I have a 1999 KL650A with well over 60k miles. Em 685 kit installed. Doohickey has been replaced with EM torsion spring and lever (BALANCER Shaft chain tensioner, not the Camshaft Chain tensioner, common misconception). Great bike. Mainly because the design is so simple. Wouldn't hesitate to buy another. Long live the KLR!

I have a 2007 KLR with 40000 miles on it. I changed the dohicky as a precaution, not because I had to. I have ridden it on interstates to single tracks with a full load of camping gear. It is the most comfortable bike I have ever owned, and that is over 15 of all brands. I can ride 150 miles at a stretch without getting off to rest. It does use oil especially at sustained high speed (70-75) about 100 ml in 500 miles, I carry a quart on long trips. Oil usage increases as more miles are put on after a change. Maintenance: fork oil seals at about 20k for one side and 40k for the other. I had to rebuild the shock at about 30k, yes it’s possible. I had a lot of muddy off road in that 30k. The water pump seal needed replaced at about 30k. The chain and sprockets needed renewed at 25k. If you mount an after market center stand that bolts to the foot peg bolts you will lose your foot pegs the first time you go rock bashing. I modified my aftermarket skid plate so I could slide over rocks instead of smashing against the foot peg/center stand bolts. Since I installed lowering links lowering the bike two inches I probably aggravated this problem and I always remove the center stand if I plan on really a rough ride. Incidentally lowering really contributes to comfort and ride ability if you are not a six footer. I am five nine and also 86 years old. Jim Plumb

@johnstone495

5 жыл бұрын

@James Plumb I am looking at a KLR to handle business trips. Roughly 300 Miles at a time, couple times a week. In your experience do you think the KLR is capable of this type of constant riding. Like the idea of being able to stop over the weekend end and do some camping or something, but want to make sure it can handle 80 -90% highway usage.

@MattPerry

4 жыл бұрын

@@johnstone495 Can do it, but a V-strom 650, or a 1000 is much better for that type of riding. Buy the 1000, you will run 140 km/h on a easy way, low rpm´s. And if you wanna do 180 km/h no problem.

@johnstone495

4 жыл бұрын

Matt Perry I am a proud owner of a new Yamaha Super Tenere. Loving it!!!

@MattPerry

4 жыл бұрын

@@johnstone495 Yep, like i told you, for that kind of use, 1000cc or more, is the best. And that S. Tenere is very good, I am a proud owner of yamaha too, a XJR 1300. But Love the KLR 650.

@rhllnm

4 жыл бұрын

I'm thinking about lowering mine. I hate losing ground clearance but getting better foot placement on the ground would be good, and it might be easier to pick up. I'm 67 and 5'10" and typically loaded with camping gear. I have two 2007s. KLR #1 is in the process of becoming a rat scrambler.

My daughter and me drove to south america and back , 36,000 km. When we came back I did the doohickys , .mine was fine hers had a broken spring . BTW they were 2005 models .

I recently purchased a used 2018 KLR. I used your videos and others to research adventure bikes. My riding buddies own BMW'S but seem hesitant to take them off road. I've been a dirt biker most of my life and I've had a couple of street bikes. I bought the KLR so I could ride to the trail and then on the trail. I love my KLR. Thanks for the great info. Watching your videos inspired me to upload some of my own. Keep riding and stay safe

@dufflebaggz990

20 күн бұрын

Did you do the doohickey?

Every year is a good year with a KLR!!!!!💪💪

Your videos are one of the main reasons I am getting a KLR

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks I'm glad I could help you out!

The first Klr650 I had was a 1987 when I was a road rep for Kawasaki. The only problem I had with that year was blowing headlights. My current KLR is a 1993 and had NO problems! Great bike!

Just signed the paperwork on a 2017 with one mile on it. Picking it up next week and can't wait.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Let me know how you like it!

@techydog7854

5 жыл бұрын

@@SwankyCatProductions I rode it home today, just under 100 miles in light rain. It's one hell of a machine. I looked up your mirror video again because factory ones are pretty lame.

@naytbreeze

5 жыл бұрын

I have a 2017 and I love it....I’m 6’1 225 and it fits me perfect. Enjoy!

@wademoulton5109

5 жыл бұрын

2017 added a thermobo and it doesn't burn any oil. I love this bike. I'm 6ft 200lbs

Really is a jack of all trades bike. Love it for it’s simplicity and ugly good looks. Like the Benicio Del Toro of bikes.

Throw some "Lucas Oil Stabilizer" in the crankcase to help lesson the oil consumption. I have a 2008 KLR and it helps alot.

@Steve-yu6pq

5 жыл бұрын

Why does the stabilizer help? Just curious. I lose oil at high speeds

My Dad has a 2013, he got 2012, 45K miles it has a doo hickey put in at 5K, doesn't use very much oil. He also had a 09, he had 35K on it when sold, it didn't use much oil ether, it also had a doo hickey. He puts 1 tooth bigger on the front, aftermarket shock and springs, Corbin seats. Dealer checks valves every 15K

I have a 2005 KLR with 88000ks on it and haven't done the doo. Goes fine still and still doesn't burn oil. Owned it since new.

@LeftBelowTheRight

2 жыл бұрын

Im going to look at an 05 tonight, has 36 000 miles on it. Do-hickey replaced, looks well maintained. Guy wants $2500 Canadian. Think it is a risky deal? I plan to adventure bike around North America.

I had a 2015 and now I have a 2018 and neither bike seemed to have oil consumption issues. I have really enjoyed both bikes and for me they have been the perfect fit.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Hey KLR Cappy thank you for the input! They are great bikes!

Swanky, same here have had all kinds of bikes in 40 yrs of riding. KLR my favorite .

A word of advice. My fellow riders have the latest model KLR650 and found wear when changing the doohicky mod after around 15000 km. Best to do it if you haven't already.

If the KLR 650 had never been created there would be a huge hole in motorcycling as a whole. Apart from the vibes at highway speed there is nothing this bike cannot do that a BMW GS can do at a quarter of the price. I've owned 65 bikes in 56 years of riding, a KLR 650 holds a special place for me. Kawasaki will of course be replacing it with a new model but owning one is an experience to be sure.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

I have had multiple KLRs. Buy the newest version you can, take all of the California emissions crap off, replace the vacuum petcock, and ride the piss out of it. I did the doohickey and it didn't really need it. It's basically the same bike since 1987. I love my 2016 and have no issues.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the info!

@vincebarber6933

4 жыл бұрын

I just bought a 2016 about a week ago. I'm in CA so all the emissions crap has to stay, dangit. I love this bike. I've had numerous various bikes over the years and this is the one I want to keep for good. I plan on doing the doohickey, but I hear tell the stock part in this year is beefier, so I may just do the tension spring. I definitely plan to ride the piss out of it!!

160 pounds....you are right in the zone for the suspension rating! I was 217 when I bought mine, but..I'm 182 now! Woot! I've got the panniers, etc and I just felt that with that and if I have a pillion, ...I upgraded the rear spring. I left the "doohickey" alone, bought the bike new, added an extended warranty, so I felt like I was covered. I put 500 miles on the KLR last month, twice in one weekend and didn't see any oil usage.

@nikolasgunadi765

5 жыл бұрын

Share your diet tips, will you

@Ron_C

5 жыл бұрын

@@nikolasgunadi765 It's pretty simple. I started following the Keto diet lifestyle back in July of 2018

@Ron_C

5 жыл бұрын

@sea monkey I paid $400 for 24 months beyond the standard, so I bought it Sept of 2017 and it is good to Sept of 2020. The Plan Name changed from Kawasaki Good Times Protection Plan to Kawasaki Protection Plus. Do I recommend it...well, my wife felt that it was peace of mind, so.....it's really up to you. kpp.kawasaki.com/Whats-Covered

Langlade County....nice! I have family in Crivitz. LOVE it up there. I spent most of my summers as a kid up there on my aunt and uncles farm.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

That's awesome! I'd like to buy land and a cabin up there someday...right after I win rhetoric lottery haha.

I'm 50 and my son bought me a 2017 with 4000 on it. I layed it down the 1st day going up a hill...lol. It was my fault for riding tired though.

@SwankyCatProductions

3 жыл бұрын

That's awesome! If you don't drop your dual sport your not using it correctly haha.

I put highway pegs on my klr and really appreciated the extra foot position, especially on the highway.

Great vid dude - keep them coming

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you Scott!

Ben great review I got a 2015 and love it I have never had to add oil between changes I do highway and trail riding I did get rid of the breakin oil at 800 miles and went to a full synthetic right off no regrets some guys use Rotella with good results also . The susspention is fine Im 6'2 220 and load this thing up with all kinds of gear with no complaints. I did shorten the kick stand got rid of those mirrors that you could only see your shoulders with, new foot pegs drain plug etc thanks

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you! And thanks for sharing your experience with your bike too!

I’ve got a 2016 and I LOVE it! 2500 miles, ride my CBR1000f a lot, and it’s great on the highway and fun in the mountains. 6’3” 265 and it does whatever I want it to do! Since Kawasaki discontinued the KLR (wtf...), I’ll die with this bike lol

17K on my 2015 KLR (had 1 mile when I got her new).. 95% pavement, but the dirt that she goes on is fun, and so far 100% reliable!

Come to Australia and ride my 2018 KLR650 with bigger carby and sports pipe. It's a different animal.

Thanks for the Great video! I have had several KLRs over the years. I am currently riding a Blue 2009. I get a hunger for something with more horse power and end up trading but I Keep going back to the KLR, It's a Great motorcycle. Definitely the best Jack of all trades bike! But I have finally learned my lesson, I plan to keep this KLR and eventually buy a 2nd sport touring type motorcycle. Any way, I caved to the pressure and changed the doohickey and spring out but it was fine and did not really need it. But I figure it's a good investment and peace of mind. My KLR does burn a little oil, especially if I ride it over 70mph. I plan to eventually do the eagle Mike 685 kit, which is suppose to solve the oil burning issue. For now I just keep a check on the oil. Not a big deal. I highly recommend the KLR 650! 😀

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Great comments, thanks for sharing! I'm sort of at that place now, I love how dirt worthy and rugged the bike is but I find myself wanting something with another cylinder or two... can't beat the simplicity and do all attitude of the KLR though!

My '05 never burned a drop of oil ...great bike!!! I want another one. I miss being able to literally ride everywhere.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

How many miles did it have? I got mine with 10k and it was burning it right away. Yep they are pretty versatile!

@heretohear8662

5 жыл бұрын

1800 low miles when I bought it and 4200 low miles when I sold it. ...Good to hear from your channel! Peace!

@MotoAtheist

4 жыл бұрын

LOL! Yeah... when you never ride it, pretty good chance it won't burn any oil. DOH!

whuts up swanky cat its Saturday A.M. my klr is a 2015 all stock except exhaust over 4000 miles i have had no issue with the bike im 6.1 260lb so im happy with it so far have a great swanky weekend peace out.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Jay, thank you for sharing! Have a good one!

I’m buying one. I’ve been watching long enough!

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Dooooo it!

I think you nailed by adjusting that tensioner. It easy and I do it at every oil change and do a filter clean. I broke my bike in and did the original Kawasaki recommended break in. It’s got about 1000 miles on it now. 2nd oil change coming up AND for the oil freaks I’m using rotella

Love my klr650 brilliant first bike

Just got a 2001 KLR650 its my first bike and so far I love it.

@KJ6UXW

3 жыл бұрын

How's your 2001 doing Steven ?

@stevenyother8040

3 жыл бұрын

@@KJ6UXW its doing really good just getting ready to order some risers new handlebars grips and brush gaurds plus a few other odds and ends to get it ready for the season thanks for asking

2015 klr 4100 miles. A lot of dirt time on the back roads of Prescott AZ. No problems with suspension, oil, or dohickey yet. I did change the seat.

I love my two 2009s. Dirt tires on the dog runner and road tires on the other. They are identical except tires.

@Me-yh4uc

3 жыл бұрын

I’m looking at an 09 tomorrow. Has 14,000 on it. Have to drive 3 hrs but it looks good n only $2,400.

in 2005 new KLR650 (gen 1) I put 15,000 on it..never had an issue..oil change every 2k..keep the air filter clean..lube/adjust chain..the stock tires wear fast..(street use) avon gripsters work good or shinko 705....I now have a 2014.5 new edition (gen 2) Kawi made over 50 changes to this model..better cooling..better suspension..nice cushy seat..big rear rack.. dohicky improve..better wind protection..guage cluster.. ..gen 2,s are 50lbs heaver..I changed my front sprocket to a 16 tooth..(recommended) shinko tires 705,s..switched to full synth oil at 4k.. shifts smoother (noticeable)..replaced the kickstand with adjustable ( stock suks to long)..at the price these sell for hard to beat in the category DUEL SPORT..I fire road mine mostly..16 tooth sproket like adding a 6th gear.. 65mph purrs along at 4k rpm..60miles per gallon.. big ass tank =range..nice...just know.. KLR,s are NOT full blown street monsters.. OR full blown dirt monsters..for the average rider that wants to duel sport ride..they ARE..hard to beat..esp on a budget..IF you want more dirt orientation look at the Zuki DR650.. good vid SWANK..thankx :0) PS.. my 05 and my 14.5 did not have excessive oil burn issues..

@SwankyCatProductions

4 жыл бұрын

Good info, thanks!

@LeftBelowTheRight

2 жыл бұрын

Im going to look at an 05 tonight, has 36 000 miles on it. Do-hickey replaced, looks well maintained. Guy wants $2500 Canadian. Think it is a risky deal? I plan to adventure bike around North America.

It literally is one the best bikes on the market. I’ve never owned one but it will be my next. It’s great for a passenger too.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

All true! My wife says its the most comfortable bike I've owned.

Just bought the 2018 klr650 camo. Put 600 mile on it. Installing lower dash and emgo trunk this weekend. No problems yet besides not being able to ride as much as I want.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Awesome, thanks for sharing!

Hopefully I'm buying an '06 with 13k on it today. Depends if they are willing to part with it for 3k. :)

I'm on my third KLR650, a 2018 I just got in August. I've got about 7200 miles on it so far, still on the stock doohickey. Not burning oil. I did an Iron Butt SS 1000 mile ride in 90 degree weather and it might have burned a quarter of a quart of oil on that 1000 mile ride. Otherwise, I have never seen the oil level drop. My daily commute is 100 miles. So it's ridden quite a bit, usually 50-75 mph on my commute. I previously owned a 2009 that was quite an oil burner. I had to add a quart about every 1000-1500 miles. The 2014.5+ bike's seat and suspension upgrade is definitely noticeable and in a good way. My first KLR was a 1998. The second gen KLR, with the bulbous fairing, is much better on the highway. The slab-sided first gen KLRs were very susceptible to cross-winds and got thrown around by the turbulence coming off semis on the highway. The second gen, not so much.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Very good info, thank you for sharing!!!

@rhllnm

4 жыл бұрын

I got caught in some horrible wind here in NM once while headed home from a long trip and just pulled off and got a room. Still windy the next day but not insane.

My 2018 has 2500 miles on it now and no issues. I am one of five KLR owners at the company I work for. We all share first hand information with each other. Only one has had the doohickey done.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Sounds like a good place to work! Thanks for sharing!

Mine is just barely broken in @2800km. Still stock suspension. I am big. From reading the comments below I am in the same with Scratches comment. Great video Ben. Send some of that nice weather up here.✌️

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Hey Truckmanonfire thanks for the input I appreciate it! Ha ha I wish we still had it here! I think we might even have a chance of snow tonight, sure changed quick! Thank you!

@truckmanonfire

5 жыл бұрын

SWANKY CAT no kidding we were around 32F all day today here.

I know, i already commented, but I LOVE this video - you say things that most of us are thinking, but don't say (especially on video).

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Haha thank you!!! It gets some people riled up once in a while but I figure if it helps people who are in research mode then its worth it. Comments like yours make it all worth it as well, so thanks again!

great video, i agree love the bike currently taking mine arounf the world. only burns oil if i push it real hard (5,000 rpms +)

@rhllnm

4 жыл бұрын

That's when mine (2007) burns oil.

My '13 KLR was great. No complaints. I got a 14.5 for the seat and the suspension and I was disappointed . It handled weird at low speed and the suspension was sometimes too firm. Then got a 2017 and same low speed "weave". A friend bought one and it had the same problem. I would take my yellow '13 back any day. Newer isn't always better for everyone.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Hmm, I've never been on anything other than a new edition but I guess I can't say I know what you mean.

I've got 18,600 miles on my 2014.5. Did the Doohickey at about 15,000. The tensioner was tight but there was no more adjustment left on it. Yes mine burns a small amount of oil but not a lot. Love my KLR. 👍The only problem with her is that she's jealous of her new stablemate. A new Super Tenere.

@johnstone495

5 жыл бұрын

@GunfighterR1 I am looking at both the KLR and the Super Ten. Trying to decide if the price difference is worth it. I figure I will be doing 80% highway 10% City, 10% offload. I can get a brand new KLR and lots of upgrades for the price of a good used Super Ten. Since you have both, which would be your solo bike for the 80/20 usage I am looking it.

2005 KLR longer spacer in front fork tubes stiffened front up nicely. 8kg rear spring no longer bottoms out. Just did 3500k through central Australia a lot of desert sand riding and burnt 1litre of oil. The KLR didn’t miss a beat and very comfortable with stock seat.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Sounds like a great trip! Thank you for sharing!

Made sure I got the new edition as well (2015). I'm a BIG guy.. The seat is fine cushion-wise, and I need the height cause I'm 6'4". No oil burning yet, at 4k. I replaced the rear spring (top gun 9.3k) and dropped in Progressive Front Springs. Ben, you're the perfect weight for the stock suspension. But for bigger guys, I would recommend Progressive Front Springs and either a Top Gun 7.4 or 8.0 kg rear spring.

@truckmanonfire

5 жыл бұрын

Rob Rides Carolina those upgrades I am planning to do this winter. I’m 6’2” but only 31” inseam lol. I am afraid if I do the rear spring it will be a pain getting on lol.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Great info Rob thank you for sharing!

BTW, the radiator fan is different on the NE and I suppose the radiator as well.

They upgraded the doohickey itself but the spring is still too long it doesn't pull any tension on the adjuster after its first adjustment I really recommend the torsion spring because it won't run out of tension and won't fall off and go into your crankcase

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Hmm yeah that doesn't sound good. Perhaps I should take a peek in there this winter.

@MrCheaterpipe

5 жыл бұрын

SWANKY CAT it's cheap insurance against a known problem and buys you a little peace of mind knowing it's done and not having to worry about it

3200 miles and it dose not use a drop of oil, my 2017 KLR I took it one 700 mile trip running 75 and no problem keeping up with other bikes.

Lol he called the boulders baby heads !

Swanky, I have a 2013, daily rider, and I'm 6 3" so soft fork springs, I will change to Progressive springs and cap adjusters, the rear shock is fine, uses 200 mls , every 1000kms, that's normal with a lot of other bikes too, the seat is crap, 2013 back are to narrow and to hard, stock batteries are crap, changed to a Mottobatt AGM, starts cleanly, I'm at 15000kms, have had a dealer service, were going to get the Doohickey put in, supplied Eagle Mike parts, dealer talked me out it, still will get a good mechanic to do it, ( I don't touch engine internals,) you can get it so wrong), Kawasaki never fixed it, stock spring still breaks, hopefully they get on with a new bike range without poor design issues like this.

99770 new clutch and ignition coil looks like 100k runs like 10k love it

I want one so badly.

Fun always

Personally I like the 07 and back...the old styling....more of a dirt bike

@MotoAtheist

4 жыл бұрын

Same here! The new plastics are crap and easily broken.

@jseden

3 жыл бұрын

I strongly agree.. I like the square headlight and less "futuristic" fairing.. the 08+ headlight assembly is gross looking. I also just hate funky shaped headlights on all vehicles tho. Round or square just always looks better imo.

I have had the 2013 and the 2015 and the 2015 is soooooooo much better than the previous models. I am very comfortable on the new models seat. The suspension is great on the newer model is actually really good also.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Awesome perspective thank you for sharing! New Edition is the way to go!

Have 2008 have not changed doohickey 70 k on her everything original. Just put 14 tooth sprocket and rear. Alot more torque. Brings front off ground no problem. No issues....

With the doohickey I put my engine to TDC and loosen doo bolt then tighten because in order to get slack on the chain you have to put engine in TDC. If you don't it doesn't pull the slack when you loosen the bolt.

@gregn489

5 жыл бұрын

TDC - Top Dead Center?

I had a brand new 07 then I had an 2012...tough as nails bro

I have a 2008 with around 12,000 miles. It uses oil but runs great. I noticed just tonight that there is a factory hole in the cylinder head that is weeping oil (I think). The hole is directly beneath a fitting that extends from the top.

@johncummins3860

Жыл бұрын

There's a drain hole from the bottom of the sparkplug well to the outside - it could be that!

At 5’10 60kg my KLR doesn’t even know its being ridden. It’s like a dog on a long leash taking the owner a walk. Great vid Swanky.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Ha ha that is a very good analogy and I know the feeling! Thanks!

2006 best year....most of the problems from 87 had been sorted out👌👌👌

@feral664

Жыл бұрын

I'm looking at an 06 next week. Anything in particular I should pay attention to?

@detomasopantera1966

Жыл бұрын

@@feral664 the rear shock if it's worn out,if it's ridden on dirt a lot look at the frame and ask for oil changes maintenance records if available... If you have already got it change the fluids check chain sprockets and brakes...

Love the video. What mirrors are those? Niiice

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

They are actually a non name brand if I remember right. There should be a link for them in the description of this video...if there's not I will add it haha.

@Zerzil1974

5 жыл бұрын

No, it was there (amongst the million links - LOL). I just didn't clue in and expand the description. Very thorough. Thanks! :)

Just bought the last (New) 2018 KLR my dealership in Ottawa Ontario will ever sell.

@ted356

4 жыл бұрын

There are a couple dealers within 100 miles of here who still have "new" 2018s. Wonder if Kawasaki over produced knowing the demand would still be there for a long time? Does a 2018 still come with any warranty?

Going to Minocqua for the beef festival today.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Nice! I don't think I've ever even heard of that. I hope it's inside, it's cold out there today!

@tippytailmckitty2658

5 жыл бұрын

It was good. The cold killed the bugs. It was called Beeforama Festival. The brisket sandwich was good. Lots of people dressed as cows. The only color we saw was past Stevens Point.

@GrtSatan

5 жыл бұрын

Up here it's known as Gay Pride Week.

I got a 2013 did the doohickey it ain't as loud as it was down low now also did the thermobob the temperature does not run as cool as it did

I bought my 17 KLR 650 brand new, have 3500 km on mine, hasn't burnt an ounce of oil, I check before every ride. I am 6'3 235 and I haven't had any suspension concerns thus far. Only gripe I have is the plastic is sort a a pain to put back on once taken off, it's like you have to fight to line up the holes just right, pretty minor but annoying, my DRZ 400 never had that issue. Thanks

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing! Yeah plastics are a bit of a pain to get back on.

80021 mine`s running very good

@SwankyCatProductions

3 жыл бұрын

Wow that's awesome!

Have you ever ridden the NHAL forest routes?

I have a 2017 KLR650. I took out the petcock valve and replaced with one from a Yamaha(no vacuum line needed). This allowed me to change the fuel filter from the inline (Smaller than a pencil) to a "normal" filter. No oil burning. I ride primarily on city streets. No issues with the doohickey. I don't like the front break. Too week. The front suspension seems a bit soft for me.6`2" 225lbs. But I've spent the last 40 years riding dirt bikes. I don't like the seat. My ass is sore after about 1 hour. The thing I disliked the most about my KLR was the foot pegs. Way too slippery. I put some steel dirt bike type ones on there and there great. I will be moving to Yuma AZ soon and am looking to doing lots of exploring out in the desert. Ill let you all know how that goes. :)

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for all the great info! Exploring AZ on a KLR sounds like a blast! Sounds good!

@raizlc

5 жыл бұрын

The foot peg upgrade is mandatory as is a seat upgrade (for me).

"Big Boar" single cylinder, Oink! Oink! Hahaha

Burn oil? Pfft....just spend a Saturday during the winter pulling the head to put new rings in and be on your way. Try doing that with an equivalent BMW. These things are the tractors of the bike world-function over aesthetics and designed to be used and abused yet simple enough to forgive lack of maintenance with a not too involved fix. Sounds like some old IH tractors my Dad and I are very fond of for the same reasons.

Hi my name's Ron I live in Sarnia,Ontario l bought It brand new 2018 KLR I absolutely love this machine I'm do for new tires I ride a lot of trails and gravel roads and a course highways too What do you recommend in a 50/50 tire I only got 4000 km out of the dunlops that it came with l think that's pretty bad

@ronpetrany6425

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you

it does burn oil! sadly but if you keep up on putting oil in it it will survive . hell i have an oil streak out of my house where i lost my oil plug and drained every last drop oil from this bike but it still starts and runs even though i saw the last oil drop drip out of it. maybe its oil consumption is a tested to its durability. the klr catching fire, it drowning it in a pool, it having carburetor issues, non of that has efficiently killed this bike even after 220k miles, it is a bike ment to last. it is a bike that will go if you put the effort into it! it will go if you want it!

KLR 650s don’t have a good thermostat system, they fluctuate hot and cold coolant from the bottom of the cylinder to the top. it warps the cylinder then it starts to burn oil. I put a term-a-bob 2 on mine, never burns oil and runs very good. Stays at a constant 190 deg (Rejeted, new pipe, modified air box and uni three stage air filter) this bike runs hard for a big thumper.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Huh yeah I suppose that makes sense. Mine had 10k miles on it when I picked it up so it was to late even then but thank you for sharing!

@wademoulton5109

5 жыл бұрын

I cant reccomend the thermobob enough if you know what the stock cooling system cold shocking the system can do to the motor you realize this is a must have upgrade I got lucky and learned about this before I purchased my bike from a fellow klr owner and installed it right when I got the bike. Easy to install and the benefits are clear especially if you live or ride during the colder seasons. I live in upstate NY and another klr rider still has not done this upgrade and during a ride on the ice maybe around 15 deg F jis needle never left the C on the temp gauge while mine stayed right in the middle around 180-190.

They won't burn oil at all unless the air filter is filthy. It will also get bad fuel milage if the air filter is dirty. Over oiling the air filter will also give the same effects as a dirty air filter.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Hmm I've never noticed cleaning my filter making any difference in oil consumption but I'll have to pay attention next time I clean it.

Hey Ben mine is a 09 and I did the doo plus my year had the deep hole proper. I don't burn a lot of oil but it does go down after several long rides.it now has32000 km.Oh I haven't done a valve adjustment yet.on the do list

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Ian! Mine really isn't too bad on oil either, just drops after a few long high speed rides.

@ianferrier235

5 жыл бұрын

No problem Ben enjoy your stuff 👍👍

IV bag of oil hanging from the handle bars? Check. Wearing elevator shoes? Check. Orange triangle mounted to luggage rack? Check. Dohickies, thingamobobs, and witcestats adjusted? Check. I’ll take it! Is cash OK?

As someone who did the Dohickey on my 09. The main issues it the spring breaks. If you dig deep enough in a service manual. There is a service interval on the spring. On 07 and older the balance lever was a two pieces welded together. The 08 and up it is now a one piece. The oil burn is more known in the 08 because the oil rings was under sized. The fix for the 08 was to order oil rings from the 2009 and up But at some point they will all start to burn oil. around 50 to 60 thousand miles the bore will start to get egg shaped. Its just natural for a single piston bike

I have a new edition and did change out the doohicky around 14k. after the first 3k miles the bike had more of an engine rattle. after the fix i had no more rattle. probably wasn't going to be a big deal to leave it in there but things feel smother now, but that could be just in my head. its and important upgrade but you can get by without trouble without it. (unless it actually breaks). The bike only burned oil above 5k ish rpm. i have since FIXED it. its not that hard, all i did was drill out the banjo bolts and restrict oil to the piston. just put JB weld in the oil filter cap oil hole that goes to the piston. then drill out his suggested size. no tapping and trying to find a fitting, just JB weld and a drill. haven't noticed any low amounts of oil when im changing the oil. its always just about where i filled it to. my only side effective is that the engine runs a bit hotter. well within the bikes colling system ability but on a 90F day riding 70mph the temp would sit closer to 210 insted of 180. still within normal levels, not hurting anything... less oil on the piston walls to aid in cooling. still providing adequate lubrication. 4k miles later i still get 50mpg. if there was a lubrication problem i wouldn't have found out by now. the link below is gold. www.souperdoo.com/stuff%20that%20i%20think%20about/paul-westman-s-mods-to-fight-oil-burning

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

I've not heard of that but it is an interesting concept. Makes sense that cutting off the oil to the leak point would stop the leaking. I'm not sure I'm as brave as you but it sounds like it's working out well. Would be nice not to have to check oil level every other ride.... thanks for sharing!

Just got my first 2009 Klr 650 in Minnesota with 10110 miles for $4000 it’s nicer than me🏆

Buying one verry soon like days away frome it and will change the doohicky just to be safe .

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Not a bad idea, won't have to worry about it then. Thank you for sharing!

What kind of windshield you have on that bike?

I just picked up a 2006 from a guy that said that when he tried to start it the starter stayed engaged after engine started. When I pushed the starter button the starter solenoid just clicked also there is a senior next to the spark plug that the wiring is missing I assume that's the oil pressure gauge I can't find a wire that goes to it if anyone knows what the problem is before I start tinkering let me know

I bought my klr 650 new back in 2016 because my little klr250 2001 was giving me problems. Just old age and abuse from previous owners. As far as oil consumption yes my bike burns but I've heard through eagle Mike's web site theirs a 680 kit which should eliminate the problem. The do hickey is still factory and I'm coming up on 21k miles. Only after market on my bike is taller wind shield, crash bars, bigger radiator due to an incident when I didn't have crash bars, v and lowering looks

@SwankyCatProductions

4 жыл бұрын

Good to know about the Doo. I'm coming up on 20k with no issues. Have you been loosening that bolt to let the doohicky tension itself? I never knew about it until MasonsADV did a video on it lol.

hi mate, its been a bit more than a year since you made this video.. just wanted to ask you about the doohickey? have you done such change? or the beast is still running.. :) let me know.. I own a klr650 2015, with 13k miles on it.. I got it used with almost 4k miles... havent made the doohickey yet.. cheers mate!

@SwankyCatProductions

4 жыл бұрын

Hey! I have not changed it and don't plan on it unless something changes. One thing that I learned recently is that you need to loosen up the exterior bolt that holds the tensioner in place and then wrap on the side of the case to let the tension spring do its job. Then re torque the bolt. It's in the owners manual and is supposed to be done every oil change I believe. Hope that helps!

2017 with 7700 miles and it burns about a quart between changes - I broke it in exactly as said in the manual - oh well - no biggie - just add some oil every now and then

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing!

I m thinking to purchase a klr 2001 seems very well by his owner do you think it is a good or bad year for this bike. I came from superbikes 600 cc and cruisers. Want to try dual sport

Not really a klr but it has Similarities. I have a 93 klx650 and I love it!

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Mmm that's pretty darn close to a KLR. Idk the particulars but I think the only big difference is the fairing around the headlight. I believe the frame and motor are exactly the same. Even 21 years later my bike has the same frame and motor design, just updated plastics. They are great bikes!

@MattPerry

4 жыл бұрын

@@SwankyCatProductions Nop, the KLX is more dirt oriented, engine is different too.

I have a 2018 just hit 1000 miles THE SEAT SUCKS ...and hate the way the clutch grabs all the way out other than that no complaints

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment Steve! I've started my clutch cable a few times and I think I finally have it where I like it 3 years later ha ha.

Just curious I read that NE, has many changes, as well as eternal engine parts etc. Or did I miss read an article?

@SwankyCatProductions

4 жыл бұрын

I've heard they are supposed to have a better doohicky but I'm not certain.

didn't know there were awesome trails up in langlade! where are some of the trail heads? ill be up that way in 2020. I'm from the Green Bay area and dont have time to go up this year.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

There are actually 3 or 4 large trail systems there. They are spread out all over, most run on the county land. They should have a trail map on there website. They are worth the trip!

@evanhoffman8671

5 жыл бұрын

@@SwankyCatProductions awesome! I know about the trail system up by crivitz, but I haven't seen much more than just gravel road there.

I'm 6'1 220 and I also have no issue with the suspension but then again I have no idea what a good suspension feels like! Or a bad one for that matter!

@Eldofarmboy

5 жыл бұрын

I'm 6'1" and 220 pounds also. My 2012 handled my weight just fine even on the track

@phillyfyre

5 жыл бұрын

6'2" 245 and 32" inseam. Fits me fine, suspension is good for one up, never tried two up and that's on a 2018

@Eldofarmboy

5 жыл бұрын

Dave Gallo two up is fine. I used to take my ex on weekend camping trips all the time

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Scratch!

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for confirming Scatch's story Woodland Tactical!

2006 12k looking for a axle adjusters for cheap is harder then it should be.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

For adjusting the chain?

Hey Swanky, I have 27,314 miles 2009 have not changed the doo...my buddy who I adventure ride all of Mexico with has a 2008 with iver 35,000 and same doo. We dont know what to do. ??????

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Alberto! Sounds like your getting lots of miles out of your bikes!

I just bought a brand new 2018 KLR650 and its already drank 1/2 Qt of Castrol GTX. Maybe its break in consumption. Not sure. But I'll keep an eye on it and see what happens.

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

I'm not sure how that works during break in but one thing I've heard is that the cooing system causes warping which leads to oil consumption. I've been told the thermabob mod can help stop that but I have no personal experience, just passing it on. Might be worth looking into? Ride safe and enjoy it either way!

@pinkiewerewolf

5 жыл бұрын

What does the dealership say? That would be my first stop to figuring it out. Seems I never hear KLR riders asking the company what's up. I understand the McGiver urge is strong but make em stand behind the sale. At least for a year.

Had a 2013, never burned oil put 14000 on it. Always worried about the doo- hicky

@SwankyCatProductions

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

the only thing they did right was the 6 gallon capacity, weezy power, mine used oil bad, needs to be 100lbs lighter