The Best-Selling Dual-Sport Goes the Distance
Across sand, dirt, forests, and of course pavement, nothing else adapts like the KLR™650. Built for almost any terrain an adventurous rider could dream up, this dual-sport can go the distance with its rugged single-cylinder engine and incredible fuel efficiency. Effective wind protection and a 5.8-gallon fuel tank ensure incredible range between stops. Combine that with an aluminum rear cargo rack that accommodates saddlebags or a tailbag, and it's a winning combination – so much so that the KLR has been the best-selling dual-sport seven years in a row.
A single-cylinder, 651cc four-stroke engine propels this world traveling powerhouse. Its quick throttle response and healthy low-end grunt is the perfect power profile to carve through trails or deal with traffic jams.
Matching the engine’s abilities every step of the way is the KLR650’s suspension. A 41mm fork with 7.9 inches of suspension travel up front, and a Uni-Trak® linkage system providing 7.3 inches of wheel travel in the rear combine to make the KLR650 a fun, functional commuter during the week and an adept backroad blaster on weekends.
Braking duties are handled by a dual-piston caliper gripping a 280mm petal-style disc in the front, and a 240mm petal-style disc squeezed by a single-piston caliper in the rear. This suspension and brake package boosts the KLR650’s on-road performance without diminishing its versatile off-road capabilities.
An expansive, saddlebag-friendly, rear luggage rack that can be fitted with a tail bag helps to make the KLR650 a worthy touring companion. A large, 5.8-gallon fuel tank and exemplary fuel economy mean the KLR650 can cover an amazing amount of ground between fill-ups.
That fuel range can translate into a long day in the saddle, so good wind protection is a must. This important job is handled by the frame-mounted bodywork, which includes a tall windscreen and large shrouds. Rider comfort is enhanced further by the seat design and plush urethane foam. A high-capacity 36-watt alternator pumps out enough juice for a high-output headlight and has the extra capacity to power the add-on electronic gadgets that no touring rider can live without.
The KLR650’s competent on-road performance continues once the pavement stops. A tough engine guard keeps loose rocks and gravel at bay, while its U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrestor grants the KLR650 access to any terrain open to licensed vehicles. Add the optional Kawasaki tank, tail and saddlebags, and you have a recipe for long-distance exploration, beckoning KLR650 owners to enjoy on- and off-road adventures.
Anywhere, Anytime
Wherever the destination, whatever the distance, over any kind of terrain, Australia's favourite Adventure bike, the KLR650, is the motorcycle to get you there in style and comfort. With its large powerful engine, long travel suspension and massive fuel carrying capacity combined with rock-solid reliability and unbreakable toughness, the big KLR makes short work of rugged forest trails, wide open deserts and inner city traffic alike.
The 2012 KLR650 continues its reputation for being more rugged, more reliable and higher performing, delivering the ultimate in all-round fun.
2012 Kawasaki KLR650 Features and Benefits
Key Features
• Ultimate on
• and off-road motorcycle is the best-selling dual-sport seven years in a row
• Durable 651cc single-cylinder engine produces smooth, user-friendly power
• Comfortable wind protection and 5.8-gallon fuel tank allows for long-range adventure touring
• Aluminum rear cargo rack provides plenty of space for luggage
• 41mm telescopic fork supplies all-day rider comfort
• Adjustable Uni-Trak® rear suspension offers a smooth, controlled ride
• Twin-piston front disc brake and single-piston rear disc brake furnish excellent stopping power
Long-distance-minded 651cc Four-stroke Single
• Cam timing and tuning combination aid in producing a broad, user-friendly powerband
• Smooth bends on the one-piece exhaust pipe permit exhaust efficiency at all rpm
• Light, silent cam chain contributes to a quieter engine
• Double engine balancer helps engine run smoothly from idle to redline for less fatigue on long rides
• Advanced piston ring design helps minimize oil consumption
• Oil-level window permits easy and accurate inspection
Four-valve Cylinder Head
• Compact combustion chamber allows increased compression ratio with less detonation yet provides maximum valve area for optimum flow
• Boosts low-end torque with sufficient power at all rpm
• Secondary air (ASV) system helps reduce harmful exhaust emissions
Liquid Cooling
• Thin and lightweight Denso radiator fitted with a lightweight and thin cooling fan for maximum cooling efficiency, even at low speeds
• Maintains consistent engine temperatures for long engine life and sustained power during hard use
• Allows tighter engine clearances for quieter running
• Includes a temperature gauge
Fully Transistorized Ignition
• Fully transistorized ignition unit more precisely controls timing no matter how fast the rpm changes
• Long, trouble-free lifespan
Electric Starter
• Easy and convenient starting
Handlebar-mounted Choke
• Convenient location makes starting and warm-up easier
Five-speed Transmission
• The engine’s broad torque curve means only five speeds are needed for off-road sprinting and relaxed highway cruising
• O-ring drive chain for reduced maintenance and long chain service life
Capable Suspension
• Beefy, 41mm front fork with 7.9 inches of travel is rigid and plush enough to tackle on
• and off-road terrain and provide all-day comfort to the rider
• High-mounted front fender for any adventure-touring situation
• Rear Uni-Trak® suspension features a five-way preload shock absorber with four-way rebound damping and 7.3 inches of rear wheel travel
• Progressive rate provides a smooth, controlled ride
• D-section swingarm contributes to the bike’s excellent traction
Strong Wheels
• 4mm spokes provide wheel stiffness, further enhancing handling performance and improving steering response
Chassis
• Semi-double cradle frame made of high-tech, round-section, high-tensile steel
• Detachable rear subframe provides access to the rear shock, airbox and carburetor for easy maintenance
• Large rear cargo rack included
Engine Guard
• Protects engine from rocks and trail debris when the going gets tough
Front and Rear Disc Brakes
• Lightweight 280mm front and 240mm rear petal-style discs offer excellent braking
Lighting
• Dual-bulb headlamp offers great night illumination
• Tail light, parking light and the high-mounted turn signals improve the KLR650’s visibility at night or in poor visibility conditions
Large 5.8-gallon Fuel Tank
• Generous capacity permits serious adventure touring
Additional Comfort and Touring Features
• Bodywork includes a large fairing for great wind protection
• Alternator output is 17 amps, with a total capacity of 36 watts to provide ample power for the headlight as well as add-on grip heaters and other accessories
• Easy-to-read instrument panel is mounted to the frame and includes a large-face speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter and water temperature gauge
• Urethane seat foam offers all-day comfort for long-distance riding
• Optional extended warranty