The KLR comes in two basic flavors, Gen1 and Gen2. The Gen1 KLR650 is a dual sport motorcycle intended for both paved and unpaved roads. The Gen1 KLR was first introduced in 1987 and did not get an update until 2007. The Gen1 KLR is usually referred to as more dirt oriented than the Gen2 because there are no large fairings to receive damage.

In 2008 the Gen2 KLR was introduced and was essentially the same motorcycle but with a more elaborate gauge cluster and larger fairing. The engine, brakes, swingarm and suspension have some very minor differences but the rest of the motorcycle is almost directly interchangeable. Gen2 motorcycles were known to have oil burning issues that plagued the KLR for many years. Some experts say that the issues stemmed from out of round cylinder bores, or poorly seating rings. There is not a known year mark where the oil burning issue ceases, but most cases are from 2008-2010 models.

Another known issue for the Gen1 and Gen2 klr650 is a balancer system that is somewhat prone to failure. In some cases this can be catastrophic. There are several companies that offer a replacement but I suggest you purchase a genuine Eagle Mikes brand balancer adjustment lever. This part is commonly referred to as the “doohickey”.

Tipping the scales at roughly 402 pounds wet weight the KLR is not a light bike. Once moving this weight is not as noticeable, and the motorcycle feels balanced. On road the KLR feels planted, although a little sluggish.

Adding preload to the shock helps the KLR to feel more planted in corners and handle heavier loads. The KLR does not have a full range of adjustments but it does have a preload adjuster that can be easily adjusted without special tools. Although, this adjuster is also prone to breaking.

The motor on the KLR is unique in the way it feels. The motor likes to be short shifted and not revved high, and feels most natural low in the rpm’s. You can nearly feel the “thump” of the cylinder while riding up hills or when accelerating hard. The KLR’s predictable nature helps keep traction in loose terrain and is easier on a newer rider who may enter an obstacle a gear high and need the extra low end torque.

The KLR needs a few things before it is worthy of a trip across the states, or around the world. The first invest should be a genuine Eagle Mikes “doohickey” upgrade. While ordering, another worthy investment would be a jet kit and subframe bolt upgrade kit. The factory subframe bolts on the KLR are weak and prone to breaking if loaded with saddlebags or ridden over washboard roads. The factory rear shock is weak at best and usually under sprung and dampened. It would be wise to upgrade the shock and fork springs for your weight. Also the factory skid plate is plastic so if you plan on serious offroading i suggest you look at another option like THESE.