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Need help?Do you have a question about the Kawasaki KLR650 - DATASHEET 2011 and is the answer not in the manual?
Details on engine type, displacement, bore/stroke, compression ratio, and transmission.
Information on front/rear suspension, brakes, wheelbase, and tire sizes.
Covers seat height, ground clearance, fuel tank capacity, and curb mass.
Highlights the 651cc DOHC liquid-cooled engine and its cooling efficiency.
Details on long travel suspension and petal disc brakes for performance and handling.
Focuses on wind protection, seat comfort, and convenient features like handlebar choke.
Describes practical additions like the rear rack and dual-bulb headlight for touring.
Information regarding the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) status.
Guidance on finding official accessories for the KLR650 model.
Lists the updated color options available for the 2011 model year.
Details on engine type, displacement, bore/stroke, compression ratio, and transmission.
Information on front/rear suspension, brakes, wheelbase, and tire sizes.
Covers seat height, ground clearance, fuel tank capacity, and curb mass.
Highlights the 651cc DOHC liquid-cooled engine and its cooling efficiency.
Details on long travel suspension and petal disc brakes for performance and handling.
Focuses on wind protection, seat comfort, and convenient features like handlebar choke.
Describes practical additions like the rear rack and dual-bulb headlight for touring.
Information regarding the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) status.
Guidance on finding official accessories for the KLR650 model.
Lists the updated color options available for the 2011 model year.
The Kawasaki KLR650, a 2011 model, is a versatile adventure tourer designed for both on and off-road riding. It holds the distinction of being Australia's top-selling Adventure Tourer, a testament to its robust capabilities and broad appeal. This motorcycle is equipped with a long-range 22.1-liter fuel tank, allowing for extended journeys without frequent refueling stops. Its design also accommodates a wide range of genuine Kawasaki accessories, enabling riders to customize the bike to enhance its touring capability and suit individual preferences.
At its core, the KLR650 features a 651 cm³ 4-stroke single-cylinder engine. This engine is designed for efficiency and smooth power delivery across the entire power band, thanks in part to a one-piece exhaust pipe with smoother bends. Its compact, reliable, and proven design ensures consistent performance, while special tuning helps to smooth out power delivery. A light, silent cam chain further contributes to reduced engine noise, enhancing the overall riding experience.
The engine benefits from a high-capacity liquid cooling system, which includes a Denso radiator with tightly spaced cores and a special fin design for efficient cooling. A thin, lightweight fan further enhances cooling efficiency, helping to maintain consistent running temperatures. This not only prevents power loss due to heat but also helps extend engine life by keeping operating temperatures lower. An automatic fan ensures the engine stays cool even in traffic, and a temperature gauge is included for monitoring.
The 4-valve cylinder head is engineered with intake porting and cam timing that enhance power delivery, especially at higher RPMs, by improving breathing. A compact combustion chamber increases the compression ratio without causing detonation with modern fuels, and it provides maximum valve area for optimum flow. The engine also incorporates a double engine balancer, which ensures smooth operation from idle to redline, contributing to rider comfort and reducing fatigue on long rides. For easy starting, the KLR650 is equipped with Kawasaki Automatic Compression Release (KACR), which automatically lifts the exhaust valve at cranking RPM, eliminating the need for a manual compression release. An electric starter further simplifies the starting process. Fueling is managed by a 40mm semi-flat slide CVK carburettor, which precisely meters fuel for good economy and provides quick throttle response. A handlebar-mounted choke is conveniently located to make starting and warm-up easier.
The KLR650's suspension system is designed for long travel and adaptability. The 41mm front fork adds rigidity and is set for superb performance, while the Uni-Trak rear suspension linkage complements the front fork settings. A D-section swingarm enhances traction and features forged axle holders that are both lightweight and rigid. The Uni-Trak rear suspension linkage also lowers the center of gravity for better handling. It offers a progressive rate for a smoother, more controlled ride and features a 5-way preload shock absorber with stepless rebound damping. This allows riders to tune the ride to match the load and various riding conditions, providing a good compromise between the demands of on and off-road riding. The motorcycle is fitted with universal tires that offer good traction on both paved roads and unpaved trails.
Braking performance is handled by petal-design disc brakes. The large 280mm front petal disc with a twin-piston caliper and the 240mm rear petal disc with a single-piston caliper reduce unsprung weight, improve cooling, and help clean the brake pads for more efficient stopping. These powerful and controllable brakes ensure quick, sure stops.
The KLR650 is built on a semi-double cradle frame made of hi-tech, round section, high tensile steel, providing a robust and durable foundation. An engine guard helps protect the engine from rocks and other debris encountered during off-road excursions. For maintenance, the detachable rear sub-frame simplifies access to the rear shock, air box, and carburettor, making servicing more convenient.
Rider comfort is a key aspect of the KLR650's design. A large front cowling provides excellent wind protection, reducing rider fatigue on long journeys. The firm seat is designed for greater comfort during extended rides. The instrument panel is easy to read and mounts to the frame, which helps lighten steering. High-mounted turn signals enhance visibility to other motorists, and a dual-bulb headlight provides more light with style. The tail section is slim, making it easy to mount accessory saddlebags, and a large rear rack offers abundant carrying capacity. A 17-amp generator output is provided to power electrical accessories, adding to the bike's utility for touring.
The KLR650 is LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) Approved in all Australian States and Territories, with the exception of Western Australia. Prospective buyers should check their specific State LAMS List or consult a Kawasaki Dealer for more details. Kawasaki also offers a range of authentic accessories for this model, available through their website. For 2011, the KLR650 was introduced in two new color schemes: Candy Burnt Orange with Ebony and Galaxy Silver, and Candy Plasma Blue with Ebony and Galaxy Silver.
General| Displacement | 651 cc |
|---|---|
| Bore x Stroke | 100.0 x 83.0 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel System | Keihin CVK40 |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Frame Type | Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel |
| Front Tire | 90/90-21 |
| Rear Tire | 130/80-17 |
| Overall Height | 53.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 58.3 in. |
| Seat Height | 35.0 in. |
| Engine Type | 4-stroke, DOHC, single |
| Ignition | Digital |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Uni-Trak® single shock system |
| Front Brakes | Single 280 mm petal disc with 2-piston caliper |
| Rear Brakes | Single 240 mm petal disc with single-piston caliper |
| Fuel Capacity | 6.1 gal. |
| Overall Width | 960 mm |
