This flew into my mailbox last week from Kawasaki. I’m still on their mailing list (I purchased a new KLR 650 in 2006). I’ll let the video do the talking.
I had good times on my KLR. I don’t see another KLR in my future, but if the new model is as good as my 2006 KLR was, I think Kawasaki will do well with this motorcycle. Both Gresh and I had thoughts about what the new model might feature; you can read those blogs here.
If I were going to buy a new KLR (I’m not, but if I were), I would probably wait until the 2023 models were out. When Kawasaki introduced the Gen II KLR back in 2008, the 2008 bikes had oil consumption issues. Kawasaki had a recall (if I recall correctly) and they fixed the problem in the 2009 model. I think it’s best to let others work through the new model teething issues.
I’m guessing the full-freight new KLRs (luggage, ABS, etc.) will push $10K, which is roughly twice what a new CSC RX4 costs, and for me, selecting the RX4 over the Kawasaki would be a no-brainer. For that kind of money, you could almost buy a new Sportster.
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3 years and 35K miles on my 1st 1992 KLR and 20 years and 52K miles on my 2000 KLR . If I could still ride, this new KLR would be at the top of my list.
Good inputs, Mr. Chesley. Thanks for your inputs.
MSRP of the camo model with ABS, bags and driving lights is $7999.
CSC RX4, with ABS, 3 hard bags and TUBELESS WHEELS is $4995
Add in sales tax, the typical Kawi dealer doc fees, freight, and setup, and I think you’re looking at well over $10K, Dan. On the RX4, those same “add on” costs will most likely be under $1k. The dealers around here typically put $1500 in freight and setup on a new bike like the KLR 650.
Looks nice. Do you have to be in the NBA to be able to sit on it and touch the ground with both feet?
Good question. My Gen I was tall, but I could touch the ground when seated. I could not do that with both feet on the Gen II. The BMW GS 1200/1250 is way worse in that regard. I don’t know why the manufacturers feel a need to do this.
Now that I know the comparison to a used Sportster all is clear to me… Buy a RX 4 and a used Sportster and you are set one for the bar tours and one for touring… Simple to me and relatable to the average guy…
Thanks Joe!
Terry, Gresh tells me you are neither simple nor average.
I’m glad Kawasaki is bringing it back with minimal changes. There’s a place in the market for this bike. Riders who want something more serious can always buy a KTM. The EFI should keep the bike OK going forward with emissions. As for the cost concerns mentioned above, you are all correct but it’s less of a problem for cheap bastards like me who only buys used bikes.
Good inputs, Marty. And you are not the only cheap bastard out there. I’m a member of that group, too.