2022 Kawasaki KLR650 First Ride Review | Road and Off-Road Test

The legendary KLR650 gets reborn after a short hiatus and is back with fuel injection, ABS, improved midrange torque, revised ergos, optimized suspension, and more. While many things have changed, much of what made the 35-year-old KLR650 a cult classic has remained the same. But is the Gen 3 KLR significantly better than before? Steve Kamrad gives us his impression after two days of riding over hundreds of miles on varied desert terrain in Northern New Mexico on the KLR.
You can read our 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 Review at:
www.advpulse.com/adv-news/202...

[@ADVPulseVideos]

Check out the full review at: www.advpulse.com/adv-news/2022-kawasaki-klr650-review/

[@davestephens1993]

My wife and I just purchased two of the KLR 650 adventure versions 2022 and we've wridden for decades on the street now we're going to try and ride some moderate adventure riding now that we're 60 years old and looking forward to another type of cycling

[@MrMarkLambrecht]

I am in the same age group and just bought one for trailing in Northern Wisconsin, it is a great bike.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Thats awesome! Safe travels and enjoy!

[@Millsie18]

good luck my friend! watch twist the wrist on youtube :)

[@berttompkins9096]

Yep I have one too. Tusk make the best accessories for them. These bikes are fun to ride and easy to work on.

[@GratefulOverlander]

60, rode for years.....and still can't spell RIDDEN

[@ronaldbassett5142]

Loved your review! You nailed it with your oservation that the KLR is like a wheelbarrow and that it gets all Cs while still making the honor role. My first KLR was a '94 and my current one is a 2014. I'm 75 years old and ride about 750 miles a month.

[@Hansengineering]

If you have a KLR, *particularly* a camo one, you will get non stop comments about how amazing it looks. It gets far more love from non riders than you can possibly imagine.

[@CREEPINGIRON]

I want the Orange travel one, should pair up nicely with the desert environment I would be driving through.

[@randallsguaranteedsold6361]

@@CREEPINGIRON KTM wannabe? (Just kidding!)

[@CREEPINGIRON]

@@randallsguaranteedsold6361 Ah no, I just think with all the off-road trails the KLR would suit me better than that brand. Although it would let me save some cash in the long run depending on which I choose.

[@randallsguaranteedsold6361]

@@CREEPINGIRON fully agree… I was referencing the colour…. When I saw the pic of the new KLR in orange, I thought “KTM”?

[@HooDRidEWhiteY]

@@randallsguaranteedsold6361 I personally didn't choose the orange one for that reason. Went with the digital camo.

[@thomasblock1164]

Best comment ever, "it gets all Cs but somehow makes the honor roll."

[@philipbarton2634]

Nicely done. The KLR650. Basic good fun for the average rider. Which is what most of us are.

[@markcollins5026]

Man, I got the new KLR base model, I love it !

[@brentmitchell9116]

Did you get your doohickey fixed?

[@markcollins5026]

Man, I don't plan on doing anything to the hicky, Kawasaki says it' made out of stronger material, they also changed the chain guide witch is suppose to take care of the problem, I don't know it's my first KLR, I'm just gonna ride it, it's a hoot !

[@paulwood3876]

@@markcollins5026 Good on ya Mark, Congrats on the purchase, they are a hoot !

[@2001sage]

I went 13,000 on my 09 before I did the do.

[@berttompkins9096]

I put the JT 16 tooth sprocket on w Dunlop 606 knobbies. WOWWWW. It sprays roostertails 100 feet in 3 gears. NOT A PIG. Hold ON!!!

[@gaspererjavec7108]

Don't worry about the stuff you don't like, just modify the hell out of it. It's the KLR way.

[@breddary]

Hahahah! I ride a DR but I love that one!😂‼️🔥

[@LaputanMachad]

Show me a stock KLR and I'll show you a KLR that just rolled off the dealer lot

[@BillysWild]

I just bought my adventure model. I’m a cruiser/Harley guy, but I love the KLR. I bought mine to ride between my house in Mexico to work in San Diego.

[@michaelahr1]

ADV Pulse needs to use Steve Kamrad in more if not every review! Hands down the best motorcycle journalist out there; knowledgeable, can relate to the bikes purpose and who it's for, understands the entire spectrum of riders, happens to be one of the best riders out there and rides it like he stole it which is exactly how many of us ride our bikes! Watching other reviewers struggle on basic trails is a joke but you know if Steve is on that bike he is gonna push it harder than you can which inspires confidence in his reviews along with the fact he is honest. And yes, his antics that might get him in hot water with demo bikes from time to time (just my guess from other awesome video's he has done) but he is the absolute best! The guy has style and moxie for days - The World Needs More Steve Kamrad!

[@theOutbackBerean]

Just purchased one of these beasts. Appreciated your honest review and it’s the bike I’m after at 55 for around the farm, picking up some smokes and disappear now and then for the weekend. $11K AUD on road. 🍺

[@mikelevsen9878]

One of the better reviews I have seen on the new KLR!! I own a 2007 KLR and its my beat down these Iowa gravel roads bike. I also own a 18 Road Glide and for some reason, I smile just as much if not more, when riding the KLR. I rode bigger adventure bikes but for some reason I just keep the KLR. I guess I really dont feel like I need 150 HP to ride down gravel roads. I rode the new KLR base model and just didnt feel like there is enough difference to warrant the price. The nice thing about the old bike is that I can rebuild anything that breaks however nothing ever does!!

[@JP1970]

Great review. I just picked one of these up a couple of months ago as a second bike, and it is a blast! Thanks. New sub!

[@kevinkeating9076]

A good detailed test report with more pros than cons ............thank you . Kev

[@WildWestMotoplexSales]

Hey Brothers we loved your review so much we shared it on our facebook page, as we have a stable of these bikes. Thanks for making a great video! Cheers!

[@HooDRidEWhiteY]

Where are you guys located?

[@aussieas.9296]

Best KLR review I’ve watched yet 🤙🏼

[@mikehagan4320]

I like the way you did this review. And lots of good footage. Best Wishes! M.H.

[@schelty9233]

Great review ,really enjoyed it . Picking mine up next week and can't wait.

[@Bullardicus86]

I just bought a 2022 klr 650, only putted around town on it so far I’m also super new to riding Street legal in general but I love this bike it’s easy to ride so much fun. I grew up on dirt bikes nothing crazy though, in my opinion this bike is perfect for starting out.

[@randallsguaranteedsold6361]

Excellent review… like many who watched this video…. I had a KLR. The sound of that motor brings back good memories!

[@ericcournoyer1595]

Excellent review. Concise , to the point. Entertaining too. Keep it up.

[@darthorpheus]

What a fantastic review!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thank you

[@mylifeinthailand8751]

Loved your review, thank you for your honesty

[@naioti]

Really wish Kawasaki made a branded milk crate as an accessory 😜 Nice Job Kawasaki, new KLR looks good

[@berttompkins9096]

I have a black milk crate that is rectangular and holds 6 gallon jugs. I'm Riv- Nutting inserts to the luggage rack and it will hang canteens and camp gear on the outside. Haa

[@jimtucker7005]

Thanks Man, Great and Objective Review.

[@stevebrinkert8339]

Great review 👍

[@doublex632]

I like the ending ,that was great. thanks

[@jayhabit1803]

BTW, I loved your review and style of detailing this bike. Keep it up.

[@jonbusby3881]

Great review, your spot on with this bike

[@dandersonjr]

So basically if you liked the old KLR you'll love this one. If you didn't you still won't.

[@albertptran]

Thanks for sharing!

[@joselira9076]

Thank you for your review brother

[@evenstevenmotodrone735]

Yeap Great Review from ADVPulse as always 🏍🇨🇷 🐕

[@TR5T]

After having owned a 2006 KLR I will state that any KLR is an extremely rewarding ride although many of my friends have the "must" silly massive GS 11-1250s the honest truth is a KLR below 70mph will do everything the blimp will. I do hope more people break out of the designer accessory Beemer to discover one of these. It was way too tall for me and it could never be lowered enough, saying that the ride 5-11 and over will find it such a blast.

[@nathancalhoun9200]

I’m 5’8 and I love my 2008. I have to slide one cheek off the seat at stops but it works. It’s the most fun I’ve ever had on a bike.

[@adamniswonger8015]

They make a lowered version, stock now. But the GS’s are just as easy to ride at slower speeds and more pleasant to travel at higher speeds. Just more $$. No need to knock either.

[@ojrios0424]

I will recognize this terrain anywhere!! Taos, New Mexico ❤ Glad to see northern new mex getting appreciated

[@eminiscalperpro9729]

Always looking forward to going on an exploration with my 22 KLR!

[@richvangorder3900]

Bought my 22 adventure in nov 21. Today is early jan 23 and i have 15000 miles on. Great bike!

[@thejohnnerparty]

Great job - good perspective.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Steve! You gotta have a talk with KZbin and tell them to notify me whenever you put up a video in any realm. lol I liked what you had to say about the Gen III. I bought a 2018 and didn't even get 100 miles on it, decided to tear into it and start modding. I did the drill through and replacement of the main frame bolt, and subframe bolts in the rear. I bought the two popular carb kits, I really need to decide and put one in. Crash bars, thermo Bob, Doo Hickey, blah blah blah... Then crazy Covid hit and life went topsy turvey. It's still torn apart but I'm hoping to get some time in 2022 to get it on the street. I have been enjoying the KLX300, and the Pan Am. Stay frosty my friend!

[@dubv6902]

The intro music put this video over the top kewl 😄🤙

[@rogerbaldwin8498]

Grate review!! I am thinking about getting a 2023, they are on sale here in Northern Virginia.

[@robmata474]

I brought home the adventure yesterday a 100 miles in one day Still smiling

[@martinf1961]

As a solid C student during my high school years, i feel for this bike. Lol

[@hermogenesfructuosoaroca5314]

Hello from Spain. I like your videos.

[@KLRmurdercycle]

Have a 2011 that needs a cylinder rebuild and a 2009 that's a placeholder or maybe a keeper😁🔫 Have been all over Canada and the north west States(x2) with that 2011. They are my daily ride and my dirt bike. Don't mind the old carb and cleaning it. The EFI will still need maintenance but won't miss the cold choking every time the bike is off for half an hour or loss of power at altitude. I will never forget the guy at the bar in Alpine, Wyoming..."you guys came all the way from Ontario on those dirt bikes?" If your just starting to get into travelling off a bike or the mid sized adv type riding. The price, fuel range and simplicity, will determine if your ready for more or to move onto a different bike. You'll still get the wave from me✌😁

[@PIETROMACMOTO]

amo tu tshirt mate,,, cheers from guanajuato, mx.

[@jayhabit1803]

Just picked mine up. Great bike. I am a long time, experienced rider. Have had the biggest bikes available from all manufacturers. This is simple and fun. Compared to Harley , it is a very light bike. Buy it. Its a great bike.

[@ArizonaAdv]

I still ride the XR and love it for many reasons . RIDE ON

[@HooDRidEWhiteY]

I've had 3 XR's and they are an amazing platform. Just got a KLR, and hoping the KAWA is just as good.

[@ArizonaAdv]

@@HooDRidEWhiteY it would be interesting for updates . KLR is a good bike the experience I hear is you just don't want to bang them around to much . XRs have that stupid drive sprocket issue if you don't change it to a Fritzco drive shaft then it could cost a bunch to fix that. Enjoy your adventures.

[@HooDRidEWhiteY]

@@ArizonaAdv enjoy your adventures as well EagleRider! I'm still breaking in my KLR, but it definitely lacks the low end grunt of the XR. I had a '92 XR250l that I swear would have went straight up a tall pine tree if the rider could hang on 😁. I got my KLR for about 90/10 road/dirt so I won't be too hard on it off road. Just got my 9 year old a drz125 so for a while the klr will allow me to follow him around on the dirt roads as he learns. Cheers.

[@ArizonaAdv]

@@HooDRidEWhiteY that sounds awesome enjoy your adventures with your kid . I have my XR set up for more adventure style riding . I had a 84 XR 250r brand new from Salem Honda paid 1,200 bucks for it My most favorite bike . RIDE ON

[@OswaltSamuel]

Lol I have had a RubberMaid Action packer as a top case on my 07 KLR for as long as I have owned. Figured I would rock it until I broke it; but it never broke. I loved this bike and I am only selling it because I have moved on to dirt bikes and light ADv bikes.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

This will sell like hell!

[@robertturnbow4299]

I loved my 2011 klr. My brother rides it now. I am torn between buying the new klr and the dr650. I lean toward the dr650 just because it is lighter. The klr is very comfortable though. Great review.

[@HooDRidEWhiteY]

I had narrowed down my search for a 2nd bike to the klr and dr as well. To be honest, I wound up with the KLR because I couldn't find a DR for sale to even look at, and the AT is too pricey for a 2nd bike. I don't think you can go wrong with either bike. I wish I didn't have to worry about a thermobob or doo upgrade (or fork braces or pita valve clearance checks) but overall the klr is awesome.

[@berttompkins9096]

Can't knock the Suzy 650. They are awesome.

[@SeenthroughmyLens]

I own a Harley-Davidson Heritage and just bought a new 2023 KLR 650 Traveler. I live in Las Vegas Nevada and I wanted to ride in off road areas that I wouldn’t dare take my Heritage. The price of the KLR was only 1/4 of what I paid for the Harley-Davidson Heritage😎🏍️

[@thetrailbuzzard]

Homerun on this review. I've owned a 2008' model and just bought this 2022 adventure model. I'll be tackling BDR's and possibly the TAT with this one.

[@HooDRidEWhiteY]

Did you do the doohicky mod on either of them?

[@thetrailbuzzard]

@@HooDRidEWhiteY hey there. No I didn’t do the doohickey on either of them.

[@edfeten4724]

Awesome! should be perfect for the BDRs and the TAT.

[@BlakesPipes]

Really liked your review. I was looking at a Himalayan for the last year doing research and went on a trip to Johnson City, Tennessee and stopped by a kawasaki dealership their, and they had a Himalayan and right next to it a KLR. First time seeing both. Fell in love with the KLR. Thank you for the info. Makes my last year of research worthless. Now it's which version KLR I want to get, thinking of the abs version and doing aftermarket parts to finish it off, as I did not like the saddlebags on the top of the line one

[@billbonu1639]

My friend bought a Himalayan.I found Himalayan next to it on the trail when the whole front end broke off.

[@jasonrichardwatts]

The Gen 3 is MILES ahead of the Gen 2. I can’t believe how much better it handles off-road compared to my farkled Gen 2. It’s a night and day difference. It’ll also do the Ton (100mph).

[@berttompkins9096]

The JT 16 tooth sprocket fits an it makes way better riding in 5th and no extra clutching at launch. Torque easily handles it. No need for a 6 speed folks $20 fix and less vibes. What a bike. Now 2nd gear does roosters!!!!

[@nikhayes3396]

Yeah, I those two Australian guys that just go on and on about the ABS / the brakes didn't seem to think it through or fully test, because it will lock up the Rear tire for just a second and a half so you can still start a drift through a dirt corner. Also they do this silly thing where he rides down a steep hill riding the brakes with the clutch in??? like dude, its a thumper the primary brake is 1st gear. haha. They also seemed to forget its only a 500 lbs bike, it feels light for its weight and the breaks actually work amazing in my humble opinion.

[@johnockey5654]

On my 2012 KLR I filled the handlebars full of BB shot and it took the vibration out of the handle bars. I did the same thing on my VStar and it helped alot.

[@danmanthe9335]

I've never done BB shot but sand works the same

[@jasonrichardwatts]

I filled mine with bull semen. I know, it sounds disgusting and weird but it really works because it sets like jello and has outstanding vibration dampening properties.

[@chrisunderhill8853]

Cant say if its better since i never had one before now but i love the 22

[@TrippyWheelz]

the big issue I have with my KLR 650 is on windy days on the highway. not very good at crushing miles when you have to go slow because the bike gets shoved around like crazy when its really windy which is always the case here in Texas. As far as the other issues people have like top speed, gear indicator and tac, I personally like having a bare bones bike when I am putting it through off road use.

[@PaulieFinzz]

Great review. Just put the first 50 miles on mine. What is the mount you used for the phone. Specifically the piece that attaches to the bar on the bike. Thanks...

[@TheFistytheCLown]

As a KLR owner " Jack of all trades master of none "

[@perforations6234]

still riding my '88 ;)

[@marknasia5293]

If there was one brand that keeps PCV in business, it is Kawasaki and i know because i buy it for every Kawi i own

[@IIChainsawII]

I bought a KLX 300 dual sport a little over of a month ago. I've been approached by KLR riders 3 different times at the gas station so far lol

[@berttompkins9096]

I've got BOTH!!! YOU NEED ONE TOO.

[@IIChainsawII]

I certainly wouldn't mind.

[@BSE1320]

KLR guys are like Harley guys; we just happen to wave at anyone on the road. :)

[@shmac96]

You must be from Philly! LOL! Thats a good lookin' Jawn!

[@wichorides]

New to motorcycling, I own a ninja 400, I hit the twisties as often as I can and make all my longer commute/highway trips on it. I mob a grom to work as a daily. Interested in “adventure riding” and possibly riding 2up and longer road trips. Would the KLR 650 be a good bike for that?….. In your opinion?

[@torekun]

I'm looking for my first adventure tourer, was considering T7 but stumbled across the KLR, thoughts?

[@johnnydangerously7186]

It’s a excellent bike for its price point! Only $6700 for the base model!

[@unclebadger597]

Yes. Yes it is. I owned a 2017 and my new Adventure model is way better than the gen 2. Holds 90mph all day and solid as a rock, but still a donkey!

[@chadkline4268]

Can you please report oil usage @ 90mph?

[@rugby3874]

Actually they did do stuff to the doohickey they made the chain guides stronger so they don't wear out as fast

[@oceantri]

Had an 08 KLR650 that thing used oil. Did Kawasaki fix the oil consumption issue with these engines?

[@AskformeJohnT]

Doohickey has been improved on the new model and should not need to be replaced but only time will tell if it's enough of an improvement

[@brettw1518]

The spring will fail, switch it out with a torsion from eagle mike at least. How do I know? It has the same exact spring and doohickey as the gen 2 and my KLR had no tension with the stock spring at 3000 miles. Eagle mike made a video with big rock media about this issue with the gen 3 as well.

[@KurtGAndersen]

According to Eagle Mike the man himself - it hasnt…kzbin.info/www/bejne/aILcf3dvgdpqZ9E

[@hunczar]

@@KurtGAndersen yep. I really want this bike, price and features and personality are great, but buying a bike and then immediately having to put more money in it so it doesn't fail is just not acceptable to me. Bummer.

[@brettw1518]

@@hunczar it’s super reliable when the rider does the maintenance right. Watt man from thermobob has about 180k miles on his gen 1 klr. The bike has needed no major rebuild or repairs.

[@hunczar]

@@brettw1518 Thanks!

[@Hanky_Bannist8r]

I know I can't compare my late 80s KLR 650 with the new(er) ones. Mine was an utter turd and has steered me away from wanting a new one. But, the great reviews don't lie and maybe mine just left a bad taste in my mouth. Seems like an awesome bike.

[@nvmcrider8475]

The rear brake line seems like it could be about 18" shorter.

[@dad3562]

Is it smoother at 75-80 mph than the Gen 2 or same vibration? Just curious.

[@MrPepper312]

I read were changes were made to the dohicky. Improvements to the cam chain guides and a different metal on something ???

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Metal and chain guide materials

[@mylifeinthailand8751]

I wonder if it’s possible to fit an 18” rear wheel to this bike?

[@karryhoward3946]

dude you were looking at the wrong side in reference to the Doohiky!

[@ShelleyRaskin]

Isn’t the royal enfield Himilayan the direct competition for this?

[@hccwarriordan5475]

"why does someone love this bike" I just bought my second KLR, a 2007 gen1 with 1900 miles on it for $1k. Bike is in great shape and runs like a scalded dog.

[@JimGoryeb]

Great review! One counterpoint: You said there’s no other bike like the KLR. I’d argue the RE Himalayan is exactly like an Indian KLR. Same mission. Super inexpensive, go anywhere, no frills, adventure bike.

[@shipley1836]

My thoughts exactly. Of course I have an enfield in the garage. Single✅ fuel injected✅ off road capable✅ simple✅. Not saying it’s better, but it’s definitely in the conversation. Especially for smaller riders like my wife.

[@ajpowers7842]

The ‘22 KLR a new bike with all the features a 10yo bike should’ve had.

[@woxiduswoxidus1167]

the best win is old second hand klrs price drop due to new one release. on the same weight league tenere 700 keep new klr in shadow

[@sweettooth80]

Iv been told tgat theres a stroke kit for it to help on the highway. But idk if thats true

[@Thehammm_]

I mean I went across Canada with my DRZ 400 sm...so I'm pretty sure I could handle this on long trips. One thing I don't understand (maybe its age) that people are afraid to ride non conventional bikes longer distances. Man up ladies.

[@Balithazzarr]

Which would be more reliable this or Indian ftr rally?

[@88Nikoli]

You have to remove four Allen screws or bolts not keys , keys are the tool used to remove them !

[@rugby3874]

Are they going to have tubeless tires

[@joemadsen2917]

I had a extremely difficult time choosing between the KLR or the T7. But I put a deposit on the T7

[@MrCheaterpipe]

As a 2nd gen klr owner that i absolutely love i believe you made the right choice going with the t7 probably the choice i wouldve made if the t7 were available in 2013 when i purchased my bike

[@gregc6661]

You made the best choice by far, it’s a no brainer.

[@marknasia5293]

No doohickey to fix from the factory, so yeah T7

[@ajpowers7842]

The T7 is a modern motorcycle. The updated KLR is really just where the KLR should’ve been 10yrs ago.

[@usernamemykel]

SO - I'd be able to comfortably keep up with my Harley buddies on their 100 mile highway/thruway/turnpike-only trips? Thank you!

[@HooDRidEWhiteY]

Hi usernamemykel. Have you put any more thought into this? I ride in a very diverse group of people with all types of bikes. The KLR will do the ride you're describing, but won't have fun doing it if the sustained speeds are >75mph. There are other bikes better suited for that.

[@usernamemykel]

@@HooDRidEWhiteY Believe it or not - I'm looking forward to purchasing a Honda Grom!

[@denrizza]

This bike, IMHO, is for those people, like myself, who used to ride dirt bikes and still want to take one on the road for travel and get that semi-dirt bike feel.

[@user-ik8uh6jr9q]

We rode into the backcountry of Northern Canada on our 2022 KLR650s researching Climate Change Mitigation. What a cool ride. B. Bowman CEO Camden Loche Inc

[@mylifeinthailand8751]

Can you buy an aftermarket Cam Chain Guide?

[@mal-wx6tu]

Yes, the Doohickey is not done, which is ridiculous from Kawasaki for all this time, Kawasaki USA should have done a deal with Eagle Mike Eng, for saving so many KLRs.

[@berttompkins9096]

The reason chain gets loose is the old rubber chain guides wore off. Then no one adjusted the chain . This was a common issue on the chain driven mitsubishi balancer too. The new bikes have improved guides and it not a worry . Yes you can install Eagle Mike's spring after 1 year warrantee. Not an issue and you can inspect the balancer for gee whiz. Kawasaki knows what they're doing.

[@berttompkins9096]

The good news is that these are twin balancers not just single or an extra crank throw. They are expensive and no one considers that they quell both up and down and fore/aft rod swings. Similar to Mitsubishi silent shafts which were used by Porsche 944 and even Hoda accord

[@PrestonGladd]

I really wish he would have told us if it was "linear" or not. That was my main question....;)

[@EGGZ1983]

Price is an A+ And you forgot to mention the most important thing on any motorcycle. The TYRES!! We're the OEM tyres any good?

[@brentmitchell9116]

I have the new adventure model when do you recommend the doohickey? Or should I not worry about it.

[@steve_kamrad5216]

I would do it for funzies

[@Hansengineering]

First or second oil change, whenever is convenient. According to the Kaw dealer, the doo is the same because "Kaw has never once had a warranty claim for a broken chain tensioner". K. Well, the warranty is 12 months at the longest. If people were putting on 7500 miles in a year, you'd see them break "under warranty". When I pulled mine off at 7500, it wasn't broken, but the spring was all out of... spring. And, you know, that's an option, too; just put in a better spring. Because really it can fail in 3 ways. The spring can break, the spring can run out of tension, and the doohickey itself can break. It would be absolutely trivial for Kaw to have addressed this at *any point* in the past 30 years.

[@Dalaiyah]

How I wish it would have been a six speed dual cylinder!