Is The KLR650 Still Relevant In 2024?

[@spitescorner]

I know I said the KTM's airbox was next but I wanted to ride the KLR... Next time I promise

[@MrMunky1985]

I think the KLR looks great, and does what its supposed to. Your videos on it are how I came to find the YN channel and now yours. I am looking forward to more KLR videos in the future. Also, I have not been on a motorcycle in years and I am going soon to make this my first bike back into the sport.

[@-MANWITHN0NAME-]

yo man where do you get your motorcycle serviced at

[@hvymax]

Road trip to Eagle Mike's

[@ianjones2731]

@@MrMunky1985 You'll love it

[@Mootalisk]

Congrats on all the new subscribers! Glad you are doing your own thing! Awesome content!!! Can’t wait for more!!

[@Stinkles_]

Hey Spite, sounds like you’re not at YN anymore. However I’m happy to report that the algorithm popped your video right onto my feed today and I’m subscribed. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with! Also, the KLR is totally cool and if I had any mechanical aptitude for doohickeys I’d certainly consider one as my first bike.

[@spitescorner]

Yeah there's a video coming out over there that'll explain it all, but I'm going to working on my own stuff. Thanks!

[@emoservedwithfries]

Looking forward to seeing all the new content on this channel then!

[@altortugas5979]

All of us pro casuals were blindsided, and the “explanation” video was painful to watch. I’m Team Spite. Him getting fired and all Yammie’s ham-fisted replies in the comments and his paper-thin justifications… I’m looking forward to Spite’s content. I’m out on YN.

[@emoservedwithfries]

@@altortugas5979 the worst part is YN wasn't doing it out of malice, he's just a very short sighted person.

[@altortugas5979]

Houjous, yeah that was abundantly clear. I’ve been keeping tabs on that train wreck explainer video and the comments all day. So many of YN’s replies were some version of “it’s my business, and I had a right to make that decision.” It was disgusting to watch. Like, nobody questions it’s his right. Appeal to authority is always an admission you don’t have a reasonable argument, which makes me read everything YN had to say as BS.

[@christopher_lp]

I got a KLR650S as my first bike and it's treating me very well. I live in a small town between two bigger cities here in TX and it is perfect for around town, some interstate and occasion dirt/gravel. I love it. Thanks for the vid, and keep it up!

[@upsidedowndog1256]

I bought an almost new 2001 version a little over a year ago. It weighs less than 400 lbs, still has a carb, and has nothing it doesn't need and everything it does. Kawi got it right the 1st time!

[@theicon2125]

When you said the thing about if it had a 6th gear it would be better on the highway I realized why you like it. It's the Sportster of the the Dual Sport/ADV world.

[@hvymax]

I really see your niche as a Big Man on bikes. Long torso and 34" inseam. KLR was the only motorcycle in the showroom that I could comfortably operate! Put my name in KZbin to see how far a KLR can be taken.

[@jonathanstormont2898]

I think the KLR is a beast and you have got to keep this bike forever as it is so you imo. Buy other bikes but keep the Pig as it is like a pair of comfy slippers you just can't throw away! Your vids over the year on the KLR made me buy one and also help get me into riding. I loving the channel and that you are now free to do you! :)

[@Mcnul1na]

So it’s like my 1998 Jeep Wrangler. It’s old, has no power, no features, and smokes like a chimney. But it won’t die, and is SO much fun to bounce off of trees and rocks.

[@juanjurbina]

Great video Spite! Hopefully we will see you on a long trip in your KLR. Maybe México?

[@bradv9449]

In the 90's the KLR was the cheapest new motorcycle I could afford. I live near the Sierra Nevada mountains in California and wanted a bike I could flog around the mountains and go on group rides with my friends. I also used it as a daily commuter. The KLR is still a great all around motorcycle and relevant today. Thanks

[@praveensamuel8375]

Spite, I’m so glad you have your own channel now. I’ve watched all your videos on YN and always wanted to hear more from you. Would you consider doing a review on the Suzuki DR650? I’m considering getting it and I’m having a tough time choosing between it and the Honda CRF300 Rally.

[@fightingpitdragon]

A '02 KLR was my first bike. Did some silly things on it like jumping it. And learning itll crush your license plate. And many times I miss my footing and drop it. It was a fun first bike that didn't hurt when it gets dumped/tipped over.

[@briancarter6293]

I think the KLR is sweet. That’s a great point you made about not worrying about dropping it. That is a strong case. I only wish it was more street worthy.

[@brianmartindale2221]

My serious riding friends haaate the KLR and DRZ. I've always looked at the KLR like a Chevy station wagon in a Ferrari world. Anyone who owns one loves them (and secretly has an XC-F or VFR in the stable). Not the bike for me, it's a hefty one, but it's been a loyal thumper for a lot of folks for a long, long time. One of the better dollar values as well.

[@derreckmoore2175]

I was wanting one of the Gen 3s to replace my KTM 990…. Then I rode one. Yikes!! It won’t be replacing my KTM, but it definitely has its place

[@skis0447]

Every bike has its place. The KLR does the job it says it will do humbly and without fanfare.

[@AndrewChristopherEnriquez]

I love the idea and the look of the KLR, but it’s just too tall for most beginners who are afraid of one leg down only. I picked up a g650gs instead for my beginner adv bike, but again I really love the klr in theory. The look of that adventure version is awesome.

[@hvymax]

You're obviously not a 6'5" beginner!!!

[@AndrewChristopherEnriquez]

@@hvymax absolutely if you’re pretty tall then heck yeah go for it! Haha

[@letsgoenduro]

I live in Mexico and have a had a few around the world bikes/riders stay at my house over the years. I am always surprised that they DONT use the KLR. It seems like the perfect bike to make that trip around the world. I think with some basic mods the KLR could be the one. It would be nice to have proper forks though, these are just.... they are not good. Have you ever thrown a leg over an old 950 or 990? That will make you rethink what a big bike feels like. (I say big... because I ride 2 stroke enduro bikes. I realize they are actually middle weight) Actually edit number 3.... I think you would like the 950/990 They are awesome.

[@nathanmaloney4334]

You have a great bike…I Have the 2022 orange KLR 650

[@davidklementis5913]

If you like it, you bought a good bike. A couple months ago I bought a DR650 because I was looking for something that would give me a classic feel and simplicity while being off road worthy. Main reason I went with it over a KLR was the weight since I'm a smaller built guy.

[@gibsonclan1able]

If the KLR was no longer relevant, Kawasaki would have stopped the production decades ago. I got my first one in The summer of 1984. Yes 1984 when Kawasaki launched the KLR 600 the only difference was when Kawi punched the cylinder out with 50cc in 1987. It’s inexpensive because it hasn’t changed in 40 years. Even the engine casing is pretty much identical to the original one from ‘84. The last one I’ll ever own is the 2012 in my garage because I know if it ever does stop running 100 miles from nowhere, there’s a 99% chance that I will be able to get it running again. I can field fix a carb but I can’t field fix fuel injection. Besides I don’t want a circuit board on a bike that I’m going to drop, thrash or submerge.

[@modularcuriosity]

For the same price the new 2022 Honda CB500X has about the same horsepower and torque with better dual front disk brakes, Honda quality, and about 100 pounds lighter. Now, the problem is "can I find one anywhere?"

[@vironpayne3405]

It is at my house and on the roads and trails I ride.

[@jacobchandler2083]

I still wanna see a klr track day

[@jasonh3220]

I would buy one ...maybe even my next bike

[@user-ot1dv6ri4f]

tempting me into getting something similar tbh

[@whimsicalstray]

It's still up for debate whether a Gen 3 is worth it over a Gen 1 or 2. I've heard the Gen 3 actually get worse mileage. However, just like Gen 1 and 2 have different pros and cons, I'm sure it'll find its niche among the KLR lovers.

[@squish3r]

Something to be said about a dirt simple thumper!

[@theroadcrow]

Come on dude, give us daily videos! ✌😉

[@spitescorner]

I'm just a simple man trying to make my way in the universe. Lol. I wish I could though, that's a mammoth task and I'm flying solo rn.

[@hvymax]

Kawasaki really screwed the pooch on the Gen 3. If they put the Vulcan S engine in the KLR frame they wouldn't be able to give T7's away!!!

[@spitescorner]

Yeah but that parallel twin is sad an lifeless like a Vulcan S. If they made it a 270 though, now we're talkin'

[@vikas4685]

Pls start the podcast once channel becomes stable🙂

[@LietausNamai]

Not gonna lie, KLR with heavy metal in the background kind of vibin’ on me 🫣 is that what it feels to be old? 👨🏻‍🦳

[@charleybarber86]

Wish I would got the klr over the klx300sm. I'm thousands into it and not a horsepower to be found.

[@collinmc90]

Funny everything you said about this bike sounds like a larger displacement version of the TW200. It's the best and the worst at the same time.

[@ryanashley347]

Go Spite!

[@MagicToaster_1fan]

Finally the content Yammie won’t let us have

[@jeffreywhittle6161]

Bingo. I have little interest in 200hp sport bikes.

[@rethguals]

@@jeffreywhittle6161 Don't worry my friend, Yammie's heard the complaints and got you covered! His latest video is about the Indian Scout Bobber! ...it's one of his usual videos where he throws stock clips and memes over background footage that isn't even of the Scout, while he talks over it pretentiously, mind you. Yep, that's the content he's decided was worth sacking his competent content manager over to produce full time.

[@eymanyouwell]

@@rethguals good thing we have decent reviewers like Spite in that case 😅

[@Hansengineering]

Oh wow, Tea I didn't even know I wanted.

[@dashuntas.m4045]

@@Hansengineering 😂

[@hybrid4184]

First KZbin comment, ever. Here because of the news on YN. Your addition to the channel is what made me a regular viewer of YN. The videos you were responsible for, the long form, informational, and deep dive content is what made YN so great. I hope you can grow the channel and find the resources necessary to bring that content to us here. I know it’s going to be a bit of a ride while you grow the subscriber count and get advertisers to fund videos like those, but we’ll be here for the ride with you. Keep it up, and we’ll watch! Love having you run the show with great content that educates us while being entertaining. It’s great differentiator from the sponsored reviews from the big guys. Subbed and Liked, and Dropped a Comment to help traction!

[@davereinhart9933]

Agreed. You made YN a channel I wanted to watch. I am thrilled you are here. Keep it coming!

[@philiphermsmeyer1716]

Spite, congratulations on your own channel and best of luck brother! Just subscribed, excited to see what you do. Shopping for a new KLR now thanks to you and Yammie! Was thinking to go full crazy on the new HD Pan America. Then sticker shock, and regrouped on the Suzuki Vstrom 1150. But you know, I've always been a street rider so I think I will start with the KLR650. I'm a big guy too, hope you go over suspension upgrades to the KLR perhaps starting with the front forks. Dorky is COOL!

[@spitescorner]

Thanks! I'm working hard to keep it rolling here, and have some fun.

[@hvymax]

Progressive springs and 20w fork oil in front and a 600lb Eibach spring and Crank up the dampening in back works for my 360 self

[@diptenkrom]

if you are a street rider then i would go with the V-Strom. I had a first gen DL1000 with predominately street tires on it. You ahve to be a tall guy to comfortably handle it, but it was a very comfortable bike. I got rid of it, as it just wasnt my style, i think it was a bit before its time if you ask me. the ADV bikes didnt take off quite that early on, like theyu have in the last 5 or so years. I did find a bike for me in a differnt well liked bike. a 98 Honda VFR800, it checks all the boxes for me. not full spoort position, good power, but not insane, solid running bike, with low maintenance, and still sporety enough to have fun when the opprtunity presents itself. I also decided that it was not too bad to own multiple bikes, so i got an 86 GoldWing to strip down and have a comfy "muscle cruiser" type of bike, and a GS450 that will become a scrambler when i am done with the GW. Find your type of riding, and then find the bike that fits that the best. and you might find that is not just one bike...

[@hiflyer1168]

Heck, I sold my year old Pan Am and bought the KLR!

[@lucasvaughn629]

As a man who has a royal enfield himalayan the klr looks downright futuristic and powerful lol. I've got a whopping 22hp and have to avoid the highway. Luckily living in rural Indiana that's not too hard to do but I really see the appeal of thr klr. That being said I do like my himalayam, it's just rugged it will go anywhere and do anything I ask it to.

[@2WheelsGood.01]

IMO, we 100% still need bikes likes these. extremely simple, analog, low cost and functional. This is the spirit of a motorcycle. The KLR is not intended to compete against the newer adv offerings. I loved my 2017 model.

[@dutchy1121]

That's what Royal Enfield is for.

[@jaybosher6144]

@@dutchy1121 Japanese beats Indian 10 out of 10 times for reliability over the long term but I like what's R.E is doing. They are putting money into r&d with the new 450 adv bike. They have the ability to beat the Japanese by trying new things as Japan is very slow to evolve and innovate.

[@talltale9760]

@@jaybosher6144 I’d wager the newer models of the Himalayan are genuinely more reliable than KLR

[@jaybosher6144]

@@talltale9760 not a chance, for all the fuss over certain known issues there's almost no bikes out there that have done more miles than a klr. It's a 40 year old bike essentially with some updates like fi. I dont love the klr but you have to give credit where it's due

[@smol_yote]

That’s all fine and great but with their out the door cost it’s very unattractive

[@BorderlandBiker]

The KLR 650 is a good bike. Maybe it doesn't compete with the latest suite of ADVs but if you like it and you want one with a warranty and no miles you can't go wrong. As an aside I don't think background noise comes across nearly as badly as it seems like it would when you're among it 🙂

[@TheJumpn]

Enjoyed your work on YN, hope things go well for you on your own. I swore I’d never have a KLR, but I have a 22 and enjoy it. I prefer “affordable “ vs “cheap”. The right mods make it more comfortable. Lowered peg mounts, larger foot pegs make it feel much better off-road. You can twist the throttle, merge and pass without staining your shorts. Constructive criticism, I cringe hearing “that being said” multiple times in a few minutes. Unnecessary transition. Subscribed, hoping for more quality content.

[@nobodycares1616]

Spite! You are half the reason I bought a gen 3 adv KLR! Please don't stop making content! You were my favorite part of YN and I think you'll be immensely successful if you keep your head up and keep on trucking. Best of luck to you brother from one KLR rider to another

[@Trevorburk1]

I have a gen 3 and love it. I am not a boy racer like YN so going fast doesn’t appeal to me. Slowing down and enjoying the ride and seeing all the nature around me is much more enjoyable. I subscribed will look forward to seeing what you do next.

[@thetruegentlemanly]

Hey Spite, love your content, and I got you subscribed now. I would be interested in hearing if you think a Svartpilin 401 would be a good cross shop for something like your KLR650? I am a bit rural and want to be able to hit fire and farm roads with some rare single track and these two seem like some great finalists for a good time on the (relatively) cheap.

[@coolyprice4730]

Spite, I appreciate you continuing to manufacture content on the youtube platform. I recently watched the video from YN on the subject of your departure. Something that resonated with me on that video was the need for more than 2 machines. I have recently departed from the US and currently based in Europe for the next few months. I have a 2022 RE Himmy stored in the states that you can use and make content with if you wanted to do so? The bike is located in NC but if you wanted to, I would be more than happy to let you use it for making content FOC.

[@John_Ridley]

Holy cow subscriber spike! Well deserved. Spite is a great presenter with a fantastic camera presence. He IMO deserves a good chunk of the subscribers that his former employer had.

[@jakecwells]

I like mine. Definitely lacking in some areas, but gets me to work and down the trails. Can’t beat it for the $$ imo.

[@TheManoy66]

The BMW GS may be the king of the ADV hill but the KLR is the lord of the mountain range.

[@TigerManTravis]

12 hours and you have 10k more subs. Keep doing honest, detailed, and humble bike reviews and you will prosper and wish you the best. I watched YN for your back and forth and thought you guys were a decent contrast to each other. But you are around my size. I am a 6'4 250, and most reviewers are not giving the long legged ergonomics feedback that is an opportunity area in bike reviews. Leg room is a major part of comfort. Its also hard to find tall person gear. Being wedged into pegs that are too high isn't fun. I like cruisers too, but a sport bike gives the smiles and dopamine blasts. You helped make me look at the MT line and were spot on with its strengths and weaknesses. These adventure bikes may be worth looking into more as a 2nd bike. Just keep pushing forward bro.

[@ntme6506]

Jumped over from YN. Keep doing what you have been doing. We are here for you. I'm on my second gen 1 worth and 87 for my first and now a 2001 for my second. I'm a cult follower for sure on the KLR'ER.

[@CaptainJacksIsland]

Hey, Spite. You might wanna get a business email and put it on your About section. I have two bikes, a 2018 Indian Scout and a 2020 Multistrada 1260 Enduro, that I was gonna reach out to see if you wanted to borrow for video/review purposes, but I didn't see a way to properly reach out about it.

[@BikesnBBQ]

I've always gravitated to less complicated motorcycles and old enough that if the original Gen 1 was on my radar way back then I would have bought one. I ride my 22 adventure as a urban commuter mostly and here on Oahu it handles that task very well. If it rains I don't care and it sits tall enough to keep my head level with other heads driving SUV's. I've put 5500 miles on mine without a burp and it returns about 50-55mpg with a mix of freeway and city type riding. Good luck here with the channel.

[@distiking]

I bought 1 gen 2007 klr650c and i love it. Complete overhauled, serviced and spray painted. Not worth my efforts and money spent on the klr but if you like working on motorcycles klr is perfect for that. I wouldn't enjoy brand new expensive bike or even new klr as much as i enjoy mine and all the upgrades and mods i can do without worries about warranty or just simply being new :). Hayes manual is all you need. I never worked on an engine before and was able to overhaul top to bottom, replace all bearings, seals, piston etc just with that manual, it's so simple. Parts are super easy to obtain, but kinda expensive. I'm just for mikuni hrs tm42-6 pumper carby being shipped and the joy continues :)

[@juanhuttoe4517]

I hope the channel blows up...

[@yhakult]

Subscribed. You will be big Spite. I subscribed to your ex boss mostly because of you.

[@charlieorr5892]

This is my new favorite channel now! YN just ain’t the same without you

[@SquaficleDude]

I’ve got a 2022 KLR as my first bike. I’d love some “how to” content on wrenching on it, doohickeys, thermobobs, valves, chains, etc. Both basic and advanced content. I see videos all over the internet about it, but it would be cool to be a part of a community that has a good amount of KLR content. Kind of how Life of Burch has a thing for Rebels.

[@bluezhawg2104]

Advice, Buy good torque wrenches (not harbor freight) and a service manual. Follow procedures and ask questions. Be very careful of who you get how to tips from on You Tube... There are a bunch of hacks here that will have you visiting professionals such as myself to correct mistakes you will make.

[@markymarknj]

Spite, though I don't own a KLR, I have considered them. Though bikes like the BMW GS or the H-D Pan America are wondrous pieces of technology, you can't take them off road. They're big and heavy, so taking them off road is, I think, out of the question. With the KLR, you don't have to worry about it! Also, because it's a simple bike, if something goes wrong and you're in the Andes Mountains, you'll be able to get it fixed. With a big techno wonder like a GS, who knows? I don't think the bike needs changes, as they would ruin what the KLR is; what it needs is long term issues, like the Doohickey, FIXED already! Why couldn't Kawasaki have fixed these long standing issues decades ago? That and a sixth gear would be good for the bike. BTW, KLRs are NO SLOUCHES off road! I remember getting lost on Old Mine Road in NW NJ years ago when I had my ZRX1100. Though I was riding on a hard packed dirt road, my bike was clearly out of its element. Then along came a guy on a KLR and passed me like was standing still! The KLR was totally in its element. That, I think is the real beauty of the KLR; whether on road or off, the KLR has you covered... :)

[@brianrahuba6919]

Well I'm a DR fan so you won't get to many praises on the KLR from me . All I can say if you like the road more KLR is your ticket if you like off roading more then the asphalt the DR is your ticket and I believe the suspension is a tad better on the DR , ain't saying much though . But just my 2 cents that has no sense .....

[@mitchellbowman4393]

Haven't watched yn since he totally quit dirt videos, just subscribed here. Can't wait. I love all motorcycles for one reason or another.

[@jasonbehr7144]

Spite, More Dirt, ADV or just senseless rambling! Looking forward what you create, you can make it your own now! I've learned with my KTM, fix it yourself if you want it done right. I got burned as well from the Austin dealer, told I needed a top end, just need rejetting according to Slavens. Year later still running like a champ.

[@EricDeKirkwood99]

The KLR is especially relevent in 2022 because basically every other ADV bike costs like 15 grand or more by the time u are out the door.

[@chrispekel5709]

And you can't find them for sale

[@majorpay5058]

So the KLR is trying to be a dirt bike you can ride on the road, but my issue lies with the fact that, as far as I'm aware, they've never dealt with the failure of the doohickey. Also, for an offroad bike, 450 lbs is a lift, right? New subscriber... Just saw the announcement, and don't really have any thoughts on it, one way or another. If it bums you out, I'm bummed for you. If you look at it as an opportunity, well, congratulations.

[@chrispekel5709]

It's not an off-road bike. It's a crappy dirt roads bike, not a 'trail' bike. It's really a big commuter for getting across poor infrastructure countries and badly made roads, not for going up the side of a mountain - although it will do it if you're game. The fact it bottoms out over really rough tracks tells you everything about the design and what it is for

[@chrispekel5709]

That's just how it feels to me when I've ridden it. It's ok on pavement, good on dirt roads and kinda bad off-road (although if you're careful and don't rush it'll get through it)

[@majorpay5058]

@@chrispekel5709 Sounds like I'll be sticking to my dirt bikes for the dirt stuff. I've kind of found that dual purpose never truly means "dual purpose." Bought an XT 250 (primarily for my dad to ride with me - he's on the shorter side), and had to swap tires, and change sprockets, to get it off-road ready. 200 miles on a tank of gas is something, though...

[@SigmaSheepdog]

The KLR definitely makes sense. I'm a 59 year old Boomer and a bit old school and I really don't like the direction that the motorcycle market is going (and the car/truck market as well.) I don't like rider nanny's and I prefer to keep things simple. The only exceptions in my book are cruise control and EFI. At least the KLR EFI which is fine by me because carburetors suck and I'm tired of dealing with them. I'm in the market for a Yamaha T7 or a KLR, but it is highly likely that I'll end up with the KLR because I am starting to get cheap in my old age.

[@Mark-ou8nu]

If I got one, I would do the thermobob, but not the dohickey. It seems overblown. Anyway, good luck with the content and job hunt. I think you could be a motorcycle mechanic if you wanted to stay in the bike world, or just be a remote editor until the channel takes off.

[@timstich1052]

Loved this video, and still have fond memories of my stolen 1988 KLR-650. If you see one riding around in Colorado with hammered metal grey Krylon tank and plastics, it might be mine.

[@patrickgirouard1471]

Kawasaki with the KLR has enable many to ride and have no worries! The KLR is a legend and will continue to provide riders enjoyment and discoveries on two wheels. There are other bikes, but there is no other KLR!

[@neonsamurai1348]

The biggest issue is with the KLR650 is they did not fix the major decades old problems with it, which forces owners to go modify it themselves. I would never buy one because I HAVE to modify it so it doesn't die in 10k+miles. But if you like it great. Anyways subbed.

[@chrispekel5709]

It's a myth that they do to be honest, it's just a precaution

[@Mikethebike-ov1yp]

Agree. Big time. Doo Hickey is largely marketing hype aimed at paranoid people. Have had my 2018 for 4 years and 65000kms without upgrade. No probs and still purrs. Have spoken to many many specialist mechanics here in Oz and none have had to repair Doo Hickey related issues.

[@harlz31]

I already like your style of videos more than Yammie. Keep it up bro. I’ll be watching from Australia

[@lynnlittle8671]

New subscriber, after the YN news today. Keep up the good work!

[@humech]

I have achieved my dream bike, Tuareg 660, but I still look at these very fondly. Have been around older versions in the past on desert rides and they are great tanks, and have that kawasaki charm. Wouldn't mind owning one too but i have too many bikes already and it's too similar in use to the Tuareg.

[@satoshiborishi6898]

I just bought the 2023 adventure model and I love it

[@spitescorner]

Welcome to the cult lol

[@nephilymbass1]

Subscribed… Came over from watching you on YN. I’m about your size so seeing how you fit on bikes is actually really helpful to me. Hope you have the nuts to do some regular dual sport ADV content. I’m 40, my sport bike days are long gone.

[@edman79]

Another old video rewatched.

[@G-Man01]

Doohickey problem? Anyway, has anyone turned this into a supermoto?

[@davidrandall2742]

Great points. I think the klr650 is classic bike in its own time, and a '22+ injected adv is on my short list for my next bike.

[@Hansengineering]

Heyyyyaaaahhh I don't know you but you've popped up in my feed. Your intro graphic/music is like 90% too long IMO.

[@peterrussell798]

Your left blinker is on. 🤣. Still, I loved my Gen 1 and current Gen 2. Farkled the ‘17 so much, I may not get a Gen 3, although they are tempting. The KLR is a wonderful mule.

[@heinricheugenvonhelmbrecht6905]

My favor vehicles, which I am going to keep forever are KLR650 and Geo Tracker. Both are bulletproof, go anywhere off road, simple, cheap and easy to fix if needs

[@davegallo8166]

I've owned a gen 1 and currently own a gen 2 (18). The KLR is a great touring bike for anything that isn't an interstate. Mine is outfitted with crash bars, hard bags , rebuilt rear shock, 16 tooth front sprocket , and tkc80s to make it an adv build. I like mine, and it's the most fun you can have without dropping GSA money.

[@Hunter1st]

I tried to long to convince myself the klr650 was for me.... I really wanted one, then ended up looking at athe tenere 700, and then finally decided to get a super tenere. I do way more road and long distance trips than a klr650 or tenere700 would be good or and still having off road capability is nice.

[@dannytattooflash]

I have a 2022 KLR 650. I like the bike. Easy to ride. I weigh 252. 6-1. Alot of fun. I have the adventure with two panniers and rear top case. Great for a little grocery shopping. Holds enough for quite a few things.

[@nobbystyles4807]

made it here from yams channel. you cant buy the klr in the uk and i think thats a huge mistake. i think it would out sell the tenere 700. great work spite. keep me comin!

[@StardustADV]

I have been thinking of getting a KLR as an alternative bike, maybe I'll rent it out when I'm not riding it. I do have some questions though, since you own one. What tires would you recommend for 50/50 or even 40/60 riding? Is there any specific comfort mods you would recommend for the long haul?

[@Mikethebike-ov1yp]

Motoz tractionator GPS, Last forever, great grip off road, minimal tyre noise/vibration on road and well priced. Will not shift from these on my 2018 KLR

[@shadowghost1065]

Hey Spite, cool video! I always got a soft spot for those dorky/nerd bikes! I actually see one of these bikes in my business district quite frequently.

[@somatyk]

This is the beard content I'm looking for

[@feron450]

I love KLR’s it’s my favorite bike I’ve ever owned I went from a turbo hayabusa to a gen 2 KLR and I’ve had it ever since. Alex Chacón’s expedition south made me really want one and I don’t think I’ll ever be without one my gen 2 has 230,000 miles on it I bought it with 13,000 miles. It has never once left me stranded. Eventually I’ll retire the gen 2 maybe rebuild it for my son when he’s old enough and I’ll pickup a gen 3 here probably within the next year

[@mykol404]

I think so. I just bought a new 2024 KLR after buying a new 2023 Tenere. I just want them all.

[@dantelossantos7562]

I wanted the KLR as my first bike but i will take the himalayan 450 becose the KLR is not being sold in europe...

[@twowheelsandtattoos3012]

Just got my klr and I am loving it!!! Also a texas rider is you find yourself on east texas let's make this happen man!!!

[@bobbeck8697]

Hey SC ... I think you bought good. I have an old 90's KLR650 and am considering a new 2024 Adventure.

[@91camaro100]

Good luck with the new channel. Would love to see some moto-camping videos on the klr.

[@allans7281]

Love your reviews I must watch before you buy any motorcycle The KLR 650 reminds me of a police bike for off road. It’s just so wide

[@jakeverson21]

I have a 2007 I love it works great for me I'm 6'5 245 can handle off road like a dirt bike

[@fredpetit335]

The KLR 650 might not be relevant technologically compared to more advanced bikes but the KLR is still very relevant to people who cannot afford more expensive bikes so YES, the KLR is still relevant.

[@dirtjunkie459]

Could you go over some of the best upgrades for the gen 3s?

[@cmbscx1084]

I would throw down a Ben Franklin that a KLR can and will make it where any modern bike can for 75% less $$. I care about the experience more than what brought me to the experience. While the KLR is not as "Modern" as the big three adventure bikes i can have a KLR, X650L and a DR650 for the price of one of the "Modern" bikes and my smile will be much much bigger day 1 or day 100.

[@MisterOcclusion]

My first motorcycle was a 2010 KLR. If all I was going to do was commute, I’d still have it, even though it’s underpowered and that I’m pretty heavy for it at 240lbs. It’s still great for the 6 foot and over crowd. I thought they finally fixed the doohickey, though?

[@geraldscott4302]

As someone who has owned two KLR650s (both first generation models) the carbureted KLR650 is much more relevant today that it has ever been. In a world of computerized two wheeled trash, the carbureted KLR650 is a breath of fresh air (that does NOT apply to the new computerized model, but we still have the carbureted Suzuki DR650) It is still a real motorcycle. Sadly Kawasaki saw fit to destroy it in 2022. Either grab a used carbureted KLR650, or if you want new, a Suzuki DR650 NOW.

[@rasmuskrag]

Came here from that other channel. Subscribed! Looking forward to more of your in depth and well balanced motorcyclereviews. You always deliver and has given me a lot of insight and knowledge about the world of motorcycles. I hope you grow beyond your wildest dreams. You deserve it.

[@eminiscalperpro9729]

Forget the Dork HIckey, it is NOT a problem. How many gen 1's n gen 2's that have gone nearly 100k without any thermo bob or dork hickey upgrade. The guide material was updated for the gen 3, which was the actual problem, with the few that actually had an issue. The spring also has a slightly longer pull range. My 22 never has burned any oil. Now, if you are running high revs for extended periods, possibly maybe it uses a little oil. Haven't had that issue with mine. Brand New cars like an 80k BMW uses 1qt per 800 miles, Scion TC uses the same amount. It's a thumper, maybe you burn a little oil maybe not. Come on people you are grasping for straws to find fault with an excellent bike, which Kawasaki still provides us with to build up as we choose or to ride n njoy just like it is. You have an opportunity to buy a bike that will take you on many pleasurable experiences, so don't miss out b/c you are paranoid about the Dork Hickey... Don't be stupid