Five Things to Know BEFORE You Buy a Kawasaki KLR 650

[@DorkintheRoad]

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[@marcochavane3124]

People always forget the second half of that saying. Jack of all trades, master of none, but often times better, than the master of one. Rings very true for this bike.

[@beammeupscotty1955]

I bought a 2016 with 3200 miles on it in 2019 for $4200.00. I have put 15,000 miles on it, almost entirely on small secondary and dirt roads. I love the bike. I have no interest in something more powerful. The typical speed limit on the highways in my area is 55 so I cannot see any reason to lust after a bike that can do 100 mph. I am 67 years old and would like to live to see 70 so the slow and steady KLR is pretty much perfect for me. Really, the only thing I do not like about my KLR is it's weight and the only bikes I ever consider replacing it with are all lower horsepower and much much lighter. Ya'll can keep your T7s and your KTMs.

[@aussie1546]

I had many bikes in my 53 years. I currently own 5 bikes of all different kind, and I own KLR as well. This bike is must have in garage if you are bike enthusiast. Classic mechanical beast. Love it

[@CBub1971]

2023 KLR “s” is a good option for shorter riders. I’m 5’9” and on the S, I’m flat footed… just an FYI

[@thecaptain6994]

I had a KLR 650 and sold it to buy a Versys 300X since I wanted something a little more “nimble”. After 2 years on the 300X, although it has definitely been more nimble, I’m going to buy another KLR 650. I missed how easily the 650 takes bumps while riding off road. Even though the 300X is faster on the highway it made me uncomfortable having it scream it’s guts out at 10,000 rpm’s. Plus the 650 is more substantial and fits me better. To me it actually IS exciting and fun to ride.

[@dandan9772]

Well of course you miss the KLR650, the Versys 300 has about 2 hp less, weighs about the same (175 kg vs the 185kg of the KLR) but revs stupidly higher compared to the KLR. It doesn't work well in off-road since all the already limited power it has, is mostly at higher RPMs. It wasn't made for off-road in the first place but it also doesn't really work well on the highway unless you like feeling like a earthquake victim for hours on end. Basically, you got a slimmer, angrier and less off-road capable KLR, not to mention how famously unreliable those ninja 300 engines are, but to be fair, I'd be unreliable too if I had to rev up to 10'000 just to get moving in mud! 😂

[@tahoehiker]

I hope you considered a DR650. Such a great bike.

[@kalnwi2023]

The 300 engine screams at a stop light.

[@onerider808]

Welcome back. Good choice.

[@jesseredfield8194]

@@thecaptain6994 plenty of bike for a first bike? I dont want to be bored of it after i get used to it but i fit so much better on the klr than the tenere - and its $2k cheaper. I think its a klr but reassurance is nice lol

[@dingznthingz]

I absolutely love my 2011 KLR650 thumper! I bought it used, five years ago for $3000 with 2001 miles on the clock. I added the front and rear crash bars and a Zero Gravity windshield. The bike runs fine at 60 mph @ 4800 rpm. I installed a 16 tooth front sprocket and reduced the rpm's to 4000 @ 60 mph. I can cruise 70 mpm at 4500 rpm. You won't notice the slight loss of acceleration in first gear. The best upgrade is the 16 tooth front sprocket.

[@kalnwi2023]

Without a speedo healer you're just guessing .

[@jesseredfield8194]

Thank you very much. I live in an area that the speeds 70-80mph

[@rameylewis7730]

Thanks for doing the "how to do" videos with this bike. I agree with you that the bike is a "7" in most areas, but it is definitely a ten when it comes to price.

[@andy84wilson]

I have a 22 Adventure Model ABS. Came off high power sport bikes and although the power im used to simply isn't there, its a totally different experience and I find myself taking in the joy of the ride more than I ever did on my sportbikes!!! I highly recommend this bike!

[@94SexyStang]

I came from sport bikes too, and got the drz400 instead, and LOVE blowing cars away, riding like a maniac, Lol......Fact is, some people just DON'T know how to ride and Don't have good road riding technique, and blame the bike instead of themselves! I knew a Harley dude that Smoked me on my Sport bikes too! He was just a crazier and better rider, plain and simple.

[@charlesbelford3136]

I'm buying the 24 Adv model on Thursday. I'm excited.

[@charlesbelford3136]

I ended up buying a 21 bmw f750gs 🤣

[@LordIshma420]

So far, I am loving my klr. I am a beginner but I rode in my late singles and early teens. I definitely agree with the need for a bit more zoom, but for right now, I am happy with my purchase. Plus i just met a motorcycle mechanic that charges me a fraction of what the dealerships do to change fluids or install parts that are above my mechy abilities.

[@putitupinya]

Use the videos to grow your abilities. Then there's more money for mods 😁

[@justincase3230]

Ask your mate if he can tune it to go faster. I don't know shit but I think that's usually a thing that can happen with aftermarket parts 🤷

[@kevinelliott4596]

Everyone I know that owned a KLR said they wish they never sold it

[@ADVF800GS]

I actually went from a Harley ultra classic, 99 KLR, DRZ400, back to my 09 KLR, and I absolutely love it, I changed the sprocket for better freeway speeds and now it’s perfect!!!!

[@AdventureGlide]

This video came five minutes too late. My parents bought two klr’s. And I'm sticking with the GSA for a while. I still love your channel. I can't wait for the Tenere vids.

[@SigmaSheepdog]

It seems that your parents have a really good sense of practicality!

[@b0012wk]

I just bought a pre owned 2023 KLR. I haven’t ridden since my early 20’s. I’m now 56 & have my kids raised, house paid off, and decided it was time to get another bike. I watched a lot of KLR videos before deciding. I love the bike. Super comfort to me. It is a bit heavy but so am I. lol. Thanks for all the videos and info. Let’r rip…. Go Dawgs!

[@jahrasta4907]

First-time rider here with 3K miles on my KLR. Fun bike for learning. Not the fastest bike, but feels fantastic every time. Killer value

[@matthewarnold8100]

People complain about the KLR on the highway, but I've used mine for touring all across Texas, Arkansas, New Mexico, and Colorado. I find it capable, comfortable, and just plain great on the highway, even after long days in the saddle on the interstate. You can get so many mods to make it more highway amenable too. I love my KLR.

[@notinthehead]

Greatly appreciate the review. Most reviews seem to never get to the good stuff. You jumped right in and 10 minutes went really quick; in a good way.

[@thrownthekilled]

I’ve got a 23 KLR 650 adventure, 1st bike. Sure I can’t make it faster, but everyone loves it! I get a lot of compliments.

[@onerider808]

You can only go so fast over Black Bear Pass, or down the canyons. Love my 23 Adventure! And…wow, what a first bike!

[@bradblackman3669]

Brad B here. Sorry you are leaving the KLR 2022 team in Oregon. We will miss you. Ride on! Your Brother is cool too!

[@HarijsHelvigs]

Jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one

[@The-Jokes-on-You]

Spot on take with the KLR community, love how you spot lighted that & how its under appreciated or overlooked it is. 👍

[@miahryan300]

I just bought an 08 and am trying to fix it up to learn how to ride but am having trouble getting in touch with the "community". Any suggestions or pointers?

[@adammitchell115]

For me, the fun-ness of the bike is what you make it. Yeah its gonna dull as a commuter, but going down a dirt road just because you can is what allures the bike to me. Being able to explore the less traveled road, but also being able to ride the highway home is part of the bike's charm. I plan on getting an adventure model soon for commuting and road trips. Its not going to beat anything off the line, and it shouldn't. If thats what you want, get a zx14 or a concours1400. Those will give you a shot of adrenaline and then some.

[@reddawn300blk]

Love your channel. Looking at buying my first bike and am sold on the KLR. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge and experience.

[@hippyonaharley8502]

Another great video Dork. I ended up with a klr after years on a drz400e and i love it. I have a dedicated road bike so dont miss the lack of freeway speed, but still find it immensely comfortable at our 110kph speed limit in Aus. After riding motorcycles legally since 1979 its probably the most Swiss army knife bike I've owned. Especially factoring in cost.

[@charliefreeman2260]

Not an adventure rider, but thoroughly enjoy your content for its locality (I’m in Veneta), and especially your clear and skilled communication abilities. So fun to see familiar areas described through new eyes! Thanks.

[@silversoozookee2839]

I live in Creswell Have ridden around lorane to veneta through triangle lake Coburg Brownsville Lebanon silverton Newberg ECT. Love my sport bike but damn I want a KLR

[@maxcdg03]

I bought one before I watched this video. I absolutely appreciate this video to the fullest extent because these are ALL the things I wanted to hear, and it just so happens this is my first motorcycle and everything you had to say about it is absolutely perfect. Thank you for taking the time to make this video for guys like me. Even though I watched it after I bought the bike lol.

[@747Skyrie]

Was it a good first bike?

[@anthonyintrieri3329]

Not worried about the zoom factor, if the da-da-da means its moving, good enough, plus i love that its got less tech to go wrong. Good video, sorry royal Enfield Himalayan, you were a thought.... till i saw klr videos 😅

[@treyveston7965]

Great video and one of the ones that cemented my decision to go with a new 2022 KLR650. I bought an older Harley Road King in January, thinking it would be a perfect bike to evoke my memory of driving muscle cars in the 80's and dirt bikes in the woods. Discovered that I enjoyed riding more than wrenching and wanted something more flexible and capable than just a loud cruiser. Selling the RK ASAP and getting a new KLR. At 6'2" and having recent knee surgery, hoping the KLR will satisfy my 2-wheeled lusts.

[@wanderingturtleadventures8619]

Very well put. I started on a KLR and eventually went to my 690. I agree with everything you said 100%.

[@rajanrai-qf2vz]

these go further world tour not local n comfrt

[@Jayman5590]

Awesome video. I just got a 2006 KLR as a 21 year old and absolutely love it, so excited to take a road trip this summer and camp.

[@TheadventuresofSherylandPaul]

Thanks Chief. Just what I needed to hear. In Australia have learner rider laws that limit the power to weight ratios that you can ride. I’m a big kid (6’4” and 220lb) and I didn’t feel like a low power bike to get on. As well as one that is tall enough for a long leg like myself. The more I think about this bike the more I think it is for me. Thank you

[@charlesnassar6560]

Thanks for this video! I've thinking about getting a KLR and you basically showed me it is probably the perfect motorcycle for me. Keep up the good work!

[@obsmotorsports9833]

I just bought a 2008 Klr650 less than a week ago after riding my dads and i can say im in love. Im still a fairly new rider of a few months and i started out buying a 2001 XR250R to learn on. I must say that the clutch was allot different bc i started having to be more aware of how much gas I’m giving when letting out. Yes, i didnt give it enough gas when i was letting the clutch out and stalled a good 7-10 times at first lol. But after constant riding for a few days I decided to hop back on the xr250 and was amazed how easy it was to work the clutch compared to the klr. Overall love both my bikes and looking forward to seeing what else is out there

[@Magnus0311]

Dork, you have become one of my top five favorite dual sport channels. Keep doing you, king!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thank you!

[@AT2021Rocker]

Great analysis Dork! My 2013 klr was a great bike to start with but I got tired of it very quickly. Love my 2021 Africa twin!

[@richvangorder3900]

I drive for a living. Coming up on 1.8 million miles and the older i get i just respect longevity and reliability more and more. The KLR is the Toyota of motorcycles. Simple, basic and unassuming. It will live longer than you will. It is unkillable. It is not fancy it is not snobbish. It will run on less for longer. Even if you dont want it too. There is some thing so appealing about that too me. That you can ride, ride, ride and put more numbers on the odometer than any other bike for the most basic bottom line. And that basic bottomline is routine maintenaince. Rejoice in its boringness because NOTHING is more reliable. I got 4,000 miles on my 22 KLR and plan to get to 200k minimum. Not because i cant afford anything else. No, no, no. Because i ride 700 miles a week all year long and i freakin enjoy it. Thats love. Get it?

[@bigboy_supermoto]

I’m a big dude at 6’1 350 lbs I’m stuck right now between the klr and a drz as far as size and power goes. I don’t see myself jumping on the freeway much and I’m looking for something I can hop curbs and hit some trails with on the way home. I just don’t want to buy one and want the other.

[@onerider808]

I’ve had lots of bikes, but this is perhaps the ‘funnest’ bike I’ve ever had. Kawasaki truly lets the good times roll…

[@CaliforniaFly]

I worked at a place a few years ago that used a Kawasaki Quad wheeler to move airplanes in and out of our hangar. One of the mechanics had the engine bay open to check fluids one day. I took a look and guess what, most of the KLR engine mounted on an automatic transmission. It was stamped 650 on its data plate. It did a great job of towing 6000+ pound planes around. I like how my 2022 KLR can just chug along without complaint. If I want to go faster I have a 2015 Honda VFR 800 that can scare me just fine. : )

[@bigjax-lf7jr]

I've been riding for almost 50 years, there really isn't a bike out there that gets me excited anymore. I've had super hot rod bikes dirt bikes everything. I bought my KLR today, because of the things you said. I don't need anything that's super fast anymore. super fast bikes are really dangerous but they're really really fun. I'm an adrenaline junkie, so this will keep me in check for a while😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@davidseymore4261]

I had a 70s model dirt bike and rode 4wheelers as a kid. Had a 1978 Honda Hawk 400 through my teenage years and my 20s. Gave up riding while married and raising kids. Now divorced and kids grown. I wanted a do everything bike. KLR was my ticket. Ive had my 2022 everywhere. And loving it. Yeah, its not gonna stand up on 1 wheel when you twist the throttle. But it is a tank. It will go anywhere.

[@davidseymore4261]

Only complaint i have so far is after riding for a couple 2 3 hours. Im wanting to stand up cause my butt is asleep. And my shift lever is too short

[@buddyringo21]

Thank you for your videos and the honesty about these bikes. I bought my new ‘22 KLR on part because of videos Ike these and including this particular one. I’m 56 years old so the hot dog feature missing from the KLR power is just fine with me. I have other bike with over twice the power should I crave that excitement . Like you said it’s a do everything good bike and I wanted it for that purpose , motorcycle camping and adventures down old dirt roads and trails to see where they take me and this is a great bike for that. Anyone considering this bike needs to know all the fact surrounding it to make sure it’s a match for them. I will say that my ‘22 KLR cuts the wind really well and I have almost no helmet wind buffeting with the stock windscreen adjusted up, Kawasaki got it right ! I wish I could say the same for Guzzi on my V85tt 🤪 Great video as always! 😁✌️

[@wizardmoto]

Been loving all the coverage of your KLR. I'll be sad to see her go; but I saw a Norden 901 in person yesterday, and the curb appeal was off the charts compared to the KLR in my opinion.

[@DorkintheRoad]

You're not wrong!

[@jeffreywhittle6161]

I haul motorcycles for a living. Saw the Norden 901 in our warehouse for the first time. A gorgeous bike, but $14k? Yikes. Lol

[@ccow11]

This was awesome! I've been looking at a 2013 near me for 3500 with 4k miles. I'm coming from riding mopeds for the last 5 yrs since getting my moto license because they were cheap and perfect for the island area I live in. But I've always been eyeing the KLR since my coworker recommended for a fun, upright, capable, and reliable machine. I'm not an adrenaline junkie (yet?) so really this sounds perfect. 🙌

[@brunosbay7671]

Being a 2018 owner, I've visited a few reviews for the KLR. Can't agree more, as it needs to be appreciated for its intent as you covered. Great review. vroom vroom.

[@alainremi267]

You're so right! Add "if you respect it simple needs, oil, coolant, chain, suspention etc..." :)

[@sharkwhisperer7326]

Alright, now I want one even more, thank you for your most informative, educational, and keeping it real!

[@Simulera]

Plus you can get a KLR650S now with a factory, lowered 32” seat so those of us with 32” legs can better enjoy the KLR in off the shelf form. I’ve dithered with this problem in the past and it is trickier than it might seem. Honestly there are many seemingly harder mechanical things on a bike than seat height. But, mostly, they’re actually not harder than getting it right when significantly lowering a dual use bike seat and preserving function. Its four dimensional chess. Thumbs up to Kawasaki for doing that. (Finally).

[@elwood62]

One of the most important things to know before you buy a Klr is the type of riding you will do. I watched Long Way Round, discovered the guys on KZbin crisscrossing the Rockies and the Utah deserts, and rushed out to buy a Klr so I could enjoy those things at a budget friendly level. The problem is that I don’t live near the Rockies, and the closest desert is probably 2000 miles away. 99% of the roads are paved where I live so I can’t even pretend I’m adventure riding. My rides mostly consist of leisurely trips on backroads, with the occasional highway stint. While I love my Klr for it’s physical size, I think a small displacement 2 cylinder bike would have suited my purposes better. And after 6 years I’m finally upgrading.

[@Kamov66]

went from KLR to KLX 300.. much much much more fun off road and really no difference ON road. klx just needs a slightly bigger gas tank. Previous bikes were XR250 DR350 and an 94 XR650L that i just recently had to put down. NOTE the XR 650 does EVERYTHING the KLR does but does it better. Only mod is needs is the bigger IMS tank, and rear rack. It has much better suspension than the KLR and is even more bullet proof! KLR 1st to second shift is always a crap shoot and its the only bike that does that! Off road its suspension is waaaay to soft and if you are 200lbs or more its really overwhelmed. just my 3 cent. seriously go ride a KLR and KLX back to back. you really cant tell that you are giving up 350ccs power wise. But off road whipping the nimble KLX around is a blast!

[@elcheekoful]

Unfortunately what hold most people back from getting the Honda XR650L is the price. :(

[@indokenmore]

I want one so bad. I live in Melbourne, Australia, where everything just works so smoothly. E-scooters everywhere, nice regional train network, Teslas at every intersection. I just want a big agricultural-sounding beast to plow down the street on my daily commute, and then have something to take on a mini adventure on the weekend.

[@patrickpayne8386]

Thanks so much for all the KLR info I am so glad I got mine can't wait to go camping.

[@richardwaring9197]

Hi. Good to see the vid and am in agreement with a lot of it. I have a 97 KLR that I bought for £1200 ($1500?) in the UK 6 years ago and rode across in 3 days to Poland (approx 1200 miles), where I have left it for when I'm there on holiday at my wife's parents. It was great for the road trip through Holland, Germany and Czech Republic though within 30-40 miles of starting each morning my back end was in deep pain from the slab of a seat. In Poland, we put good off road tyres on it and Renthal bars and it's used for runs into the woods along sandy trails and occasionally muddy tracks. It's great fun for all of that. It's a little heavy maybe but does a great job.

[@Holgrinator]

The KLR is great. With your point number 5 if you want to enjoy the scenery this is the bike. If you want to stare at the trail because you’re ripping so fast. It’s not the bike. I’m imagine a Chrysler LeBaron. It’s not fast or fancy but it’s still a convertible. The KLR isn’t fast or fancy but it’s still a motorcycle that’ll take you on and off road

[@markplasse6919]

Thanks for all you share. You share exact info I’m looking for. And a pleasure to listen to !

[@rideoregonfirst]

I'm excited for you,...you've caught "The Bug" bigtime. It's gonna be a fun ride! If a bike don't make you giggle uncontrollably inside your helmet on the good days, ...then it's time for the T7 and/or Norden. Excessive & useless power is most excellent to control.

[@benjiesmith1791]

The klr is a bike that's Attainable to a wide variety of people and so are a few others. The common thing is what can bring people together. I just wouldn't go to for outside the box! Thanks for your advice and videos

[@michaellloyd7940]

As a former KLR owner I agree with your commentary.

[@KLRmurdercycle]

Thanks for the KLRistas shout out😆 I totally get why your passing the KLR on to someone else. I too love a KLR or two😉 but am on the look out for a slightly more road friendly bike. Something a little sporty, roughly same maintenance intervals. I'll always have the KLR for my enduro fix...and it essentially is an enduro. The KLR, DR, XR, XT variants were at the hight of big bore enduros for a long time before KTM reinvented it...for a price😉

[@mikef3300]

Got my first bike at 8 years old. Now at 52 I wanted to add a bike that I could get back in the trails with. I was looking at the klr and the xr650l. I had decided to go with the Honda but couldn’t find one new or used near me. I did find a 2017 KTM690 enduro r with low miles and in great shape though. I wasn’t looking for this specific bike but I really like it a lot.

[@rfrake]

After watching a lot of your videos I went to the local bike store to see this bike. To my surprise it was much taller, and bulkier than I expected. After not being on a bike for so long I was too intimidated to sit on it. I'm 5"10 and just didn't realize how big this bike is. I wasn't really sure how to go about mounting it, and was clueless how I could put my feet down at a stop light. I feel so discouraged because I love nature and this was looking like the ultimate hobby for me.

[@nikimislov9787]

Cut an inch or inch and a half or so out of the seat foam..👍

[@rticblue2843]

Look at a Suzuki drz400sm, very reliable and easy to work on. Plus they are a short bike and easy to ride.

[@SuperTechnicalman]

I agree with your video. i purchased the klr650s model. lots of fun.

[@trickle2257]

I don't have a bike right now I have owned 7 Motorcycles in my life. I started riding on dirt bikes when I was 10 I am almost 31 now. I have owned (Most recent to oldest in the order I still had them not when I got them) 2017 HD Dyna streetbob, Kawaski Vulcan custom 900, Victory Cross country 8 ball, fz 09, gsxr 750, yz250f, ktm250, honda xr110... I say all this because I am in the market to get another motorcycle. I was leaning to the KLR650 as my use case is as followed. A daily commuter to from work the occasional camping trip that could tend to be on the touring side but I want the capability to go in the mountains or down a trail. I do have a correction for your video you said the KLR 650 isn't a 10 in any category but I think it gets a 10 for value. I really want a HD Pan Am or a GS1250 but I can't bring myself to pay over 20 or damn near 20 for a bike that isn't older then 3 or 4 years. I guess I could bring myself to pay that but I wanted the dork in the roads opinion is this a bike you think I would just end up trading for something like I want or should I look at other bikes like the V strom 800 DE for the the price or the BMW F850 GS because after that I'm looking at the African twin for 15 and at that price I make the jump up to one of the bike I like more. I will say I have rode the Pan Am HD demo days and I have rode a friends KLR gen 2 a few years ago. Anyone with thoughts on this I would appreciate. I am looking at buying new or 1 to 3 years old if buying used. Oh yeah and I am 6ft so most taller bikes are not an issue with an inseam of 34 on my pants. I haven't rode a GS either but everyone I know that has rode both the Pan am and the GS says the GS is still the better bike.

[@markwhitton8230]

Sounds like just the bike for me at 72. I did all my wheelies, hill climbs, racing back in the 60s-70s on Montessas, Mach3s, and YZs, and scars to prove it. Done with that!

[@grenade1882]

I opted for the factory low seat on my Gen 3. With my 30” inseam, I now have no issue getting both feet on the ground, even with the preload on the rear shock maxed out for my weight. Comfort doesn’t seem to have been affected all that much, although it did put my knees a little higher. $300.00 well spent for me, and can make the bike more accessible and suitable for those of us who are built more like Glóin than Pol Tarres

[@klrnomad]

I went to the low seat as well, and added JNS footpeg lowering brackets to fix the knee issue. They also fixed the shifter height issue and the soggy rubber mount issue. Worth every penny.

[@grenade1882]

@@klrnomad absolutely the next things on my list!

[@comfypenguin1511]

Looking to get my first bike and saw a 2007 of the KLR in my area. Been doing my research and this video helped a bunch. Thank you

[@jayschmahl9206]

Great video. I have been a fan of KLR's for a long time. I have never owned one, however, been looking at them. Recently, the 790/890 KTM took control of me. I want one in the worst way, but the price is holding me back. At a local Kawasaki, Yamaha, etc, dealer there was a shiny new Tenere. I would have bought it but it was sold. Now, there are video's out there saying the Yamaha suspension isn't great for folk's that weigh over 160 pound's and recommend upgrading it. The dealer recommended the Tenere over the KLR and claimed they quit selling KTM's because they couldn't get parts to fix them. What does one do? At this point, I am leaning toward's the KLR again. My main interest is my 20 mile to work and back weekday commute and weekend trip's into the mountain's around the town I live in. For the money, the KLR may be the best bang for the buck, and for the money I save over the other two, I can upgrade it a little too.

[@mrmatt7210]

The KLR is an excellent bike, but there is definitely a reason some have nicknamed this bike as being a "Tractor." This in itself is not a derogatory term as a tractor tends to be reliable, unstoppable and easily maintained. However, riding a KLR is best done when your not in a hurry as passing slow traffic should be planned out rather than done whenever an opportunity arises.

[@josephmcdaniel7608]

Looking at buying my first klr. Just using it as a commuter and occasionally some light dirt on weekends

[@EDWARDG0916pnut]

In 2017, I went from riding a BMW c650 GT scooter for the first 5 years and then I sold it and wanted something a little bit bigger and faster and more horsepower and I got that with the 2021 Honda Africa twin Adventure Sport with the DCT. I will NEVER get another Africa twin with a DCT. As you said, the Africa twin was too tall, too top-heavy, and I thought I had enough experience (NOT) for this bike but it had too much horsepower that I didn't know how to handle and in all honesty I should never have bought it in the first place. I do not like a DCT anymore because I made a big mistake when I came to a traffic light: instead of putting it into neutral I got into the bad habit of leaving it in gear. And somehow the throttle got stuck open in gear and almost threw me off the bike but I could not get the bike under control and ended up crashing into a car in front of me. That was the last time I rode that bike. The dealership bought it back for me, fixed it all up and sold it.

[@MrEpicCreator]

Bought one before watching this video. I’m 6’4” so that plays a factor. I agree with everything here so far lol.

[@tylerdurden9748]

you can run highway speed all day long if you just change the front sprocket. you will drop 1000rpm's and low end power loss is practically unnoticeable. put on a good exhaust and it will wake the bike up, day and night difference. i've been riding KLR's for 20 years and i'll always have a KLR in the stable.

[@ibMoose2u]

Started on a V65 Magna then went to my beloved CBR1000f Hurricane Superbike. After 18 years of beloved maintenance on it, I finally decided Hellifornia highways were just too dangerous to even commute to work on and sold it to a nice kid looking for something bigger lol. Bought my 2016 KLR and never looked back. Moved to Montana and it’s stupidly good for the slow pace here on pavement and the thousands of miles of dirt roads. I can’t twitch my wrist and pass cars like they’re standing still to get past bad drivers but here I don’t need to 😂

[@JeffJones-k3b]

Everything you said is true.. I love it the same as when i first bought it for exactly what it is. great vid

[@mikepotter4109]

Been looking at bikes for awhile now, this sounds like it was made for me, great vid bro.

[@andyw237]

Great video thanks for the input. I found myself looking at the new KLR. i wanted a Tenere 700 but the fuel capacity/range is a complete and total JOKE. glad to see the KLR still has a big fuel tank, for people who actually ride!

[@aljones9114]

I'm going today to look at a 2008 KLR. I ride a kawasaki vulcan now. I love my street bike. I'm keeping it. I just want to try a different style of riding. If I like the bike, I'll get it. If I don't like it down the road, I'll sale it. It's low miles for its age and pretty reasonable in price. I'm going with the KLR for the price and reliability of the Kawasaki. Great video. I'm going to subscribe. Have a good day.

[@Larbr000]

Just got mine, so excited to get out and have fun.

[@rugby3874]

I'm on my third fuel pump with my 22 KLR

[@chanceseiler]

I had one traded it in for a Vulcan S. Wish I would’ve kept the kLR. Going to buy another KLR soon. They are great bikes for all around riding.

[@jeffreyphipps5099]

Great video. The great broadcaster, Dave Despain, rode one to Alaska from Charlotte, NC and documented it on SPEED Channel (available on KZbin).

[@robertwedden5761]

2014 with over 90000 miles not for sale runs to good i am 78 years old and loving it

[@seatime674]

90k miles on a single piston??? Just amazing 👏

[@SulCoCrazy]

Good at everything but not great at anything is exactly what us dual sport riders like. We go into it knowing this.

[@andymehrer457]

i can tell you haven't ridden this bike long. "WONT BREAK DOWN! WONT BREAK DOWN!" the klr has left me stranded in the woods 1000s of times but the appeal is every time it broke in the woods i could fix it there with simple tools. you start to learn what breaks down and what to bring next adventure, Until you get to the point where you and your bike are unstoppable.

[@carlosviolante9826]

What type of problems did you run into? Anything I should be asking the seller on mods that you wish or had done to get it in better running shape?

[@andymehrer457]

@@carlosviolante9826 One problem that I dont think I could fix in the woods that is quite common, is the clutch springs that is compressed for a long period of time. I had caused this issue on my first klr and have seen it two times on the hunt for a new one. If you go off roading on a bumpy trail the bolts on the clutch lever and cable can move leading to your clutch lever going slack. If left like that it can compress the springs inside the case and over time it will lead to loss of response in the vehicle.

[@rayweeks1056]

That “Fun Factor “ is the same reason I didn’t go with the KLR,but went with the BMW F750GS. It has that Fun Factor and then some.

[@tangobravo4634]

Thank you for all you honest reviews Dork! After watching your vids and everyone else's on YT about the KLR, I want to love that bike and buy one but the cons seem to outweigh the pros for me. For a few grand more, I'm opting for T700 when I can find one.

[@upsidedowndog1256]

My 2001 was abominably slow it it's stock form. I put a DG muffler on it, K&N air filter, Dyno Jet kit, and removed the airbox lid. That helped out a lot! It's still not fast but is more interesting to ride. My 2012 VStrom 650 is better everywhere but off road. Similar pricing.

[@MatthewSheats]

I have an Gen 1 06 KLR that I bought brand new. There was little else on the market at the time and the community is what ultimately pulled me in. BUT, if I were in the same position out shopping for that type of bike today, I would not buy a KLR. I would probably get a T7. At this point I will probably never get rid of my Gen 1 due to nostalgia and the fact that I have beat it up sufficiently that I'm not afraid to take it everywhere. Also I know I will always be able to get parts for it and pretty much anything that happens to it will be fixable in my garage. I agree that it fits that second bike niche pretty well. But I'd have a hard time recommending one to anyone with a decent amount of experience at this point. There are better options.

[@rodfriesen4370]

I love my klr, and my vmax! I love just finding dirty roads everywhere!!!

[@ThatBikerDad]

A Jack of all trades is a master of none, But a jack of all trades is better than a master of one.

[@thedood4713]

Truimph tiger and the yamaha tenere are really great bikes, the klr is a fantastic motorcycle as long as you get the doohicky.

[@ppsstt1997]

Just wanted to say thanks for these videos. I’ve been wanting to get into riding for years and I actually just signed up for the MSF class for June. While I’d love to buy your KLR I’m waiting till after my class to get my first bike.

[@LordIshma420]

I just purchased a new klr and got it at a fantastic price. About $1700 under MSRP. I take the MSF course next weekend. It was because of Dork that bought it. All of his videos are truthful so far. Am waiting to get on the main highways until after the course.

[@DorkintheRoad]

@@LordIshma420 Under MSRP? Damn. Nice work. Everyone here is listing them 1k over MSRP

[@jjohnson6252]

Always buy used. You should be able to get a great bike for a couple thousand. Drop that a hundred times and then start thinking about buying a nice bike, that's my advice. I've dropped my Yamaha virago 535 a million times, but I've only been pinned under it five times. It's when you're pinned under the bike that you start appreciating weight versus cost.

[@The_Lord_has_it]

I live in rural sw Pennsylvania. I go to take care of my 80y/o mother 5mi so every day. I have a vintage 95 KLR250 to run around and do errands too. Love it to death. The thing couldn't be more dependable.

[@dongorsegner4607]

I’m looking for a simple mid size bike, I cruise around on an old Honda GL1200 (AKA Grandpa’s Buick). I’m torn between KLR 650, Suzuki VStrom 650 and the DR 650. Oh well the search goes on.

[@a2bmoto]

Looking forward to what you pickup next! I have a guess on what it may be, but will stay tuned to see if I am even close...

[@dcpack]

Just bought my 24 for $6100 new after riding a 07 gen 1 for 17 years. Man, I do miss it. Not the bike for purest that have lots of $$$, but a great bargain blue collar bike.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

Weight is the main reason I chose my DR650 over the KLR650. I could very easily consider it again if my current use case doesn’t change. EFI would be worth the weight.

[@mouthagapeape8732]

I bought an AT because I couldn't find a T7, love it. I had a 11 klr and it was great fun but it doesn't blast down the interstate at 80mph like my AT can. Interesting to see what comes next dork.

[@posterlion]

I rode a KLR 650 once. Scared the crap out of me cause I was afraid I was going to flip when I caught a wheelie. Not that I have any business doing wheelies at my age. 🙂 I considered it a little too heavy for me after riding it. The last bike I owned was a 2007 Ninja 250. It was great, but it sure didn't off road well. 😀 I can't believe how much a dual sport cost these days. that is the reason I went for the 2007 Ninja 250 for $2999. It was the last great motorcycle deal. It's sad, but the 2023 Honda XR150L may be the new last great motorcycle deal for $2971. I picked up a 1979 Suzuki GS1000 for $3299 new at the dealer that same year. I bought a new 1975 Suzuki TS185 for $650 in 1977. Great motorcycles have become out of reach for most people and not a very good value for what they are.