Author Topic: What do I need to know about KLRs? (Read 1836 times)

Cookie · « **on:** February 14, 2020, 06:44:17 PM »

So, obviously my meth business has taken off and is booming. The new Ural will be here soon and I was also thinking about adding a KLR to the herd. What do I need to know about these beasts? I've always wanted a beat to shit KLR to beat to shit even harder. School me please.

Andrew · « **Reply #1 on:** February 14, 2020, 08:25:42 PM »

Pre 06 650s are true off road heavy bikes
Post 05 more roadworthy heavy bikes and lots of expensive plastic

I am 6'2" and road an 06 from jersey to CA, sold it because it was just too small for me. If you are shorter than me might be a good BTSOUIT heavy bike.
They can chunk out the miles just don't expect to break any speed limits. Did I say heavy bike.

Parts are cheepish. Milk crate is mandatory, for bonus points hang the box with bungee cords.

DooHicky upgrade is money well spent, Thurmo-Bob also a good upgrade, Subframe bolts should be removed and replaced with a drill out and rod replacement if you plan on weighing it down (filling the milkcrate).

Fun little bikes, one can beat the shit out of ya just ain't going to do it at speed.

Vulcanbill · « **Reply #2 on:** February 14, 2020, 08:47:58 PM »

Define beat. Like real trails and true off-road stuff and doing sweet jumps in your yard or just general abuse like gravel and fire roads?

Meemuh · « **Reply #3 on:** February 14, 2020, 09:38:51 PM »

I loved mine, suspension is a little soft it you beat it hard, or have gotten super fat. I’ll second the comments about the doohickey...
But you can beat the crap out of it and not feel bad about it. I’d gladly get another one.

Plus, they ride over cats without any hesitation.

Baxter · « **Reply #4 on:** February 14, 2020, 10:33:28 PM »

I never owned one, but here's what you probably need to know: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvGZS5fqxrk

squeezer · « **Reply #5 on:** February 14, 2020, 11:17:06 PM »

The KLR will be a big step up in tech from the Ural.

Seriously, I've always had a soft spot for the pre-06 ones, It seems like you just can't break them. I wouldn't want to single track on one because I'm too old to pick it up, but I remember lots of people doing it back in the day. And they're mechanical. You get to work with an engine and cables and stuff instead of computers. I thought I had bought one once but the seller backed out and I wish I'd owned one along the way.

Of the people I've known who owned them, they all really liked them, and it was nobody's favorite bike.

That sounds like just a basic, solid ride to me.

Cookie · « **Reply #6 on:** February 15, 2020, 03:35:29 AM »

Quote from: Vulcanbill on February 14, 2020, 08:47:58 PM

Define beat. Like real trails and true off-road stuff and doing sweet jumps in your yard or just general abuse like gravel and fire roads?

The latter with the occasional woods diversion.

Quote from: Meemuh on February 14, 2020, 09:38:51 PM

I loved mine, suspension is a little soft it you beat it hard, or have gotten super fat. I’ll second the comments about the doohickey...
But you can beat the crap out of it and not feel bad about it. I’d gladly get another one.

Plus, they ride over cats without any hesitation.

Gotten fat? 6' 275#

Quote from: Baxter on February 14, 2020, 10:33:28 PM

I never owned one, but here's what you probably need to know: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvGZS5fqxrk

Appreciated but looking for first hand knowledge from "people I I know".

Quote from: squeezer on February 14, 2020, 11:17:06 PM

The KLR will be a big step up in tech from the Ural.

Seriously, I've always had a soft spot for the pre-06 ones, It seems like you just can't break them. I wouldn't want to single track on one because I'm too old to pick it up, but I remember lots of people doing it back in the day. And they're mechanical. You get to work with an engine and cables and stuff instead of computers. I thought I had bought one once but the seller backed out and I wish I'd owned one along the way.

Of the people I've known who owned them, they all really liked them, and it was nobody's favorite bike.
That sounds like just a basic, solid ride to me.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/203582324014536/

maddjack · « **Reply #7 on:** February 15, 2020, 09:17:41 AM »

Not made for real trail riding but they can handel some serious dirt and gravel. As stated its heavy the front suspension is a tad mushy factory. Upgrade the do hickey if not already done. They are pretty much bullet proof. You can travel on one if not in a hurry. Fuel capacity is good. Ask Shil on here as he rode across Canada and up the Alkasan highway to alaska on his. I am sure he can give you more juicy details than my few years of ownership.
I would also surf the ADV forum ( adventure rider f you aren't familiar) for info. Tons there.

chornbe · « **Reply #8 on:** February 15, 2020, 09:30:21 AM »

John, definitely get with Colleen; she and Dan each had one (hers was earlier gen, his was later), and she went all over the place on hers. You won't find too many people you actually know with more hands on knowledge and saddle time than her.

squeezer · « **Reply #9 on:** February 15, 2020, 10:13:55 AM »

Quote from: chornbe on February 15, 2020, 09:30:21 AM

John, definitely get with Colleen; she and Dan each had one (hers was earlier gen, his was later), and she went all over the place on hers. You won't find too many people you actually know with more hands on knowledge and saddle time than her.

Oh, hell yeah. I remember her posting that they met when he asked her if the KLR was a good first bike.

That line always works.

Andrew · « **Reply #10 on:** February 15, 2020, 10:56:45 AM »

Quote from: chornbe on February 15, 2020, 09:30:21 AM

John, definitely get with Colleen; she and Dan each had one (hers was earlier gen, his was later), and she went all over the place on hers. You won't find too many people you actually know with more hands on knowledge and saddle time than her.

Yep talk to Colleen & Dan.
P.S. I am the one who bought Dan's KLR and road it across the country, after a few upgrades it was a decent bike, Fun in the Mts of Co, Great in the desert of UT and NV, just not too fast and a bit heavy to keep picking up

sleazy rider · « **Reply #11 on:** February 15, 2020, 11:32:33 AM »

First hand experience.

We did a big off-road adventure loop by trailering to Wyoming in 2014, then riding about 2000 miles on combined dirt roads, real trails and some pavement connectors. I used a OD green Gen 1 2003 with fairing bars and hard bags. It was a hoot, but could barely get it over 85mph on the dirt roads.

It had been modified by the PO, but I put it back to stock because it was over-jetted and extremely loud with the aftermarket muffler. My buddy had a well sorted Honda XR650 and blew us away for speed and control. Also did a trip from Michigan to Baltimore via the Hocking Hills, Ohio area with it and it did fine even on the freeways.

Do the doohickey and change the oil regularly. I miss mine some days, but the weight was a killer on the real trails. My DR 350 is much better for that. If it only had an e-start button, it'd be perfect.

If you get a Gen 1, I've got a free luggage rack in the garage for you.

Mrs. DantesDame · « **Reply #12 on:** February 15, 2020, 12:47:38 PM »

We're still here!!

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John, I loved my KLR. I still love it - I sometimes regret not bring it with me. I prefer the Gen I than the Gen II, but I guess the new bike does have its benefits. But if you go Gen II, do not get a 2007 (first year) - many of them suffered from oil leaks and poor build quality. I hated Dan's 2007

Also, you can paint it up to match the bug!

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If you have specific questions, put 'em here!

Baxter · « **Reply #13 on:** February 16, 2020, 01:48:35 PM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 16, 2020, 01:43:46 PM

Quote from: Baxter on February 14, 2020, 10:33:28 PM
I never owned one, but here's what you probably need to know: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvGZS5fqxrk

My apologies. I just watched this. Much thanks.

I figured it would be a standard review.

On a side note, this post broke crashed my internet and broke my computer.

Thanks Obama I mean Baxter.

I still don't have full control over my internet breaking powers.

I probably should have added more commentary about the video in my post.

R Doug · « **Reply #14 on:** February 17, 2020, 06:37:25 AM »

I may be the only person who's owned an XLR and a VFR and didn't buy into the fandom of the bikes. I traded the XLR for a Suzuki DR650 and never looked back, it's a much better bike for off road riding. But, for long distance, the XLR is more difficult to beat. That said, there are mods you can do to a DR650 that can make it more comfortable.

Cookie · « **Reply #15 on:** February 17, 2020, 06:51:07 AM »

I'm looking for a cheap bike to beat the shit out of.

Cablebandit · « **Reply #16 on:** February 17, 2020, 07:37:05 AM »

How cheap? There's one listed locally that needs a carb (non-running) for a grand.

Black Hills · « **Reply #17 on:** February 17, 2020, 08:05:13 AM »

Quote from: R Doug on February 17, 2020, 06:37:25 AM

I may be the only person who's owned an XLR and a VFR and didn't buy into the fandom of the bikes. I traded the XLR for a Suzuki DR650 and never looked back, it's a much better bike for off road riding. But, for long distance, the XLR is more difficult to beat. That said, there are mods you can do to a DR650 that can make it more comfortable.

Bought a XL600R new when I was senior in high school, loved that bike. Sold it in 1990 to get a VFR (and a XR600R) loved the VFR and out 50k on it before trading in for a CBR 954. in retrospect I wouldn't like either one of them today, but at the time I loved them.

back to the topic at hand: KLR is under powered and dead nuts reliable, if that's your thing you will love it.

Cookie · « **Reply #18 on:** February 17, 2020, 05:48:25 PM »

Judges? It's a bit pricey but a pristine 2005 with under 1,000 miles on it...

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/535352973956881/

Virginian · « **Reply #19 on:** February 17, 2020, 07:45:52 PM »

It only sold for BASE MSRP(US) $5,149.00 in '05 , I think it's overpriced but dang that bike looks brand new.

Mrs. DantesDame · « **Reply #20 on:** February 18, 2020, 12:33:32 AM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 17, 2020, 05:48:25 PM

Judges? It's a bit pricey but a pristine 2005 with under 1,000 miles on it...

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/535352973956881/

Looks great, but I wouldn't pay more then $2,200 for it.

Deals can be had - bide your time.

Cookie · « **Reply #21 on:** February 18, 2020, 03:00:30 AM »

Even though it's got 800 miles ?

Cookie · « **Reply #22 on:** February 18, 2020, 03:46:00 AM »

Quote from: Mrs. DantesDame on February 18, 2020, 12:33:32 AM

Quote from: Cookie on February 17, 2020, 05:48:25 PM
Judges? It's a bit pricey but a pristine 2005 with under 1,000 miles on it...

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/535352973956881/

Looks great, but I wouldn't pay more then $2,200 for it.

Deals can be had - bide your time.

Like?

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/203582324014536/

Vulcanbill · « **Reply #23 on:** February 18, 2020, 06:52:39 AM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 18, 2020, 03:00:30 AM

Even though it's got 800 miles ?

I'd be a little afraid of why it only has 800 miles. That thing did a lot of sitting. If you know it was maintained, great. Elsewise, you could be looking at replacing a lot of rubber and plastic bits that didn't stay lubed / pliable / whatever. But, yeah, that's crazy money. There are a bunch of them out there. I'd definitely shop some more. That person is high.

Cookie · « **Reply #24 on:** February 18, 2020, 07:06:16 AM »

Quote from: Vulcanbill on February 18, 2020, 06:52:39 AM

Quote from: Cookie on February 18, 2020, 03:00:30 AM
Even though it's got 800 miles ?

I'd be a little afraid of why it only has 800 miles. That thing did a lot of sitting. If you know it was maintained, great. Elsewise, you could be looking at replacing a lot of rubber and plastic bits that didn't stay lubed / pliable / whatever. But, yeah, that's crazy money. There are a bunch of them out there. I'd definitely shop some more. That person is high.

It was part of a town department.

Mrs. DantesDame · « **Reply #25 on:** February 18, 2020, 11:09:32 AM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 18, 2020, 03:46:00 AM

Quote from: Mrs. DantesDame on February 18, 2020, 12:33:32 AM
Quote from: Cookie on February 17, 2020, 05:48:25 PM
Judges? It's a bit pricey but a pristine 2005 with under 1,000 miles on it...

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/535352973956881/

Looks great, but I wouldn't pay more then $2,200 for it.

Deals can be had - bide your time.

Like?

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/203582324014536/

That looks more reasonable. I'd want to know the maint. records, and if the doohickey's been done, etc. Mileage, too, although mine was at 96,000 miles when I sold it and still going strong

Cookie · « **Reply #26 on:** February 19, 2020, 08:17:55 AM »

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/859467787824569/

Hmmm?

sleazy rider · « **Reply #27 on:** February 19, 2020, 09:06:37 AM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 19, 2020, 08:17:55 AM

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/859467787824569/

Hmmm?

Hmm, indeed. All the tank, fairing and side cover decals seem to have disappeared. New plastics? The SW Moto tank protectors are a nice addition and they work. DAMHIK. I don't see any mounts for the included Pelican cases?

Vulcanbill · « **Reply #28 on:** February 19, 2020, 10:32:11 AM »

Engine guards - check
bash guard - check
hand guards - check

All good things and $$$ you don't have to spend but things you'd want anyway

There's something going on with a rear rack. Those blinkers can't be stock and what's the stainless bit on the rear fender in the first pic? I'd ax about that.

Multiple sets of mirrors? You'll probably replace them anyway so no matter.

Stealth

Vulcanbill · « **Reply #29 on:** February 19, 2020, 10:40:36 AM »

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/2701632776623564/

Cookie · « **Reply #30 on:** February 19, 2020, 11:49:18 AM »

01543

Andrew · « **Reply #31 on:** February 19, 2020, 08:39:23 PM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 19, 2020, 11:49:18 AM

01543

I think that translates to "Road Trip" or maybe wow that is a long way from here (old man weze)

sleazy rider · « **Reply #32 on:** February 20, 2020, 08:21:41 AM »

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/740436759761359/

A true "woods" bike and a very low price. it's got all the right hardware to thrash on the trails.

Cookie · « **Reply #33 on:** February 20, 2020, 09:19:18 AM »

I did look at that one. It's a bit too beaten.

Mrs. DantesDame · « **Reply #34 on:** February 20, 2020, 10:53:36 AM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 20, 2020, 09:19:18 AM

I did look at that one. It's a bit too beaten.

Is it? What is "too beaten" to you?

It looked ok to me, at least from the one picture provided. And hey, $1,000 - that's a price I'd pay (plus, you're handy if it really DID need something).

Cookie · « **Reply #35 on:** February 20, 2020, 12:49:22 PM »

I'm thinking of the $2,200.00 one. Less miles everything is intact

sleazy rider · « **Reply #36 on:** February 20, 2020, 12:53:01 PM »

The red one with the Mayer seat? That’s a reasonable deal.

Cookie · « **Reply #37 on:** February 21, 2020, 05:17:32 AM »

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a winner. Provided it doesn't sell over the weekend, I'll be there Tuesday.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1013724952336431/

sleazy rider · « **Reply #38 on:** February 21, 2020, 05:42:54 AM »

Speaking from experience, take the tool tube off the skid plate. NOT a good location unless you really want to destroy it. Check the light bar too. Wazzup up with the lights mounted sideways? (those cheap led lights work ok for the $20 they cost per set!)

Other than that? I love the bright lime green color. You will be seen.

Andrew · « **Reply #39 on:** February 21, 2020, 10:45:23 AM »

Looks like ya found a good one there Cookie

Sleazy is spot on, about the tube and aux lights, loose them.

Mrs. DantesDame · « **Reply #40 on:** February 21, 2020, 12:22:52 PM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 21, 2020, 05:17:32 AM

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a winner. Provided it doesn't sell over the weekend, I'll be there Tuesday.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1013724952336431/

I am a KLR addict and I approve of this choice

Vulcanbill · « **Reply #41 on:** February 21, 2020, 12:33:08 PM »

I don't know anything about them but the price, the mileage, and the included goodies make it a really good score. Good luck. I assume it will fit in the back of the ranger and I assume you'll be at the next fall WV camp-out to do the dual sport ride.

mr.awesome · « **Reply #42 on:** February 23, 2020, 07:36:07 AM »

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://m.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DrvGZS5fqxrk&ved=2ahUKEwjCkuvh5OfnAhUBnKwKHVFcBG8QyCkwAHoECA0QBA&usg=AOvVaw1X_gRBybf3CB5SGG9r4lyH

The ending is pretty good.

Cookie · « **Reply #43 on:** February 23, 2020, 07:44:35 AM »

Nothing JB Weld and an old beer can won't fix.

Cookie · « **Reply #44 on:** February 24, 2020, 06:55:13 AM »

Heading to Albany in ten minutes.

We'll see how a fat guy feels on a KLR.

sleazy rider · « **Reply #45 on:** February 24, 2020, 07:05:44 AM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 24, 2020, 06:55:13 AM

Heading to Albany in ten minutes.

We'll see how a fat guy feels on a KLR.

Prepare to be unimpressed. It’s a Swiss Army knife, not a high end blade.

Cookie · « **Reply #46 on:** February 24, 2020, 07:54:41 AM »

That's what I'm looking for.

Vulcanbill · « **Reply #47 on:** February 24, 2020, 12:29:21 PM »

visitors can't see pics , please register or login

Cookie · « **Reply #48 on:** February 24, 2020, 02:15:09 PM »

We got it into the back of the truck with minimal damage. I'm on my way home now. 2 hours and 45 minutes to go.

chornbe · « **Reply #49 on:** February 24, 2020, 03:29:46 PM »

Quote from: Cookie on February 24, 2020, 02:15:09 PM

We got it into the back of the truck with minimal damage.

To the truck or to you? Not like you could really damage that bike, or even tell if you did under all that industrial design.