2024 Kawasaki KLX300 Dual Sport | Long-Term Test Introduction (EP.1)

[@BigRockMoto]

⚡⚡What are your questions about the 2024 Kawasaki KLX300 that you want me to answer in this video series? ⚡ 2021 KLX300 Review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYDUaqd5rdSZqLM ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Pacific Powersports (Motoz Tires, Barkbusters): pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ 3D Cycle Parts: www.3dcycleparts.com/?aff=3 ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Adventure Sports: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@karlfonner7589]

Is it beginner friendly? That would be my question

[@thomasmcsherry6122]

Thanks once again for yet another build and review Ian, looking fw. If I may: What is the total cost all included out the dealers door?

[@douglaswalker8563]

What seems to set this bike apart from its competition is suspension. Honda cheaped out on the suspension for the CRF300s. A spring in one fork side and puny damping cartridge in the other! Really? They have done similar nonsense in the new Africa Twin. This goes against everything I know about motorcycle suspension. Does the KLX300 follow in these footsteps? Can you put Gold Valves in the forks and shock to get suspension tuned for the rider weight? The biggest argument for the DRZ400 is still it's suspension. None of these bikes are going to be great for any highway work.

[@willwalker8669]

Subscribed. I have a 2022, can I put the LCD light from the 2024 on my bike? Love to see your fuel solutions. I road it up and down the freeway at 70-75mph, fuel light came on at 70miles. Haven’t ridden it to empty yet. The shift Lever from a 1994 Honda XR650L will give you almost another inch.

[@SomewhereInside]

Does it pump much heat out at slow speed and in traffic ? My Versys 650 is like a furnace in the summer here in Oz in traffic . Would like a cooler fun fast trail bike for those hot days ripping up the trails .

[@tonyrichengod9280]

These bikes really are amazing. It does most everything you need. We use them as rentals in our tours and they are truly built to last: our bikes average 70,000kms (43,000 miles) and they are all still running the original piston and clutch plates 🤯 I know the reliability conversation is always between Honda and Yamaha, but I tell you from experience that Kawasaki is even a notch above in reliability.

[@Supernova12034]

And kawasaki doesnt cheap out on suspension, fueling, brakes (unlike the rest of the japs)

[@spacecruisers]

Damn! That might sell me on one, I’ve been eyeing one of these vs a CRF300L Rally. I would also commute on it sometimes. So I want it to be super reliable.

[@cody9919]

What oil change / air filter intervals are you guys following on your tour bikes? That is very impressive

[@ShutterRev]

Wife just picked one up, it's a really nice bike

[@z50king29]

I like that you keep building these cheaper bikes because I will never own a KTM500 or something of that level. My wife and I are teachers with a child with special needs. I won't ever be able to afford something outside of this price range. Thanks for making these series on the cheaper bikes.

[@markflaugh2293]

Nice addition to the channel. Glad to see you doing some more mainstream bikes that people buy. It will be interesting to see what aftermarket parts you come up with, they don’t seem to have as many choices as the CRF300L. Sorry about the dash right away before riding it.

[@c0ck_l2oach75]

Wife owns a 2020 KLX 250 and I have a 2022 KLX 300. Bikes are a ton of fun even in stock form but a pipe, fuel controller and kdx snorkel really wake it up. Maintenance is easy and day trips can take you anywhere. For what it is and low initial cost to get in, its tough to beat. The channel never disappoints Ian, you should be damn proud of yourself and the platform of supporters you've built.

[@danielgreen7159]

I have a 2020klx 250 with a Delkevic pipe and kdx snorkle and 02 delete. No fuel controller. But the biggest performance gain came from removing the secondary throttle plate.

[@3534Firefighter]

I bought my 2024 a few months ago and already have 3500 miles on it. I have been on everything from single-track to highway, and in between. It truly is a blast to ride, I commute to work with it. From my findings, the stock rear wheel may last you 4000 miles if you're lucky. Highways are terrifying, it is just too light for the conditions, got very shaky but will easily do 70 on asphalt roads at 7500rpm. Having the 6th gear is nice for that better fuel mileage, but if you are going for trail riding more than road, sprocket change is something to look into. The LED headlight is a big improvement. The fuel tank is less than favorable, 2 gallons, I found the fuel light comes on around .7 gallons left in your tank. I switched my (pencils) foot-pegs out almost immediately for standing riding. My last gripe is the High beam light is a BRIGHT blue light that is in your face when its dark, very distracting when trying to keep an eye out for obstacles. The bike though has provided a TON of fun. I have a universal windscreen, tusk universal storm handguards, nelson-rigg tank bag, custom made a rear cargo box on a plate that mounts to the 4 bolts holding the small bag on the back. Its a blast, cant wait to see more videos on this bike and more aftermarket options.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for posting

[@ridgetop8161]

You're experience is almost exactly the same as mine. 3,000 miles in with quite a bit of commuting. 70mph on the freeway with an MT21 on the front was quite nerve wracking. Felt like I was going to float away. The bigger pegs and some Tusk smaller sized saddle bags and life on the bike has been awesome.

[@SmokinZen]

Sorry about the drop I can only imagine what you went through. I crashed mine and it too a very long time to get all the parts to fix it 6 months for a side panel a gear shift, gear shift lever but that was with trying to get chaparral to do it so

[@ComfyDadShoes]

I wanted this bike so bad, but went for the DR specifically to cover more bases for my budget. Optimally, I’d love to pair this with something more road oriented like the v-strom. Maybe one day

[@oregonninjazx10r]

@3534Firefighter Which pegs did you get?

[@dcxplant]

By the way Ian, THANK YOU for featuring this great bike. They don't have the safe aftermarket support the Honda's do, despite the Kawasaki being a better motorcycle as a base. Hopefully this series will show folks what a fun little motorcycle this is and generate interest with the aftermarket industry.

[@confuzionn4843]

I absolutely love this series, thank you so much for making it. A bike most of us can actually afford, and ride.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

Thanks for making this. I feel like the CRF300l gets lots more focus, and it’s refreshing to see a review from a larger KZbinr.

[@w650-driver6]

I'm owning and riding a Klx 250 with some mods now more than 50.000 km. If you improve some things, you will get the ultimate travel and off-road bike for a small amount of money. It's so good that I've been three times in the Sahara and traveled entire Morocco with it. In a group of BMW F800 or KTM Adventures you're not the loser, but the one driving circles around them all. Have fun. I will watch, if you have some new improvements to my own build. BR from Germany.

[@arthurcayer6630]

I'm looking forward to this series. A couple of years ago, I had a 2020 KLX 250 as a second bike to use on single-track in the Sam Houston National Forest. As it turns out, I used it almost exclusively to run errands around town. Even though I'm 60 plus, I felt like a kid; my around town routes many times included a combination of pave and ditch or pipeline right of ways. 😁 I found myself using the KLX most of the time because it was so much easier to get out of the garage than my heavier ADV. 20:57

[@dandersonjr]

When I was 14 years old I bought a 1978 KL 250 for a trail bike and really loved that motorcycle and although I own a Husqvarna now I've always been a fan of Kawasaki. Looking forward to this series. Thanks.

[@goldfish8196]

I just love how honest your reviews are. I dropped my new Kawasaki W800 at my garage and felt miserable. These things happen. Thank you for sharing and thank you for all the amazing videos.

[@paulstanley3265]

So they do make a w800 I been looking but never seen one. I hate that you drop it.

[@goldfish8196]

@@paulstanley3265 it sounds amazing

[@chetburdette217]

I own the same bike and it's impossible to do the damage he claims from it simply falling over. So much for honesty. Maybe he dropped it out of a truck or something but to claim such carnage happened from it simply falling over is beyond dishonest.

[@christopherehendrick]

I'm looking forward to this, and I can't wait to see what you do! I have a 2021 klx 300 ds and it's been great. 15,000 miles and going strong. Thanks again, love your channel.

[@SomeInfoSecDude]

I really, really like that you are making an 'affordable project' out of this, covering light adv stuff as well.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you like it!

[@BigBinks]

love entry level dual sport content! already have 4k miles on my 23’ klx230s, got it after your review.

[@wandaddy1412]

Ian you seriously have my most favorite KZbin channel for motorcycle content! Thank you for putting out so much quality content!

[@BigRockMoto]

Wow, thanks!

[@arnoldtham6827]

Love my KLX250. Such a fun bike to throw mods on. There’s a great community of owners and decent aftermarket support ( at least in my part of the world, Malaysia). Looking forward to getting a rally tower and an 18l tank for a future rtw.

[@zacharycwebb5879]

Hello! I have a 2024 klx300 and I absolutely love my bike named “Able”. Able has been built up a fair amount with 7000 miles already in 4 months. Parts added pro taper 1-1/8” adapters with pro taper bars (had to get longer clutch cable), mzs brake and clutch lever, Zeta turn signal guards on the wrap around with the zeta fork mounts, Ims Super stocker pegs, Delkavic 10” titanium slip on (used the carbon oval and that muffler doesn’t like the highway at all), Twin Air Air filter, Dunlop En91 front and rear, TuBliss front and rear, Emperor skid plate, flatland radiator guards. i didn’t have guards and totally boogered the left side radiator the first couple weeks i was riding it. I do over night trips with it but have all ultralight backpacking gear, it all fits in a 8L bag that I just strap to the fender with the too bag removed. I stuck a piece of surfboard foam over to cover the holes. the only tool I use from the factory kit is the 12mm 14mm combo wrench, I carry all my trail tools in my kreiga trail 18. whoa anyways sad about the drop in the garage, seems like it caught an edge on the way down. good luck with your klx

[@MrVetal0715]

I don’t have any bikes , but I watch every video you post . Very interesting content . Already thinking of buying a bike in future .

[@donniedirt4063]

Don't wait if you can afford it. Life is not guaranteed to go on even until tomorrow so get the most out of it while you are able friend!!

[@SomewhereInside]

Sometimes browsing and researching is just as good . What did a certain Blondie say back in 1979? Dreaming is free😊

[@chetburdette217]

So many bots

[@davidruggles996]

Yes sir Ian! If I get into Dual Sport, this is the level of bike I'll be starting with. Thank you for the great review.

[@thierrydargent7544]

I've been waiting for a good review of the 2024 KLX300 model for a long time. Thank you!

[@KandySoufax]

What a bummer about the tip over. Enough to drive you crazy. My 2020 300R is dual sported. So underrated. It’s a long stroke thumper like the 500/501. It’s an unstoppable tractor. Love it.

[@brianjohnson8294]

So glad you bought this bike. Have been a Honda guy my whole life and seriously considering this KLX. Watch all your stuff, your the best Ian! Really looking forward to this series in particular! Awesome!

[@dirkhuman760]

KLX blues. What a revelation. Still a very appealing and cool bike. Just needs a tank. 😅

[@tieoneon1614]

After having 2 KLX 250's and the original '05 300r, I picked up the exact same '24 in October. Lots of nice little upgrades, gray looks great, still same awesome motor that will idle up hill in second gear. I got a few video's up already bout easy hp gains, and going to do another about the little mods Iv done. Iv got a lot of time with this chassis, instead of spending $ theres a lot of simple adjustments that make it great.

[@jwaller1327]

Excited about this one. I had a 2021 but upgraded to a CRF450L. The KLX300 is a perfect gateway into motorcycling. I'd gladly own another one as a buddy bike and commuter.

[@billingsfmx]

Same boat here Ive had my 22 klx300 for a few years and the 450rl is what Im looking at!

[@jwaller1327]

If you do it, make sure you set aside the money for ECU upgrade. It’s not absolutely necessary, but if you want throttle control more like the KLX, you’ll need it. I would bet if you look around, you can find a low mileage used 450L or RL for a low enough price to make the ECU easier. I think a lot of folks purchase the bike without educating themselves about it and then are taken aback by the twitchy throttle and then sort of give up on it and let it go. I got mine just over a year ago, a 2019 with only 750 miles, with only one owner. Previous owner gave up on it because of the throttle and fueling. I got it, ordered an AIM ECU, and then rode the snot out of it while waiting for the ECU. I was sort of getting used to it before the ECU got to me and was concerned that it might have been a waste of money. But after installing the ECU, that concern was gone in an instant. Good hunting!

[@billingsfmx]

@@jwaller1327 yeah Ive been doing research for a while. I really want to try it in the stock form for a while. I always mod and tinker on my bikes so Im sure Ill get an ecu at some point. Im constantly hitting the limits of the klx so a bike with more power and more serious suspension is the 450rl. I did ponder the ktm husky and beta a little bit.

[@mxbadboy263]

​@@billingsfmxI regret selling my Beta 450 rr-s. It's a great dual sport. None of that throttle nonsense of the 450 Honda.

[@arcadegamesify]

for me the wr250r is still king of this class and can be had for

[@noidreculse8906]

I have a 2023 and am looking forward to future videos. I installed a Ricochet skid plate and a Tusk rack. I love your channel and I proudly wear your Tee shirt around North Idaho 😎🇺🇸

[@FrancoisTX1974]

Cool because not a lot of videos on the KLX. On budget is perfect as it’s a budget bike.

[@mikeshare5634]

Hey Ian, Happy Holidays! I was curious when we might expect episode two? I got a 2023 KLX 300 a week ago and I'm looking forward to seeing more of your build. Greatly appreciate you sharing your years of experience with bike builds and industry knowledge of what works.

[@DualSportDoug]

I’m chomping at the bit for episode 2 as well.

[@petezny4343]

I love my 21 KLX300, it's my favorite in the "If I told you that you could only keep one bike that's in your garage" question. I'm excited for this series since I'm not a big fan of modding my bikes, all I have done is the essentials; pegs, mirrors, rear rack, shift lever, skid plate and seat. I look forward to seeing what Ian does with his KLX, since he promised to keep it simple and inexpensive. I assume he'll be doing the secondary throttle plate mod and would like to see how that works out.

[@tylerf5223]

Love the direction of this series! Lots of us have these bikes, myself included!

[@coolbananaboy5075]

Good idea to protect left side of engine case. A small fall on my CRF250l and the gear lever punctured the case leaving me stranded. I think the case is soft cast aluminum. I bought inexpensive 6063 aluminum covers that I think are very effective.

[@aftermath2k8]

Amazing overview! I've already bought the bike and done quite a bit of research and this is definitely the most thorough and informative video I've found on it. Thank you!

[@davidrsmith2417]

Ian, Thanks for reviewing this great little bike, and promising to built it out a bit. I will follow Big Rock Moto on this journey! I have a 2012 KLX250S carb model. I find that the new D605 tire design with proper air pressure work pretty well both on and off-road here in the mountains of Virginia. The reason these humble tires work well are several. First, the bike is not particularly powerful, especially at low RPM, so wheel spin is not an issue, and thus off-road grip is easier to come by. Second, the bike is relatively lightweight so it naturally glides over off-road obstacles (rocks, fallen trees, creek beds, hills) without needing ultra-gnarly grip. Third, these tires do surprisingly well on road, the handling is (again) light and quick and the turn-in is very neutral. Quiet too. Save your money for a tiny e-pump to inflate the tires as needed! I added the (free) MCM valve timing mod on my carb bike - this provides a welcome boost in low-mid RPM torque. Finally, I discovered that the unique design of a E-3 spark plug makes up for non-optimum air/fuel swirl pattern, so the engine can deliver a bit more low end torque. Good luck with your built! - Dave

[@advredbikes]

Thanks Ian for the very honest review, i hope you were not hurt. Things happen, looking forward to the rest of the videos.

[@MrNolanmoser9109]

Glad I’m not the only one who occasionally breaks my new bikes

[@floboboman]

I'm excited to see your review. I'm like 80 percent sure I want to down size from a klr650 to one of these. Pending a positive review from you of course

[@samdagan2521]

I own two Betas (390 & 500 RRS). Can’t wait to see your ride reviews of the Kawasaki given your experiences with Betas. By the way, I just subscribed to your channel hoping to take away a smidge of your pain for having to get a new screen. We have all had those human moments.

[@warriorhealth2172]

@bigrockmoto Yes! Excited for this one! You make the best motorcycle content available, period. Thank you Ian!

[@deltabravo1257]

Kickstand switch is a highly debated topic on the DRZ too. I still have mine in place. I've hammered on my DRZ for 17 years on very technical trails in my earlier years of owning it, and many miles of fire roads. It has 19k miles on it now. The switch has NEVER given me problems. On rare occasions, the heel of my right boot will contact the kickstand, pushing it down somewhat which will cause the bike to falter because the switch engages and tries to kill the bike. That ONLY happens when I'm riding on rough terrain on fire roads , while standing up and keeping my feet tight to the bike.

[@rjlklr650]

My 1988 KLR650 kick stand switch failed within the first year, has been bypassed ever since. Maybe Suzuki ones are better!!!

[@matthewhoopes4440]

While I would probably go for the 300L for my own my reasons the kawasaki is certainly legit. Currently Riding the 300 Rally

[@adamg6199]

I find this more interesting than the transalp

[@mimi1girl2dempsey3]

I installed progressive front fork springs on my old versys x300 a while back with lighter oil and it totally transformed the street alure of the bike totally worth it.

[@tactical1224]

Congrats on the new bike....looking forward to seeing this build!

[@BigRockMoto]

You and me both!

[@theinchanmoe6239]

@@BigRockMoto waiting review for 2022 kawasaki versys 650

[@TheToastedChannel]

My 2022 KLX 300 has been very solid even with multiple dumps on the trails. Best upgrade was Tusk DS tires.

[@Michael_Shay]

Ian, I dig the look of the new lighting and color grading. It's clear you're really putting more effort into your already effortful videos.

[@big566bunny]

Great purchase, Ian. I bought one myself 3 weeks ago. Very curious to see how you mod it. My one ride (winter is here) and standing up felt rather cramped (5'8"?!) so risers and bars are a must. However, I really don't know how to start to figure out what works or doesn't. So you can be my guide😀😀

[@BigRockMoto]

Tusk big bar kit with risers.

[@greathelmet]

You said I'd probably see the motorhome in one of your videos, and there it is! Andy from Giant RV. Safe riding!

[@Greeny_Machiney]

I’ve dropped my 2012 KLX plenty of times off road and the dash is completely fine.

[@chetburdette217]

Yeah this guy is a liar

[@Goodtimesbaddecsions]

This guy is awesome. Thanks for your words of wisdom! I see a klx300 or a Honda 300l in my future, just wish the Honda had better suspension!

[@airadaimagery692]

It cost me $700 to tune the suspension on my Rally for my 210lb arse. Why does everyone find that such a big deal? And that was adding a rear shock that’s 1” shorter than stock to account for my vertically challenged measurements. The KLX is $800 more than the 300l according to the price list shown. So technically, you should be able to purchase the Honda and a higher quality suspension than the Kawasaki for the same price. Yes, you can spend $1200+ on suspension if you wish, but it’s not necessary at all. I was able to purchase the motorcycle, and within 8-10 months I set it up just like I want it. Now It’s the perfect bike for me, and I’ll never sell it. I might purchase a newer bike eventually, but this will be here forever. I’m also looking forward to installing the 550 performance, 301 big bore kit in another year Or so. So I have plenty more to look forward to.

[@joshdoddadbod]

As an owner the first thing i did was buy the ims 2.7 gal tank. It doesnt add much but it makes a day trip in the boonies doable for me (barely). Hoping IMS makes a 3 gal tank in the future. Kawasaki should have had a 3 gallon tank stock. 2 gals is pitiful. Excited for this series Ian!

[@someguy5035]

Agreed. That is why I passed on the KLX and got the 300 rally instead.

[@joshdoddadbod]

​@@someguy5035yea man. I do a lot of pretty fast paced offroading so the CRF was not on my list. Needed a good stock suspension. If the CRF had come with good suspension I would hands down have bought it over the klx

[@TrustedSilver1987]

I almost bought one of these this year but I opted for a Sur Ron Ultra Bee and I'm converting it to a super moto. I like gas bikes still but right now electric has my attention.

[@GregLanz]

I've been tempted by this and the Honda 300L rally, so looking forward to you videos

[@95turboteggy65]

You can't go wrong with either I picked up the 300 rally a few weeks ago bc I planned on doing 50/50 off-road/street having the windscreen, better headlight, bigger fuel tank and updated dash was a deciding factor for me. I do plan on doing suspension in the future but don't let that be a deal breaker for you. You will enjoy either bike.

[@hardworkingamerican8847]

First new mod for the KLX300 is a new rubberized garage floor .

[@AR-eg4we]

I’ve been excited for this review from you!

[@scottkouns8578]

Can’t wait to see what you do with this bike. Looks like a fun build!!

[@dcxplant]

Great rundown/1st episode! I have the 300R that I plated . The easiest way to plate a 300R (ay dirtbike) is to buy it new, and get a Manufactures Certificate of Origin you then take to your DMV and register yourself. I'm really looking forward to see the progression of this motorcycle. The CA EPA stuff is all 50 states IIRC. The exhaust system/EPA system add a lot of weight. The exhaust header also gets cherry red. Most ditch the EPA stuff and install at least a slip on and richen up the fuel.

[@tommaples9174]

This would be a perfect bike to use on the NV bdr. Light, excellent fuel mileage and simple.

[@ShadowVonChadwick]

Wow, I have been relearning to ride dirt again on a few, first a 2016KLX250, and then I found a 2010 KLX250/300r that had been modded in the shop before the farmer took possession, I found it with 970km on the clock, a Stayintune pipe and modded air box. The performance was surprising after some work jetting and cleaning it up, some suspension works a seat and larger lightweight tank it has become a real weapon doing over 27km/lt, and it will do 140+km on open road if needed (though that's not where it shines or comfortable). I have dropped it a few times (love Barkbusters), never at speed, and i am baffled how you shattered the cluster, only art Big Rock. 😁 P.S: With the IMS tank(yes, a bit pricey) 278km till reserve (less the 10lt) or even 300km (188 miles) seems to work well for all the weekend rides I have done, so a full day group ride with mixed surfaces for me. But 13lt+ would be perfect.

[@felixlechat1780]

omg the video quality step up you got new gears congrats nice investment look like a pro now👍👍

[@jonnantau9354]

Nice bike, i have a 300R, the non street legal version. The engine is nice and torquey for trail riding. Ricochet Offroad makes a really nice skid plate for these Ian, i have one on mine.

[@TerraMagnus]

Most thorough reviews on the ‘tube.

[@lelanangingjagad...6350]

Thank you Ian... can't wait for the next video about KLX 300...❤❤❤

[@FullArmorE6]

Looking forward to this series!

[@DonTharp]

The perfect mule. Absolutely great at nothing,, but good at everything!!!!

[@Mjr1348]

I’m older guy (62) and bought a 21 crf300L when it first came out. I’ve done a couple mods but nothing major. I’m debating about switching to the KLX300.

[@mannymarin1593]

I rode that bike at the Rally in Julian Nov 22. LOVED IT

[@eduardosorrenti539]

Thanks for the review, waiting the next episode!!

[@adventureundone]

LOL, the good ole garage drop. Man that thing took a beating though.

[@wsl5585]

Besides watching what you do to the bike it is nice to know what can break if it falls over. l look forward to finding out where this bike takes you since it is not for long distances. I have years of experience riding dirt bikes and I know if I had one of these I'd be riding it to single track trails in the vicinity of where I live.

[@toddkurtz7635]

I had a klx250s a number of years ago. It was a complete slug. Hopefully the 300 has a lot more power.

[@cranedaddy678]

As always good review Ian. I love my 07 KLX 250 and will be keeping it for many more years.

[@JamesSmith-vd1gk]

Thanks Ian for the holistic motorcycle channel! Great seeing a money conscious build with realistic purpose. Such a great bike review for beginners or ppl wanting to build skills on a more manageable or obtainable bike!

[@blueforest4589]

I already upgraded both my headlight and taillight to LEDs. So easy... Would like to do the following next: 1. Upgrade turn signals to LED by replacing just the bulbs. 2. Redesign the turn indicator circuit to allow the turn signals to act as running lights so their default state is "ON". Makes you more conspicuous at night. 3. Add the ability to flash the turn signals and make them act as hazzard lights. I'm an engineer so i can do this! Fun, cheap stuff to do! 🤔

[@deltabravo1257]

More things to compare, which are things I'm curious about: Seating position / Ergonomics. The thing I love about my DRZ is the seating position. My knees aren't bent as much as they are on my KTM 450 EXC-F. This makes it very comfortable for riding 10+ hours a day. I'm 5'9" with a 30"-ish inseam. Basically, the way I describe the DRZ is that the seat to foot peg distance is greater than on my KTM. How does the KLX compare to your KTM in this regard?

[@robertg9514]

Ian, why not replace your broken head with the voyager by trail tech? About $280.00 it does everything + gps and much more.

[@jjohnson6252]

This looks really cool! I've been wanting a DR 650 forever, but have recently been considering a CRF 300 Rally. It will be nice to see what the Kawi has going for it! Tough luck on the drop. I always say, "I've dropped my bike a million times, but I've only been pinned under it five."

[@machupikachu1085]

LOL! I may have to start using that one. If you do more on road than off road, get the 650. That extra 50 pounds makes a world of difference on the open highway. The KLX is much better in the dirt, but the lighter weight makes it abject misery for any kind of distance, as Ian alluded to. Cheers!

[@mxbadboy263]

​@@machupikachu1085You get it. My next bike is the DR650. I've had the 250wr, the crf300l, the 350 ktm, the drz400 and I'm getting the DR650 next. Tired of low powered bikes.

[@theomerian6102]

This will be a great series Ian - thanks for doing it. I can't help but think though - Yamaha released the WR250R in what, 2008? And after 15+ years through it's entire lifecycle Honda & Kawasaki can't seem to match that offering. They've come close IMO, but haven't beat it for a small size dual sport. Keep up the great work!

[@SPKMoto69]

Great choice! If you had this bike, your trip across Nevada would have been a much better experience!

[@MikesProjectsandHobbiesMC]

I have a 2023 R version and have zero complaints other than the aftermarket support is horrible for a bike that’s been around this long. It’s a great trail bike. I installed a Ricochet skid plate and Emperor radiator guards. I’m running a fuel controller though because the things are notoriously lean (like exhaust glowing red hot lean). Everything else is stock.

[@fendermon]

Man the restricted fuel and air has been going on for decades now. I was hoping fuel injected would put that bs to bed. I spent countless hours trying to dial in my 98 dr650 that was choked within an inch of its life from the factory.

[@bossHogOG]

This guy is special.

[@guitarchitech]

Excellent introduction! excited to see the luggage attachments!!

[@franmitch3589]

After owning a crf250l & looking for something more road worthy got a gen 3 KLR under $6k its been amazing miss the lightness off road on the honda but the extra grunt & simplicity is a breath of fresh air on the KLR for the cost

[@ssfd739]

I will be very interested to see how this stacks up to the DRZ400 over time for an off road/single track option for a big fella.

[@chrishart8548]

I think it's at least a worthy replacement for the DR350 the power is getting close now and they both have 6 gears.

[@tieoneon1614]

I own both. The DRZ feels like its 60lbs heavier. The power is fun on the road, but woods/single track it handles poorly cuz all the weight feels like its on the bars. Offroad the KLX is night and day better than the DRZ cuz the chassis came from a trail bike. If u ride open faster terrain offroad, the DRZ is real fun.

[@Duc1198]

Great addition to your channel. Well done you!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thank you kindly

[@shawnolson4522]

I like this bike and I think it will make a great run a bout and be perfect for quick blasts around the trail before and after work. Serious question tough. How many curse words came out when dropped it lol !!! Bummer but it happens. Looking forward to watching this build.

[@joebernall4116]

I've dropped bikes in the past and usually it's ok. Sometimes they just hit the ground perfect like your KLX. I dropped mine at the gas station this week and it shook the ground, it hit just perfect, it broke so many things

[@mimi1girl2dempsey3]

as for gearing a 52 tooth rear sprocket brings hp max close to highway speed and that helps keep up with trafic on the interstate. I had matched my old 250 to be like that and it was well worth it.

[@Skitv904]

Been waiting on new content on this bike

[@jimbroen]

I have the supermoto version of the 2021. Add a top case and it's the perfect urban ride for the northern Canadian Prairie city where I live. It will be awhile until I do a valve adjustment but maintenance is straightforward and pleasant as you would expect of a light one cylinder with not much fairing. I like scooters but I'm always on the lookout for potholes when riding one. On the Kawasaki, potholes are not something to avoid but a source of entertainment on those Costco runs. It has more than enough power for highway runs where I live but it's buzzy and uncomfortable for any distance. It's a keeper.

[@L_H1]

Did they fix the transmission? I know 3 people with KLX300s and i cant stand the shifting. Hard to get into neutral and the shifting feels loose and not precise. My drz400s shifts smooth as butter

[@fendermon]

My dr650 and xr400 five speeds put my buddies old klx300 trans to shame. Shifter was quite short and the shifts were extremely vague feeling. First gear was too low to use at all.

[@DesertRacer225]

Good review Ian. I’m trying to talk 2 of my son in laws (novice riders) into purchasing these so we can do BDR type stuff where we motel it instead of camping. Interested to see what your MPG and what you use for extra fuel.

[@Delerium04]

good video, like the content,enjoyed the added touch of the dropped bike, i enjoy watching :)

[@RobertWilkes-h8w]

Thanks for reviewing a bike we can afford!

[@skipstang]

Can't wait for the next update!! Thank you!!

[@deltabravo1257]

That's mind boggling that the instrumentation broke. Did something impact it directly when the bike fell over, or was it just the shock from impacting the floor that caused it to break? Also, is the screen glass? It looks like it is based on the cracks.

[@rjlklr650]

I was wondering the same thing, seems odd with just a tip over

[@bsmukler]

Kudos for mentioning your garage mishap. I think most riders have done that (I know I have. I considered an Amazon subscription for certain excessively fragile Italian mirrors.). $500 for a dash seems pretty reasonable, if painful. That’s a great looking bike, by the way.

[@dennismichels7194]

Hello Ian, I have watched every motorcycle video you have made. You have the best channel out there. Your quest, and mine,. for that one bike that does it all is great. However I think it may may be delivering diminishing returns. You are THE bike dude, so what are the best two or even the best three to own.