Can You Even Ride a KLR 650 Stock? | What's a Doohickey & Thermo Bob?

[@larrytucker1945]

Great video. I’ve completely stopped reading FB and other forms because all you hear is complaining. Guys put $2500 of accessories on the KLR then talk about how they are halfway to thru the break end period 😂. I was on the T7 waiting list for around 2 years. Only T7s I found where more expensive than new Africa Twins. I bought the KLR knowing what I was getting and have enjoyed it. All I’ve done so far is Dirtracks crash bars, Tusk pannier racks, and low profile drain plug. I’ve got 5900 miles on it so far. Mostly commuting and highway. I do have several barley maintained dirt roads I ride often. I’ve taken it on a few trips on two track dirt/gravel roads. I put Motoz DualVenture and Rallz rear tubeless type tires on it. Great off road but the combo was awful above 65 mph. So I swapped the DV front for a Shinko 804. I can now cruise at 75mph comfortable I am on the fence about the Doohickey. I ride some with an older gentleman who has over 35k on Gen 2 and a Gen 1 that has more but odometer stopped at 23 k years ago. He has heard of the doohickey but never really thought about it. I will probably do the doohickey for peace of mind but I’m not overly impressed with doohickey logic. I have really enjoyed the KLR. Only complaints are the handling is a little vague sometimes and the gearbox could be smoother. Both problems can be solved by better rider technique. I understand people love to tinker but sometimes KLR’s start looking like clown cars to me. But I guess that’s what makes it so special and popular. I just really enjoy riding motorcycles and the KLR is pretty comfortable for me. Love the content and your attitude.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thanks man! I appreciate the personal experience and share your feelings about the doohickey. If I plan on putting a huge amount of miles on, it would definitely make me feel better, buy like your buddy, you know there are people out there who've never heard of it and just keep riding with no issues. My luck I'd go in to switch it out and strip something out, so for now I'm just going to pretend it's all going to be fine! Take care and enjoy the ride!

[@Petes2Wheels]

From an Australian perspective, have a Gen1 with over 300,000km on it, doohickey spring and lever still in tact and with tension. Nothing modded on it just basic maintainance and still gping strong. My Gen3 is the same just the basic on it. From over 20 KLR rallies in Australia, speaking with thousands of riders, multiple dealerships, all say the same thing never see any broken doohickeys. American bikes just seem to be ridden harder, faster and in different climates which affect the engine. Plus American bikes have extra emission gear on them. Know that is taboo saying it doesn't need upgrading and all the forums hate hearing it but in the real world, the KLR rules as a stock beast. All around the world no issues at all.

[@Mikethebike-ov1yp]

Also from oz. Similar experiences in that many long term Kawasaki mechanics report no issues. My gen 2 has over 60,000 kms without upgrade- no probs thus far. No intention to fix what isn't broken like many folks choose to do,

[@markmc9229]

Nonetheless the myth of the doohickey continues. Seven KLRs and counting for me with no issue.

[@72gibo]

Great to hear. Thanks, guys. I'm also in Australia & just decided my next bike will be a 650s. At only 5'8", seat height is a big issue with adv bikes lol. I also feel a bit better knowing I can put the mods calculator away 👍...for a while anyway 😂

[@50Krwy]

I feel with social media today, a lot of people "keep up with the Jones's" to fit in. I remember 20 years ago we kinda just rode. But certain things, like crash bars and tires, not a bad idea if you dump the bike often and ride on much tougher terrain.

[@94SexyStang]

Yep, people are sheep and just follow the herd....and most of it is Rider Error and Lack of skill.

[@duanecox4201]

I remember when every motorcycle was an adventure bike.

[@thr0w407]

Right! I always laugh when I see crash bars, extra lights, etc etc etc on some dudes pavement princess!

[@Michael-ud5og]

So much for all that fancy GPS navagation... you turned right into the dead end street😂

[@DiZZoLabs]

🎯 I ride. Keep fluids full. Check tire pressures. Clean / change filters. Maintain chain. Zero issues.

[@dirtpirateracing1629]

Im just over a month and 1100 miles on my 23 KLR ADV and havent done anything other than general maintenence. Its a spectacular bike! But just like any street bike, there are so many mods that can be done to make it your own. There are a few mods i would like to eventually do, but it as you have said, it all depends on what types of riding the owner plans on doing. Keep up the great videos!

[@kawabungah20]

This is a brilliant KLR650 tech talk and review. Your explanation of the cooling system and reason to upgrade with a ThermoBob kit is right on. I installed this on my brand new Gen 3 immediately after riding home from the dealer and the (optional) temp gauge shows me that the ThermoBob's regulation of the cooling system is exactly the way a cooling system should work, IMHO. Your Swanky video covering this installation was very confidence-inspiring for me in doing the job myself. Your KLR videos have been very helpful for me. Next I'll do the bark buster hand guards. Maybe, downstream, I'll do the doohickey, but with the regular tensioner adjustment, every oil change, I'm not worried about that, at least not until maybe 5,000 miles.

[@shadofaxes]

I've been watching reviews of this bike and the upgrades/mods you can do to it since last summer. I grew up on dirt bikes and eventually went to street for the last few decades ridin HD's (from 41 to 05), BMW's, KZ's, and a Honda CBX. Slow donkeys and crash bars have been my main stay haha. This is the first vid I've seen from you and I tell ya, you rock sir. I've gotten more useful info from this one vid about the KLR than I have in 50 other vids. So far to me the KLR is like the 1911 pistol, AR-15, any Harley, any 50's shoebox Chevy, basically Barbie for men (and women sheesh). I hope to have one saved up for by the end of the year and I can't wait. Thanks again for so much helpful info and safe ridin!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Well thanks man, I'm really glad to hear that! Let me know when you get ahold of one and let me know how you like it!

[@SteveD328]

I did the doohickey on my gen 1 KLR when it had 11,000 miles on it as a precaution, I had heard all the doohickey stories. When I pulled the side cover off the bike, I found that I was doing a doohickey repair instead of a doohickey upgrade. The spring on mine had broken far enough in the past for the nub end to wear a groove in the bottom of the case. Plus the adjustment was already at full travel, all possible adjustment had already been used, from the factory, (I bought this bike new, so I know it’s entire maintenance history). I did the Eagle Mike fix, opting for the torsion spring instead of the tension spring and everything is fine now. I still have this bike, the KLR is a great all around motorcycle (it does nothing good, but it will do everything).

[@mathewkendell9056]

I would like to suggest to anyone considering the Thermo Bob mod to consider doing as soon as possible for the reasoning explained in this video. It is in my mechanical opinion something that should be done while the engine is still in its break in period. Although doing the Thermo Bob once the bike has a number of miles could have a positive effect I would argue that once a cylinder is out of round it isn’t going to be corrected by installing the Thermo Bob. Mechanical “defects” or “failures” rarely correct themselves. Do the Thermo Bob either early in the life of your engine or when you decide to upgrade to one of the available “big bore” kits while the piston, piston rings and cylinder are still fresh. Just my 2 cents. Lastly I’ll comment that it’s not only a matter of being lazy or the environmental impact of adding oil. If left unattended or forgotten about this will create a major mechanical failure. Low or no oil is no bueno for an engine.

[@scor2279]

I've got 33,000 on my 2009 KLR. I have done no mods to it. I did add heated hand grips. Keep the fluids changed. No issues with the bike.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice!

[@leeinwis]

@@SwankyCatProductions noice !

[@mkramsauer]

My gen 2 I put the top gun rear spring on and progressive spring up front you would love it and pretty easy to do

[@EnriqueReyesJrREALTOR]

Enjoy your ride! I’ve got a 2013 KLR 650. I lowered it 3”, it came with all the popular mods except the cool Bob, & cam chain dinghy. The bike has 17,000 miles on it. It seems to run just fine.

[@MrStrglide]

Spectacular videos Swanky. Putting a lot of knowledge out there, great videos

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Glad to hear you're enjoying it! Thanks!!!

[@Thepig-wm5hq]

I’ve got 5000 on my 2023 & have never had to add oil in between oil changes. I have ridden it pretty hard to, so I’m pretty stoked about it & hasn’t had any over heating problems. Have been adjusting the dohickey every oil change. Pretty happy with the bike overall

[@jackmarks2176]

OK, what am I missing, Thermo-Mod lets small amounts of water into the motor prior to thermostat opening. A rubber hose, 4 screw clamps, thermostat, etc. for 125 dollars. Why can't I drill a hole in the thermostat housing and let coolant flow thru prior to thermostat opening. We use to do this in the late 60's & 70's on our muscle cars. Would this not accomplish the same thing???? FOR FREE

[@dredude55]

i JUST BOUGHT A 2022 KLR650 TRAVELER FOR 4K$ AND LOVE IT. ADDING TUSK METAL SKID PLATE, TUSK CRASHBARS, ALREADY HAD TUSK FOOT PEGS

[@bluefrog8670]

Great to see some confirmation on that Tusk shifter. I see reviews saying that it doesnt fit and even the Amazon listing says it's only for gen 1 & 2, yet others say it's great, even necessary. A little more room sure would be great, I'll give it a shot.

[@SigmaSheepdog]

I just purchased a 2023 a few month ago, and the first thing that I did, even before I rode it, was to install a Thermo Bob. I just figured, that since it's new, why not. It wasn't that expensive, and it's a piece of cake to install. Based on the added temp gauge, the coolant temperature does stay very consistant. I will install the Eagle Mike balancer chain adjuster / spring when it gets to about 6-7,000 miles.

[@markrusk2870]

Not needed…..

[@eminiscalperpro9729]

been happy with my 22 lava orange KLR. I think most of the oil burners were the 08-09's and maybe the thermobob will help protect the piston/rings/cylinder from the the thermal shock of the stock setup. I think a different thermostat might be better, supposably the stock on slams open n shut vs gradually opening n closing. My friends super reliable Scion Tc has burned a qt of oil every 600-800 miles since it was new (know piston/ring issue), cars still runs great 13yrs later. My superb Nissan Xterra had an issue with the timing chain tensioner, 19 yrs later she is still running like a champ. Not sure why people make such a big deal out a few minor things that may or may not be an issue. The KLR is huge value for the price

[@chrispekel5709]

Because they read somewhere on the internet that was bad and they believed it. People are stupid

[@joelthomas4487]

I agree, chain guide material was updated and slightly different design, clearly stated by kawasaki in the press release. The guide material was the main issue with some of the older ones, causing excess slack.

[@alexprince9035]

There’s a video on KZbin explaining why the doohickey spring gets loose/looks worn. There’s 3 chain guides that can get worn down over time and eventually it’ll make the doohickey spring loose.

[@steveross2280]

Enjoyed the video, and yes, am thinking of getting one. I bought a Royal Enfield Himalayan, put every option I could find on it, but ultimately it was too small for me(6’3/240) even though I was starting to get used to its lack of power. In that regard, I guess you could say it’s a “mini KLR”, low on power but charming in its own way. I have had several large BMW GSs but really don’t want something that big and enjoy thumping around more than redlining. Trying to decide which model, guess it depends on what kind of deals I can find out there. I think I’d have fun doing the mods to it. All the best!

[@pedrovazquez9146]

Thank you for all of the explanations. Much appreciated.

[@aaronwaderides7209]

I’ve owned three KLRs, it’s really up to the rider to decide what they want to do with it. This bike has a great mod category that’s a shame that most people don’t realize it’s out there available for it .

[@SwankyCatProductions]

True. There certainly are a lot of options out there. It is really nice that you can "tune" the bike to your specific style, and if that changes, the bike can also be changed to match it!

[@ericrusch8258]

Ben, never realized your piano skills!

[@MountainKing69]

Just picked mine up a month ago and already put down 1000 miles and absolutely love it

[@tahoehiker]

Doesn't matter what you do to a KLR, it's still 100 pounds overweight.

[@chrispekel5709]

​​@@tahoehikerit's a road and dirt track back, not an off road bike. It's for touring long distance, so the weight is good on freeways. If you're riding in places it's too heavy you shouldn't be riding it there

[@wvadv]

cogent suspension. makes it a "whole new bike". haha. the remote adjustable preload is great for two up riding as well.

[@d.brayman3165]

Put Progressive fork springs in it. It takes about 20 minutes to do. You will not be disappointed!

[@HaRLeYDvDsN1215]

3k miles my stock spring had no more tension left. Have pics if it wearing a grove in the case from vibration. I think its worth getting eagle mikes tension spring kit. Also did the drill through sub frame upgrade and bolts as well as the thermo bob.

[@markrusk2870]

Interesting how some need every thing…and spent hours on the internet justifying why. Others do zero and run perfectly

[@HaRLeYDvDsN1215]

@markrusk2870 lol... i don't spend hours on the internet. This is real-world experience, bud....and facts. Not speculation. Let me ask you this, do you think there is a mass of people faking these failures,? Myself included? Also the hours of testing on the thermo bob?

[@johnyeager8667]

Got a 1984 klr 600 only had the top end rebuild and put a cdi box on it and tires voltage regulator & stator probability didn't have to do half of that and it runs & drives fine

[@black_widow_overland]

Great KLR content once again. Safe travels

[@bpundt1094]

I put 5k miles on my 22 klr adv and the only mod I’ve done is a two brothers exhaust, no issues and people actually hear me on the road now. Love it

[@ZenithClarity]

Good stuff. Now i understand much more about the thermobob. Maybe you could do a video specifically about tires for the KLR? Like how to understand how to pick a tire and understand what it all means. Load ratings, what you should never run on a klr. When i get rid of the stock tires i will probably get some d-sports but honestly i dont do much real off roading because where i live there really isnt many options at all close by. BUT. I still want my bike to be very capable off road when needed. Its very confusing knowing what to buy. The D-sports do look badass though!

[@katherinesilvas5735]

Motoz tractionator GPS- far and away the best 50/50 for KLR

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thanks ! I'm glad to hear that! If I had tires figured out and I definitely would lol. I don't really like anything I've tried (I'm really really picky) other than the Motoz Tractionator Adventures I had on my Tenere. The D sports look awesome, but are way to wild on the highway.

[@robbieandbeckie]

Shinko 244's

[@genemalburg785]

I’m sorry another question! Could you please do a specific install on your 60 gps ? I know you’ve had 40-50-60 gos models. Upon your recommendation I’m going to get one off eBay for my ‘23 adventure. Really need to see how you finally did your mount setup!! Thank you!!

[@retiredwaterdoctor]

the bob is a must for colder climates.....Florida or California not needed....it's the big shock of cold water from rad that is the issue....cars have for years had a small bypass hose thatwas behind the pump.....many times I replaced that little hose. The hotter you can run an engine the better..... to a point....and keep that tempeture around 180-190 and gives the best life of the engine and best fuel mileage. The oil does a better job at temperature also...win win win.

[@tommyutube1]

Bought a 2023 “S” Had 08 that I got off craigslist, fighting the carb wore me out😡 Kawasaki over torqued steering head bearings, the dealer replace them at no cost. I bought the bike to commute on because I have to get on the ferry to go to work and they load bikes first and you make every boat you show up to as opposed to a two hour wait in the summer. I bought to Doohickey for the first bike but never installed it and it didn’t burn oil. It only had 8000 miles on it when I got rid of it.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

My carb never have me any issues but I'm definitely happy to have efi now ha ha. Good info, thank you!

[@chrispekel5709]

​@@SwankyCatProductionshe was probably in a cold climate

[@MrShad73]

Great video. Still enjoying my stock bike we will see what happens next season.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thanks! Good deal, glad to hear it!

[@squarewheel142]

I have a 2015 KLR with 39,500 miles on it and it still has the stock balance chain tensioner in it and it still works like a champ, I don't run the bike very hard and only use Mobil 1 10W40 motorcycle oil, changed about every 5000 miles. My bike doesn't seem to use oil. I have added (1 oz. for every 2.5 gallons of fuel) of Marvel Mystery oil to the fuel since new. The only Mod I have is I wrapped the front exhaust pipe (more detail in a previous SWANKY CAT video on this) with 2 turns of heavy duty aluminum foil to keep excessive exhaust heat out of the carb. / air intake (shiny side down, painted black to reduce a crummy look) which seems to improve performance / horsepower esp. in very hot weather.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

WOW!!! 39,500!!! That's awesome! I'll have to look into the exhaust wrap and give that a shot!

[@djnewlander4742]

because of modern social media, everything can be shot down, the truth, Do your homework, its all about your personal choice. what fits your needs. i have a 22 KLR650 and i wouldn't traide it in for anything, i love it.

[@keithcampbell4926]

I'm 63 years old and about 5'9" tall so I was thinking of getting the the KLR...S model. I'm not planning a whole lot of serious off-rode riding but more County Roads here in the Texas Hill Country.

[@robbieandbeckie]

JNS Engineering LED headlight probably my best mod yet for my Gen1.

[@writehandman2833]

While I enjoyed my KLR it was ultimately a money pit. The bike did do basically everything, but it did nothing all that well. After adding a real skid plate, crash bars, suspension mods, bar risers, exhaust mods, Thermo Bob etc. I could have bought a KTM690 or Husqvarna 701 and had a better bike for my intended use off road. In retrospect a Suzuki DR650 would have been a better choice with a few mods too. The KLR has a huge following and big aftermarket but it will always be a bit too heavy for any real off road use. That said it really isn't a very good on road bike either except for short trips. The Gen 1 required that you update the doohickey, the Gen 2 and 3 I say are not a big deal. You can remove the spring and occasionally tighten the lever manually and lock it down or update the spring with an Eagle Mike spring. The Thermo Bob 2 was the single best mod I ever did as the engine temp was so much more stable. I would even say that the KLX300 can serve better for most applications. The KLR does make for a less expensive Adventure bike for camping and the like and it is lighter than the Triumph or BMW and much cheaper but it has its limitations.

[@chrispekel5709]

How's it bad for long trips? A screen and you can cruise for as long as your butt allows

[@Mikethebike-ov1yp]

Agree. The KLR will plod along all day every day at 110kph without issue. Get after market screen +/- screen extension.@@chrispekel5709

[@charlievandevord6613]

planning on getting one, just have to sale my 2023 GSA

[@genemalburg785]

Are you running the stock windscreen with the 3d risers? Do you know if a v stream screen will fit with the 3d risers?

[@dolbydarma]

I wanted the Klr but honestly the doo Hickey and thermo Bob chatter just freaked me out too much. I still think it’s a great looking bike, and I grew up with Kawasaki’s so the nostalgia was there, just didn’t want to worry about the internals and went for a different bike.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Same thing almost happened to me when I was starting to research before I got my gen2. The allure of the big gas tank, wind protection, and all the possible mods out there made me through caution to the wind though haha.

[@Broderickk]

I think the fact that they still have a reputation for reliability even with those issues, cleared it up for me. I am happy with my purchase! (2023 KLR650S)

[@eminiscalperpro9729]

Thermobob, if you want it, is one of the easiest things you can install. It was not difficult at all. Not sure why the doo hickey is of such concern, I guess it could be something fun to do one weekend when you're bored and maybe curious to peek inside. I'm not even considering it on my gen 3, the guide material was updated to better material, which most of the gen 1's were not and it was hit n miss with the gen 2's. The spring is suppose to have a slightly longer pull length. However a friend of mine knows a kawasaki mechanic and he said out of all the years he has been working on kawasaki's he has only replace two. Regular oil changes and while you are changing the oil do the proper spring tensioner adjustment( takes about 2 min) and you can forget about the doo hickey. Most people don't even adjust it and still have 50k on the bike with no issues.

[@feron450]

I bought my gen 2 klr in 2017. It currently has 230k miles. I do not have the thermobob and stock doohickey. Not saying this is normal to not have these issues but. Mine still runs fine and if it blows up today it owes me nothing

[@denniekorpi5264]

Good job

[@onerider808]

My stock Adventure has 5K of CO, WY, and SD dirt and asphalt. It rocks.

[@martinreyes6790]

Martin from California. What kind of adventure can you get out of a KLR 650 with any mods that only rides on flat road with no hill climbing what so ever me and my KLR are very capable at an off road vehicle park bone stock .

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! Thanks for the data!

[@dw5523]

Personal experience only, but my doohickey was just fine when I did the mod. The spring was so tight I had trouble getting it off, and that was with around 7k miles on the clock. I don't regret becoming more mechanically adept, but if I get another one I'll leave the doohickey alone. The Thermobob, however, I think is what spared my bike form being an oil burner. And I mean it burns zero oil. I had it on at 43 miles, and most of the next 7k I put on the bike was at 65+ mph for long days in the saddle.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thanks man, that's some awesome data!!! Honestly, if mine ever starts burning oil I'll be even more happy that I did the thermobob, because if I hadn't, and it started burning it, I'd never forgive myself 🤣

[@dw5523]

@@SwankyCatProductions yep. Something else that may interest you is I installed the temp gauge on the bike at the same time. My running temp is between 190 & 195 as long as the bike is moving. The hottest I’ve seen is 212 in stop and go traffic, and it quickly gets back down in the normal range as soon as I’m moving again. So the bike gets up to operating temp and pretty much stays there.

[@chriscourville8098]

Did he say dumping 70 degree coolant on top of the piston?

[@mykromisfit]

Working on a 23 adv abs model, guess I should start planning the two main mods and a aftermarket crash bar but will that mean I have to remove the stock fog light bar?

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Depends on what crash bars you go with. Some will explicitly say they work with the standard light bar, but many will NOT work with it, so in that case you'd have to remove it.

[@Mytruth603]

I have a 2023 and have not done anything to it. I beat the crap out of it. Runs great everyday.

[@alneno9840]

Cool video... i own a 2016 klr650 I'm thinking about a 2024 klr as a upgrade to fuel injection..I'm curious what GPS are you running and bracket

[@SwankyCatProductions]

If you ride off road the gen3 will be a noticable improvement. The extended swing arm and increased rake make it handle really well! Here's the video on the GPS stuff: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gabKc4GYaJKDecU

[@alneno9840]

@@SwankyCatProductions thank you for responding!!! A actual KZbinr who takes the time to respond to his followers..THANK YOU

[@C0FFINFILLER]

I purchased a 2000 KLR 650 31500 miles in oct now has 33600 .I love it it is great!!!!!

[@michaelosteen9069]

I have found a 2022 Klr 650 adventure for sale with around 1800 miles for $6500. I have had Drz’s, Honda 650L’s, 300 rally, and sport bikes. I have always wanted to try out a KLR but I’m just worried it may be a little slow and heavy. But for that price, I feel like I can’t go wrong. Thanks for the videos and any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[@obsmotorsports9833]

I have a second gen klr, anyone know where i can get the extra pod lights add on?

[@robertboggs2257]

My 22 klr is stock except did the thermobob . 4500 hundred miles. No problems. See no reason to do dohickey. The spring just comes into play when you loosen tension bolt and tap with a rubber hammer. Some people think spring always moves.

[@KenCollins-ez2qh]

I'm looking at a 2017 with 3k on it for 5 thousand is it worth that much.

[@mistydusty]

I have a 23…all stock….I LOVE it…..

[@thomasdeir6212]

Awesome video as usual! So did the Thermo Bob help or eliminate the oil consumption? Cheers

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Thanks! Hard to say. I don't have enough miles on yet to really know for sure if I'm in the clear yet. Plus even if I am, it'll be difficult to prove whether the themombob is actually to thank or if my bike just wouldn't have ever burned oil without it. I will say it does make me feel better though!

[@HaRLeYDvDsN1215]

​@SwankyCatProductions watt man has a ton of info and testing on his site too

[@austinstueland2933]

Did 10k miles on a 2018 without either and had zero issues

[@trevor8419]

I bought a 14.5 new, aside from a moose skid plate I’ve done nothing but ride it.

[@tommyutube1]

What other bike can you buy for under $6000 that you can also take on fire roads. In my market there are not many options that also will do short distances on the highway 😎

[@SwankyCatProductions]

True. Can't beat the off-road performance plus the on road manors and wind protection for the price.

[@ericrusch8258]

Every bike warrants mods, KLR seem to “require” less than most.

[@stevek4449]

I wish there was a heel toe shifter for it….shoe size 18 and 4EEEE wide

[@christophepoteaux3932]

I have a 2022. Not done the doohickey, nor thermobob. Run just fine. Also, tried the windshield riser and hated it. It created more turbulences and buffeting. Set back the oem shield on high position. Great videeo. Thanks

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! How many miles so far? Did you try the risers in the low position? I like mine much better in the low vs high.

[@terrypepper7913]

I rode a harley for 25 years sold it . Got a klr & I like it . I know about the ðuhickey it will get fixed .

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I'm glad you're enjoying your KLR!

[@stevengillies3973]

doohickey mod is a must

[@Mikethebike-ov1yp]

There is much to suggest it does and many will tell you it doesn't. Read some posts about long term owners and long term mechanics saying it doesn't.

[@stevengillies3973]

I've done 3 KLR's and one had the spring missing.Found it in the bottom of the case@@Mikethebike-ov1yp

[@Starlight-Sailing-Adventure]

Burning that much oil at only 20K miles? I've been considering buying one of these but that's concerning! My Harley has 70k on it & I can run 5k on an oil change & not use any!

[@SwankyCatProductions]

It seems that the new ones may actually have less trouble with this... hard to say though.

[@PatrickOConnell-b2q]

So we've basically found a flaw that they could fix easily? And the doohickey for that matter? Why do they not just fix these issues?

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Motorcycle in general are pretty low on the priority for Kawasaki I think. The KLR sells well enough as is and they don't get enough issues within the very short factory warranty window, so it's just not really an issue for them. Every product on the market could be improved in one way or another, but if a company isn't going to be able to turn a profit from the R&D and tooling time it would take,they just won't waste the time. Also I think the majority of people don't really ride these nearly hard enough to actually make any of these flaws show through. There's still always a chance of running into an issue prematurely of course, but I think you need to put a lot of hard miles on before you'll start noticing anything.

[@MontanaDirtRoads]

Klrs are like jeep cherokees, there is plenty of mods for it!if you can think of it its already made for it.

[@ORflycaster]

I’m waffling between the KLR and the DR. The KLR is ubiquitous, more affordable, and has a quirky cult following. The DR has simpler oil cooling, weighs less, and simple valve adjustments. Both have strong aftermarket support. My biggest decision is rider ergos. I’m 6’03” with 35” inseam. I want the least cramped ride possible after foot peg and handlebar mods are complete. I’m leaning DR for simplicity and weight, but am remaining open-minded.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I had a really hard time deciding when I was looking for my gen2. What sold me was the stock (large) gas tank and the full body wind protection, with the ability to add a rally style windshield that not only looked like it belonged, but would actually make the bikes look better. The DR however is definitely superior in its power to weight ratio and when I test drove one for the first time this year, I realized that they also handle much better (for me at 5'10" and 160lbs).

[@zrx1100zz]

Really comes down to how you're going to use the bike.... For reference I'm a little bit taller than you with a 36-in inseam.. The first time you lay over the KLR you will never forget picking it up compared to the DR650.😁🥃

[@ericrusch8258]

On first gen 6’4” love the ergonomics. Imagine 3rd generation is similar

[@zrx1100zz]

@@ericrusch8258I'm just a tick under 6 ft 6 and 265 lb, I have a DRZ400S.(320lbs. soaking wet stock) Among other things I've added and IMS 4 gallon fuel tank, a seat concepts tall seat and the bars rotated fairly aggressively forward (I need taller bars) I scored it for ridiculously low price.... I'll tell you if it came with fuel injection and a six gear, stop looking it's the bike for you🛵☁️☁️☁️☁️

[@rustymustard7798]

Crash bars are pretty unnecessary, with good bars, barkbusters, tall wraparound skidplate and the big plastic tank. And all that stuff is lighter than crash bars. I have no hesitation to drop mine, it's impossible to hurt that way. My bike is also nearly as light as possible, and dropping a lighter bike doesn't bend bars or break stuff like a stock heavy pig does. If you're actually worried about preserving the plastic, take it off and leave all that at home. It's gonna get roughed up and cracked if you go out and ride, and it's not a priceless rare million dollar carbon fiber superbike, it's just a piece of cheap molded plastic they stick on there so it's not 'naked' so they can sell them to groms worried about how it looks.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

My main concern was always the radiator and coolant reservoir. If you don't ride around large rocks or other obstacles I could see getting away without crash protection, but I prefer to have it on bikes over 400lbs. No plans to put anything on my new DR650 or XR650 though. Probably none on the Gen1 KLR I'm looking to buy either, but we'll see.

[@karoodroner.7631]

Gen 1 owner with lots om mods here, i just need someone to do a proper vid of offroading because my bike is just loving it to fall down , 😊😊

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! I've actually been looking for one to do a build on!

[@Quicksilver_Cookie]

People acting like motorcycle is unrideable without some aftermarket McGuyver fixes. Bruh, thing has been in production for like 40 years. Issues that are claimed to be catastrophic weren't very common even back when, but on 3rd gen they've been pretty much remedied and are extremely uncommon. Everyone needs to stop talking about thermo bob and doohickey like it's panacea. Statistically speaking you will not need it, it's waste of money to install it "just in case".

[@MrPepper312]

Doohicky fix, Thermobob fix, Steering head over torqued fix, shifter fix. What the hell Kawasaki. My doohicky ate itself at 1300 miles and I did proper maintenance, oil, doohicky adjust etc.

[@billcotton1551]

I had my Gen2 for 25K ,and never did the doohickie or the Thermo bob.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

Nice! Thanks for the data point Bill!

[@ralphwatten2426]

Doohickey, Thermobob, subframe bolts, louder horn, 500 lb. Eibach swingarm spring, Progressive front fork springs, brighter Halogen headlight bulbs, Rainier tank bag, Kawasaki saddle bags, Rainier tail bag, Rotopax reserve fuel can, 1 tooth larger front sprocket, 1 tooth larger rear sprocket. Didn't really need anything but the Doohickey. At 7000 miles there was no adjustment left in the stock Doohickey. I really love the bike the way it is now and wouldn't do any more changes. P.S. My KLR burned a quart of oil in 1500 miles from the day it was new. I deal with it.

[@fishwhisperer03]

Uh yeah you can ride one stock 😂, take what you see on the net with a grain of salt people 😂

[@SwankyCatProductions]

You'd be surprised how many people turn the other way when they hear about the doohickey!

[@SpicyCactus]

I wish that I had a KLR650...

[@Dundertaker1]

I went CB500x with Rally Raid conversion....no regerts!!! I did like the KLR v3 when I test rode it. Honestly there are "ready to go" bikes by the time we farkle up these "low price" bikes that would be a better value and not any heavier or that much more expensive...but hey...I love my bike regardless. Biggest weakeness on any sub $8k bike is the suspension.

[@willyroussel3563]

Sold my rx3 it was under powered and bought a 2022 klr. Biggest mistake of my life, The China bike Has far better engineering than the KLR. I am 64 years old all i needed was something for dirt roads. the fuel injection was never right i waited for the break in to end it never cleared up.thought it would be better took a loss now i have a roadster and love it . should have kept my china bike.

[@chrisunderhill8853]

I dont disagree with what you are saying, however if i can give a different perspective maybe i am wrong here but just how my brain works. For a sec put your kawasaki shoes on and for a min act like this is your company. When building something thst is modular you build an economy around your machine in this case thst you are selling building. I agree something need to be changed i am not saying updates. Somethings have happened do to flaws or like you say to make it bulletproof. But on the other side of that coin look at a bike company like ducati where the desert x is buit in such a way they never expext you to work on it they want you to bring it in to do any thing. All thoes parts you listed you changed many companies made them thats alot of jobs alot of options. Lots of parts when the company goes out of business god forbid. Imagine a shit hit the fan situation chances of finding parts for this bike is large. They are reverse compatible.

[@rhuntsinger8899]

1:42 Bingo - so just buy a T700 or toureg or ktm or husqvarna. heck the suzuki vstrom 650 + knobby tires can offroad just as good as the KLR and the Suzuki will be 100x better on the road and 100x more reliable.

[@chrispekel5709]

V Strom has smaller front wheel less ground clearance and...more reliable? What? The KLR is unbelievably reliable. V Strom is better on the road, at least you're right about that

[@chrispekel5709]

Those bikes more than twice the price!!

[@rhuntsinger8899]

@@chrispekel5709 you must have failed math and dropped out of grade school. or just hit your head too many times crashing your KLR

[@chrispekel5709]

@@rhuntsinger8899 they're all twice the price of a base model 3rd gen KLR (except the V Strom which comes in the middle) where did you hit YOUR head? The fact you've resorted to insults just proves you know your original comment was rubbish. Stop embarassing yourself

[@chrispekel5709]

Don't own a Kawasaki.

[@specialized29er86]

Did you know a broken leg has nothing to do with your leg.

[@junkmangeorge6363]

Bought a '22 NOS in '23. 100+ lbs overweight, very top heavy (especially with a full tank) Quite possibly the worst motorcycle I have ever owned. The ONLY place where I have found it to excel is on hard pack dirt roads. In EVERY other situation it just plain sucks. A "thermo bob" is nothing more than snake oil. Your stock thermostat is a 160f thermostat (fully open at 160 degrees), it also has a pretty large vent hole that should have no trouble circulating the anti-freeze when the thermostat is closed. This cooling system suffers no thermal shocks. Where is your oil going? Look no further than your crankcase vent. *Think* about it. A 650 single crankcase vent has to breathe a volume of 650cc (in and out) per engine revolution. If it can't breathe, and crankcase pressure exceeds the sealing capacity of your rings, guess where the crankcase vents?

[@RMACIAS2460]

No bobs 🇺🇸hickey for me I’ll pass . It’s overrated. 🙄 😂 After all, it is a Japanese🇯🇵 motor ….. My next motorcycle will be a Yamaha T-7

[@1sinister80]

You can't get the equipment to make this an adventure for 1k spend it up front.

[@SwankyCatProductions]

True.

[@Kyleesler]

DR650 is 10 times bike the shit doohickey disaster is. Also heavy, underpowered and useless suspension. DR is the best and has the best air and oil cooling with good oil capacity

[@10001gunner]

I'm gonna set off a Barn Burner for ya,all. I bought a 2022 klr thinking it would be a great bike to start out on.....Wrong..it has Crummy suspension, SUPPER TOP HEAVY.....SOLD IT.......Spend your money elsewhere " Ktm 890 adventure R" Just saying😊

[@SwankyCatProductions]

I don't think anyone will really argue with that. We know it's big, slow and heavy. We also know most other adventure bikes are better in most ways. It's more about the value and old school "Kool". If none of that appeals to you, then it sounds like a KTM is a great choice for you! (I'll buy one myself someday)

[@katherinesilvas5735]

Should have test riden it!!!!

[@zachz699]

I bought a 22 KLR with about 3500 miles as my first bike, I am 5'9 and I tippy toe it more often than not unless I lean onto a foot. I dropped it 3 times in my first 2 weeks. Twice in one event when I stalled it pretty good and she bucked me like a horse at a stop then again when I was picking it up, and once off road in the woods. It came with crash bars and other stuff already installed luckily lol. But now that I gave it some time and practiced my friction zone slow maneuvers and stopping and starting and staying relaxed this huge bitch feels less and less gigantic and more and more fun. Going fast is easy its the slow stuff that's hard especially since my only experience was 2 days on a 250. In my opinion its a great choice first do all bike, that wasn't insanely expensive. You have to give it time and get to know it, your bike is like your woman dude. Glad you found your way just putting it out there for others

[@krisn8820]

The thermo Bob is B.S. The temperature fluctuates more than just factory thermostat.

[@papachis9535]

Anything that burns so much oil over one day of high speed riding that it ends up seizing your engine doesn’t need mods. It needs redesign.

[@Mikethebike-ov1yp]

KLR's have travelled the world many times over.

[@MontanaDirtRoads]

Klrs are like jeep cherokees, there is plenty of mods for it!if you can think of it its already made for it.