Motorcycle.com

It's a nice bike...

This is my first KLR. Actually it is my first dual sport bike ever. This bike is comfortable, reliable, and extremely fun to ride. Oh yeah, and the gas mileage is as great as I was told about the klr before buying. The only complaint I have about this bike is the power. When I first rode it I w...as worried because it felt so gutless. I was used to riding a CBR, so I attributed some disappointment to the change in motorcycle. After break-in, it became slightly more 'throaty' and it feels now like the power has gotten better. At low speeds in the mountains, the power delivery is very strong and consistent, so the torque is pretty decent. On the highway it feels a little weak, but keeps up with highway traffic just fine. I have no problem doing 75-80 on the freeway, and the handling is exceptional. The acceleration doesn't match the CBR, but that is an obvious statement.

Overall, the bike is comfortable, has 'good-enough' power delivery (post break-in), has exceptional handling, and is extremely fun to ride. The gas mileage is wonderful of course. And the price is excellent. A really good buy. Read Full Review

The new Kawa KLR 650

Performance...what does it mean for a dual bike AND a 650. However, what tires you have will make a huge difference. 50+ m/G for only 6K. That is wonderful. The Best Value ever.

It does excel overal as a rugged biked. Won't win on the highway but won't be left behind. Indeed, more ahead. Sup...er handling even at high speed for car avoidance.
Quality and reliability are great. Only maintenance each 7.5 Miles is expensive. Battery is swell. Will start at 30 F after a month not running.
Confort: could change the saddle, but we are talking about a dual bike here...not a touring. So, quite acceptable for the price you pay.
Cool look by the way with new re-design. So, performance fine, quality and reliability fine, Ride and confort, fine. Value : Perfect.
That is compared to a KTM adventure. But I cannot afford that with 2 cars. Plus, I do not do 1000s of mile over the weekend or year. Just 8 K per year. So, what buying the best. Just to show off. Nope.
Still very satisfied after over a year owning it.

You cannot go wrong, and your wallet will thank you.
As soon as you fill the tank by the way. Up to 54 Miles a gallons and 75% highway speed, well above as always, but it feels so secure.
So down past 75/80 if windy or it may throw you off your seat. If windy : over 10/15 miles an hour wind.
Safe ride.

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It just got better!

This is my second KLR650 in a row! I put 25000k on my 2004 and loved it so much I bought a 2009. I seems that they fixed most everything that I didn't like on the 09. I have riden for more than 40 years and I couldn't say how many bikes I've owned. The 09 KLR is an awsome bike for a great price. ...If you think a single cylinder bike just won't cut it, think again! Read Full Review

Good things come to those who wait!

I just purchased the 2009 KLR 650 in Black w/ green highlites. I have been riding kawi's since my 85' KX 80. I had a few older honda cruisers years ago and finally just got my first brand new bike. After studying the KLR 650 in great detail since the 08' redo I finally bought one mid may of 09'. ... What a bike! Just as advertised, it is smooth on the street, great brakes, suspension, adequate power, and good handling. Comforatable too. My wife and I both enjoy riding together and after one week and 150 miles, I am ready for a full season of fun. If your on the fence, get one, you won't regret it. Read Full Review

OOPS ! Dont judge a book by its cover !

Wow ! Looks like the bike of the year . But what happened to the power ? (very gutless) Also the windshield and excess. are not very functional . The wind travels rapidly through the hole in the forks up to your face , bringing road temperature and exhaust to your face . One more minor problem ? ... The bike needs to have some kind of insurance/registration holding compartment . The small one it does have on the rear or the bike is for tools and the door opens into the wind as you travel ruining the seal in wet weather . Great seat ! The bike handles well ,(just lacks needed power for its size) . Comfortable ride for passangers as well. Over all I rate the bike a six/seven out of ten . Thanks Izzy Read Full Review