Off-road
Where things get a bit complicated is on extremely abrupt trails, in the mountain, in the mud or in narrow gaps where you have to maneuver while standing up. I'm warning you: don't throw yourself into these kinds of terrain if you're not an experienced rider. The KLR650 is very heavy, nearly 15-cm taller than its rivals and has a pretty long wheelbase. The width of the handlebars is also a disadvantage when riding trails... but not in the city, especially in the traffic. In addition, the tires are designed for a 70/30, road/gravel use, which does not help at all when navigating through mountain trees. In reality, the KLR650 does not belong in such an environment. Liquid cooling has some benefits, but it also adds weight and raises the center of gravity. Long rides over gravel or beaten soil tracks on the way to see aunt Rita, for instance, would be the perfect use for this motorcycle.


A little perspective
In the dual-purpose market, I reckon that there are three different categories: Small, such as the DR650 or XR650; Medium, including the KLR650 and KTM; and then the Large Tigers and BMWs. Honestly, my road test of the KLR650 was very entertaining. I would have liked to compare it with all the others, but I can safely tell you that, for half the price of the large dual-purpose bikes ($6,200), it delivers the goods. Judging by its dimensions, this Kawasaki is positioned exactly between the Suzuki and the Tiger. A well-calculated compromise by the company's development team, this motocross-style tourer features a more comprehensive dashboard and a slightly sleeker design than the competition.



What turns me on:

• Reliability
• Fuel economy
• Protection against the wind (body and hands) for a dual-purpose bike
  

What turns me off:

• Gearbox ratios are too low
• Few changes since 1986
• Vibrations at high speeds (because of the tires)
  

Photo Credit : Martin Grandé