Kawasaki KLR650 reviews

I always loved the KLR since it was introduced about 25 years ago. When the '08 model came out (which is the same as '09) I'll order one. However when I went into the store, I saw the previous model, a leftover '06. No fancy plastic and the ride height was much better suited for off-roading (mostly what I used the bike for!) so I decided to buy that instead of the new one. I did not regret it! This bike does everything well and I also got a nice discount! The only thing is it needs better brakes which I will fix when the time cones for replacement rotors and pads. Show less

I got this in May, after not being on a bike in 25 years. I have in four months put almost 5000 miles on it. It handles interstate, backroads, gravel without a hitch. I rode 1500 miles in one weekend from Missouri to NW Wisconsin and back, no trouble at all. I really loved the trip and the bike. Show less

This machine takes all road conditions in its stride. It may be an "ugly duckling" but once owned it easily becomes your most reliable best buddy and will take you anywhere with the greatest of ease. Look after it and it will look after you, guaranteed. Show less

It's fully broken in and running really well after meticulously following the break-in rpms. 46 mpg is typical for my riding style. I did extra oil changes at 250, 600 (service) and 1150. I will follow the schedule now. The rear tire is wearing fast. I'm now running 30+ pounds of pressure to help on road wear - also it helps the front end feel better when braking. So far 98% road riding and will air down off road - with nerf bars now ready to try more. I adjusted the shock to 4th position as I am heavy and occasionally take on a rider. I will back down to 3, but like the adjust-ability. I'm looking into a bigger wind screen for 55+mph riding and long term a more contoured seat, though the seat to me is cushioned well...just a shape thing. Show less

I am already looking into upgrading the seat and adding after market accessories. It was great dealing with the dealer here. Show less

I was torn between getting a street bike and a dual sport. I purchased a new 2009 KLR and am glad I did. We have a lot of logging roads in Southern Arkansas that you wouldn't dare take a street bike on. This bike gives me the freedom to hit the dirt when I want to. I use it as a commuter and the gas mileage is excellent. I am looking at upgrading to a higher windshield because the stock one hits me right in the kisser. Love my KLR. Show less

The KLR is great, I really don't have any problems with the bike at all. It seems just as much at home plugging down logging roads as it does going down the highway at 65 mph while getting 55 mpg. I love my bike and look forward to many more years with it. Show less

Almost daily use from the back roads in Elk City Idaho to the flat lands of Ritzville, Washington, this bike still delivers all the fun and excitement it did when I first rode it. Regular maintenance has kept the machine running like new. Absolutely no problems. I ride at 70 MPH between farms and fields, a 100 mile round trip. This bike can be a bit top heavy on USFS roads that are wet and muddy so be careful in the turns. This is a big, somewhat top heavy bike so some narrow, side hill trails should be treated with extreme caution. A good ride for a dual purpose if you keep the ride under 250 miles between rest stops. Kawasaki did a good job smoothing out the 1-cylinder engine. Show less

Have had my KLR for about one month now. Have nothing bad to say about it. Low cost and low maintanence cost compared to by previous bike. (BMW) Sit up high, see the world- be seen by the world. Slide back on the seat when the butt starts to hurt. Forget about switching to reserve, 6 gallon tank and 50+ mpg means you will give up before it does. Not a lot of wind protection, but if you want to stayout of the wind..buy a car. A GREAT bike for the money. Heck, buy two of em- they're cheap. Show less

2nd motorcycle I have ever owned. This machine is an excellent ride, you get a sore butt after 600 KM, but nothing a more longer journey seat can fix. I have the KLR 2009 in black, and I can tell you, you really appreciate this cycle. I was tossing between this cycle and a cruser type, but because I enjoy the Ontario North, I came to know that I needed a bike that can handle the off road. This is an allrounded bike, it does what most other cycles cannot do and the cost of this bike makes it # 1. I am very proud to own this machine. Show less