Is The KLR650 A Good Beginner Motorcycle?

Is the KLR650 a good beginner bike? Good question.
I was essentially a beginner when I got my first KLR650, a 2012 model. I had only been riding for about a year and I wanted to move into something bigger than the XT250 I had been riding. After doing some research and checking out a few used KLRs I settled on one and thus began my relationship with the KLR650.
In this video I illustrate some things regarding the KLR650 a beginner may consider when looking at their first motorcycle or graduating up from a smaller motorcycle, things I think may be helpful to know...at least from my perspective.
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[@precipiceofgrind]

Like The Video(s)? Hit That SUBSCRIBE!!! Really Helps The Channel!! Thanks For Watching!!!

[@msims1250]

I have wanted a KLR650 for a long time, but my 28” inseam kept me from buying one. I heard about the S model, found one at a shop near me, and bought it. I don’t have many miles on the bike, as the weather in my area has been rather bad, but I can say the bike handles well and is plenty fast for what I need it to do. I haven’t taken it off-road yet, but I intend to. Where I really notice the weight is moving it around in the garage. What a pig! Still, I love it and can’t wait for the weather to get a little better so I can get out and ride it. Thanks for the video!

[@precipiceofgrind]

The 'Short' model should do really well, looking forward to actually seeing one myself! Appreciate you watching!

[@isaaczaman]

Speak of the devil, I am pretty much the same situation! Pulled the trigger on a new 2023 S model and I pick it up next Tuesday! Have fun and ride safe!

[@thechosen5805]

Can you flat foot it???

[@jft7174]

28” inseam bought an S aswell. Great commuter! Amazing in the wet compared to my cruisers.

[@jft7174]

@@thechosen5805 same in seam as him. I’m tip toeing, could only touch the ground with one foot on the regular model.

[@michaelwhite3615]

It’s a PIG…let’s be honest. Underpowered and over weight. Anyone wanting to actually take it off road in single track move on. If all you want is groomed or slightly bumpy dirt roads, okay. Kawasaki needs to lose 30lbs minimum on this bike to make it more than a less than competent ADV in the current market.

[@petechampion297]

Simply look at the fuel tank capacity...it will tell most people that it is an adventure touring motorcycle capable of eating big miles with some dirt option if needed ,I have never expected mine to do what it wasn't designed to do & it's perfect

[@wicksleysnipes1476]

The market disagrees.

[@max_archer]

I'm in the market for my first bike and have mostly been looking at dual sports and 400-500 ADVs, but I sat on a KLR for the first time yesterday. It was actually way LESS intimidating than I expected, I'm 5'10" with a 30" inseam and was wearing western boots with very thin soles but still managed to keep the thing comfortably upright while talking to the sales guy for a good 10 minutes or so. I could definitely feel the weight when tipping it on and off the kickstand but it wasn't anywhere near as bad as I expected. I tried the S model too but thought it was way less comfortable and still felt just as heavy. The KLR fits my intended riding really well - back roads and easy gravel/dirt roads in Central Oregon, with the occasional bit of highway touring - but it'd kind of written it off because of the size and weight, after sitting on it though I think it's my leading contender now.

[@Jxnxdoe]

Just bought my first bike a 2023 klr 650 and dropped it on the first day lol 6:49

[@precipiceofgrind]

It's gonna happen, especially in the dirt. Get some upper crash guards on it to protect the fairing and no more worries! Congrats!

[@Ghostrider-71]

2023 KLR 650 adventure owner here, I bought it in July and have been riding every day that I can. I was intimidated by its size, after taking the basic state (Ohio) riding course (permit needed, classroom, closed course drills etc….) the first ride home was on back roads and I took my time and had no issues. 1600 miles in now, getting used it more and more. I too, go to empty parking lots and practice practice practice…Figure 8s, quick straight line stops, tight turns with counter leaning, friction zone, shifting etc…. Riding every day, taking turns carefully staying in the speed limit, avoiding major highways has really helped to build confidence. Great video and thanks for posting.

[@zerotheklr650]

I've never ridden bikes before and I got my Learners in June 2022. I did 2000 miles in 3mths around my neighbourhood. She's a big girl but if you want to learn quickly.. you will. ❤️

[@Seanwxyz1]

I am a beginner. I just passed the MSF course today and then I headed straight to my local Kawasaki dealer. I looked at the 2023 KLR Adventure and I felt intimidated by it immediately. It is a huge bike. I sat on it and I could feel the weight of the beast. I am 5 foot 11 and I could flat-foot the bike. But being able to flat foot is not enough to inspire confidence. I thought to myself that this was the bike I have been wanting for months but now all of a sudden it intimidated me. And so I couldn't decide whether to buy it immediately or just move on to a different smaller bike. After thinking about my dilemma for another 45 minutes at the dealer's, I decided to put down a $100 non-refundable deposit on it, and the dealer agreed to hold it for me for two more weeks only, and then I left the dealer. I love the bike. This is the Bike I want, I don't want anything else (other than the Africa Twin which is even bigger) but the KLR 650 was intimidating. So, I have two weeks to either get the KLR or lose my $100 deposit. And that's where I am now. I plan to ride it on paved roads only, but I am not sure I can make tight corners safely on the KLR at low speed.

[@precipiceofgrind]

I was very intimidated by the KLR, thought it was too big. Looked at a used one at the dealership and sat on it and said...nope. This was a few years ago and my only experience was learning on a Yamaha XT250, much smaller bike. Anyway, I waited for another six months and finally bought a 2012 KLR650. Guy dropped it off at my house. So, I got on my KLR and took off and it was awesome. I had to get used to turning that big bike so I went to parking lots and practiced doing figure eights. I also learned how to pick it up. It's not a fast bike so if you hit the throttle it won't stand up and buck ya off. If you get the KLR, immediately put crash guards on it because you will drop it and that's ok. At least you'll protect the bike with the guards, replacing fairing is expensive. Take it slow and respect the bike and know your limitations and you'll be just fine. Wear your gear! Good Luck!

[@Seanwxyz1]

@@precipiceofgrind Thank you. You gave me much-needed confidence. I am thinking about taking private lessons on riding the KLR. I live in Galveston, Texas and I don't know how to go about finding a private trainer.

[@ChristopherT_]

hello! did you end up going with the KLR? I'm riding my dad's 2023 and it's awesome ​@@Seanwxyz1

[@kuaktak]

Great video! I personally started on a TW200. And then moved to the KLR. Don’t think it’s a good starter bike unless you plan on just riding in paved roads or some nice gravel roads. I’m 6’-2’’ and I’m flat footed when standing, but like you say, it might be intimidating for a beginner. Be safe✌🏻💪

[@precipiceofgrind]

Thanks for watching!

[@gcprost]

I am not a beginner, I have been riding for many years. I have owned an Africa Twin and a Himalayan, but now I’m old (70 years) and I’m only 5’4”. I purchased the 2023 KLR 650S. I intend to use it for relaxed travel to remote places and ghost towns. I live in Canada so sometimes this places require you to travel long distances on pavement.

[@insatiable_mind]

I got a 2011 KLR in August as my “first bike” and I’m loving the Gen 2. I’m tempted by the Gen 3 especially the short version but I like my analog gauges and a slight weight advantage. I’m 5’9” with a 31” inseam and I’m on my toes unless I flatfoot one side. I don’t want to give up ground clearance though. I also think the GEN three rake is better for highway without giving up much off-road.

[@mikebetts9677]

First off, I love your videos! Several things amaze me about them. I really like your flow of ideas and or reactions as you ride. How you remember all the points you want to make, amazing. This discussion really hit the mark, imo. Dealing with height and weight are the most serious things when I was new to it. One thing I love about my KLR is how great it is on the street.sitting high, soaking up bumps, wind protection, riding position, range, reliability, etc. I don't think people can imagine that before riding one. And then, when the road ends, the fun begins. Thanks for the videis!

[@precipiceofgrind]

You're welcome, appreciate you watching!

[@toneighty6913]

i just bought a 2023 klr650 adventure a week ago. i've been watching training videos and practicing slow speed maneuvering while waiting for a in person course to be available. i'm 6'2" 200lbs with a 36" inseam. i lowered the pegs an inch and put some tusk pegs. i like how i fit on it both sitting and standing. my confidence has grown on it every day doing the slow speed drills and some faster speed stops.

[@FL-PHILLIP]

Very intimidating. I swung my leg over the 650 and Himalayan and it was a no brainer…bought the Himalayan. For me getting back into motorcycles in my mid 50s the Himalayan was perfect, especially since I’m only 5’9”.

[@bulldogmack]

Well I'm 6,2 and 279 lbs I have my share of struggle with the smallest bikes so I'll take my chances with the klr 😊

[@plasticbmw]

Assuming you already know how to ride a Bicycle. Even if you're an adult i recommend getting a dirt bike you can throw around first. CRF110, any name brand 125-250. I started on a 2001 KTM 250sx and now I'm on a 2021 KTM 690 enduro. Great video

[@precise1329]

While I am a RABID KLR fan (I own a gen1), I'd agree with something smaller and dirt specific if that's an option. But not everyone has direct access to a dirt track. Which is the niche that dual sports fill. The WR250R or something like that XT are basically dirt bikes with a plate. But, maybe someone has a bit of highway that they have to travel. So the larger 650 thumpers or 270 degree twins may fit the bill for that specific rider better. Most new riders REFUSE to be honest with themselves about what they want to use a bike for. To close, new riders should have a discussion with a couple experienced ADV/Dual sport riders. The widest possible field of knowledge. Maybe what they need is a Rebel 500.

[@lanceoa]

Appreciate the lay down demo! The price point makes this so alluring, laying down a $7k bike is more tolerable than laying down a $13k bike

[@george12go]

The 2022 KLR 650 is my first Street bike! When I saw they brought it back for a 3rd gen It really gained my interest both with its modern interpretation and still invoking the same childhood memories through the 80's and 90's. I was so determined to ride the new KLR I bought one before I had my endorsement. It really isn't hard to ride at all, but the weight and seat height, size are real considerations. I Personally would stay with the standard height model cause it fits me. The New S model should be a great addition for the shorter rider looking to ride the legendary workhorse. Great vid! take it easy..

[@graymangw6016]

I think that first year is so important, I really recommend getting a motorcycle you are really comfortable on, both feet on the ground and decently balanced. I am a new rider, under 5'9" and only a 29" inseam, under 160lbs. The KLR was my first motorcycle ever. The pros, everything said is true, stable when running, more than enough power, lots of aftermarket support, good community, and I am sure other stuff too. The cons it is really top heavy and the suspension sucks. These work together in a really negative way too, at least for me. At my weight I have to keep the preload to 4 or 5 which is the highest setting otherwise the vibrations on the KLR get out of control for me. Again all fine until I have to stop which is where I have had all my problems. I have dropped the bike so many times I am actually getting rid of it. I ended up getting a Himalayan which fits me much better. So do I think the KLR650 as a very first motorcycle not really, maybe if you are 5'10", have a 32" inseam and are over 160lbs. Is it a great 1st ADV bike probably, is it a great 2nd bike, probably. Is the Himalayan a great 1st motorcycle maybe, it's definitely quirky. I don't 100% recommend it though because it is really different. I really think that the cb500x, versys 300x, xt250, crf250 or similar would be a much better option. Have fun, learn and then sell it.

[@dylank4353]

Just bought a 07 last week. During the test ride half forgot how to ride a bike, whiskey throttled it (I think) and laid it down. Gonna be watching more videos about the basics before I go pick it up from the previous owner. I'm 6ft, and still have to tiptoe, so it's fun to try and push it around with no power while on it 😂. Got my motorcycle permit about 2 years ago now.

[@vaerenbergh]

I have wanted a KLR650 for years, now there is the EFI model and i can't get it because Europe sucks

[@Jturnb]

I’m a little shorter than you, I’m going to look at a 2022 today after work. It will be my first bike.

[@Jturnb]

KLR is way too tall for me at my current experience level

[@precipiceofgrind]

@@Jturnb Certainly understandable. Have you looked at the new KLR S (short model)?

[@robertYTB78g]

Really helpful to me deciding how (or if) to move up from my 250cc bike. Also liked the demo of falling down, and the shots of your amazing scenery. Thanks for posting.

[@brycehiigel235]

Thanks for the info. Beginner here in the shopping mode. I finally took a test ride on one and really enjoyed it. Was nervous at first but the longer I rode and stying in the neighborhood getting used to starting,stopping, turning, then taking it down a straight away for a bit, I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was ride and get confident with. I’m not in my 20’s any more and don’t plan on going Evel Knievel so I don’t really care about to much power. I felt like it balanced well and wanted to stay under me. I live in a small rural area so would be perfect with what I want to do with it. Plus it won’t break the bank.

[@odgreenoutdoors20]

I dont think its a good beginner bike , your wife’s bike is a good beginner bike that someone could keep for along time before transitioning to a KLR . What’s the bags you have on the front ? I had a KLR but it killed my back on long distance rides , i have a vulcan 900 classic LT now but I want another KLR , iam up int the air on it anyway

[@ironcast]

I read, somewhere, that when you are riding a KLR 650, you can think to yourself that there are 2 people somewhere circumnavigating the globe on them also.

[@steelbob3]

Nice video. I have a lot of cruiser riding experience, and I'm looking to get an ADV style bike. Really like the KLR, but it is too tall. I've only got a 30" inseam. Tried the S model. Perfect!

[@precipiceofgrind]

Appreciate you watching! Yeah, that Short Model is going to do well...still need to have a look at one!

[@jimh2061]

This is a great review and would love to hear one on the Himalayan along with Jens take on the KLR. This would be my first bike and I'm 60 with a few back issues. I do ride mountain bikes and am in decent shape. I was so intimidated by the size of this bike but sat on it and love the ergonomics. I'm 5-11 200lbs and it just feels comfortable. I have the 32 inch inseam and can pretty much flat foot they bike. Only problem I'm worried about is turning the bike around or picking up the bike if I'm on jeep trails. I'm also looking at the Himalayan and sat on that and felt pretty comfortable. And also the KTM 390 Adventure felt pretty light and had decent ergonomics but could use a softer seat and handle bar risers.

[@precipiceofgrind]

The KLR checked the boxes for me when I wanted to move into something larger and I was also intimidated to ride it off road because of its weight. As soon as I bought my first KLR, I immediately learned how to pick it up and that ended my off road hesitation. I also learned how to turn the bike on its kick stand which also helped!

[@billbonu1639]

My friend had a Himalayan and we found Himalayan beside it on the trail when the whole front end broke off.

[@johnasbury9915]

Appreciate your honesty and candor. I have an old BMW F650GS but I am very interested in a KLR…. Thanks for the review.

[@garrisonboyd1701]

Kinda depends how big you are honestly. My friend was in the market for a new bike and we got him the KLR because he is 6'5 240 lbs.

[@precipiceofgrind]

Yeah, that's a good fit for a fella that size.

[@stephencooper5040]

You can drop a couple pounds replacing the exhaust.

[@degutube]

Great video and you do a really good job of explaining potential issues for new riders. I wanted a KLR but soon realised the standard model is just too big for me to ride confidently. Could I still ride it? For sure but would be stressing in traffic. Sighting one in person you see just how big they are and the handlebars are wide too. I would like to try an ‘S’ as that could be a maybe one day but still heavyish. I think the Himalayan is good to consider for shorter riders. My advice to any new rider is at the very least do a sit test. Even some of the bikes you can flatfoot may not always be suited to your body type. Start small, lower powered, and work your way up.

[@precipiceofgrind]

Absolutely agree! Thank you for watching!

[@thumpersquid]

Excellent video!

[@garrettno2906]

I just picked up a used Gen 2 as my first bike. Looking at the Gen 3 it seems that the main height difference just comes down to the seat. The stock seats on the Gen 2 are pretty flat, whereas on the Gen 3 the newer seats have a bit more of a curve to accommodate the riding position. I'm about 6' tall, so with the couple extra inches I sit about the same as you do on the Gen 3. Older KLRs have a ton of aftermarket support, so finding an aftermarket seat that sits a bit lower shouldn't be too difficult for shorter riders. I also highly recommend new riders interested in doing off road get a set of crash bars. While the engine is pretty bulletproof, the radiator on the left side is only really covered by the fairings. In my first two weeks of riding I low sided, turning left on a gravel road. The bike appeared fine apart from some minor cracks on the left fairing, however when I got home I realized I'd bent my radiator beyond reasonable repair. Aftermarket radiators are readily available, but frequently are have bolt connections that are inaccurately milled. This made replacing the radiator a headache of malleting and

[@garrettno2906]

Crash bars will directly cover this portion of the bike so that you are much less likely to damage this part. I've found bars on sale for around $95, whereas replacing the radiator generally costs around $130 and is messy. If you're hitting trails, save yourself the trouble and just get the bars!

[@feron450]

I have owned 2 klr’s I had a 96 gen 1 that I put 130,000 miles on it, it got stolen, and a 2016 gen 2 that I put 230,000 miles on it. I still have it and ride it all the time. I’ll be retiring that one soon and picking up a gen 3. I’m also 5’10” and love these bikes once you get use to riding such a heavy slow bike it’s fantastic the saying they don’t do anything well but do everything good enough is exactly true. I’ve taken mine off road weekly for years. When you lay it down you pick it back up and keep going niether one of my bikes ever left me stranded. Just maintain them properly and they will take care of you for years.

[@theldun1]

Best review that I have watched on the KLR650. And I have watched several.

[@precipiceofgrind]

Awesome, glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@Joseph-zs8gy]

I'd choose a KLR over a ragady Harley Davidson anyday

[@onerider808]

So, do you have any experience with these bikes, or are you just talkin? I have 2 Harleys, a KLR, and soon a KLX. My Sporty can go almost anywhere the KLR can (I live in CO and do mostly medium to hard dirt roads and Jeep trails.

[@peacetoearth]

Best review ever, great job man!

[@Don2006]

An understated limitation of the KLR 650 S is that its ground clearance is 7.3 in. -- a full inch lower than the standard model, which is already merely acceptable IMO. A properly maintained KLR lasts a loooong time. If you intend to do serious off-roading at some point, strongly consider the standard KLR 650 with the reduced reach seat -- comes up to 32.9 in. seat height.

[@durtyred86]

I took this entire video and applied it to starting on the Tenere-700 lol.. They're fairly close in size and weight so hell... fair enough!!

[@precipiceofgrind]

I'd love to have a T7, they're still pretty much a unicorn bike where I'm located. Congrats on your bike and thanks for watching!

[@durtyred86]

@Precipice Of Grind I'm in the Tenere-700 USA group and I swear there are sales every few days for bikes under the break in milage. People are either too short or don't want to retain the bike. If you REALLY want one, maybe take that approach? Unless you're like me and have to have it new. 😅😅

[@SmokinZen]

The bottom line is to be aware that the heavier the bike the less you want to take it off-road not because it can’t do it but the weight will get you if your not that good a rider or if your older and will have trouble picking it up because you never land in a perfect position but on street it is good however just stopping quickly can be a real headache if it’s too tall for you

[@wardroland270]

Thanks Drock. Great job. Good info. God bless. Happy trails.

[@joethompson297]

Cut my teeth on a KLX300, now I’m itching to upgrade

[@precipiceofgrind]

KLX300 looks like its a hoot to ride!

[@briank6211]

I’m currently on a KLX300 as well. Thinking I’m going to get into the KLR 650 next week.

[@onerider808]

While I love my KLR, I was thinking of upgrading to a KLX300. I’ll keep the KLR, of course.

[@stephenkellar]

Or, if you are a bigger sort of begginer with only a few years of 2 stroke motocross experience, would a bike like the Honda CFR-450L be a better choice? Planning to be on the road only to get to logging roads and other off road places. Probably no more then 200-300Km (60 - 90mi) on the road at a time.

[@precipiceofgrind]

Good question. I haven't had the chance to ride the CRF450L but I think it is now the 450RL. Without doing any research, I'd think you would be into the Honda for a few thousand more dollars over the KLR for a start.

[@polloi84]

How do you feel about the KLR650 vs the Versys-X 300 for a beginner? The 300 is considerably lighter and seems like it might be a bit better for a mostly road-oriented use

[@precipiceofgrind]

I recently had a ride (off road) where I became acutely aware of the significance of the weight of a bike mainly because I had to pick the bike up around twenty times and it was miserable. That was with a CRF300L (309 lbs without gear). If you're a beginner and intend to ride off road in any capacity I would start with a smaller, lighter bike. Perhaps The KLX 300 would be a good start or an XT250. The KLR650 is now offered in a 'Short' version but it still is quite heavy. Personally, I started riding an XT250 and then moved to a KLR650 and I'm glad I did, I was able to build confidence and skill with the smaller bike which made the transition to the larger bike easier all around. The Versys 300 has a low seat height and weighs considerably less than the KLR650 and would probably be a little more ideal for a beginner I would think.

[@gabegillman2260]

No it's definitely not

[@johnbar4126]

Beautiful area, ivins kayenta?

[@91156]

What are you using for your mirror replacement. Are they working well?

[@precipiceofgrind]

Double Take Mirrors, have them on all our bikes. They are excellent!

[@cayo3955]

I’m new to this. I want a KLR 650 but I’m also leaning towards the xt250. Mostly around town riding with that ability to go in the hills. Which one do you find yourself jumping on more?

[@precipiceofgrind]

Well, both bikes can easily do that. Best bet would be to go test ride both bikes and see which one you're more comfortable on. Both bikes have pros and cons so you'll have to decide which one better fits what you intend to ride. I own both and I ride both pretty much evenly. More than likely, you won't enjoy riding an XT250 down the interstate for long periods of time and more than likely... you won't enjoy riding a KLR650 on single track.

[@cayo3955]

@@precipiceofgrind Thank you for the reply and the time you take to make your vids. Stay safe🤘

[@billbonu1639]

What's the blue and white sticker on the gas tank? mine doesn't have that.

[@precipiceofgrind]

Sticker just says don't overfill the tank. Had the same sticker on my 2012 model.

[@garywygant1521]

This bike is not new rider freindly