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

[@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.

[@philipbarton2634]

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

[@kawabungah20]

This is the BEST KLR650 quick review I have ever seen. I have a 2022 "Gen 3" ABS model that I bought in late 2021, and you just reminded me why I love my simple, rock-hard machine!! Thank you!!

[@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!

[@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!!!

[@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.

[@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. 🍺

[@gaspererjavec7108]

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

[@iRyan876]

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

[@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?

[@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.

[@thomasblock1164]

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

[@ojrios0424]

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

[@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!!

[@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.

[@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!

[@mikehagan4320]

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

[@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.

[@richvangorder3900]

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

[@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

[@dandersonjr]

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

[@darthorpheus]

What a fantastic review!

[@steve_kamrad5216]

Thank you

[@randallsguaranteedsold6361]

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

[@NEINLIVES999]

I own a 2024 KLR Adventure. Added a pair of studded foot pegs and Acerbis hand guards; the stock soup bowls had to go! Simple, efficient, agile, excellent gas mileage and handles really well on tarmac and off-road. Two upgrades I’d be excited to see: A 6th gear and a KLR900! A pinch more power for freeway speeds would be a game changer.

[@aussieas.9296]

Best KLR review I’ve watched yet 🤙🏼

[@schelty9233]

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

[@evenstevenmotodrone735]

Yeap Great Review from ADVPulse as always 🏍🇨🇷 🐕

[@robmata474]

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

[@jimtucker7005]

Thanks Man, Great and Objective Review.

[@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!

[@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!!!!

[@martinf1961]

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

[@kevinkeating9076]

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

[@eminiscalperpro9729]

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

[@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.

[@jayhabit1803]

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

[@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?

[@ericcournoyer1595]

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

[@wichoswld]

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?

[@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!

[@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✌😁

[@dad3562]

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

[@1990-t1j]

This will sell like hell!

[@jonbusby3881]

Great review, your spot on with this bike

[@stevebrinkert8339]

Great review 👍

[@rogerbaldwin8498]

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

[@ShelleyRaskin]

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

[@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).

[@torekun]

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

[@mylifeinthailand8751]

Loved your review, thank you for your honesty

[@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.

[@TrippyWheelsEnduro]

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.

[@TheFistytheCLown]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@oceantri]

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

[@dubv6902]

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

[@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!

[@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...

[@albertptran]

Thanks for sharing!

[@doublex632]

I like the ending ,that was great. thanks

[@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.

[@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

[@joselira9076]

Thank you for your review brother

[@stevenmichelin1702]

Good video mate i love mine from the land down under ✌️

[@alexmoreno384]

Excelente amigo. Yo estoy por comprar una aquí en ARGENTINA hay muchas en las rutas. Muy bueno tu comentario

[@mylifeinthailand8751]

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

[@Balithazzarr]

Which would be more reliable this or Indian ftr rally?

[@sweettooth80]

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

[@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.

[@rugby3874]

Are they going to have tubeless tires

[@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😎🏍️

[@50Krwy]

Tons of great off road riding here in Vegas.

[@Highfiber123]

Weird not having a tach, the data is being acquired for the FI, it would be a simple matter of adding a program to the display.

[@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.

[@BSE1320]

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

[@rugby3874]

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

[@tylerseely]

Is the ADV version worth the extra $1000 or is the base version the one to get?

[@jayhabit1803]

No, side cases are flimsy. They will break. Do the farmers yourself. Check out tusk accessories on Rocky Mountain ATV

[@johnnydangerously7186]

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

[@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.

[@PIETROMACMOTO]

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

[@johnschlim3039]

what is the brownish camo revvit jacket your buddy is wearing?

[@ADVPulseVideos]

Sand 4 Jacket and Pants. You can check it out here: www.advpulse.com/adv-news/revit-releases-sand-4-adventure-suit-with-a-range-of-updates/

[@johnschlim3039]

@@ADVPulseVideos Thanks!

[@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.

[@karryhoward3946]

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

[@mylifeinthailand8751]

Can you buy an aftermarket Cam Chain Guide?

[@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.

[@gregc6661]

90 mph! What, did you throw it down a mineshaft? 😀

[@berttompkins9096]

16 tooth sprocket from JT. IT WILL hit 90 with a tailwind now. Haa

[@tmc1473]

If the KLR was a tank, what tank?

[@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

[@mikeythellama]

people love KLRs for 1 reason. price. it will go anywhere for dirt cheap.

[@thejohnnerparty]

Great job - good perspective.

[@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.

[@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

[@perforations6234]

still riding my '88 ;)

[@dinoschumacher9226]

with the longer swing arm, should there be room for an 18 in the rear?

[@steve_kamrad5216]

There definitely is but who knows why not. Also the rake on the front is 30 degrees so a 18 wouldn't effect stability

[@berttompkins9096]

Thats not an issue. There are plenty of 17" types of tires out there. I just burned off the oe tire and went 606 full knob Dunlop. Stop freaking out over these outdated gripes. Ride on.

[@nvmcrider8475]

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

[@chrisunderhill8853]

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

[@TimothyMurphy-p8b]

90mph sir? SIR???

[@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.