The Vstrom 650 vs the KLR 650?

I’d get the V-Strom. Once you do, you’ll probably never ride the Shadow again. See <http://vstrom.info> for more V-Strom information than you can possibly absorb.
Also, do you have any dirt riding experience? I don’t, but I’ve been told that the KLR, while a great bike, is still too big and heavy for an off-road newbie. The V-Strom even more so, of course. They’re good dirt road bikes, though.
BTW, I have a V-Strom 1000. It’s a great bike.

I’d get the wee-strom and the KLR. The strom’s a great touring, commuting bike for all roads, and the KLR is fantastic for dirt roads. I have one of each and love them both (ST1300’s my ld-touring bike though).
my $0.02
Chris Hall
Blacksburg VA

I have a vstrom 650, husband has a KLR 650. Mine is more comfortable (important to me) for long trips – he can go where no man has gone before – if that’s your priority. Anyways, we win, both ways!

I have owned both. I started riding again in 2002 after 18 years of automibles. I wanted the adventure of the KLR. The bike can and will go anywhere and parts are world wide. After 2 years and a few minor dirt failures I switched to the more road capable 2004 wee-strom. I love my DL 650 and this spring I finished my first IBA 1000 ride around Lakes Erie and Onterio. So far – 12,357 miles of fun riding.

Nicely written you may like to have a look at the bike stories on http://www.umgweb.com

Hi there,
You have a long distance bike,so why fuss with the heavy bikes and broaden your idea of a commuter. take a look at the DRZ400SM. Test it nd I bet it will fill the void of a play/commuter just fine and the performance and weight are in favorable ratio. Good luck

Thanks everyone for your thoughts. My eye is more on the KLR650 side as a 2nd bike. I am thinking the same as TW I’ll already have a long distance bike however I don’t want one too light to where I have to think twice about driving on a highway. Also I don’t want to have to change bikes for whatever reason I feel like taking a long trip after work or something and somehow wonder off onto a dirt road.

I have a KLR650 that I commute every day on and take the occasional 300 mile road ride. It is a great commuter. Very agile and soaks up potholes with easy. It is also great on dirt roads.
It is ok on highways up to about 75mph, then it gets kind of twitchy and the engine sounds like it is starting to work hard. It will get up to about 90 indicated but it is not particulary happy about it and your oil consumption will rise slightly.
I have taken it on some pretty tight, muddy trails, thorough swamps and over rocks and roots and climbs, and often run into its limitations. It is definitely not a real dirt bike but you can go anywhere off road with it if you slow down and don’t mind working up a sweat. For me it helps that I am pretty big so I can muscle the bike around more so than someone smaller. I probably wouldn’t take the bike on the trails I’ve taken it on if I were a smaller person.
Whatever you do don’t try to catch air with it or your will touch down with a sickening clunk, especially if you weigh around 200lbs. You can get upgraded springs, which I hear transform the handling both off and on road dramatically.
It is amazingly balanced between the two ends of the motorcycling spectrum, sitting right on the border between road and dirt riding, handling both pretty well.
I am thinking about getting a VStrom 650 for road riding and a Suzuki DRZ 400S for off road riding but until then the the KLR 650 is a great compromise and does the job well enough, and for agreat price.

If you havent alwready made up your mind and fallen off the “cool, I’m a new bike owner” cliff, let me throw in my .02$.
Im a 26 year young father of one and I love my KLR 650. But let me say that I too have seen the Wee Strom and am dissapointed that I didn’t spene more time looking before I bought the KLR.
That said, I really do love my KLR. I find that in many things, especially those which have rotating parts and consume some type of fuel, simple is better. And I can tell you, this thing is simple. Almost 1950’s tractor
simple. That makes it easier to work on than the Wee would be, period. Which is important if you need to fix-er up in Nowhereville, Ks. Also, I have done extensive research on the KLR and have found countless resources for info, tech, mods, and more all over the web.
This was to be not only my first bike, but my firts ride as well. (I rode it home from the shop having never ridden a motorcycle of any kind before, and have been in love ever since. Biased? Yes, but objective.) I have found that at 4000 miles in 4 months it lacks in nothing.
It has met my needs for off-the-paved-road equipment, and handles the pavement like it was at home there too. Neither seem to be cumbersome to the average, not-meant-to-race-in-your-face kind of guy.
If I was looking for the ultimate in all around rider for comfort, ease of use, maintainance, support, mod-ability, and long-haul range, nothing can touch the Kawasaki KLR 650 A(X) model.
Check out http://www.bigdogadventures.com for some really cool ride logs with pics and get his oppinion of the KLR. This guy has been there done that and his website is really informative. Hes not as biased as me, as he owns several types of adventure bikes and has reasons why for each in the “My Bikes” sections. Also- He’s been around a while longer than I have if your’e looking for a rider with A LOT more experiance to get your oppinions from.
Yours in Motorcycle Fraternity,
Branden

Well, you have all made some interesting comments but now I want to add mine. At 55 years and have rode everything with 2wheels that is! I am so in love with my 650 V-Strom. I have said good-bye to an older K100RS and have put 8,000 Kms on the Strom thus far. Hwy and gravel.To each his and her own but to those that are looking for a fun ride and keeper!650 Strom is my all time favorite! Thank you Suzuki!

I have recently looked at both bikes and am in the same boat you are. I am leaning towards the KLR as well for the simple fact that it has been produced for 10 + years with almost no changes. To me that means proven reliability. Also if you intend to do any dirt riding more advanced than rippin through an open field the V-strom simply isnt equipped. I have a Kawasaki KDX 200 right now and the bike is dead reliable. Formerly a strictly Honda man myself, Kawi’s are begining to prove theirselves to me. My opinion, KLR with out a doubt.

I have had a KLR 600/650 since 1984 (4) and love the bike but the comfort on the new one 2001 is starting to hurt my tailbone -is the V-strom 650 a lot more comfortable I do dirt roads not serious trailing
Tr

Has anyone compared the V-strom or KLR to the BMW f650?
Thanks

I own a DL 1000 K2 and have put on over 14 k miles so far. That’s day rides, touring, both single and two up, loaded for camping, showing up sport bikes in the twisty’s (too easy if it’s at all bumpy), as well as doing hundreds of miles of dirt roads (longest “straight” dirt section so far, a dusty 52 mile blast across the Hart Mt. antelope refuge in SE Oregon), and it’s all been a real joy to be there riding the big “Strom”.
Sure, it’s not a “real” dirt bike (and lord help you if you dump it alone somewhere {knock wood} if there’s only slippery, muddy footing to be had – I strongly recommend mounting some crash bars), but lower the fork leg’s 12 mm to 15mm to get some much needed weight on the front tire (it really improves the handling), and remove the stupid secondary throttle plates (easy to do) to unleash the motor’s true power and top speed and you’ll be totally surprised what all this de-tuned “dual sport” bike can actually do. Stock the bike could only get up to 128mph before it ran out of steam. Now, without the secondary’s, my bike flies up to around 143mph, AND it runs way, way smoother down low too!
Ugly? Well, a DL’s no beauty, but it does kind’a grow on you after a while, and it sure functions real pretty.
I’ve ridden the DL650, and it’s a nice bike too. But, I can say is that after checking out my friend’s DL650 on a 100-mile day ride last summer; I really missed the 1000’s more powerful motor. You really have to “row” the shift lever on the 650 to keep the 650 spinning over 7k to properly “work” it in corners. On the DL1000 it’s pretty “juicy” anywhere from just under 5k on up, so you can just about pick the gear for the range of speed you’re going, and just sit back and twist your wrist. That’s not too much to complaint about actually, and I’ve owned inline 4 sport bikes and know something about shifting often to keeping a rev-happy motor in its power band. But this ain’t no 160 mph sport bike, right? Anyway’s the real hassle for me was on either ends of the smaller motor’s range.
Travel anywhere over 85mph and the little twin was buzzing hard to keep up! Need to pass? You’ll have to drop it down one gear at least, maybe even two if it’s a close thing, and scream it. The 1000 is, of course, much more relaxed at speed and overtaking quickly was just about effortless. You could downshift if you were really looking to hustle along, but it wasn’t required.
Then, say you want to “Harley” around town, check’n out the sights? Just can’t do it on the 650 easily, because there’s some serious lack of grunt down low. No problem cruzing on the 1000 (if you remove the secondaries as I mentioned above). Just stick it in 3rd and kick back and get into your big, happy, smooth V “groove”.
The we-strom was no doubt a better and safer ride on just about any rough dirt road, it’s lighter weight means if you HAD to put a foot down, you were going to it with way more style points and way less cold sweat. Also it’s a quite an excellent ride to be on to avoid getting those 100mph+ speeding tickets. It just doesn’t’ “hang” well over a ton without starting to strain, and surprisingly, given the lack of “poop”, the 650’s tank range is not noticably better then the 1000’s.
Shorties will probably like the little bike better, mainly because it’s lighter to horse around in show room, though the same 1″ lower seat fitted stock on the small bike fits the big bike too.
I’m 5’11”, and I got the 1″ higher then stock 1000’s seat. I feel it gets me into a better place for longer rides (less knee pain) and it’s also easier to get more forward on the bike, putting a bit more weight on the front end for better feel in the corners and increased control of the front wheel in deep gravel or dirt.
Yes, I’d like to own or at least try another giant “dual sport” style bike at some point. The new KTM Super Moto or KTM Adventurer, BMW’s 1200 GS, or a 1000S Muliti Strada all come to mind. Those are way cooler rides, and maybe even better bikes for me too (please send me 14K so I can find out!). All of those, grab your wallet now, go for somewhere north of $14 grand. So…for the price (I paid $8,100 out the door), you just can’t beat the Suzuki DL1000 for performance value.
If you’re thinking of even saving more money and looking for a used DL1000, go for a K4 (2004) or newer model, as they have a better engine fuel management (hardware and software) system, run even smoother (I’ve ridden and compared), and they also have the upgraded clutch basket (K3 on) too.
PS. I’d get a KTM four stroke of your choice (or maybe a DRZ) and mount a Baja kit for a second “go anywhere, do it all” bike.
A KLR is not a bad motorcycle. If you need dirt worthiness and want to do a bit of everything else too, and you only have enought cash for one cheap motorcycle, it’s the right choice. Also if you’re a world traveler looking for stone-cold reliability and super range, the KLR is the ticket. But if your wallet can handle two bikes in your shed, and you’re not planning on riding the Darien gap without a support crew, I’d go for something lighter with a more up to date handling package and a way more thrilling power to weight ratio.

I have lotsa bikes, including the DL650 and a KLR250. 90% of my seat time is on the V-Strom, I absolutely love it…on the road and on packed trails. The smaller KLR is great for easy to medium dirt riding – the KLR 650 is like a motorhome in the woods -although I am on the smaller side.
If you’re gonna be in the dirt – get a real dirt bike (that you can still put on the road legally) like a DRZ or a CRFX.

I’ve got a KLR650 and it does about all I need it to do. I live in rural N.C. and use it to ride the backroads and commute to work. I have heard others comment on the top speed of this bike but I don’t believe a rider should ever push his ride to the limit. Let us face reality; street bike and dirt bike will never truly meet. When buying a motorcycle of any type, the buyer needs to decide how much they are willing to compromise.
I find the KLR has the compromise I can live with. It performs well at speeds from city to backroads. It has acceptable economy of use and maintenance. I have not felt the need to modify the bike in any mechanical way. However, I don’t expect it to be a dirtbike and my top sustained comfortable speed for it is 55-60mph.
If I lived in a more urban area I believe I would want a street bike. I am not convinced yet that the adventurebike classification can pull off a good compromise. Like most things modern, they seem to me to be overweight, overcomplicated, and overpowered. Unlike most of the manufacturers, I think it is more important to match riding skills,usage,and style than to build monster bikes that most riders get in trouble trying to master.

I have owned 50 motorcycles in my life. Done just about everything legal and illegal on them, all sizes and styles, touring to motocross.
Well I’m looking to buy my 51st bike and today I went and test drove the V-Strom 650 and the KLR 650.
It is not right to compare these two bikes without first having a clear understanding of what you want to do with them.
Despite what people say can be done with them, they excel at some things and not ohers. Some people have ridden KLR’s all around the world into remote areas. I can see why. The KLR is a simple utility vehicle with good trail manners in the right hands and has the engine capacity to get you and your pack down long stretches of highway (albeit not at impressive speed)and up into the mountains. Personally I’d prefer to have a 16 tooth front sprocket just to bring the rmps down during higher speeds on the highway. It is light and easy to handle and has sufficient instrumentation and millions of after-market things are available for it as you please. It has minimal body panels so dropping it or squeezing it betweent rees won’t make you wince.
The V-Strom is a different beast. First off it is fast, torquey and very capable of highway speeds. It handles easily but one would worry in the bush with it because of the expensive plastic body panels. Drop it or run through some thick stuff and you’ll end up scratching or cracking some expensive plastic. It is a great highway bike with lots of potential for logging and fire roads. It is a street bike slipped into a dual-purpose frame.
Comparing these two bikes is comparing apples and oranges. Just because you can do some things with these bikes doesn’t mean it was designed to do it nor can everyone necessarily do it. The KLR can’t keep up to the V-Strom’s highway manners and performance and the V-Strom can’t match the KLR’s bush utility and dirt-bike-like rideability.
If you own both you have just about all of motorcycling’s pleasures in an affordable package.
The KLR didn’t impress me nor was I disappointed. All sales hype aside, it delivers what it looks like it was designed to deliver and that’s a good thing.
The V-Strom impressed the hell out of me as it spans so much of what motorcycling is about but I wouldn’t ride it in the bush. I made that mistake with my Transalp and wound up paying big bucks for plastic repair!
Think about what you want to do with a motorcycle, then decide which bike gives you the best bang for your buck.
If your idea of fun is to ride on some road for a while to get to gravel roads and trails, then the KLR will deliver. Plus the bike ahs been around so long, it’s engine has a solid reputation. There are still people slogging them around jungles and deserts.
If your idea is to do some sport touring but want to do some logging roads if they come up, then the V-strom is for you and the 650 gives nearly as much as the 1000.
Also this bike has a huge accessories potential.
safe ride,
Ugo DeBiasi Ladysmith BC

If you get the V-strom, you can enhance the motorcycle even more with Suzuki aftermarket motorcycle parts from Suzuki Parts

I have 03 V-strom 1000.
Scotts steering damper
2 Brothers pipes
Power Commander
Windstrom windshield
K&N high flow filter
Touratech Oil/Rad and chain guard
Givi hard case
Heated grips
Givi crash bars
One of the best all rounders I have ever owned. Handles excellent on the highway, good on gravel and 800 to 1000 mile days are no problem with the stock seat.

I have been riding a 1996 Suzuki Bandit 600s for about 5 years now. I really like the bike, but recently purchased a VStrom 650. Great all around bike. My soon to be husband has a Vstrom 1000 and I fell in love with it. So… I now have the Bandit For Sale if you know anyone. It’s been lowered to fit a female, but can be raised back up. Let me know.

Have a bmwr1200gs, and a klr. ride the beemer more as a touring bike, with occasional gravel and dirt roads, but go looking for them on the KLR, works much better off road then my beemer.

Buy the KLR,by far the best bang for the buck.Not flashy or bling bling but as well rounded of a motorcycle as you will find.Years of riding experience on both street & dirt as well as extensive research had all of my roads leading to the KLR.The bike can be transformed through aftermarket parts to suit any need you want.Way more versatile,efficient,revered & simple than the v-strom will ever hope to be.

KLR 650, like a Timex, it takes a lickin’ and keeps on tickin’. I’ve got 12,000 on my ’02 and it is running as strong as ever. With a smaller counter sprocket we’ve been boulder-hopping over the Continental Divide without a hiccup. It helps if the rider is tall (I’m 6’4″) and has some shoulder muscle for real off-roading, but the KLR is a sweetheart on dirt roads or even divided highway. A wonderful, wonderful motorcycle!

I own a KLR (’04) and it’s my only bike (daily commuter and weekend ride).
I really love my bike and it has been rock solid reliable. Fuel + oil + 1 rear tire (and a new battery … I’ve been lazy with my winterizing…oops!) = all I’ve needed in 3 riding seasons and 12000kms.
The ONLY short coming, is not really… well, a short coming(huh?). Because my commute includes 25 miles of (high speed) interstate riding, the KLR leaves me wanting more hwy speed stability and cruising ability. It seems to be wheazing a little over 70-75mph. It’s my own fault though … I really need more of a street bike to commute with.
Because of my specific needs, I’ll be trading it in for a 650 Strom in the coming months. To me, the choice really comes down to needs: need to hit more dirt (65%) than pavement (35%), get a KLR. You need more of a road biased bike, get a Strom.
I’ll miss my KLR and I wish I could keep it and have both ($$ restrictions). While I have been fortunate enough to be able to ride dozens of bike (through my work), even if modern bikes can make the KLR feel a little prehistoric or old school, there is still something about it that makes the KLR a comforting bike to ride .. like an old friend or a well worn pair of jeans.
Anyone wanna buy a KLR (in the Toronto area)? Red, Supertrapp (sounds good!), K&N, jetted, new tire, battery and taller shield. You send e-mail, I send pictures.

The KTM & BMW (640 & 650) are the way to go if you are thinking of the klr. While the klr is cheaper, the ktm Adventure offers a 400 mile range on a tank and weighs about the same as the KLR. The BMW & KTM also have almost double the ponies get better fuel mileage and were meant for racing across the desert at 100 mph. for the extra 2.5 grand you get ALOT more bike.
I am considering the big strom however since My wife would kill me if i got the r1200 GS Beemer at 16 grand.
Good luck.

Before you get into this kind of bikes a question must be asked: how tall are you?
More experienced riders might disagree, but I find the wee strom fitting perfectly a person with over 30 inch inseem. An inseem any shorter than that might get standing still a bit tricky.
I love the bike. I commute and do 200+ miles daytrips without any soreness.

My ’99 KLR is like a Jeep/Landcruiser on two weels. Very much utility, very dependable, and rock solid to boot.
I often commute in downtown Seattle as well as go “backpacking” and touring up to Canada and anywhere else I have a mind to go. The bike performs quite well for the price, and can be fixed by a moron with a wrench. I myself have performed all routine maintenence and the few needed repairs without too much bloodshed. The bike is quick on the road and can go as DEEP into a corner as you are brave to go. In the city if you need to get up onto the sidewalk or muscle the bike into a quick turn you will not be dissappointed. Off road it’s as I mentioned, you have to ride like you drive your 4×4, slowly over the technical parts, and with focus. You really can go anywhere with this bike, and I have. It’s sad but strangely fun to watch my buddy’s r1150GS Adventure in the mirror… when I stopped to rest and let him catch up. On the highway he can and does leave me in the dust on occasion. But then again I flew home from Banff in high comfort with highway pegs and tall windscreen averaging 75 mph without a prob.Oh yes you can buy a better bike if you have the bux. But unless you have a LOT more dollars, why do it? This bike you don’t have to wash every weekend and it will not let you down. Look into your head and figure out why you want the bike, and do you really care what it looks like on the stand next to all the rest of the chrome and plastic monstrosities. Next spring I will have a ST1300 or a FJR1300. I can’t be tempted to give up my KLR. Like I would trade in my frick’n dog.
rp – Seattle

I own a ’94 KLR650. I have 24000 miles on it and it continues to be reliable and as some have said, simple is better. I commute 70 miles to work (140 round trip). 30 miles highway (55), 40 miles interstate (70). This bike will sit all day long at 85mph smoothly with the Pirelli AT Scorpions and at highway speeds get 55mpg. It is not skitish at high speed (100) and I just drag-dyno’d it last weekend at 41.9hp and 94mph in the 1/4. I like it off-road too, but if you’re going where the trails are not, you better be ready to work. It is strong enough to get you out of anything, but you better be hanging on when it’s ready to go. It will flat wear you out in the boonies. It has no problems with the Iron Butt, but you best by the Dual-Star seat for it. Lots of luck, if you decide on the v-strom, I find it in the same catagory as the BMW Dakar. I’ll go up against them with the KLR anytime… Kawasaki LONG Riders!

I am a new KLR 650 owner, just bought last September, ’06 model. Love the bike, works well on the highway for commutes in and around NYC. Just took the bike on my first 200 mile run, worked very well, very agile in the winding roads of the mountains and often I had to calm my self down because I was leaning the bike like I was on a bicycle. In the city I can just pop up on the side walks if I am ever in trouble, great versatile bike whether in the city or off road.
I just saw a Suzuki V-Strom 1000 and went to see one in the showroom, I am in love. It seems like the bike has much more potential for the streets and winding roads than the KLR, I am more of a pavement rider but prefer the stance of the dual sport to the sport bike. The V-Strom has a much neater appearance and the accessories seems to fit better than the KLR. The only complaint about the KLR is the seat and Suzuki has seemed to have heard everyones cry. It has the highway punch I am looking for and not to expensive.
This comes as a shock as I was just nearing the end of my warranty(have 4+ more years) and had thoughts of upgrading the Stator and RR, getting some off-road lights and maybe some Givi bags…oh well I guess I will have to pass that on to the V-Strom.
By the way anyone looking for an ’06 KLR 650, well maintained and garaged in the NY area give me a shout through my e-mail. (digable007@optonline.net). I have never been off-road on the thing and have put 4,400 miles on it from commuting… It is very new and just being broken in.

Seems like a lot of interest in the KLR vs VStrom issue. So here’s my two cents worth. I recently went thru the same quandry and decided to buy a KLR. I haven’t ridden a 650 VStrom, but my ridding buddy has a 1000, which I’ve ridden quite a bit.
I like the KLR better. The BigStrom is a fine motorcycle – very powerful and comfortable. But in my humble opinion it’s too big and heavy for going off-pavement very much. And so is the 650 Vstrom, from the one time I sat on it in the showroom.
My buddy runs away from me on pavement, but I smoke him when we get on a dirt road. And if you’re not crazy (which my friend is) the KLR is plenty fast on the street. I bought mine used in Las Vegas and rode it home to WA state, including a side trip to Utah. Over 2000 miles in 5 days and it was fine. I cruised at 70-75 mph and it never missed a beat. It handles beautifully on twisty pavement, even with knobbies on it. It is kinda twitchy in a heavy crosswind, but so is my BMW K100 RS.
Also, you can get a good used KLR for an absurdly small amount of money. It’s got to be the all time champ with regard to the fun/cost ratio.
My buddy and I have a running argument over whose bike is uglier, but once again I think the KLR wins.
Anyway, my advice would be – if you’re planning to do a significant amount of ridding on dirt roads, get the KLR. If noting else, it’s a hell of a lot easier to pick up. If you plan to go off pavement only occassionally, you might be happier with the VStrom.
BTW, I’ve ridden an SV-650 some, and I must say that I LOVE the motor, which as far as I know, is similar if not identical to the 650 Vstrom engine. The absolutely perfect motorcyle would be a KLR with a Suzuki V-twin 650 in it and no increase in weight.

I had a ’94 KLR 650. Sold it a little over a year ago. I loved the bike, but didn’t have the extra scratch at the time to upgrade some of it’s shortcomings – the doohickey (cam chain tensioner), a real metal skidplate, fork brace & springs, and radiator guards. I also didn’t have a garage and the bike cover just wasn’t keeping it clean enough. The killer was the hideous turquoise/purple/white color scheme. I’ve heard it and the ’95 KLRs be called the ‘Ken & Barbie’ versions or my favorite -‘the Muppet Editions’. I am 6’3″, 230lbs with a 34″ inseam and the bike fit me like a glove. You’ll be okay if you are that weight with a shorter inseam because the rear will sag down to where you can get you feet planted firmly on the ground. Though the Stroms look pretty cool and fit where I ride a little better-mostly street, I think I’d get another KLR just for the size, the low cost, and that thumper torque down low. Your best bet is to try and find a used KLR with the above upgrades already done by the previous owner-especially good off-road tires. The 80/20 street/dirt tires are crap. Check out the Flea Market in advrider.com.

I also have narrowed my search down to the KLR and V-Strom.
I will have occasional off road requirements, and use the scoot as my chosen means of transport day to day.
At 5’10 and 203 I’ve found that the KLR would, all things considered, be the best option for me, but I am not you!
I have had over the last 35 years over 35 bikes, from the fabled Kawasaki H-2 to Honda trail 90’s to GS1000G’s to (one of my all time favorites) 4 Yamaha RD-350/400’s ( in various states of tune)and a 441Victor, and SR500 (back in the day of kick only starting) a Ducati Desmo 350, etc.
The uptake is this: get what you need that is also something you want. IE: get what fits and is comfortable to you.
To do otherwise is not a good thing for you, and all the advice in the world is worthless if you are not happy with your decision, if it is based on advice you’ve recieved.
Myself, I’ll get the KLR for reasons only I fully comprehend, and eventualy a V-Strom 1000 to go lomg distances on pavement.
No one bike can do it all, compromise is the key word.
Take Care,
Douglas

I sold my 01 Shadow ACE 750 in order to make finiancial room for a long desired KLR in my life. My 5’6″ wife much preferred the back of the KLR to that of the ACE if you can believe it. Sadly, I wrecked my KLR 650 in May of 06, broke my left leg badly and have missed most if not all of the 06 riding season. I am now also considering purchasing another KilLeR. While shopping, I’ve come across the Triumph Tiger 955 and I must sat that for exactly twice the money, the Britt seems like it may be 3 times the bike. Has anyone given any relative comparison to these two bikes?

Hi, I have been riding both dirt and street bikes since the mid 60’s. the new bikes on the market today are wonderful machines but they all so tall. I am very inseam challenged 5ft 6 inches but otherwise a handsome devil. I really like the V-strom 650 and would like to purchase one, is there anyway of getting the seat down to say 30 inches? So I don’t need a outrigger at stop lights.

I’m very surprised no one has mentioned the DR650 yet.
I’ve owned two, the first of which was a 91 model that was like the KLR650 = Heavy and cumbersome for any real off road riding.
The second model was a 97 DR650 that was MUCH improved over the old model.
Add a large tank, some serious Front and rear springs and you’ll have all the “dirt” bike you’ll probably be able to use.
For what it’s worth, I logged over 10,000 miles a year on my DR’s and would now buy a third if only I had the $$$$.
My thinking goes…..
the simpler the better, off road.
No radiator to smash on the air-cooled 650 or expensive panels either (like on any of the stroms).
Only other all-around bike I’d even consider if extreme long distance riding were the goal; would be the the BMWGS.
If you’re gonna go big and heavy off road, ya might as well go first class!

I rode a KLR 650 from Toronto to Antigua Guatemala ,over to Belize,onto Cancun back through Mexico,put 14,800 klms on it in 2 and a half months riding,and never once had a problem.

Like most people, I want the best all-around bike. I’m a first time rider at 38yrs old and live in Colorado. I want to use the bike to run around town and also travel the dirt mountain roads. I have no desire for serious off-road trails, just cruising for scenery and that perfect fishing spot. I’m 5″10 with 30-32 inseam. I like the idea of the klr, but it felt large, tall, and heavy. The BMW 650GS fit better, but it seemed to flashy and caused me concern about repairs. The 650vstrom fit me really well and I like it’s features, but I’m worried about how a new rider like myself would do on it in the mountains. My ratio would be 75% roads and 25% dirt and gravel roads. Any help?

Well… I posted some info on my KLR 650 not too long ago, I was suppose to get a V-Strom 650, unfortunately my deal fell through due to both the dealer and my mistakes. For those mistakes the insurance company made me pay dearly to acquire the new V-Strom 650, I opted to wait and see if I could get the insurance back down.
Now I have been searching the web and Kawasaki has come out with a model that has better specs than the V-Strom 650. The Kawasaki Versys 650 is a European Union only model and it is a cross between every dual sport before it. A combo of the Transalp, the V-Strom and the Multistrada with the sport bike looks, I guess I might have lucked out after all. I am due to go to Canada to order one in the forth coming months. It looks like I will be selling my KLR 650 after all.
http://www.kawasaki.co.uk/versys/default.asp?Sub=47F70EE0
I think you will like the bike alot…take a look. I am hoping that it will be coming to the US before ’08.

To the user that puts the V-Strom in the same category as the BMW 650 Dakar, I say “You have to be kidding me?”
The V-Strom is a street bike that is capable of going down a few dirt and gravel roads.
The Dakar is in the same league as the KLR or KTM adventure. I recently competed against all of these bikes in the Sandblast Rally, SC. on my 03 F650 GS Dakar. All of these bikes are totally capable Dual-Sport bikes, with their own pros and cons. A V-Strom wouldnt have made it past the first stage of the race.
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=193810&page=37
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?p=4204553#post42045

A v-strom is a good street bike but dirt roads and easy cow trails are all it can handle off road. If you want a decent street/touring bike that can tackle tight trails, fit d.o.t. knobs,skid plate,saddle bags and taller windshield to a KLR and have fun !! No other bike can cruise comfortably at 80mph for 250 miles on a tank of gas and still be able to go 90% of the places a real dirt bike will go.I have a wheelie good time on mine!!!

AARGH
I read your comments and posts about the KLR /Vstrom contraversy. I am havinfg trouble deciding on which to purchase. I have one dealer down to 5999 OTD for a V-strom and 4799 OTD for a KLR. I will ride them both again this week. Problem is I want what they both offer. This is my first new bike purchase in 30 years, what with kids, houses and cars to support, and accounting for the guilt factor. Of course I want a BMW and a KTM, but…. Well, you know. I will probably be happy with either. I live in Utah so there are tons of opportunities to use the strenths of either.
AARGHHH.

I have a KLR 650, and Vstrom DL1000. They are two different world entirely. Looking for a second bike jsut for commuting and the occasional long trip, I think you made a good choice with KLR. The Vstrom is a bike for the guy that like the KLR, the way it rides, and the go anywhere attitude, but the KLR jsut isnt that bike for those people who want to ride in a little mroe comfort on heavier bike like myself. I love both of them, but I usually tend to ride the KLR to work most of the time. And the Vstrom is the bike that i throw my jacket and pant combo on for a long ride…..I can spell….sorry it was so sloppy

after releaving myself of my drifter 1500, i will be looking for a dual-purpose bike. i have read and re-read articles and comments throughout the cyberworld and, until i found this site, my delimma was three-fold…now its only between the vstrom and the klr.
without riding either, i’m leaning toward the klr. wanna know why?? the vstrom fits my everyday riding to a tee, but i am seeking to haul myself and my bike to laredo, then ride south until i hit argentina (if i can find a way to get from panama to columbia without being cycle-jacked, that info will be worth a beer or two.) so my question is simply which bike will have a better chance of holding together and getting me back to the states in more or less one piece…im thinking to ask it is to answer it….the KLR.
please, if u wish to share any information, opinions, or great places for eating, please say hello!!

Own a KLR and love the bike solo, but find it too cramped for 2 up riding as I end up getting pushed into the tank.. Is the 650 V-strom more roomy with 2 on board?

The decision between a V-Strom and the KLR is going to get easier. The new and heavily revised 08 KLR is arriving in showrooms this week. Revisions to the motor, suspension, front fork, wheels,brakes, plus new found civility in touring features such as windscreen protection, better seat, larger luggage rack, better instrumentation…and better looking to boot. The bar has been raised.

Don’t know why more people aren’t comparing the bmwf650gs with the vstrom seeing that they cost about the same. thinking bout getting the gs but everyone is talking bout the vstrom which makes me curious. is the gs overrated?

With the NEW 2008 KRL650 out as I type, and the Kawasaki MSRPing for about $1,300 less, I think the KLR650, especially if one like offroading is a better choice.
Looks like Kawasaki has the wind buffeting removed from the new KLR650 too, something the V-Strom still suffers with.
Enjoy… http://www.motorcycledaily.com/30april07_2008kawasaki_klr650.html
http://www.cycleworld.com/article.asp?section_id=3&article_id=328
http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/2007/KLR650/

i use a gel pad that covers part of the luggage rack for 2-up riding on my klr, but the v-strom is better by far. i wish kawasaki would have put a longer seat and adjustable windshield and stronger brakes on the new klr and then left it alone.

I demo rode the new 08 KLR650 and both V-stroms (650 and 1000) at Myrtle Beach (5/16/07). I preferred the 650 V strom over the 1000. Just liked the lighter weight and super sweet motor. I had to ride the new KLR twice. I couldn’t believe how neat it was. The KLR was grouped with the sport bikes, so I ran it hard. It only had 350 miles on it, but it easily ran up to 90 into a 25 mph head wind. Cruised easily at 75mph and 5000 rpm. Really smooth. I could see riding it anywhere. I would probably buy the V Strom 650 because I will ride mostly 90% on the street and it has even more zip than the KLR. I really did like both of them.

I am going from touring to adventure bikes ( I grew up riding dirt bikes)
I am selling my Gl1800 to get a fully loaded V Strom 1000 or a New 08 KLR 650.
I am 6’2” and wight 275.
Any suggestions or buyers.

I have a DL-1000, and a KLR 650, and use the bikes for totally different riding.
For short trips and a little off-road exploring, the KLR is the ticket! It rides like a supermoto bike on tight country roads, and is off-road oriented enough for slow and easy off road excursions.
For long comfortable hiway trips, with a little gravel road exploration perhaps, give me the big Strom!
Warning! go easy on gravel and dirt, this thing is WAY heavy to pick up by yourself!

Let me introduce myself.I’m 48 and have been riding since I was seven.I got my license at 15.I’ve always rode dirt or enduros.In 1980 I bought a KE175D2 and ran the heck out of it for two yrs. while I saved for something bigger.After a year or less on the KE the rear tire was gone and I installed a sport bike tire.It really cornered and it just might have been one of the first motards.Two years later I saved about 4500 bucks and went to buy something else. I ended up with a brand new Harley Sportster. I really liked the bike and even rode it on dirt roads.
I kept the KE for 15 years and. to this day I still own the old HD.In 2003 I rode a friends GS Adventure and was once again turned onto enduros. Not having the cash flow for a GS I got the KLR and have been happy with it ever since.
I do more on than off road and installed 80/20 tires. I travel less than 20 mi. to work and most of the way is 60mph or above. The KAW works great,good mpgs,reliable,corners like a sport and,I don’t shift gears.Oh yeh, 250+ on a tank.
The V-strom is cool but, is an SV for rough roads.If I wanted an SV I’d get the V -strom.PS,since I have a KLR, my next bike will be more sreet,maybe a DL or SV or a UM.

I am looking for 1993 to 1999 KLR 650.I do not have dollar to buy one.I will buy one for a max price of 1,300.00 US in any shap.with clear title.

Great comments everyone! I bought a KLR last summer and love it! Last fall, I took the KLR on a 5,000-mile, 24-day solo ride from West Virginia to the northern tip of Newfoundland and back. The KLR was fantastic for the whole trip! I hauled about 80lbs of gear with me. It was a little “squiggly” at times with all that gear, but never let me down and performed flawlessly. (I put a Corbin flat seat and Caribou Pelican cases on it, among other mods.)
I plan to keep the KLR forever—and now I’m about to join the ranks of “Wee” Strom owners (V-Strom 650). I test rode a friend’s Wee, and was blown away at how incredibly, silky smooth this bike is! Being used to the KLR, the V-Strom 650 feels like a rocketship in terms of power, speed, and acceleration (amazing the difference between a single 650 and a V-twin 650!) I considered the DL1000, but really don’t need that much power (I never ride 2-up).
Scott

I have owned an 03 KLR 650 and 05 SV650 (SV is set up with taller bars, small shield, and progressive springs).
The KLR is a great bike. However, if you are shorter (I’m 5′ 8″) you will be on your tippy toes on the very most top heavy bike I’ve ever owned (and it’s a single!). Although once underway, past 5 mph, this problem disappears and the bike weight is perfectly balanced.
Highyway speeds past 70-75 has the bike wallowing but I found that tire choice can make this better (you will still want to give gentle input past these speeds).
I was shocked to discover that the SV650 is also unstable on the freeway. Changing to a 70 series on the front helps some. I have good results with Bridgestone. The stock Dunlops were so horrible that I will never buy Dunlops of any kind.
Installing a one-tooth-smaller front sprocket on both bikes increases power and improves engine feel. Vibration is pleasant on both bikes.
The KLR gives 50 mpg vs 35 mpg for the SV.
Despite ratings of 32hp KLR vs 70hp for the SV, engine power is more tractable for the KLR and I prefer the KLR engine straight up vs the SV. The KLR engine is my all time favorite (I’ve owned over 35 motorcycles, more than 20 of them new, from EX250 to Bandit 1200). If I could design my own motorcycle it would be a KLR650 motor in an EX250 chassis.
Also, the KLR motor has a mechanical presence that is lacking in the SV/DL 650 motor.
The windshield on the KLR comes loose regularly but is not a problem as long as you check it AFTER EACH RIDE.
Both are easy handlers but for the tight stuff I prefer the KLR to the SV (SV/DL 650 motor).
Overall, if the high speed wallows have been reduced or eliminated from the new KLR650’s improved suspension definetly go with the KLR.

I have been riding a new 08 KLR for two weeks now and have been mightily impressed while trying to show restraint for the break-in process. Pleasant surprises include 1) Windscreen and fairing provide great protection for my 6’1″ frame and very quiet air at helmet level, 2) The handguards do a great job of keeping cold air off your hands..to the point of no need for heated grips, 3) Vibration is not bad for a thumper. Some through the seat, little to none at the bars and the mirrors are actually pretty quiet, 4) shifting is very nice and positive and neutral is easy to find. 5)Brakes are now decent if not exceptional, 6) the revised suspension, new front fork and larger spokes make for a much better tracking back which is not overly susceptible to gusting winds. 7)Acceleration seems more than adequate and linear but, it is, not a sport bike. 8) The squishy soft seat has been replaced with a decent higher density factory seat that remains comfortable for longer rides. 9) They handle very well in the twisties and are easy to ride smoothly. I can also tell you Dealers have waiting lists for new KLR’s … these bikes are selling as fast as they can get them in which must mean something. A very good value bike has now become an exceptional value bike with all the improvements. I waited 7 weeks for mine.

I returned from Iraq and bought a 07 KLR 650 as a gift to myself. I read up on everything I could get my hands on for this bike. I was looking for an all around motorcycle. A do-it-all. I knew the KLR was the right choice. Now Suzuki claims that their strom is a dual sport. It is not! It is a standard motorcycle. Much like an old style Japanese bike. The stroms don’t have the suspension, body style or rider set up. The KLR is a dual-sport. It can go off road any where and ride on the high way. I have taken the KLR on some serious trails where big 4-wheel trucks can’t go. I know that BMW’s gs 650, KTM’s 640, DRZ 400R made it with me. Now I don’t think the strom could have it made to the place we road off-road, let alone make it on the trails. Don’t get me wrong, the strom is a great bike, but it can’t be compared to what the KLR can do off-road in any way. That to me is like a sedan and a pick-up off road. Both will go on some dirt, but one will be able to go farther and be able to get back out.

I have toured extensively on a 2001 KLR 650, Alaska, the Arctic, Mexico, etc. It’s a great all round bike. Have logged over 30,000 on it, same for my 2003 VStrom DL-1000. Now have the new 2008 KLR & now feel almost, that the old KLR & VStrom are no longer needed. Friend of mine has the 650 VStrom & 2 KLR’s. Love them all, but the KLR is better in the dirt, mud, & snow.

KLR 650 Great bike for street a little heavy in the dirt front end to small. I have a 2006 I put 11.000 mile on I give it A+++.

1999 KLR vs. 2005 650 V-Strom vs. 2008 KLR
I put 32,000 hard miles on a 99 KLR and sold it to buy a new 05 650 V-Strom which now has 24,000 miles.
The KLR had a jet kit, K&N filter and pipe, I ran Redline 20-50 full synthetic as soon as it was thoroughly broken in. Slid the fork tubes up one inch and preloaded the factory springs with a ¾” PVC coupling, added a tooth to the front sprocket, doohickey and Corbin seat, 100 watt high beam bulb………….end of modifications.
Riding with friends who had GS’s and KTM 950 Adventurers I’d run at 90 MPH down I-5 from the San Francisco Bay Area on our way to the southern deserts loaded with camping gear with no problem and still had more MPH on tap. Off road less weight is better, anything the KLR gave up on the interstate was quickly regained in the dirt. Oil consumption was normal for a thumper being driven at high speed, MPG were in the mid-forties if kept under 80 MPH. I also drove the bike two up in Baja in the heat on Mexican gas, no problem. I ran Avon Distanzas and found them to be a great sport-touring tire with decent off road capability.
The V-Strom is a great sport-touring bike but it’s short travel suspension and over damping is harsh off road. Dropping the air pressure to 18 PSI in the front 25 in back and backing off all the spring preload on the shock made it tolerable on fire roads and felt stable enough that I was able to run with the above-mentioned GS and KTM, throw in anything rougher and it seriously straining both the bike and rider. On road running the V-Strom in corners where it’s rider not horsepower and a bikes ability to be easily tossed and you’ll hang with anyone. I found the bike to be very stable and forgiving when I’d made inept inputs. I added a tooth to the front sprocket, the bike is humming around 85 MPH and doing it at over 40 MPG. Also ran Avon Distanzas.
I just bought a 2008 KLR; I only have 300 miles on it but can tell you it’s much improved from my 1999. Brakes, engine, lights and cooling are all improved. The new fairing gives a really decent amount of protection, I’ve ordered the taller windscreen and factory gel seat, and I am hoping it will suffice as opposed to a more expensive Corbin. It will be headed for a week of desert camping/riding/exploration as soon as the break in 600-mile service is done. The engine feels like it has a much wider power band and more torque. Keeping it around 60 and 4,000 rpm I got 54 MPG, I am sure it will go down once it’s broken in and it’s spending hours on the interstate running 90 MPH at 6,000 RPM like my old one. At this point I don’t think I’ll be doing the usual jet kit and pipe, the KLR seems to run fine stock with no lean surge.
Also just bought a 99 Suzuki 1200 S Bandit for two up touring. The thing scares me, heavy and very fast, I’ll be taking my time learning how to drive the monster.
I am 59 and have had slew of Japanese, German and British bikes and some 300,000 + miles of riding, see you out there.
Fred

You cant really mention klr and ktm in the same sentence can you? KLR- reliability, proven track record (no real tracks, just world spanning treks) KTM, race ready, but bring your wallet, and your mechanic, same goes for the beamer. Not knocking any bike, but they are designed for different markets. And yes, I have a KLR and a KTM. V-Strom is cool, but dont go down anything more exciting than a fire road, unless your a factory rider.

If you look at the above, you will see that those who have experienced both bikes come down for the Wee, pretty close to every time. The people who endorse the KLR have, for the most part, never ridden a Wee.

I have a 2001 KLR650 and a 2003 KLR250. Both in my opinion handle highway speeds around DFW very well. My 650 has more bags and storage area and the 250 is breathing a bit hard at 70 MPH but it could handle that all day long, (and I ride it that way)but the KLR250 is lacking in seat comfort over my Corbin seat on the KLR650. I often ride the 650 at 80 MPH and it can handle that all day long, as long as the air temp is not too hot. On a trip to Big Bend on I-10 on a 100 degree day, I was just under redline on the temp gage when trying to run 90 mph (mine usually runs on the hot side of the normal range anyway) so I backed down to about 65.
I don’t know what people are talking about that the KLR does not handle speeds over 60 mph. I have always had enduro bikes since my first bike, a 1971 Yamaha 175 enduro, and I have always ridden on freeways at legal freeway speeds and above. Maybe I just don’t know how good it can be on a street bike, but I think the KLR’s are great.
I am however looking to buy a V-Strom 650 and sell the KLR650 since I don’t like to ride the 650 on dirt or gravel roads because of the weight. I am 6′ tall and 225# and I just don’t like the heavy bike when it is slick or slippery. When in Big Bend I took one gravel road but was limited to about 30 mph and being careful not to get into a situation where I had to lean the bike over, since I was riding alone.
It is very hard to pick up by myself. I have fallen over on the KLR650 several times and though that I was going to strain or pull some muscles to be able to get the beast upright. For off road, I prefer the KLR250 which is light enough to pick up and does not scare me to corner.
I don’t have any experience on the V-strom but I suspect that I will prefer the 650 for the lighter weight but have not ridden one. I hope you all enjoy riding what ever you prefer.

get the v strom 650 because it does everything you need. you can take it to dirt roads no problem with 6 inch play on rear and front shocks. ride it as cruiser on the interstate no problem. as sport bike, no problem with its torque and speed. klr will be just a dirt bike for you, thats it. also v strom is the only bike you can get with 6 gallong fuel tank for long rides!

December 15, 2005

The Vstrom 650 vs the KLR 650?

KLR vs Harley vs GS

San Jose Motorcycle Show

Carla King