QUICKSPIN I 2023 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure
P92
essentially the standard model
with a lower sitting position. It,
too, is available with or without
ABS ($$6899/$7199). The "S"
model's seat height is 2.2 inches
lower than the others, which is
significant. This was achieved
by reducing wheel travel at both
ends by approximately one inch
and a slightly less cushy seat.
Other than that, it's the same
bike as the standard KLR650.
Our 2023 Adventure KLR650
here is the same as before but
with a slightly longer shift lever.
As insignificant as this may
seem, it was a significant issue
for my size 12 feet last year. I
could still use more room down
there, but at least it's livable for
me now.
Still, the KLR650 Adventure
is a joy to ride. It handles well,
the suspension is plush and is
surprisingly good at soaking up
good-sized bumps at speed, and
the KLR's five-speed transmis
-
sion is nicely matched to the
KLR's power, which is delivered
from its simple and reliable
DOHC liquid-cooled single-cylin
-
der engine.
The bike's relaxed sitting posi-
tion means you can painlessly
ride the KLR650 all day, and the
two-way-adjustable windscreen
does an admirable job keeping
the windblast off you without
excessive helmet buffeting. The
KLR is just as at home on the
street as it is on the dirt.
Running out of gas is never
a thought while aboard the
KLR650 with its massive 6.1-gal
-
lon fuel tank that feels smaller
than it is between your legs.
The KLR650 is easy to pick
on, however. Yes, it's heavy for
The KLR650 is just as at home on the dirt as it is on the street.
