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New 2008 Kawasaki KLR650 Refines On-Road Capabilities for Improved Touring Performance The new KLR650 is well suited to life on the highways, deserts, mountains or even the challenging terrain of today’s urban jungle. For 21 years, the Kawasaki KLR650 has been the smart choice for riders seeking reliable on and off-road performance. Now, the 2008 KLR650 features thorough updates aimed at making it a better tour-ready dual-purpose bike than ever before. Several new refinements help make the KLR650 an even more worthy touring companion. There’s a larger rear luggage rack that’s 3.5 in. longer and 5.1 in. wider than the old rack, and a new, narrower tail section which makes it easier to mount saddlebags. Wind protection is also improved with all-new bodywork featuring a taller windscreen and large shrouds. A large 6.1-gallon fuel tank and miserly fuel economy mean the new KLR650 retains its legendary range between fill-ups. Riders will be able to take full advantage of the KLR’s range, thanks to a revised seat design and new urethane foam for greater long-distance comfort. A high-capacity 36W alternator powers a new higher-output headlight and offers extra capacity to power the add-on electronic gadgets touring riders can’t live without. The KLR650 motor, already renowned for being rugged, reliable and powerful, is now even better. There’s improved throttle response from revised ignition mapping, and revised cam timing contributes to improved high-rpm performance. A redesigned cylinder head boasts new intake porting for greater low-end torque and quicker throttle response in city traffic, as well as improved top-end power for high-speed cruising on the open road. More on-road competence doesn’t mean less off-road fun. The KLR650 has a U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrestor for access to any road open to licensed vehicles, and a tough engine guard protects the engine from loose rocks and gravel. With an optional Kawasaki tank bag and soft luggage on the larger standard rear rack, KLR650 owners can tote enough gear for an extended trip to any remote location. All these improvements mean that more than ever, the new KLR650 is the ideal go-farther, multi-surface motorcycle for riders craving on and off-road adventure. ----   2008 Kawasaki KLR 650 Features651cc Four-stroke SingleRevised cam timing contributes to improved high-rpm performanceNew intake porting offers greater low-end torque New piston rings are thinner and have more tension, for improved oil consumption New one-piece exhaust pipe features smoother bends for improved exhaust efficiency at all rpm Special tuning to improve low- and mid-range power Light, silent cam chain reduces engine noise Oil-level window permits easy and accurate inspection Liquid CoolingNew Denso radiator is thin and lightweight. Fitted with a lightweight and thin cooling fan, the new radiator has a greater cooling area and offers a 20% increase in cooling efficiencyMaintains consistent engine temperatures for long engine life and sustained power during hard use Allows tighter engine clearances for quieter running Automatic fan keeps things cool in all conditions Includes a temperature gauge Four-valve Cylinder HeadBetter breathing for more power at all rpmCompact combustion chamber allows increased compression ratio with less detonation The use of a secondary air (ASV) system helps reduce harmful exhaust emissions Provides maximum valve area for optimum flow Boosts low-end torque Double Engine BalancerEngine runs smoothly from idle to redline for rider comfort and less fatigue on long ridesFully Transistorised IgnitionFully transistorised ignition unit replaces the earlier analog CDI for better ignition performanceMore precisely controls timing no matter how fast the rpm changes Fewer moving parts for long, trouble-free life Five-speed TransmissionDesigned to handle the engine’s unique power characteristicsThe engine’s broad torque curve only requires five speeds for off-road and relaxed highway cruising O-ring drive chain reduces maintenance and increases chain service life Handlebar-mounted ChokeConvenient location makes starting and warm-up easierRevised Front SuspensionNew, beefier 41mm front fork is offers increased rigidity. (Previous unit was 38mm)Re-calibrated suspension offers less static sag and now offers greater on-road riding performance. Front suspension stroke was reduced from 9.1 in. to 7.9 in. High-mounted front fender for any adventure-touring situation Revised UNI-TRAK Rear SuspensionRear suspension travel was reduced from 8.1 in. to 7.3 in. but usable travel is unaffected due to a reduction in static sagNew D-section swingarm contributes to the bike’s excellent traction Redesigned UNI-TRAK linkage compliments front suspension changes Progressive rate provides a smoother, more controlled ride Features a five-way preload shock absorber with four-way rebound damping Stronger WheelsNew 4mm spokes (up from 3.5mm) provide increased wheel stiffness, enhanced handling performance and improved steering response.Semi-double Cradle FrameMade of high-tech, round-section, high-tensile steelEngine GuardProtects engine from rocks and trail debris when the going gets toughDetachable Rear SubframeSimplifies maintenance by providing better access to the rear shock, airbox and carburetorLarge rear cargo rack included Front and Rear Disc BrakesNew lightweight front and rear petal discs offer excellent braking.Front brake disc diameter increased from 260mm to 280mm. New rear calliper offers improved feel and power Electric StarterEasy and convenient startingLighting and USFS-Approved Spark ArrestorNew dual-bulb headlamp offers greater night visibilityNew high-mounted turn signals improve the KLR650’s visibility at night or under poor visibility conditions Rear taillight parking light U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrestor Large 6.1-gallon Fuel TankSignificant capacity permits adventure touringAdditional Comfort and Touring FeaturesAll-new bodywork features a larger fairing, which contributes to increased wind protectionAlternator output has been increased from 14.5A to 17A. Total capacity is 36W to provide ample power for the new headlight as well as add-on grip heaters and other accessories New, easy-to-read instrument panel is mounted to the frame, contributing to lighter steering Full instrumentation includes a large-face speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter and water temperature gauge Firmer urethane seat foam offers greater comfort for long-distance riding Seat height is lower, but reduced suspension sag means the rider’s ability to reach the ground is about the same Optional extended warranty ----  2008 Kawasaki KLR 650 SPECSEngine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, four-valve single Displacement: 651cc Bore x stroke: 100mm x 83mm Compression ratio: 9.8:1 Carburetion: Keihin CVK40 Transmission: Five-speed Final drive: O-ring chain Frame: Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel Rake: 28 degrees Front suspension: 41mm telescopic fork, 7.9 inches of travel Rear suspension: UNI-TRAK single-shock system with five-way preload and stepless rebound damping, 7.3 inches of travel Front tire: 90/90-21 Rear tire: 130/80-17 Front brake: 280mm petal disc with hydraulic dual-piston caliper Rear brake: 240mm petal disc with hydraulic dual-piston caliper Overall length: 90.3 inches Overall width: 37.8 inches Overall height: 53.1 inches Seat height: 35 inches Wheelbase: 58.3 inches Ground clearance: 8.3 inches Fuel capacity: 6.1 gallons Dry weight: 386 pounds MSRP: $5,349  2008 Kawasaki KLR 650 First impressionThe Kawasaki KLR650 has been a long-standing model in Kawasaki’s lineup, having been introduced in 1987 and remaining almost unchanged through the 2007 model. Kawasaki has announced that the 2008 model will be the first significant redesign of the KLR650. For 2008 the Kawasaki KLR650 has received many updates aimed at continuing its tradition as being the most reliable and touring ready dual sport on the road. It includes new front and rear suspension that both reduce the wheel travel. It also features a new petal style front rotor for increased heat dissipation, and resistance to warping. The KLR650 motorcycle is heavier than specialized off-road dirt bikes, but it can handle most conditions when ridden carefully by a skilled rider. To improve upon its touring abilities Kawasaki lengthened the luggage rack 3.5 inches, added all new body work with a taller windscreen. It now features high output headlights, and the time tested engine has been updated with a throttle position sensor, revised ignition mapping and cam timing, as well as a revised cylinder head. This motorcycle is considered by many to be one of the best all-round motorcycles made, with legions of fans and websites for support & add-ons. KLRs have been ridden to the Arctic, across North and South America, and throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia, as well as on full global circumnavigation rides. Nicknames include "The Mule" and "The Tractor." 24 comments: Kawasaki KLR 650 San Francisco (6682) - Posted on 11.13.2006 I own a 1994 KLR650 with 40,000 miles. The best bike ever! I am glad to have additional braking, though. They seemed to have made the right changes without destroying the fundamental bike we love.San Francisco
KLR dude (6682) - Posted on 11.10.2006 I owned a 2002 KLR for 4 yrs. Loved it after several mods. they need 10 more H.P., a sixth gear for more low end torque on trails.
I do like the shorter suspension, the front forks on old model were not very good. Also like the revised front end body work, I like more wind protection but thats my personal preference.
Mick (6682) - Posted on 11.5.2006 I think I just ordered one of the last good ones. 07 KLR. I have a garage full of street bikes and by looking at the specs on the 08 KLR it looks like they are heading more for the street with reduced suspension travel, etc. There are enough gravel back roads in my area to ride literally for days without going pavement. I have not yet gotten used to the look of the 08"s, but maybe it (the beak) will grow on me. If I could not have gotten the 07 KLR I would’ve just ordered a XR650L Honda. They are still better off road, but not quite as good all around.
Poelokk (6682) - Posted on 11.4.2006 Bout time Kawasaki upgraded the great KLR650! The KLR has always favored street riding with limited off-road capability. No surprise the new model is faithful to its traditional role. A six-speed box would be a costly $$$ trade-off for insignificant gains in my opinion. The new engine will likely make owners forget about 6 speeds. The front fender gives a sharper, more aggressive look. I like it. The new model incorporates many of the after-market fixes available for older models, so Kawasaki management listened, took notes, then acted. The KLR650 is a unique niche motorcycle with tremendous capabilities in an affordable package. 21 years in production proves it beyond question. It’s now more so with the 2008 upgrade. Another 21 years?
Zip Ties Work Better Than Bolts (6682) - Posted on 11.4.2006 Great... more compressed oatmeal bolts and plastic fairings to fly off. I’d enjoy a stronger front sus. I bent mine after one particualarly nasty motorcross track incident. I usually bottom the front forks out at least 3 times a lap. I’ll be switching to progressive springs this winter. I’d also like the color to stay 2006 Kawi Green so we don’t get hit by Grandma or go ahead and have it Urban Camouflage so I don’t get caught doing a wheelie again. Maybe they’ll let me test ride a 2008.
Jeff (6682) - Posted on 11.3.2006 I’m disappointed to see Kawasaki market the bike toward the wannabe adventure rider that will really only ride the bike on the street. My would have been, better brakes, 10 more hp, six-speed close ratio trans (for a lower 1st and 2nd gear), and a rear spring capable of carrying a husky american. Other than the syling changes, I’d rather keep my 2006.
Eugene Victor Tooms (6682) - Posted on 11.3.2006 Well.... I think it looks cool. I like the new headlight design. Plus, I’d rather have a bike that is better on the highway but can still do some trails and get dirty.
Big Jim (6682) - Posted on 10.31.2006 Everything else aside, that front fender looks butt ugly! Looks like a deformed beak on a prehistoric bird. Is Kawasaki trying to compete with the Suzuki DL650?(which is a far better performing bike on the street), my opinion for what it’s worth, Kawasaki should have not changed the looks but improved suspension, brakes, and the infamous doohickey. I’ll stick with my ’03 model.
Springer Mountain (6682) - Posted on 10.29.2006 I say they’re going the wrong direction(street).Suspension should be much more adjustable for both street and road(rebound,compression,spring,and air)..
The KLR650 has always needed better front brakes.
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Well folks it’s the end of an era the great KLR650 has gone METRO-SEXUAL. That’s right a bike for the urban jungle. It is as though it had hit every branch down the perverbial "ugly tree" and somehow will survive for the time being.
I respect everyone’s opionion about it, but I’ll have to disagree with the folks who like the new look. The engineering improvements are a bonus, but it won’t please the core KLR diehards as to why in the heck Kawasaki didn’t fix these issues years ago.
I bought the last year of this great icon and will ride it till the wheels fall off.