Photo: Kawasaki
Overall, its iconic styling hasn’t changed very much, but the same can’t be said about the powertrain and chassis.
Let’s set things straight; Kawasaki’s KLR650 is among the juiciest dual-sport rides you’ll ever come across. The bike's enviable performance, the ravishing design language, and its affordable price tag earned the KLR a very special place in riders’ hearts in the previous generations. Sure enough, Kawasaki is at it again as it has announced the return of this legendary machine for the 2022 model year!
While the newcomer appears to retain (and improve on) its predecessor’s most desirable characteristics, it does pack a few surprises that you’ll probably dig. For starters, the front end is adorned by an LED headlight module resembling that of a Z H2, as well as a tasty fairing and a pair of optional auxiliary lights. The windshield’s height has been increased by two inches (51 mm) to bring about some extra comfort during extended rides.
Additionally, Team Green revised KLR’s handlebar width and footpeg positioning to further improve rider comfort. On that note, the gas tank’s gargantuan 6.1-gallon (23-liter) capacity remains unchanged, but its shape has been tweaked so that you may have a little more space for your legs. Additionally, the modified two-seater saddle comes equipped with rubber dampers that’ll reduce any unwanted vibration. The cockpit boasts a digital gauge unit that replaces the previous model’s analog counterparts.
As for the 2022 KLR650’s chassis, its high-tensile, semi-double-cradle frame and the subframe are now fabricated as a single piece for enhanced torsional rigidity. At the front, suspension duties are handled by 41-mm (1.6-in) telescopic forks, coupled with an adjustable Uni-Trak setup and a longer swingarm on the opposite end. The front brakes are treated to a 300-mm (11.8-in) rotor for some extra stopping power, while the rear 240-mm (9.45-in) brake disc is one millimeter thicker to help disperse heat.
In the powertrain department, you will find a fresh 652cc single-cylinder mill that prides itself with a healthy compression ratio of 9.8:1. To optimize the combustion cycle, the engine is fitted with an upgraded exhaust system, revised cam profiles, and a state-of-the-art direct fuel injection. Its oomph is handed over to the rear wheel via a five-speed transmission.
Finally, Kawasaki’s 2022MY KLR650 will be available in as many as four trims. The base model will be priced at $6,699, while its ABS sibling will cost you an additional 300 bucks. On the upper end of the range, you’ll need $7,399 to purchase a copy of the KLR650 Traveler, or $7,999 if you're looking to get the range-topping Adventure variant.
At this time, the manufacturer hasn’t revealed any details on this beast’s availability, but we’ll be sure to keep you updated as soon as it does.
While the newcomer appears to retain (and improve on) its predecessor’s most desirable characteristics, it does pack a few surprises that you’ll probably dig. For starters, the front end is adorned by an LED headlight module resembling that of a Z H2, as well as a tasty fairing and a pair of optional auxiliary lights. The windshield’s height has been increased by two inches (51 mm) to bring about some extra comfort during extended rides.
Additionally, Team Green revised KLR’s handlebar width and footpeg positioning to further improve rider comfort. On that note, the gas tank’s gargantuan 6.1-gallon (23-liter) capacity remains unchanged, but its shape has been tweaked so that you may have a little more space for your legs. Additionally, the modified two-seater saddle comes equipped with rubber dampers that’ll reduce any unwanted vibration. The cockpit boasts a digital gauge unit that replaces the previous model’s analog counterparts.
As for the 2022 KLR650’s chassis, its high-tensile, semi-double-cradle frame and the subframe are now fabricated as a single piece for enhanced torsional rigidity. At the front, suspension duties are handled by 41-mm (1.6-in) telescopic forks, coupled with an adjustable Uni-Trak setup and a longer swingarm on the opposite end. The front brakes are treated to a 300-mm (11.8-in) rotor for some extra stopping power, while the rear 240-mm (9.45-in) brake disc is one millimeter thicker to help disperse heat.
In the powertrain department, you will find a fresh 652cc single-cylinder mill that prides itself with a healthy compression ratio of 9.8:1. To optimize the combustion cycle, the engine is fitted with an upgraded exhaust system, revised cam profiles, and a state-of-the-art direct fuel injection. Its oomph is handed over to the rear wheel via a five-speed transmission.
Finally, Kawasaki’s 2022MY KLR650 will be available in as many as four trims. The base model will be priced at $6,699, while its ABS sibling will cost you an additional 300 bucks. On the upper end of the range, you’ll need $7,399 to purchase a copy of the KLR650 Traveler, or $7,999 if you're looking to get the range-topping Adventure variant.
At this time, the manufacturer hasn’t revealed any details on this beast’s availability, but we’ll be sure to keep you updated as soon as it does.
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