state that this review is what made me get them. I’d have you on a pro-staff if I was in the industry, Swanky. There’s a few aspects that go into a good review or instructional videos. I haven’t watched a swanky video yet that didn’t excel at every aspect.
Thanks Bud.
I wonder how well they'll do with the spot lights on the ADV Model ??
Won't work unless you remove the bar and relocate the lights.
Just ordered mine but with the luggage support racks. 20% off thanks Black Friday. My idea is to put some old military soft bags on. I have the khaki version and they should fit perfectly. Thanks for the links and I like the fact I can get them in Canada.
Nice! Yeah that should work well and look good. I kinda wish I'd have gotten that color... Oh well to late now haha.
Do hard cases still fit after installing these?
Can highway pegs be mounted to the crash bars?
I would think that should work.
Good video! Informative and positive. This is the first I've watched in a long time because so many of your videos were negative and shitting all over the bikes that most of us own. Keep the positive Swank. Well done. Get rid of the negative shit/tone Swank for good. - Long-term subscriber here.
Hey, glad to have you back!
I don't know what is bad about opinions of various aspects of various bikes. That's what I'm looking for: the good, bad, and ugly.
@@chadkline4268 WELL SAID CHAD, that is exactly why I watch Swankys vids because he does give us the good and the bad about bikes. And if you happen to own one of the bikes he pans on sorry but this might help someone who is thinking about buying the same bike. Cheers
Do you need to torquue anything down??
I trust my own judgment enough not too but my recommendation would be to figure out the specs and torque it accordingly
@@SwankyCatProductions awesome thanks!
What kind of bag is that on the seat ?
It's the Large Dry Duffle bag from Tusk. There's a link in the video description.
ever have a situation where you've used the crash bars yet?
Not yet, probably this summer haha.
@@SwankyCatProductions when I am back from my deployment I am going to get a 2023 klr and definitely don't want to get it scratched up from lack of crash bars. hopefully they are as good as they seem.
I liked my pannier racks but crash bars were a bit light. Looks like this generation is tougher.
Yeah they seem to have been changed up a bit!
Looks Awesome!
Thanks Alen!
Will the crash bars fit the 2022 klr650 adventure model
If you remove the adventure light bar and possibly the bottom bars.
After I installed these crash bars my bike vibrates at certain speeds. Did you notice a vibration.
No but that is s ok something I hear off and on about a lot of crash bars. As long as all your crash bar hardware's torqued properly and your fairing hardware is tight my guess is it's just something to do with either the bike or the particular set of bars that makes them resonate at certain frequencies. You could try loosening the bars up and shifting them around slightly to see if that helps. The front connection point between the two would be a good, easy place to start.
@@SwankyCatProductions thanks. Do you know the torque spec on those?
I don’t have the bike yet but I bought the same setup from Dirtracks, for the rear do you think they can provide good soft luggage support even if it’s not the “soft luggage” version ?
Depending on how the luggage attaches I would think it should work fine for that.
i wish they would make some alum options. The klr already weighs enough : P
I ordered their set for the KLR Adventure last week. Still waiting for my shipping confirmation...🤔 🤞
They're usually pretty quick but spring is probably pretty busy for them I'd guess.
@@SwankyCatProductions I just received my shipping notice. Lol.
Will these crash bars fit on my 2023 KLR 650?
I checked with DirtRacks and they said they have them for my 2023 KLR650 TRAVELER so I ordered them. Installing today 11/5/23 but can't break loose the front engine mount nuts.
Do you have any plans for suspension upgrades? Adding weight to the bike without a corresponding change in suspension is why the KLR community shortens side stands. I had Cogent suspension on my Gen 1…I now have a 22 KLR with dirt racks pannier mounts and I’m building the suspension out next. A KLR with custom suspension changes the bike immeasurably. I cannot recommend it enough.
I'll have to do some testing with the stock suspension first but I might look into it. Mason's ADV really seems to like his!
@@SwankyCatProductions If you do the suspension it’ll chase T7s in the rough stuff all day long. I ran right along with T7s KTMs and everything else in rough stuff. So much so other riders would scratch their heads in disbelief, and that was on my Gen 1…This new chassis ought to be a lot better!
@@SwankyCatProductions Was the centerstand standard, and if so, can you remove the side stands (useless IMHO)?
How are they holding up? I ordered a set :)
Haven't dropped it yet but I'm sure it's coming lol
@@SwankyCatProductions Lol good to hear!
I think they will also help protect the legs, ankles, and feet if you ever lay the bike down on asphalt.
True!
always blue loctight everything on a adv/dualsport unless you want to replace fastners.
Mhmm!
Really good looking bike.
Thanks Toby!
@@SwankyCatProductions anytime
Too bad we have to weight our bikes even more but I agree its probably a wise move. Looks good though. I'm hoping to hear more about an after market exhaust to replace the obvious heavy OE exhaust system. I'm interested in how that will work with the Catalytic gone and ignition mapping.
Definitely can get rid of some extra weight there.
Leo Vince all day bro…put one on and thought I bought a whole other bike. Amazing with baffle out but just a bit much lol
Got a Lexx pipe waiting to go on here!
@@SwankyCatProductions nice! They sound great too from what I’ve seen online
Do these fit the adventure model?
Their website says they will have crash bars out in December for the adventure model.
@@rameylewis7730 thanks
They’ll fit the adventure if you remove the dinky stock bars and light rack
@@karlmcdonald7208 I love those lights tho. Lol
Negative ghost rider the pattern is full! The front crash bars make a relatively sleek looking machine look like a tug-boat. All in for the front and back $430? Nope, nope, nope!
There are mock-ups running around which show Left and Right independently mounted at all the points you used with a bracket to the fog-light rail which you so much detest. Lol.
One things for sure that nice bike now looks like a military Humvee....
Something smaller would be nice but honestly I'm not sure I'd trust a two point mounting system. Especially with one being that fog light mount, I think the frame rails that bolt goes into are pretty small?
@@SwankyCatProductions I see what you're saying. I'm referring 2 the center frame mount, the mount at the plastic fairing and a small bracket aft of each fog light....I'll see if I can find the mockup.
Hay are you having problems starting your bike cause I am 27degrees and my klr won't start text me back with insite thanx John from Elizabeth nj
That's a common issue I've seen dealers fixing in some cases. Something to do with exhaust cam profile or something like that. Should be info on it in KLR forums.
@@SwankyCatProductions ok thanx it's the decompression pins there not set rite
Yo Swanky, any strong opinions on ABS vs Non ABS on the gen 3's? There's a good looking base one near me without ABS and it's very tempting.
I actually locked the back up with very little effort while testing response time on a video which surprised me a bit. Might have subconsciously not let the front lock up... darn self preservation instinct. But I wasn't that impressed with it and felt like it might not have enough power to warrant abs. I think it would still be nice to have and is probably the safer option... does cross my mind once in a while but as of today I can't say I regret my decision.
Going to hold off on purchasing until I see what happy trails/others come up with. I have the factory crash bars and unfortunately have put them to test a few times already. Yea I am not a great rider. They did a good job protecting engine but my fairing took some minor damage.
If your not dropping it, your not trying hard enough! Haha.
When you replacing that disgusting stock muffler? Lol.
I've got one in the shop, just haven't put it on yet haha.
Only thing your missing is some training wheels
Bike looks mean .. 😳
Thanks!!!
Deez Nuts. Lol. 😂
Those are some ugly crash bars but I guess they work...
Haha
Name better ones please ...