Kawasaki KLR650: Difference between revisions

Browse history interactively ← Previous editContent deleted Content addedVisual WikitextInline

Revision as of 01:30, 2 February 2008 editSmackBot (talk \| contribs)3,734,324 editsm Date the maintenance tags or general fixes← Previous edit		Latest revision as of 17:22, 19 August 2024 edit undo159.2.153.202 (talk) Reworded water-cooled to liquid cooledTags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit
(352 intermediate revisions by more than 100 users not shown)
Line 1:		Line 1:
			{{Short description\|Sport motorcycle}}
	{{Infobox Motorcycle \| <!-- SCROLL DOWN TO EDIT THE ARTICLE -->
			{{Redirect\|KLR}}
	\| name=Kawasaki KLR650
			{{more citations needed\|date=August 2009}}
	\| image=]
	\| caption=
	\| manufacturer=]
	\| country=Japan
	\| production=1987-current
	\| length=2165mm
	\| width=?
	\| height=?
	\| weight=176kg claimed, 402lbs fully loaded actual
	\| suspension=Telescoping fork, Uni-Trak swingarm
	\| engine=Single Cylinder, Water Cooled, Four-Stroke, ], 4 valves
	\| power=33 kW
	\|fuel_capacity=6.1 U.S. ]s (23 ])
	\| top_speed=approx. 108mph, 175km/h (indicated)
	\| cc=651
	\| oil=2.6 U.S. ]s (2.5 L)
	\| compression=9.5 : 1
	}}

	The '''Kawasaki KLR650''' is a ~~dual-purpose~~ ] intended for ~~use on~~ both ~~paved~~ and ~~unpaved~~ ~~roads~~. It ~~has been~~ a long-standing model in ]'s lineup, having been introduced in ] and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. ~~Kawasaki, in releasing the much-anticipated~~ 2008 model, ~~introduced~~ the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception.		The '''Kawasaki KLR650''' is a {{cvt\|652\|cc}} ] intended for both ] and ] riding. It was a long-standing model in ]'s lineup, having been introduced in 1987 to replace the {{cvt\|564\|cc}} 1984–1986 '''Kawasaki KLR600''', and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. The 2008 model was the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception. It was built with a 652 cc ], ], dual-counterbalanced, single-cylinder, ] engine. The second significant redesign in 2022 added new features such as electronic ] and an ].

			The KLR is widely used as an inexpensive adventure/touring bike. The addition of luggage and personalized modifications (GPS, heated handgrips, larger windscreens) make it more functional on long trips. The bikes have been used for long distance and intercontinental trips, as well as full global circumnavigation rides e.g., by Dr. Gregory Frazier in 2001 and 2002.<ref>{{Citation
	The KLR650 is heavier than specialized off-road dirt bikes, but it can handle most conditions when ridden carefully by a skilled rider. Its 4-stroke ] dual-counter balanced, single-cylinder, water-cooled engine develops a claimed 44hp at the crank; typical measurements at the rear wheel are 35 horsepower. Typical fuel economy is 45 to 60 miles per U.S. gallon (3.9 to 4.7 L/100 km). It has a claimed 6.1 gallon (23 litre) fuel tank and a top speed of approximately 105 mph (160 km/h). This motorcycle is considered by many to be one of the best all-round motorcycles made {{Fact\|date=February 2008}}, with legions of fans and websites for support & add-ons. The KLR is widely used as an inexpensive adventure/touring bike. The addition of luggage and personalized modifications (GPS, heated handgrips, larger windscreens) make it more functional on long trips.
			\| date = August 30, 2002

			\| title = USA – American Roadkill, Shipping Bikes and BIG DOGS
	KLRs have been ridden to the Arctic, across North and South America, and throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia, as well as on full global circumnavigation rides (e.g., Dr. Gregory Frazier in 2001-2002<ref>
	{{Citation
	\| title = August 30, 2002: USA – American Roadkill, Shipping Bikes and BIG DOGS
	\| url = http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/gregfrazier/news/2002-08-30.shtml		\| url = http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/gregfrazier/news/2002-08-30.shtml
	\| ~~accessdate~~ = 2008-01-27 }}		\| access-date = 2008-01-27 }}
			</ref>
	</ref>). Nicknames include "Swamp Thing" "The Mule" and "The Tractor."{{Fact\|date=February 2007}}

	Note: While advertised capacity is 6.1 Gallons, usable gas tank capacity is approximately 5.6 gallons including reserve, because approximately one half gallon of fuel sits below the top of the ] intake tube within the tank, or on the other side of the main frame member, which divides the lowest portion of the tank into two lobes (the petcock draws only from one of these two lobes). In an emergency, this extra fuel can be utilized by tipping the bike on its side (nearly horizontal) allowing the fuel to slosh from one side of the tank to the other. This yields a maximum range of approximately 250-300 miles between fill-ups, depending on riding conditions.

			{{clear}}
	==Models==
	* '''KLR650-A''': model superseded KLR600 starting in 1987 and sold without major changes until the 2008 model in ], ] and ]
	* '''KLR650-B''' or '''Tengai''': was sold in the USA starting ] and in other countries for several years afterward
	* '''KLR650-C''': A more dirt-oriented motorcycle carrying stiffer 41mm front forks, smaller 14 liter fuel tank, and steel wheel rims.
	* The U.S. Military have KLR650s modified by Hayes Diversified Technologies to burn military-spec fuels including diesel. All-new engines were designed to replace the 4-stroke gasoline engines. See

			== First Generation (1987–2007) ==
	KLR650 Timeline

			{{Infobox Motorcycle
	==Specifications (2005 KLR650-A)==
			\| name=Kawasaki KLR650
	]
			\| image=]
	{\| class="wikitable"
			\| caption= 1995 KLR650
	\|+ Specifications for 2005 U.S. Model
			\| manufacturer=]
	\|-
			\| production=1987–2007
	! Engine Type
			\| assembly=] (1987–2001)<br>], ] (2001–2007)
	\| Single Cylinder, Water Cooled, Four-Stroke, ], 4 valves
			\| engine=652 cc ], ], ], ], ]
	\|-
			\| bore_stroke = {{cvt\|100\|×\|83\|mm\|1}}
	! Carburetion
			\| compression=9.5 : 1
	\| Keihin CVK-40 constant velocity carburetor
			\| power={{cvt\|36.5\|hp}} @ 6,100 rpm
	\|-
			\| torque = {{cvt\|35.2\|lbft}} @ 4,600 rpm
	! Displacement
			\| ignition = ]
	\| 651 ]
			\|fuel_delivery=] constant velocity carburetor
	\|-
			\| transmission=wet, 5 speed
	! Bore × Stroke
			\| suspension = Front 38mm Telescoping; Rear: ] swingarm
	\| 100 ] × 83 mm
			\| brakes = Front: ]<br/>Rear: disc
	\|-
			\| rake_trail = 28°, {{cvt\|111\|mm}}
	! Peak Power
			\| wheelbase = {{cvt\|9.4\|in}}
	\| 44 ] (33 ]) @ 6,000 ]
			\| length={{cvt\|2295\|mm}}
	\|-
			\| width={{cvt\|960\|mm}}
	! Peak Torque
			\| height={{cvt\|1350\|mm}}
	\| 34 ] (46 ]) @ 5,000 rpm
			\| seat_height={{cvt\|35\|in}}
	\|-
			\| dry_weight= {{cvt\|337\|lb\|kg\|\|lk=on}}
	! Compression Ratio
			\| wet_weight= {{cvt\|416\|lb\|kg\|\|lk=on}}
	\| 9.5 : 1
			\|fuel_capacity={{cvt\|6.1\|gal}}
	\|-
			\| oil_capacity={{cvt\|2.6\|USqt}}
	! Fuel Capacity
			}}
	\| 6.1 U.S. ]s (23 ])
	\|-
	! Oil Capacity
	\| 2.64 U.S. ]s (2.5 L)
	\|-
	! Charging System Output
	\| 238 ] @ 14 ]
	\|-
	! Seat Height
	\| 35.0 ] (88.9 cm)
	\|-
	! Dry Weight
	\| 337 ] (176 kg) claimed, 402 lbs wet weight actual
	\|-
	! ]
	\| 738 lb (330 kg)
	\|-
	! Tires
	\| Front: 90/90-21 in. Rear: 130/90-17 in.
	\|-
	! Brakes
	\| Front: 1 disc, 1 piston caliper; Rear: 1 disc, 1 piston caliper.
	\|-
	! Final drive
	\| 520×106 links O-Ring Chain
	\|}

			{{Multiple image
	==Sponsored organizations==
			\| direction = vertical
	Although rare, Kawasaki has chosen to offer KLR650's to a few select organizations that would put their bike to the test. These individuals have taken the bikes to some of the most remote locations in the world and have documented the journey on their websites. They include the following:
			\| image1 = klr650.jpg
			\| caption1 = 1998 KLR650 in its environment (the luggage is not standard)
			\| image2 = US Navy 030212-N-2379C-010 A member of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Special Operations Capable (SOC) waits his turn to onload his motorcycle for a helicopter flight into Kuwait.jpg
			\| caption2 = US Marine Corps KLR650 preparing to load onto a helicopter, 2003.
			\| align = left
			}}

			'''Variants'''
	* ]: 1997 trip to Latin America. Team Green provided support, parts, and service throughout Central and South America.

			* KLR650-A: The "A" model was introduced in 1987, based on its KLR600 predecessor (1984 to 1986). The "A" model remained nearly unchanged until the introduction of the 2008 model in USA, Canada, Australia and South Africa. It is not sold in Europe due to emission regulations.
	* ]: 2003 trip through 13 Latin America countries volunteering at hospitals, orphanages, Christian Missions and dental clinics. Kawasaki provided 2 brand new KLR 650's for this organization.
			* KLR650-B or Tengai: The Tengai got Adventure/Dakar styling, a full fairing blending into the tank, different sidepanels, and an unsprung front mudguard. It was sold in the US starting 1990 and in other countries for two years afterward – this could be classified as a separate model in its own right as the others are more trail bike orientated. Its name "Tengai" is a traditional Japanese saying which means "The End of The Sky."
			* KLR650-C: The "C" model gets completely new bodywork and is a more dirt-oriented motorcycle fitted with stiffer {{cvt\|41\|mm}} front forks, improved brakes, tubular engine guard, smaller {{cvt\|14\|L}} fuel tank, and steel wheel rims. Lacking a temperature gauge, it has an over-heat lamp.
			*The U.S. Military has KLR650s modified by Hayes Diversified Technologies to burn military-spec fuels including diesel. (]) All-new engines were designed to replace the 4-stroke gasoline engines.<ref></ref> The new engines employ the original unit-construction main cases and transmission, but with new piston, cylinder, and other components. The balancing system that is used in the gasoline KLR650 engines (to reduce engine vibration) was removed from the military diesel KLR engines. Some components of the military diesel version can be applied to "civilian" KLR650 models, such as the nonspillable absorbed glass mat battery which offers several advantages over the conventional unsealed KLR batteries.

			'''Incremental changes'''
	==Changes over the years==

	Aside from the paint job, not much changed between the 1987 introduction and the 2008 revisions. The key mechanical differences are:
			Aside from livery/colors, the 1st Generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign. The key differences are:<ref name=":2">{{Cite web \|date=September 3, 2018 \|title=KLR Timeline – 'A' and 'E' models \|url=http://watt-man.com/uploads/KLR_Timeline.pdf \|access-date=May 16, 2019 \|website=Watt-man \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190516203452/http://watt-man.com/uploads/KLR_Timeline.pdf \|archive-date=2019-05-16 \|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|last=Branch \|first=Ben \|date=2017-03-20 \|title=A Brief History of the Kawasaki KLR650 \|url=https://silodrome.com/brief-history-kawasaki-klr650 \|access-date=2019-05-16 \|website=Silodrome \|language=en-US}}</ref>
	* 1987: Crankshaft is unique to this year.		* 1987: Crankshaft is unique to this year.
	* 1988: Beefed up the engine cases with extra bolts between the crank and countershaft; crank has a different part number, and may be lighter.		* 1988: Beefed up the engine cases with extra bolts between the crank and countershaft; crank has a different part number, and may be lighter.
	* 1990: Countershaft improved with longer splines for increased engagement with sprocket.		* 1990: Countershaft improved with longer splines for increased engagement with sprocket.
	* 1992: Changes to front brake master cylinder.		* 1992: Changes to front brake master cylinder.
	* Mid-1996: Changed valve cover, added bracket to hold cam chain bumper; changed crank to heavier unit; improved clutch basket with more clutch ~~plates~~; changed countershaft sprocket retainer from slotted plate to large nut; changed ~~2nd~~ and ~~3rd~~ gear ratios. Kickstarter no longer fits with new clutch basket. ~~New~~ ~~left~~ ~~balancer~~ ~~weight/sprocket~~ ~~begins~~ ~~with~~ engine ~~#KLE650AE032206.~~		* Mid-1996: Changed valve cover, added bracket to hold cam chain bumper; changed crank to heavier unit; improved clutch basket with 1 more clutch plate; changed countershaft sprocket retainer from slotted plate to large nut; changed second and third gear ratios. Kickstarter no longer fits with new clutch basket. At least some early 1996 models had the matte black engine cases and covers rather than the later hammer-finished dark gray coloration found in the 1997 and later models.
			* 2001: Around this time final assembly moved from Japan to Thailand. All major parts still made in Japan.
	* (?) Service manual indicates higher charging system output; only part number change is the rotor. The new power rating is 17A/14V (238 W) @ 7000 rpm; the earlier one was 14A/14V (196 W) @ 8000 rpm (yes, above redline).
			* 2007: New shift lever
	* 2001(?) Final assembly shifts from Japan to Thailand. All major parts still made in Japan.

	* 2007: New shift lever

	* 2008: New fairing design, new instrument panel, redesigned handlebar control switches, new bar-end weights, revised powerband, revised suspension has reduced travel but with less static sag, new rear swingarm, new turn signals, larger petal-style vented brake rotors, new twin-piston rear brake caliper, increased radiator capacity, fork diameter increased from 38mm to 41mm, new headlight similar to that used on the ], new turn signals, larger luggage rack, firmer seat, larger-diameter wheel spokes
			{{clear}}

			==Second Generation (2008–2018)==
			{{Infobox Motorcycle
			\| name=Kawasaki KLR650
			\| image=]
			\| caption= 2009 KLR650
			\| manufacturer=]
			\| production=2008–2018
			\| assembly=], ] (2008–2018)
			\| engine=652 cc ], ], ], ], ]
			\| bore_stroke = {{cvt\|100\|×\|83\|mm\|1}}
			\| compression=9.5 : 1
			\| power={{cvt\|36.5\|hp}} @ 6,100 rpm
			\| torque = {{cvt\|35.2\|lbft}} @ 4,600 rpm
			\| ignition = ]
			\|fuel_delivery=] constant velocity carburetor
			\| transmission=wet, 5 speed
			\| suspension = Front 38mm Telescoping; Rear: ] swingarm
			\| brakes = Front: ]<br/>Rear: disc
			\| rake_trail = 28°, {{cvt\|111\|mm}}
			\| wheelbase = {{cvt\|58.3\|in}}
			\| length={{cvt\|2295\|mm}}
			\| width={{cvt\|960\|mm}}
			\| height={{cvt\|1350\|mm}}
			\| seat_height={{cvt\|35\|in}}
			\| dry_weight= {{cvt\|337\|lb\|kg\|\|lk=on}}
			\| wet_weight= {{cvt\|432.1\|lb\|kg\|\|lk=on}}
			\|fuel_capacity={{cvt\|6.1\|gal}}
			\| oil_capacity={{cvt\|2.6\|USqt}}
			}}

			In 2008 the KLR650 was extensively redesigned compared to the minor year over year updates seen throughout the first generation. A vast majority of the changes are comfort and quality of life improvements, rather than performance-related changes.

			'''Changes from first generation'''

			* New trim, fairings, and turn signals
			* New instrument panel and gauge cluster
			* Redesigned handlebar control switches
			* Twin-piston rear brake caliper (previously single piston)
			* ] upgraded to 17 A output, providing 36  additional watts
			* Reinforced idler-shaft lever (called the ] by KLR riders).<ref name="Catterson2014">{{Citation \|last=Catterson \|first=Brian \|title=2014.5 Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition, First Ride; Getting Better With Age \|date=April 24, 2014 \|url=http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/blogs/20145-kawasaki-klr650-new-edition-first-ride \|magazine=] \|access-date=June 21, 2015}}</ref>
			* Fork diameter increased from {{cvt\|38\|to\|41\|mm}}
			* New rear swingarm
			* Larger petal-style vented brake rotors (280mm/240mm)
			* Increased radiator capacity

			Other minor changes were also done, such as a dual beam headlight, larger luggage rack, firmer seat and larger-diameter wheel spokes. With the numerous changes and improvements, the second generation KLR gained {{cvt\|16\|lb}} of dry weight to the bike.


			'''Incremental changes'''

			During production of the second generation of KLR, the following changes were made:<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3" />
			* 2009: New piston rings are thinner and have more tension, resulting in a significant reduction in oil consumption.
			* Mid-2011: New clutch basket with only 6 clutch plates (vs 7 since 1996). The change starts at engine number KL650AEA72320.
			* 2014 1/2: (Mid year) The 41mm forks were upgraded to make the springs 40% firmer and to increase the firmness of the rebound damping by 27%. The ] rear linkage suspension were upgraded to provide a 63% increase spring rate and to increase the firmness of the rebound damping by 83%. Changes to the seat were made to make it narrower with a more tapered front. The width of the rear of the seat has been increased and has become less tapered.
			{{clear}}

			==Third Generation (2022–present)==

			{{Infobox Motorcycle
			\| name=Kawasaki KLR650
			\| image=]
			\| manufacturer=]
			\| production=2022–present
			\| assembly=], ]
			\| engine=652 cc ], ], ], ], ]
			\| bore_stroke = {{cvt\|100\|×\|83\|mm\|1}}
			\| compression=9.5 : 1
			\| power={{cvt\|40\|hp}} @ 6,100 rpm
			\| torque = {{cvt\|39.1\|lbft}} @ 4,500 rpm
			\| ignition = ]
			\| transmission=wet, 5 speed
			\| suspension = Front 41mm Telescoping; Rear: ] swingarm
			\| brakes = Front: disc<br/>Rear: disc
			\| rake_trail = 28°, {{cvt\|111\|mm}}
			\| wheelbase = {{cvt\|60.6\|in}}
			\| length={{cvt\|2295\|mm}}
			\| width={{cvt\|960\|mm}}
			\| height={{cvt\|1350\|mm}}
			\| seat_height={{cvt\|35\|in}}
			\| wet_weight=Non-ABS: {{cvt\|456.2\|lb}},<br>ABS: {{cvt\|460.6\|lb}}
			\|fuel_capacity={{cvt\|6.1\|gal}}
			\| oil_capacity={{cvt\|2.6\|USqt}}
			}}

			After 3 years of being out of production, the third generation of the KLR 650 was redesigned and unveiled on January 26, 2021.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=It’s Back! All-New Kawasaki KLR 650 Is Unveiled \|url=https://www.advpulse.com/adv-bikes/new-kawasaki-klr-650/}}</ref> The KLR650 was released at a price of {{FXConvert\|THA\|268500\|cursign=]}} in Thailand.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Kawasaki Motors Thailand – คาวาซากิ มอเตอร์ เอ็นเตอร์ไพรส์ (ประเทศไทย) \|url=https://www.kawasaki.co.th/en/download \|website=www.kawasaki.co.th}}</ref>

			'''Changes from second generation'''<ref></ref>
			* Carburetor replaced for electronic fuel injector system
			* ABS added (optional)
			* New bodywork, trim, and fairings
			* Adjustable windshield
			* LCD gauge cluster
			* Larger front disk brake
			* Alternator upgraded to 26 A output

			Other minor changes include new exhaust pipe diameter, revised cam profiles, and a new catalyzer. The third generation KLR gained {{cvt\|24\|lbs}} of dry weight to the bike.

			'''Variants'''

			KLR650-S: Introduced in 2023, this variation offers shorter foot pegs, higher hand grips, and a slightly slimmer seat.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=2023 Kawasaki KLR650 S First Look\|url=https://www.ultimatemotorcycling.com/2022/10/04/2023-kawasaki-klr650-s-first-look-6-lowered-fast-facts}}</ref>

			{{clear}}

	==References==		==References==
Line 118:		Line 183:

	==External links==		==External links==
			{{cleanup\|section\|reason=Miscellaneous commentary and citations need to be moved up into the article body\|date=May 2021}}
	*
			{{commons category\|Kawasaki KLR 650}}
	*
			*
	* KLRWorld.com
			*
	* The KLRWorld.com Forums
			*
	*
	*
	* KLR650 Review
	* in Minnesota Motorcycle Monthly
	* in Motorcycle Online

	]		{{Kawasaki motorcycles}}

	]		]
			]
	]
			]
	]

Latest revision as of 17:22, 19 August 2024

Sport motorcycle "KLR" redirects here. For other uses, see KLR (disambiguation).

This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.
Find sources: "Kawasaki KLR650" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (August 2009) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

The Kawasaki KLR650 is a 652 cc (39.8 cu in) dual-sport motorcycle intended for both on-road and off-road riding. It was a long-standing model in Kawasaki's lineup, having been introduced in 1987 to replace the 564 cc (34.4 cu in) 1984–1986 Kawasaki KLR600, and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. The 2008 model was the first significant redesign of the KLR650 since its inception. It was built with a 652 cc four-stroke, DOHC, dual-counterbalanced, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. The second significant redesign in 2022 added new features such as electronic fuel injection and an anti-lock braking system.

The KLR is widely used as an inexpensive adventure/touring bike. The addition of luggage and personalized modifications (GPS, heated handgrips, larger windscreens) make it more functional on long trips. The bikes have been used for long distance and intercontinental trips, as well as full global circumnavigation rides e.g., by Dr. Gregory Frazier in 2001 and 2002.

First Generation (1987–2007)

Type of motorcycle

Kawasaki KLR650
1995 KLR650
Manufacturer	Kawasaki
Production	1987–2007
Assembly	Japan (1987–2001) Rayong, Thailand (2001–2007)
Engine	652 cc single, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valves
Bore / stroke	100 mm × 83 mm (3.9 in × 3.3 in)
Compression ratio	9.5 : 1
Power	36.5 hp (27.2 kW) @ 6,100 rpm
Torque	35.2 lb⋅ft (47.7 N⋅m) @ 4,600 rpm
Ignition type	Electric start
Transmission	wet, 5 speed
Suspension	Front 38mm Telescoping; Rear: Uni-Trak swingarm
Brakes	Front: disc Rear: disc
Rake, trail	28°, 111 mm (4.4 in)
Wheelbase	9.4 in (240 mm)
Dimensions	L: 2,295 mm (90.4 in) W: 960 mm (38 in) H: 1,350 mm (53 in)
Seat height	35 in (890 mm)
Weight	337 lb (153 kg) (dry) 416 lb (189 kg) (wet)
Fuel capacity	6.1 US gal (23 L; 5.1 imp gal)
Oil capacity	2.6 US qt (2,500 ml)

1998 KLR650 in its environment (the luggage is not standard)

US Marine Corps KLR650 preparing to load onto a helicopter, 2003.

Variants

KLR650-A: The "A" model was introduced in 1987, based on its KLR600 predecessor (1984 to 1986). The "A" model remained nearly unchanged until the introduction of the 2008 model in USA, Canada, Australia and South Africa. It is not sold in Europe due to emission regulations.
KLR650-B or Tengai: The Tengai got Adventure/Dakar styling, a full fairing blending into the tank, different sidepanels, and an unsprung front mudguard. It was sold in the US starting 1990 and in other countries for two years afterward – this could be classified as a separate model in its own right as the others are more trail bike orientated. Its name "Tengai" is a traditional Japanese saying which means "The End of The Sky."
KLR650-C: The "C" model gets completely new bodywork and is a more dirt-oriented motorcycle fitted with stiffer 41 mm (1.6 in) front forks, improved brakes, tubular engine guard, smaller 14 L (3.1 imp gal; 3.7 US gal) fuel tank, and steel wheel rims. Lacking a temperature gauge, it has an over-heat lamp.
The U.S. Military has KLR650s modified by Hayes Diversified Technologies to burn military-spec fuels including diesel. (M1030M1) All-new engines were designed to replace the 4-stroke gasoline engines. The new engines employ the original unit-construction main cases and transmission, but with new piston, cylinder, and other components. The balancing system that is used in the gasoline KLR650 engines (to reduce engine vibration) was removed from the military diesel KLR engines. Some components of the military diesel version can be applied to "civilian" KLR650 models, such as the nonspillable absorbed glass mat battery which offers several advantages over the conventional unsealed KLR batteries.

Incremental changes

Aside from livery/colors, the 1st Generation KLR650 did not change much between its 1987 introduction and the 2008 redesign. The key differences are:

1987: Crankshaft is unique to this year.
1988: Beefed up the engine cases with extra bolts between the crank and countershaft; crank has a different part number, and may be lighter.
1990: Countershaft improved with longer splines for increased engagement with sprocket.
1992: Changes to front brake master cylinder.
Mid-1996: Changed valve cover, added bracket to hold cam chain bumper; changed crank to heavier unit; improved clutch basket with 1 more clutch plate; changed countershaft sprocket retainer from slotted plate to large nut; changed second and third gear ratios. Kickstarter no longer fits with new clutch basket. At least some early 1996 models had the matte black engine cases and covers rather than the later hammer-finished dark gray coloration found in the 1997 and later models.
2001: Around this time final assembly moved from Japan to Thailand. All major parts still made in Japan.
2007: New shift lever

Second Generation (2008–2018)

Type of motorcycle

Kawasaki KLR650
2009 KLR650
Manufacturer	Kawasaki
Production	2008–2018
Assembly	Rayong, Thailand (2008–2018)
Engine	652 cc single, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valves
Bore / stroke	100 mm × 83 mm (3.9 in × 3.3 in)
Compression ratio	9.5 : 1
Power	36.5 hp (27.2 kW) @ 6,100 rpm
Torque	35.2 lb⋅ft (47.7 N⋅m) @ 4,600 rpm
Ignition type	Electric start
Transmission	wet, 5 speed
Suspension	Front 38mm Telescoping; Rear: Uni-Trak swingarm
Brakes	Front: disc Rear: disc
Rake, trail	28°, 111 mm (4.4 in)
Wheelbase	58.3 in (1,480 mm)
Dimensions	L: 2,295 mm (90.4 in) W: 960 mm (38 in) H: 1,350 mm (53 in)
Seat height	35 in (890 mm)
Weight	337 lb (153 kg) (dry) 432.1 lb (196.0 kg) (wet)
Fuel capacity	6.1 US gal (23 L; 5.1 imp gal)
Oil capacity	2.6 US qt (2,500 ml)

In 2008 the KLR650 was extensively redesigned compared to the minor year over year updates seen throughout the first generation. A vast majority of the changes are comfort and quality of life improvements, rather than performance-related changes.

Changes from first generation

New trim, fairings, and turn signals
New instrument panel and gauge cluster
Redesigned handlebar control switches
Twin-piston rear brake caliper (previously single piston)
Alternator upgraded to 17 A output, providing 36 additional watts
Reinforced idler-shaft lever (called the doohickey by KLR riders).
Fork diameter increased from 38 to 41 mm (1.5 to 1.6 in)
New rear swingarm
Larger petal-style vented brake rotors (280mm/240mm)
Increased radiator capacity

Other minor changes were also done, such as a dual beam headlight, larger luggage rack, firmer seat and larger-diameter wheel spokes. With the numerous changes and improvements, the second generation KLR gained 16 lb (7.3 kg) of dry weight to the bike.

Incremental changes

During production of the second generation of KLR, the following changes were made:

2009: New piston rings are thinner and have more tension, resulting in a significant reduction in oil consumption.
Mid-2011: New clutch basket with only 6 clutch plates (vs 7 since 1996). The change starts at engine number KL650AEA72320.
2014 1/2: (Mid year) The 41mm forks were upgraded to make the springs 40% firmer and to increase the firmness of the rebound damping by 27%. The Uni-Trak rear linkage suspension were upgraded to provide a 63% increase spring rate and to increase the firmness of the rebound damping by 83%. Changes to the seat were made to make it narrower with a more tapered front. The width of the rear of the seat has been increased and has become less tapered.

Third Generation (2022–present)

Type of motorcycle

Kawasaki KLR650

Manufacturer	Kawasaki
Production	2022–present
Assembly	Rayong, Thailand
Engine	652 cc single, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valves
Bore / stroke	100 mm × 83 mm (3.9 in × 3.3 in)
Compression ratio	9.5 : 1
Power	40 hp (30 kW) @ 6,100 rpm
Torque	39.1 lb⋅ft (53.0 N⋅m) @ 4,500 rpm
Ignition type	Electric start
Transmission	wet, 5 speed
Suspension	Front 41mm Telescoping; Rear: Uni-Trak swingarm
Brakes	Front: disc Rear: disc
Rake, trail	28°, 111 mm (4.4 in)
Wheelbase	60.6 in (1,540 mm)
Dimensions	L: 2,295 mm (90.4 in) W: 960 mm (38 in) H: 1,350 mm (53 in)
Seat height	35 in (890 mm)
Weight	Non-ABS: 456.2 lb (206.9 kg), ABS: 460.6 lb (208.9 kg) (wet)
Fuel capacity	6.1 US gal (23 L; 5.1 imp gal)
Oil capacity	2.6 US qt (2,500 ml)

After 3 years of being out of production, the third generation of the KLR 650 was redesigned and unveiled on January 26, 2021. The KLR650 was released at a price of ฿268,500 (US$8,395.87) in Thailand.

Changes from second generation

Carburetor replaced for electronic fuel injector system
ABS added (optional)
New bodywork, trim, and fairings
Adjustable windshield
LCD gauge cluster
Larger front disk brake
Alternator upgraded to 26 A output

Other minor changes include new exhaust pipe diameter, revised cam profiles, and a new catalyzer. The third generation KLR gained 24 lb (11 kg) of dry weight to the bike.

Variants

KLR650-S: Introduced in 2023, this variation offers shorter foot pegs, higher hand grips, and a slightly slimmer seat.

References

USA – American Roadkill, Shipping Bikes and BIG DOGS, August 30, 2002, retrieved 2008-01-27
HDT KLR650s
^ "KLR Timeline – 'A' and 'E' models" (PDF). Watt-man. September 3, 2018. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2019-05-16. Retrieved May 16, 2019.
^ Branch, Ben (2017-03-20). "A Brief History of the Kawasaki KLR650". Silodrome. Retrieved 2019-05-16.
Catterson, Brian (April 24, 2014), "2014.5 Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition, First Ride; Getting Better With Age", Motorcyclist, retrieved June 21, 2015
"It's Back! All-New Kawasaki KLR 650 Is Unveiled".
"Kawasaki Motors Thailand – คาวาซากิ มอเตอร์ เอ็นเตอร์ไพรส์ (ประเทศไทย)". www.kawasaki.co.th.
KLR650 on Kawasaki.com
"2023 Kawasaki KLR650 S First Look".

External links

This section may require cleanup to meet Misplaced Pages's quality standards. The specific problem is: Miscellaneous commentary and citations need to be moved up into the article body. Please help improve this section if you can. (May 2021) (Learn how and when to remove this message)