2008 Klr ($5349)

[setacwoodtic]

http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/Detail.aspx?id=221&content=introduction

Finally it's here what da ya think?

[CajunRider]

Pros:

- Upgraded everything except for the Doohicky (which I haven't changed yet anyway)...

All good things there.

Cons:
- Too much plastic to bust apart when I do a not-so-graceful dismount.
- Suspension has 2 inches less travel.
- Gained 40 lbs. (With all of todays technology... they couldn't shed a few pounds?)

If I were buying a new bike... I might get it... but I won't trade in the original with it's few, old problems for the new one with it's new problems.

I think the old one and the new one will come in about even if you were to "grade" them.

[setacwoodtic]

All true, the thing I'm having trouble with is where the 40lbs came from> There doesn't seem to be that much extra on it. As far as the travel subtraction goes I think for a 80/20 it would be admirable. Probably wouldn't trade my 07 though.

[CajunRider]

I think the weight comes from a number of small details.

- The shocks may be shorter, but are quite a bit larger diameter. I'm sure that added a few lbs.
- Two headlights instead of one probably added a few lbs.
- Heavier rims and breaks.
- Bigger alternator.
- Firmer seat (firmer means more dense... means more weight)

Add up all the little things, and you get large numbers.

I just wonder why they didn't try to lose weight? I'm sure they could have changed some basic things to lose a few pounds with a little imagination.

[setacwoodtic]

Hmm, I guess that puts it a touch over 400 now huh. What a fat ass I'll bet it's probably a bit slower with that beer gut. How do think the KLR would respond to an aluminum frame, that would save a bunch. I'll bet there's a MX frame out there somewhere that would morph well with the KLR's guts and body. Project idea?! I'll start looking on ebay.

[snipe-br]

Here it is guys

http://www.motorcycledaily.com/30april07_2008kawasaki_klr650.html

[jamboa]

Sounds like the factory has added a whole lotta upgrades for a small price increase. Still feather light compared to the BMW GS for 1/3 rd the money. Sounds like the doohickey is taken care of also. I just may buy one. I like the Green as it will match up with my ZRX Streetfighter for motorcycle sex in the garage.qwer

[CajunRider]

According to KL650 net, the doohicky still exists. Maybe it is made of better material??? One would hope so. You may want to wait till someone has a chance to open one up to make sure the doo is ok.

[setacwoodtic]

I checked on Kawa's web site today and I think the part# is the same but I also spoke to Happy Trails and they said they heard from a new owner that it's been updated. Time will tell.

[jamboa]

I am sure we will know for sure soon. I am trying to educate my gracious wife that I need the KLR to do gravel roads in Arkansas since we have started going there so often. I can not bring my self to ride my 1050 Tiger on the Gravel. She is just too pretty. Sort of like a tall Speed Triple. Did I say pretty? I meant to say "Clean or New or Weird or anything but pretty". WHEW!
Jamboaqwer

[setacwoodtic]

Well, the review seems damn good to me but I am a little leary.

[CajunRider]

Me too. I'm gonna stick with the one I have for now... after a few years, we'll have a better idea of what's up with the new models.

[Fitty]

It's now official. The Doo has been upgraded. The lever is thicker and better made, but EagleMike said the spring is too long and might not provide as much adjustment range as his replacement. Also said the fit of the new lever on the shaft isn't as good as it could be. Consensus - shouldn't fail, but might still be worth an upgrade to his aftermarket unit.