I am sure there are more differences, but these are the 10 most significant differences I could think of. Please add more below ✌😁

@unclequack5445

Жыл бұрын

I own a 03 Gen 1 KLR it's obviously lighter do all the mods you can to improve it and its just as good as any dual sport at the price point mine is still running and its 2023 now yes Ive had to do all the maintenance expected to keep any bike running well I have already done all the mods and then some it still does what you'd expect from a KLR and still going strong yes I did 692cc top end also all E-Mike stuff.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

You're making me envious@@unclequack5445 I should have kept my 2007 :( Also did the E-Mike mods, carb mods, suspension. The bike was amazing.

In 8 years of riding motorcycles, this is the first time I've seen anyone other than me comment on instrument dials as an important design element that spends a significant amount of time in front of our eyes. I consider Gen1 (with these perfectly calibrated fonts paired with asymmetry) to be one of the best panels of all 600-650cc (nx650 is also good and Aprilia), it is completely incomprehensible how it was possible to make SUCH a terrifying panel in Gen2.

@crypticreality8484

20 күн бұрын

Near Montana? Selling a Gen 1 for $1900 😂 22k miles

I agree with all 10 points. I bought my Gen 1 in 2004. I spent just as much on after market parts (and labour) as I did on the cost of the new bike. I love my bike. It does everything I need.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

If I could buy my old 2007 back I’d do it in a heartbeat. Thanks for watching!

I love my Gen 1. It has a more rugged look and is closser to the KLR 600 Air Cooled Army Scout Motorcycle that was in use when I was in the Army in the Mid 1980's.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

I miss my Gen1!! I am looking for one again. Wow, the you must know the KLRs very well. That is awesome!

@crypticreality8484

20 күн бұрын

​@@GreaseAndGravelhave a 1989 with 22k miles. Problem is, I'm in Montana USA! Come to Montana and ride across Canada to Alaska and through Siberia as you make your way down through the Middle East and into the African continent which, you'll also have to cross!!! It'd probably make it too!!! As much as I like the look and power of the Gen 1, it's just a little bulky for me. I'm going to save for a DR 650.

Just got my 2008 klr650 w 10K miles. Trying to get back into riding after a 40 yr career. I love it. I just wish I didn’t have to drive like I am invisible. Be careful out there.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Geoff! Congrats on the KLR. I'd love to own a Gen2 one day too. I totally agree! Safety on the roads has become a real issue.

The best klr video yet. You ask for corrections/comments. Both gen1 and gen2 use a DC rectified AC alternator for charging however gen1 has an added ignition coil (sometimes called a magneto) at its stator powering a CDI ignition module ie. makes its own sauce no battery needed. To me that is a major advantage over the newer bikes.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it! I didn't know that about the Gen 1's ignition. I miss mine!!

@alexp.6406

Ай бұрын

Sad to see such regression. A bike like KLR should have a magneto and a kickstart!

#2 is HUGE for me. Thanks for the heads up!

I just bought a gen 1 and am looking forward to a great summer of riding. Thanks for the video, great information.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Congrats, Bernie! Enjoy your KLR.

@adseish

Жыл бұрын

I just got one also. It’s soo fun! I like the ride height, to me it feels like I am riding a giraffe. May I ask how much you paid for it?

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

@@adseish Enjoy your KLR man! I am very envious!

If had my gen1 for 2 years now and I'm so happy with my bike, it kills my lower back sometimes but other than that no complains, i an also almost done repainting my bike with some new mud guards on the front and back and it looks super sporty, but love the video thanks bud

The Gen 1 front forks are also a bit smaller in diameter than the Gen 2. I found this out when I had to replace a bent fork on my Gen 2 after a crash. I believe the Gen 2 and Gen 3 forks are the same though I could be mistaken.

@GreaseAndGravel

5 күн бұрын

Thanks for the info!!

Great video! I had a Gen1 many years ago and getting a Gen 2 tomorrow, so I'm quite excited! 😁

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

How are you enjoying the Gen 2? I've always wanted one ever since I test rode it in 2008.

@wilddogchilliandstuff5125

Жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Very nice! To tell the truth, I don't feel that much of a difference in the ride, but then it has been a few years. 😁

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

@@wilddogchilliandstuff5125 Luckily they didn't change much... :)

Good detailed info, thanks for an excellent video!

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Mike

Great Job Explaining - Very Useful Information - Thank You for Producing this Video !

@GreaseAndGravel

4 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it. If you're looking for a KLR, I hope you find a good one. Cheers

@MrJimgillnm

4 ай бұрын

Thank You G&G @@GreaseAndGravel

Just thinking...a white african english speaker with a french name talks about japanese bikes...how cool is that!?

I love my gen2 but it's much better since rebuilding the carb the way they did in the 80s, needle & jets, mixture... more kudos to Eagle Mike 👍🏻🤙🏼

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment. I've always wanted to own a Gen2. Yeah, Eagle Mike is awesome and a big reason these KLRs last so long (I think)

2 things I will disagree is that the braking on the gen 2 its much better. Also I like the gen 2 instrument design much better as I think they r much easier to read. I agree with rest. I like both in terms of looks. On my 5th KLR650 now a gen 2 2016 model. Had the 87 91 98 06 as well.

G'day, I've owned both Gen1 and Gen2.... in reverse order! I have a 1995 Gen1 now, IMHO my improvements (read accessories) this is better than the Gen2 I owned . As a man in his late 60's the biggest improvement/accessory/addition has been my side-car platform (it was a side-car with a seat and not much storage) Having the platform allows me to carry enough gear for my trip(s) It's well set up with dual battery power/enough charging outlets, all my camping gear, room for water, extra fuel and even a small fridge!

Awsome video, thank you!

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Thanks John!

Great Video!

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Ed!

Awesome video, was already thinking that I liked the Gen1 better over the Gen2, but this just solidified it. And honestly you're right the gen2 is ugly as hell imo

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Matt! Glad you found it useful. For me, the biggest single advantage of the Gen1 is that there is less damage when you drop it.

The Gen 3 still has the doohickey issue. Makes a nice key chain accessory but that's about all it's good for. Get the upgrade and look for it when buying used!!

Thanks for the info.

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Anytime! Let me know if you learn of more differences.

Tx brother! Looking at buying a gen 1

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

You’ll love it!

Thank you, have an 07 and trying to decide if upgrades would be worth it. Keep leaning towards, that it would be. Probably the biggest $$ upgrade would be cogent suspension and most notable. ??

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

If I still had my Gen 1 (2007) I'd keep it. I upgraded my front and rear suspension and it made a huge difference. The issue I have with the Gen 2 is that when you drop it, there is a bigger chance of damaging something (hard plastics, mostly). Then again, if you can get a Gen 2 for a good price, it could work out cheaper than upgrading the Gen 1. Let me know what you decide!

Can you tell me what is the difference between gen 1 and gen 2 head. One oil delivery to the cams isover the head near the plug. And the other cam oil delivery is on the carb side. Why? And what are there year for each??? Can you help??

I love my 08 gen 2 , had it for about 10 yrs now , mostly do 100 mile or less rides . other than the usual oil consumption, ive had zero problems . 29,000 k miles now

@GreaseAndGravel

7 ай бұрын

I still want to own one someday. They are great bikes!

Since 1987 KLR650A owner, I just did some minor maintenance, me 61 yo now, I keep the bike, still ok for me.36 years later….

@GreaseAndGravel

10 ай бұрын

It is an amazing bike and I still regret selling my 2007!

@RobertdeVries-trimaran-sailing

10 ай бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Just put LED headlight H4 and city in and all led front and rear and added LED running lights and second tail/brake light bar.....modern me!

Noce XT500 in the background. One my all time favorite thumpers.

@GreaseAndGravel

9 ай бұрын

My first bike was an XT500 with a 35 fuel tank. My two best friends also had XT's at the same time. Man, I should have kept it!

@tomkuhl4770

Ай бұрын

Believe that's a 2 stroke, maybe a DT 250. Look at the expansion chamber, and that small engine. Also, the early monoshock.

Does the Gen 1 have a carburetor or EFI? I’m doing research as to what works for me and right now KLR-650 Gen 1 is leading the the pack.

@snowyowlz5992

2 жыл бұрын

@Dual ADV Thank you, so I'll look at Gen 2.

What tires were on the gen 1? They look awesome.

@GreaseAndGravel

7 ай бұрын

I can’t remember which ones these were, but I often ran Dunlop D606s and loved them

I had a 2001 model and liked it ,now I'm looking at a 2009 model with 25000 k,I'm a little reluctant myself but the bike is mint and 3500 is what I can get it for canadian, it hard to pass up.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

I think all the KLRs were great! Hope you got the one you were looking at!

Im confused.. so you can't pop start (bump, push, whatever lol) the gen 2? I just seen videos of people doing it. I was always able to pop start my non EFI crotch rockets so why not the gen 2 klr 650? This is troubling me because thats a big plus to me for getting a carb bike.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

You can, but it will be more difficult due to having an alternator instead of a generator. Without a battery there’s no way

Working on a Gen 2 getting it back road worthy after son had a high speed get off in the rain.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

I hope your son is okay!!

Love my 1997

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

They are the best!

The swingarm is longer on the gen1 and gen3. I like the old Yamaha behind you!

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Ah, thanks! I didn't know that. I knew the Gen 2 was different, but didn't realize the length differs too. I wonder why they went for a shorter one again

@upsidedowndog1256

2 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel No, the gen2 is the shorter one!

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

@@upsidedowndog1256 Oops, I see now. Thanks!

is the main frame different?

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

As far as I know, yes. The swing-arm was different for sure... I will try to find out.

Question...Can a KLR Cmodel gas tank fit the KLR A model?.

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Hi Basil, I have no idea. 15 years ago I had to opposite quesiton... whether a model A tank can fit the C. Why do you want to go smaller?

@basilforsyth424

Жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel i have converted my Gen1 KLR to a supermoto. The riding i do does not need the need the standard big tank. I also have been doing a lot to help the KLR lose weight 😃

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

@@basilforsyth424 Ah, makes sense! Must be an awesome supermoto!

@basilforsyth424

Жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel i want to post a picture of it but i cant see where to do that.

@basilforsyth424

Жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Here is a listb of the mods Mikini VM38 carb, Honda CBR250r wheels, Unifilter, Supertrapp IDS2 exhaust (modified), Universal Headlight - Husqvarna 701 clone

How many miles is to many miles for the KLR 650 ❓

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

It depends on its maintenance and the condition of the balancer chain sprockets etc. Friend of mine did 280000km on his before it burnt due to exhaust valve clearance being out

I will never get rid of my gen one.

@GreaseAndGravel

4 ай бұрын

I miss mine every time a facebook memory of a trip pops up :( Enjoy yours!

what is considered high mileage for a klr?

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

It really depends on how it was maintained... a friend of mine did 280 000km on his... others kill it after 30 000km. You do need to check the condition of the balancer chain sprockets before buying... also, in cold climates the engine runs too cool.. so without the thermoBob mod, it might not last as long... here, in the hear, that's not an issue

@fxdf3696

Жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel Just bought a 2001 with dohikey replacement and thermo bob probably not needed in Australia, any ideas 👍

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

@@fxdf3696 Congrats on the KLR! If there aren't any funny noises coming from the engine (especially the side of the Doo), I think you're good. Check out the chats with Eagle Mike by Big Rock Moto. Very valuable info. Enjoy!

@tomvana4270

Жыл бұрын

2005 with 51.000 miles on it and completely original including doohickey. Maintenance and reset the doohickey every oil change.

@poweredbyrice5708

25 күн бұрын

@@tomvana4270 Exactly! That old pos mike started a rumor that he has a "solution" too lol

Is a 2006 KLR 650 in good condition worth $2800 ❓

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

I have no idea about the 2nd-hand US market.. hopefully someone else will comment here... in SA that they go for about $2200. But it is the right bike to get! I miss mine a lot!

Is there any fuel ijenctio ?

@GreaseAndGravel

2 жыл бұрын

Only on the Gen 3 that was recently launched... the Gen 1 and 2 are carbureted.

Have owned a Gen #2 for a while. I have Gen # 3 now 2023 much better bike Fuel Injection is a big update & the Dash

@GreaseAndGravel

7 ай бұрын

I wish they sold them here in SA... would have been my first choice

@alexp.6406

Ай бұрын

Can you push-start it if the battery is dead and you are in the middle of nowhere?

I have crash bar's and dropped it a couple of times and l have no damage. 😊

@GreaseAndGravel

3 ай бұрын

I dropped mine so many times, and it was fine even without crash bars. Had to zip tie the plastics a few times though :)

Lekker boet

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

✌

@fxdf3696

Жыл бұрын

👍

This is kind of a late video for 2021.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

Do you think so? I think people are going to buy Gen1&2 KLRs for many years to come 😜

@CoreyBrass

3 жыл бұрын

@@GreaseAndGravel absolutely! In fact I'm in the market. I probably should have said kind of late for 2021, yet well over due. I've not found a great video yet with someone comparing the pros and cons of each. I like the fairing of a Gen 2 but appropriate the utilitarian appearance of the Gen 1. I'd also like to travel in S. America and a video I watched talked about how the Gen 2 still has a bit of a modern look whereas the Gen 1 is clearly from the 80s and less appealing to thieves.

@GreaseAndGravel

3 жыл бұрын

@@CoreyBrass Ah, I hear you! I also couldn't believe there are no videos on the differences (e.g the alternator vs generator, and shorter springs I had to find out from a local KLR expert). I am also in the market for an old KLR and really can't decide between the two. I LOVED by Gen1, but I am kinda curious how the Gen2 will be long term. Good luck with the hunt!

@daveylocker8

3 жыл бұрын

I just bought a 2015 KLR day before yesterday with 2500 miles. These bikes are the equivalent of Chevy pickups of the 80s and 90s. You could practically rebuild them with parts from Walmart. Super practical. Sure there are 2022 mods coming available this summer, but by the time I got one and added all the necessary stuff to it, likely this year's season would be over. Most KLR guys would agree I think. Maybe next year I will sell this one at a $1k loss and upgrade, maybe not. That's the beauty of these. Practical and super economical.

@thesalsalthe

2 жыл бұрын

Nothing is late in motorcycles, only the riders, I started in 1965 at 15 years old, much dirt and street, still ride my 60’s dream bike a BMW, 2017RT. Ive wanted a KLR for years but never owned one, I’m thankful for info like this on old bikes, I like them much better.

The gen 2 has more charging output for the addition of accessories. I don’t know how much off the top of my head and I don’t want to lie to to you so I won’t guess but apparently it is significant. RIDE SAFE!!!!!!!

@GreaseAndGravel

Жыл бұрын

Yeah, the Gen 2 definitely has more output from the alternator. Cheers