KAWASAKI KLR650 (2011-2012) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2012, Kawasaki launched the KLR650, the best-selling dual-sport motorcycle for seven years in a row and a bike that could handle all types of terrain, such as sand, dirt, forests, and pavement, with its single-cylinder engine that also delivered incredible fuel efficiency.

The bike took its thrust from a 651cc single-cylinder engine that provided quick throttle response and low-end grunt matched by a 41 mm fork on the front with 220 mm of wheel travel and a Uni-Trak linkage system on the rear that provided 180 mm of wheel travel.

As for the braking performance, the bike packed a 280 mm disc with a two-piston caliper on the front and a 240 mm disc with a single-piston caliper on the rear, which, combined with the suspension package, boosted the performance without lowering its versatile off-road capabilities.

Also, the bike was a worthy touring companion with its large 30-liter fuel tank that allowed long touring journeys between fill-ups and a rear luggage rack fitted with a tail bag. As for wind protection, the frame-mounted bodywork, a tall windscreen, and large shrouds did the job, while comfort was achieved by the seat design with plush urethane foam.

In the performance department, the 2012 Kawasaki KLR650 had its heartbeat set by a 651cc four-stroke single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that delivered an output power of 42 hp with a peak at 7,000 rpm and 47 Nm (35 lb-ft) of torque available at 5,000 rpm, converted into speed by a five-speed manual transmission that spun the rear wheel through a chain drive.