Why I Bought a 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 Adventure and Why I'm Selling My Honda Africa Twin

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This past week, I was very excited to welcome a brand new 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 Adventure to my garage. I rode it home in the rain and parked it right next to my beloved 2016 Honda Africa Twin. As promised, this video is an explanation of the thought process behind buying a 2022 KLR 650 and why I chose to do so even though I have a perfectly good Honda Africa Twin adventure bike in my garage already.
Yes, on paper the KLR 650 is inferior to the Africa Twin in many ways, but stats on paper are not the only reasons to consider buying one bike over another. Even in the battle of the 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 vs Honda Africa Twin, there are a few categories (such as lower weight and subsequent easier maneuverability) where the KLR comes out on top.
I really enjoyed my 2022 KLR 650 test ride (video here: • 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 ... ) and after riding it I couldn't stop thinking about adding one to my garage. Buying a new KLR makes a lot of sense both for me as a rider and for me as a RU-vidr. It's a new, hot bike that people are very interested in, and making content on it, doing a KLR mods and accessories build series, and really taking the bike out for lots of KLR adventure touring and more will give me an opportunity to get to know the bike, make good recommendations for new adventure bike riders, and really broaden my knowledge base for future beginner motorcycle recommendations.
Unfortunately, this means that there just isn't room for both the KLR 650 and the Honda Africa Twin in my garage, so I'm going to have to sell my Africa Twin. Not something I'm excited about, but it's going to be necessary at this moment in time.
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28 июл 2024

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Комментарии : 695

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Want to support the channel when you buy your dual sport or ADV gear and mods? Feel free to use the following affiliate links! Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/3tYzpXq Amazon: amzn.to/3aDkk4z Revzilla: bit.ly/3tvAsOg MotoCamp Nerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork DitR Storefront on Amazon: www.amazon.com/shop/dorkintheroad Dork in the Road’s Riding Gear Picks on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3jU31Av Dork in the Road’s Dual Sport Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3gdkK4x Dork in the Road’s Adventure Bike Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3ga2zg4

@BigRockMoto 2 года назад

YES. I am so happy you did this. We need more KLR content on RU-vid. You will have many amazing adventures with this bike, and it handles off-road a lot easier than the AT. I love the 2022 KLR. It is more comfortable than my T7. Doing the doohickey is a KLR right of passage, I recommend it and I think you will enjoy the process. I've owned 7 KLR's over the years, maybe this 2022 model will be my 8th? Congrats on 30k subs, your content is great. If you are ever in SoCal hit me up and let's ride.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Thanks, man! I dig your content, as well!

@DanielIliev 2 года назад

Nice to see two great you-tubers connect.

@Asdfghjkl1234 2 года назад

@@DanielIliev echo that. These 2 RU-vidrs are great

@dl3g3nd45 2 года назад

Dude, i had my '92 Klr for 16 years.

@russellscott5199 2 года назад

The best way to describe the KLR is "it's not the destination, it's the journey". Laid back vibe and cheap to keep.

@marcoluoma3770 2 года назад

Reminds me of somebody I dated .

@peterbeard5362 2 года назад

@@marcoluoma3770 👍😂

@captslaq 2 года назад

This is commonly the mantra of TW200 owners.

@anotherboredgenius283 2 года назад

I'm always dubious of people who are indignant about the KLR650. I've ridden several generations of BMW GSs (from 650s, 800, 1200s), Triumph Tigers (800s- 1200s), tons of sport bikes, sport tourers, Harleys... Been riding for almost everything, for almost 40 years... I bought a 2014.5, New Edition, brand-new, with 6 mi. on the OD - and I absolutely love it. Before my purchase, I rented one the same year for a trip through Death Valley, and I couldn't believe how much I fell in love with it. Yes, it doesn't give you the thrill of a 4-cylinder, litre bike, but the thing goes EVERYWHERE - and it will do 80mph - VERY comfortably - 85-90 mph acceptably comfortably - all day long. (And I'm 6'3" 190) Good on ya! Glad you are enjoying your new ride! They just get better and better the longer you own it - like breaking-in a great pair of boots...

@gilbertsanchez4412 2 года назад

A friend and I bought the first two KLRs in Albuquerque back in 1988 and rode them to Inuvik in the Northwest Territories of Canada, than into Alaska and back.They proved to be bulletproof. Congratulations on you new purchase.

@kevincrockett5155 2 года назад

That's the thing. With all of the new ADV bikes coming out, the battle hardened KLR will take you most places you want to go. It's not the tool for technical single track but for everything else, it's a keeper.

@rodneyjohnston2217 2 года назад

I have a 2017 Africa Twin I dearly love. It’s the white red and blue with gold rims just a striking motorbike. I have modded it with heated grips, Throttle lock style cruise control. True barkbuster handguards an akrapovik pipe,trailmax mission 50/50 tires givi panniers and top box, giant loop tank bag, crash bars by adv rider and Garmon zumo gps. I also have 3 position mounts for a gopro9 and 7. It is my long trip travel companion to be sure. All that said I just bought the new KLR as well. I ride with 3 guys we all had the last generation ( actually I still have a 2014.5) but I just love this thing. I can’t explain it. It certainly is not fast. It is very comfortable, very forgiving all the attributes. I actually bought the non equipped cheaper model for right at 7k but ordered all the goodies that your bike has. I wanted that khaki color ( although seeing yours I may have been wrong. Anyhoo I’m so glad you bought one because I never leave anything alone I’ll be interested to see what you do with it. I also have the new little KLX 300 in camo ( I know I know my wife says I have a problem) that little bike is a hoot!, I’m 62 years old so might as well enjoy it... good luck!,

@sherrycook7043 2 года назад

Awesome! I like that you are going with an "entry level" adventure bike and showing riders that they don't need to spend the big bucks to get into this type of riding. Good for you!

@brantmcfarland517 2 года назад

Nailed it. It’s perfect for you. It’s you all the way. I’ve had 3 of them and I loved mine. Good job again.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Thanks 👍

@zr2trackerjoe 2 года назад

I love the direction of the channel. Instead of hopping on the brand bandwagon you are going with practicality. When I bought my KLX300 everyone wanted to know why I didn't buy a bigger bike or orange bike. I wanted practical. Keep up the good work!

@kevinruppert7665 2 года назад

Practicality is what attracts me to this channel.

@joecallicott21 2 года назад

Dude thanks for being so straight forward and making honest comparisons for bikes in this class. I don't own an adventure bike yet and have been doing tons of research as to where to go. I started on vintage 50cc mopeds and modding them out, rippin around town, and decided I need a move up for camping in the mountains. I hope you get some more mod vidz in too!

@PineyRider 2 года назад

A KLR was the first vehicle I ever bought brand new, 0 miles. That was a 2001. Loved it. Everyone should own one at least once in their life. Same with the TW200, which I'll probably never let go. I'm the Dork in the Woods on that!!

@drklynoonrides6674 2 года назад

Dude no need to justify, this is going to be a really cool chapter in your book and I can imagine it will bring many more smiles than frowns. Thanks for all you are doing and I can't wait to see it in action. I'm holding out for the Honda or a Norden depending on release times before I upgrade. I totally get your decision and I salute you jumping in!

@rogershermanmusic 2 года назад

That workshop/vlogging area looks great, with the exposed brick, neon, and the workbench. Welcome back to the kawasaki family!

@billfreberg1636 2 года назад

Welcome to the KLR community! I have a ’14 KLR New Edition with 14K miles and love it! Favorite upgrades: steel skid plate, Barkbuster hand guards, crash bars, Continental TKC80s, and 16t drive sprocket. Looking forward to your vids to learn more about the ’22 KLR.

@heatherleigh6087 2 года назад

Ride what gives you confidence yet pushes you to better your skills. Sounds like it’s a great match for you, I’m looking forward to seeing what you do with this. However I too am excited for a potential new Trans Alp.

@vanagoonadventures6033 2 года назад

One more thing... The KLR community is by far one of the best groups out there. I have not owned a KLR for about 15 years however I still go back to KLR forum all the time just because the people on there are so awesome, very helpful, and just generally good folks. As you can tell, I am very excited for you and your future content. By the way, I agree with you on the Doohickey, wait for the warranty to be over then you will easily be able to do the doo (that would make a great video as well ;)).

@Scoobs72 2 года назад

Picked up a 2013 KLR a couple of weeks ago as my first dual sport. As a new rider I love your content! 👊

@AT2021Rocker 2 года назад

It will only get heavier when you kit it out. I had a 2013 klr fully decked out. Upgraded suspension, guards, pannier racks etc so it was heavier than stock. Loaded for moto camping was over 800lbs (I’m 225). Honestly just enough power but not enough to make off roading really enjoyable.I liked it a lot but now that I’ve got my 2021 AT Adventure Sports I’ll never go back! The type of riding I do needs some highway to get to the good stuff and a bit more power on the off-road routes. The AT feels as light as my klr did. But the klr is an excellent machine for the beginner or those who just don’t want to spend the money. I’ve got great memories of my trips on an overloaded, simple klr.

@jerheino 2 года назад

Sounds like you have a solid plan. I'm looking forward to watching.

@ronny-drz 2 года назад

Dork, congrats again, the KLR is going to be great for you & your channel! You continue to inspire many & this is another bullseye. All excellent points, you are a natural teacher & speaker. I have a Tenere 700, drove 500 miles return to get it for list price. Love it. Love the KLR as well. Never look back to former bikes, enjoy the memories & move forward to new bikes & adventures with them, just as you have. Love the backdrop/background there & keep up the great work! Cheers, Ronny

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Congrats on finding a Tenere!

@MidniteSon 2 года назад

@@DorkintheRoad You know the Dork Side is doing well when he keeps buying new cool Bikes.

@willd7251 2 года назад

Congrats again, Dork! I bought the base, non-ABS version a few weeks ago and can really relate to your reasons for getting yours. Look forward to seeing how you kit yours out - seems like the aftermarket companies are still developing options. Best wishes from Maryland!

@outsidetherapyexperience 2 года назад

Congrats on the new bike. Im just another guy singing klr praises. I picked up an 09 probably 6 or 7 years ago. I’m in northern az and love riding it on and off road. I rode it from flagstaff to Oakland and back for a friends wedding a few years ago. They are bulletproof, at least the older ones are.

@woundedtiger7547 2 года назад

I just really enjoyed your passion for sharing. I can hardly wait to start riding again.

@Seanwxyz1 Год назад

Thank You. I found your review of the KLR very helpful. I have been researching bikes for two months now and am leaning more and more toward buying the KLR. This review helped me to make a final decision.

@stillwater7929 2 года назад

Your KLR review video said it all!!!! I knew it was your next bike!! Cheers 🍻

@ozarksjon 2 года назад

I look forward to the future content! Very intrigued by the new klr.

@MotorcyclesOffroad 2 года назад

Heck yeah I love your thought process on this whole thing. Also I am so happy I got my Tenere!

@mfmonthefmf 2 года назад

I sell powersports here in AZ, definitely feel the KLR Adventure is underrated (even the base is underrated). At this point I've sold 3 of the 2022's and customer reviews have been very positive, stoked to share your content with my customers! Also, you are spot on with the T7, they are like unicorns right now.

@davidpoffenbarger3686 2 года назад

Interesting perspective on your ADV progress. I've owned a 650 Strom, DRZ and now an AT. I definitely agree with you on how heavy the AT feels in low speed maneuvers, especially compared to other bikes I've owned. The DCT makes it even harder in low speed stuff, but is magic once you get moving at all. Looking forward to your progress and future development of the KLR. I've never owned one but think I'd like one. Subscribed!

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Welcome to the community!

@randolphmullinofsky4761 2 года назад

I have downed the Klr in your last 2 videos having bought one just like yours a week ago. After a evening ride last night I realized this is the perfect bike for me at this point in my life. I am going to take a trip about 700 miles on it. I thought shit I cant rie 75 on it all day and realized why would I want to. I can stay off the highway and look at so much more and the speed limit will anly be 55 for the most part anyway. So yes I believe this is the best starter bike for me with my skill level that I won't get bored with as my riding experience grows. I am 6'5 and weigh 250, perfect height bike. Enjoy your channel just subscribed.

@GreaseAndGravel 2 года назад

I love the reasons for getting the KLR! Enjoy! I've had two (Gen 1 A and Gen 1 C)... and would love to get one again someday. Enjoy! Looking forward to the KLR vids!!

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

I'm looking forward to making them!

@RugerM77 2 года назад

Great video. My first bike I ever owned was a ‘08 KLR and loved it. It taught me how to ride and made me more familiar with motorcycle mechanics and maintenance. I’ve also owned a ATAS but am now on the Tenere 700. Less than 200 miles so far but it does feel like the unicorn bike everyone says it is. Sooooo much easier to move around in the garage than the ATAS. You’ll love the KLR and it’s a very capable bike. As you stated, I would never reach the limits of the ATAS but I doubt I did on the KLR either. Look forward to future videos.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Happy to hear you're digging your Tenere.

@calderwood9641 2 года назад

Pumped for your new bike and all the content you’ll make with it!

@marjay2002 2 года назад

I definitely understand the weight issue with the AT, for me after a long off road ride the weight really takes it's toll. I'm looking forward to seeing how the KLR650 goes on your next adventure. Great video.

@bradsanders6954 2 года назад

Do you know what a 2022 KLR weighs? Actual weight is kind of a shocker.

@russellledbetter3121 2 года назад

Yep! I did it too! Purchased the 22 KLR 650 Adventure. Did my homework and along with your review convinced me to jump in. I'm coming from the street and Victory Highball @ 106 cubic inches, seated low, arms up to KLR seated high with arms down....lol. But, but, - what a hoot! "I'm down like four flat tires!"😁 I hope your future content is directed toward "fixes" and mods for the KLR. I plan to ride the Continental Divide next summer and want all the input I can get. Working on skid plate replacement, foot shift replacement, some type of lever guards and fork brace at the moment. The suspension would be a great start if you could see your way clear to showing adjustments at the rear shock. I'm hoping the aftermarket will produce great things to increase horsepower and ridability! Carry on Dork, love the content and am patiently waiting for more, more, more on the KLR!

@anaheimdualsportdean_64 2 года назад

So Happy For You Brutha!!! Enjoy The KLR and All your Upcoming Adventures...From another KLR owner who loves his Swiss Army Knife...Happy Camping!!!

@brentmitchell9116 2 года назад

Great video, Looking forward to future videos. I have my 2022 KLR 650 adventure and absolutely love it.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Happy to hear you're digging yours so far.

@marcoluoma3770 2 года назад

Thanks. It’s great that now there are so many great bikes that we can all find one that suits our individual personal needs.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

absolutely!

@wolfpackadventures 2 года назад

Great explanation! I find it silly that a bike purchase has to be justified so much but I also totally get it. I see a whole new audience coming your way! I hope you love the new bike!

@dl3g3nd45 2 года назад

I subbed

@tomberaro2900 2 года назад

Can't wait to see what you do with it.I have been looking for my next step .Been looking at the africa twin and a klr.So glad you got one but will miss seeing the AT.

@stellarwandertale2128 2 года назад

My ride is a 2015 KLR650 with all the goodies, including a full Cogent suspension upgrade. It is pure joy. Just returned two days ago from a trip through Yellowstone/Tetons and met KLR acolytes nearly every time I stopped at a pull out, trail head, boardwalk, or for gas. There's a reason for the zeal. I'm interested in upgrading to the 2022 model because of EFI and ABS. Those two items would fix the only issues I have with the bike. That said, there's something great about firing up the bike with full choke on a bitter cold morning, high in the mountains. Might miss that. Loved the video. Thanks.

@jtotherocpile2112 2 года назад

To your point: I found this channel because i bought a gen II KLR. Love the content, keep it up man!

@jpaulie2008 2 года назад

Looking forward to hearing about it, is on the list of my next possible bike.

@manuelsarti9558 2 года назад

Great video, looking forward to more content. Just got my 2022 KLR650 Adventure a month ago.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

You have great taste in bikes!

@derekneu6524 2 года назад

Cb500x with rally raid. I bought my 2015 with full rally raid (suspension front and rear, wheels, skidplate etc) and mosko panniers for 4500 with 15000 miles on it. Added factory heated grips, gps and PowerPoint, barkbusters, aux lights, rear shock mud fender, new sprocket and chain etc. Was into it when all was said and done for about 6k. It is so fun to ride. Light and capable. I haven't ridden the tenere 700 , but my buddy with an africa twin has and said it wasn't whole lot different than the Africa. He said it felt top heavy. The cb500x feels like a dirtbike compared to the gs1200 and the africa. I think the shorter wheelbase helps a lot as well. I have never ridden a klr650, so I can't make a direct comparison there. The only issue I'm dealing with on the 500x is wind buffeting when I wear my Enduro helmet over 70mph. Not sure if you have that issue with the africa or the klr, but it sucks.

@nickridesbikes. 2 года назад

I'm excited for the KLR content! I was just looking at the KLR for my first off road/adventure bike. Ending up with the DRZ400s since it's lighter but I'm still in love with the KLR.

@chrismcgarity5868 2 года назад

Just subscribed because you bought the KLR. I bought one about a month before you did and I felt heavily on RU-vid content to make product decisions. Your rational on why you bought it are sound my friend. I'm counting on ya. Keep up the good work.

@kenkirk8751 2 года назад

Just watched and it makes $$$ CENTS $$$. There was a cult of RU-vidrs that were dedicated to the KLR but that pool has dried up a bit so it's good to have a new one back to watch. Since KLR content is part of the motivation, maybe a Gen 1, Gen 2, Gen 3 showdown would be a good 1 or 2 part segment. I'm glad it's back and while I thought there was opportunity for the KLR 700 (something along the T700), Kawi sticking with KLR basics makes sense. Personally I can't see going from my 2012 to a Gen 3 but I think there is a market for this bike. Keep the videos rolling

@Thomas-wk5ll 2 года назад

Man I wish your videos on klr's weren't so dam convincing, I'm so dam torn between the klr and the rally crf300L I'm literally days away from making a decision, I was leaning towards the crf but made the mistake by watching your klr videos again. You really do make a compelling argument for the klr. Thanks so much for your videos. Back to the drawing board.

@missourioutdooradventures 2 года назад

As always enjoyed watching thanks for sharing and welcome to the klr 650 club🤜🤛

@ericargo9157 2 года назад

I'm saving up for a mid teens used KLR. I think I'm gonna like this channel.

@frankgulla8782 2 года назад

Congrats on your new bike! I had a 2003 klr650, rode the crap out of it and really enjoyed it. I now have a 2019 Ktm 790R and I can honestly say the 790R is worth every penny, I love it! Good luck with your new adventure.

@soilsmanadv6673 2 года назад

Great fun decision, Fun business decision, and a fantastic content decision for a dude who does the dork in the road....i look forward to the next year!!

@maalmiksa7409 2 года назад

Looking forward to your adventures on the klr, and best of luck with your new bike

@alvindavenport5657 2 года назад

My VSTROM 1000 is similar to the AT in that it is a bear to move around when I try to move it in my garage. In fact, I dropped it two years ago while servicing the chain. After the dust cleared, I was sitting on the floor beside the bike with a very badly broken arm that required surgery, a titanium rod and 4 months of therapy. I threatened to sell the bike and get something smaller, but after two attempts, I still have it. I also bought a used BMW F650 which is a lot lighter and more maneuverable, but any time I ride the VSTROM I realize why I bought it 5 years and 35,000 miles ago. It just suits my riding style better than any of the 60+ other bikes I’ve owned over the past 50 years. The KLR seems to be a good compromise between a dual sport and an adventure bike. Another advantage to an inexpensive bike is if you later decide to sell it you won’t lose a bundle and regret the original purchase.

@bradsanders6954 2 года назад

A BMW F650 is a little ways over 400lbs. Lighter but not a LOT lighter,they feel lighter for sure.

@danwarmke3348 2 года назад

Super happy for you. Looking forward to future content.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Thanks, Dan!

@ADVenturaJoe 2 года назад

Super excited for you buddy. Can't wait to see the KLR moto camping and other adventures.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Thanks! I can't wait to make them!

@rilke_roca 2 года назад

You strategy is spot on! following you from now on!

@mikelevsen9878 2 года назад

I own a 2007 KLR and have thought about going to the Africa twin but every time I ride the KLR it puts a smile on the face. I have a Road Glide as well if I need to ride long distance so I will just keep the KLR. I replaced the Doohickey because the spring was not holding pressure anymore but, I have heard of plenty of people who have 20k plus miles on theirs and never have replaced it. I think the doohickey was blown up by the internet. Looking forward to seeing your updates on it.

@rbouncier669 2 года назад

Just saw this, and just subscribed! I’ve put 100K on a couple of bikes, and 40-60 K on others, all road. Several years ago, with no off road experience I bought a gen 1, and learned it’s a heavy bike to learn on. But also learned it’s a wonderful, comfortable backroad/dirt road/camping trip/commuter bike. I’m enjoying the ride now, slower yes, but I’m not just focusing on the next apex at crazy speeds. The Gen 3 could be my next touring bike. Will be watching.

@jmichaelmilton 2 года назад

Thanks so much for sharing your plans for the KLR. I have ridden on road for several years, but am fairly new to the world offroad/backroad exploring and own an older 650 Vstrom. I will be retiring in a couple of years and plan/want to get a new or newer adventure bike as a retirement gift to myself. some of the bikes I would consider are of course the KLR, Yamaha Tenere 700, and (fingers crossed) a Transalp. I will for sure watch every KLR video so I can get your opinion, good, bad or ugly. Thanks again for what you do.

@colok9 2 года назад

I'm so glad that you made the videos about the KLR. I have been bouncing around the idea of getting a dual purpose/adventure bike. I haven't ridden in several years and my last bike was a Sportster Roadster. I wouldn't dream of taking that bike on a dirt road. Some of the things that we like to do is do is wildlife photography and I believe the KLR might just be the right choice for us. Our cars are Subaru and I have been looking for a bike that will let me go where my Subaru will. Meaning, I am not looking to do any extreme off road but I would like to go down some dirt roads and some mild off road. I don't want the Jeep of motorcycles.

@hamermohareb6826 2 года назад

Thank's for all information you shared .👍

@fixbuildplay5249 2 года назад

Wise decision on the KLR for your channel. This is exactly how I found your channel, yet I subscribed because your just a Dork in the Road and I loved your content!! Keep up the awesome riding vids and be well!!

@StagAdv 2 года назад

I’ll be completely transparent, when I first saw that you bought this I was like why?! But now that I know you are selling your Africa twin I can definitely see why you purchased this bike and I’m very happy for you! Had you kept the AT I would have liked to see you go lighter and faster especially after you were considering the 450L. I think with the AT gone through KLR will fit nicely in your niche and makes a lot more sense for you! Congrats and good luck!👍🏻

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Thanks, man!

@SulCoCrazy 8 месяцев назад

Ben, I appreciate your videos. I kind of identify with you in that you are similar to my age, though you’ve been riding for a couple more years than have I. I also appreciate that you have mentioned that you are on a limited budget, unlike other riders, who, like to pontificate about how much they have via the bikes they show off, you are honest about the fact that you were only affording one payment at a time. That’s what I like about you. No bullshit, just facts.

@stanleyknife1967 2 года назад

Great looking bike - hopefully it will come to the UK soon. Great video.

@1JEEPNICK1 2 года назад

I think you made a smart move being a RU-vidr. I loved my AT, just sold it and I have a 2022 1250gsa on the way. Look forward to your new videos

@jwmoffat 2 года назад

Looking forward to your future videos on the KLR and your thoughts versus the AT! Been looking at the T7, AT, and others for a replacement/addition to my FJR as I've gotten it into places similar to that at 8:37. 😅 I totally agree with you on the "feels heavy" part. The FJR is like that to me when turning around and it's something I'd also like to try to avoid.

@johannescarlsson4559 2 года назад

T700 is not that comfy, jerky trottle and bad aerodynamics. Not near an Africa twin.

@mart7404 2 года назад

Dork you are da man. I appreciate your honesty. I also love the look and price of the new KLR. I too had hopes and dreams shot down with the lack of a Tenere 700, so I ended up with a Moto Guzzi V85TT. Another solid bike for you that is rarely reviewed. Just saying. However I look forward to hearing about the new steed and I imagine you will love it. Slow bike fast is way more fun than worrying about doing a back sided Olli followed by a laser flip because of a mistake on a throttle pull when your coffee was still hot. Blaze on up there in the woods.

@steveh1510 2 года назад

@dinoschumacher9226 2 года назад

I'm excited to see how it shakes out!

@econewpower 2 года назад

Great video man, your decision was well thought out.

@owenlushadv 2 года назад

You’re %100 on the KLR, for an entry adv bike it’s hard to beat. It is what it is but that’s all it’s trying to be!! I’ve never owned or ridden one but maybe someday lol ... you’re also right about the AT, it’s a big heavy bike. I don’t find it to bad but I’m a little on the larger side and plenty tall so I can manage it lol I also have to run a whole lot of highway miles at times to get to where I want to ride. I agree %100 on the tires, I’ve learned this past year since buying an adventure bike that I’m more willing to sacrifice on road performance and longevity to know that the wheels will grip when I need em. Looking forward to the videos on the new bike!! And whatever other bikes you may adventure on 🤘🏻

@elderrider9298 2 года назад

Congratz im gonna be as excited as soon as my Tenere 700 comes in. I get the next one at my dealership :) I looked at the KLR several times myself

@stringtwister7654 2 года назад

Congrats on the new bike! Welcome to the KLR club. I have 19k on my 15 and haven't had any problems

@techydog7854 2 года назад

Almost 24k on my '17 and it runs like the day I bought it. Change the oil regularly, keep the chain lubed and adjusted, and the thing will run forever.

@verlinswarey507 2 года назад

I have a ‘99 KLR that I bought cheap just to see what they were all about. I wanted a first gen because I just love that old school square headlight! I wanted a beater mountain bike that also offered some wind protection on the highway. I really loved it from the first time I let the clutch out on it. So much so,that I decided to fix it up. I put a bunch of money into it including repainting it. Did it all myself! I just got back from a 3100 mile trip from Pa to Kansas and back. It ran very well. I could have used a little more bike on the highway,but that’s fine! It ISNT the best bike out there. But I think we’ve been so conditioned to think that we have to have the best and biggest,that we’ve forgotten that the best isn’t always better. Every time I throw a leg over an AT,like in a dealer, I’m like holy smokes this thing is big and heavy.

@kemp20701 2 года назад

Love you channel bro. I don't know why but I think going to the KLR is cool as can be. Stay excellent!!

@dw5523 2 года назад

Great video, summed up my reasoning for buying a KLR myself. It's my first adventure bike. I'm not looking for performance, I'm looking for easy. It's a tool to get a job done - specifically me, on a bike, going to the middle of nowhere. ETA: On the Tenere, something I have read but haven't been able to confirm, is that because of the rear suspension geometry - designed for maximum traction off road - really eats up rear tires. Again, just a rumor I've not been able to sus out.

@Desert2snowoffwego 2 года назад

Welcome back to the Kawasaki family as others have expressed! As a determined, and stalwart owner of 2 Kawasaki 2nd gen KLR650s, you will not be disappointed, you will not go fast with others, but you will get there-- at your own pace, enjoying the ride and tractoring up the grade at a safe speed and pleased with the outcome of the verandas! It's about the memories and the trip, not the power and the speed as marketers would have others believe. You're still going to have a Bitch of a Time picking the pig up when it takes a dirt nap! Especially in an uphill condition. However, you will persevere! You will also, enjoy the dependability of this bike especially in very remote regions. On the 2nd gen iteration, I especially love the fact that I can fix almost anything, and everything on that bike no matter where it happens, either here in the US, Central America, or Africa. Parts are ubiquitous. I hope you will be pleasantly pleased with your new acquisition and many miles Carefree in riding! Yes, I have ridden the Tenere 700 and I absolutely, exquisitely, loved it. However, I'm sticking with the tried-and-true for now.

@roviwoteap2375 2 года назад

Glad to see you’ve seen the light. One does not need a big heavy AT or GS1200 to go off roading. I downsized a Crossrunner because it was just too heavy to manoeuvre in car parks/driveway, but fine while riding. Each to their own, I guess.

@kawabungah20 2 года назад

Thanks for the affirming video about the amazing KLR650. I have ordered one from my dealer and I will do the doo immediately after my 600 mile break in service. Actually, the doo hickey corrects a problem with the counter balancer chain tensioner spring and not the cam chain tensioner spring.

@richoutdoors8962 2 года назад

Awesome review!! looking forward to your adventure riding on the KLR!

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

You and me both!

@jimtucker7005 2 года назад

Thanks for the honest share....I have a wide glide w mods and a 70's era beemer. Looking at KLR for my bad weather (SW WA) riding and go camping / light trail ride. I'm with ya on the reasons for KLR....I sppreciate the comments on tenete and would add that buying accessories for T7 to mske it compsrably equipped to KLR pushes cost beyond $12,000 (yamaha's build and price). If I wanted just 1 bike for all, I'd likely go AT Adventure Sports. Thanks as always for your great vids!

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Thanks for watching!

@kvl505 Год назад

I bought the same KLR 3 months ago. I am really enjoying it. There is this cool feeling while simply riding around with the thumper. Hard to describe, but great fun.

@frankharder338 5 дней назад

Hello @DorkintheRoad - thank you for your wonderful videos and contributions. Although I own and drive a BMW R1200RT and I love it, inspired by you, your channel and your many excellent KLR videos, today I bought a 2023 KLR ABS in grey and I want to get into back road and moto camping. My good friend Ray got one too and we will soon do moto camping trips in Central California making our ways North and Sound Bound. Thank you so very much.

@scottroder5516 2 года назад

Dork, what we all ride is based on so many factors. You should always do you. ALWAYS! I quit riding bikes I had to swing my leg over after my second hip replacement. Just hurt to much. So I bought a Honda Silver Wing 600 cc scooter. It is not a rocket but for a soon to be 65 year old it meets what I need and want. I wish Honda would bring over their all terrain scooter that they offer in Europe and Asia. I would be all about it. I look forward to your videos on the KLR. Be excellent!

@scottroder5516 2 года назад

Also I rode a Kawasaki 750 cruiser from Wisconsin to North Carolina to help my son move from the Marines to Texas. Then rode the bike from Texas back to Wisconsin. It was a great trip on an underpowered bike. But I learned so much while on that trip. It is all about the ride.

@Propaganda66 2 года назад

All of your reasons for the switch seem perfectly logical, both as a bike owner and a content creator. I’m excited to see what the KLR will bring to your channel, and I’m in the same boat as you: If/when Honda releases the “Transalp 850” or “AT850” or whatever it might be I will absolutely be one of the first to buy one.

@RandomGRK 2 года назад

Nice one dork. The purchase makes sense. Have fun!

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

I plan on it!

@James_P60 2 года назад

Congrats, I enjoy my 08 KLR with all the extras plus I the Doohickey was done.

@chrisholmes599 2 года назад

Hey man, do what you do buddy. To each their own. Ride well!

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Same to you!

@FlatBrokeAdventures 2 года назад

I like your thinking and reasoning for the purchase.

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Thanks!

@tonsofbees537 2 года назад

I was surprised you got the KLR and look forward to see your experiences with it. Hopefully your channel can get huge so you can have a few more bikes in the garage at one time :)

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

That's the dream!

@johnpagejr.7628 2 года назад

Dang it Dork! Now you are making me rethink my choice in bikes. LOL I think this will turn out to be a great choice for you and what your doing with your RU-vid channel.👍👍

@ryanmckellar7982 2 года назад

The new KLR was my 2nd choice, but having owned the FZ/MT 07, I could not give up that engine performance, and I was lucky enough to get me hands on a Tenere. 11 000kms since April 1st, and I regret nothing. Good luck with the KLR, looking forward to your adventures

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Congrats on finding one!

@Wintersdark 2 года назад

Hah I went through the same thing, just last month. Owned a MT07, currently own a Tracer 900, was looking at KLR's and DR650's, and happened across a Tenere. They're basically unobtanium, so much so I hadn't seriously thought of getting one. Sat on it in the dealership, then left with it. I love KLR's too, but the Tenere... MMM. You get great offroad performance AND don't sacrifice road fun.

@ryanmckellar7982 2 года назад

@@Wintersdark , that's funny, my buddy gave up on the Teneres even showing up in North America, before Covid, even. He bought a Tracer 900GT, loved it, but it was gone as soon as a Tenere became available for him. Enjoy the T7!

@michaelahr1 2 года назад

When it comes to learning to ride motorcycles the old adage of less is more always applies. New to the sport riders need light or lighter bikes because you are going to pick them up allot and less power because you will make mistakes as you push yourself and try new trails that increase in difficulty. Riding is a sport where it's best to check the ego at the door if people really want to learn, get better and have fun! I started riding at the age of 40yrs old on single track and picked a Husqvarna FE 250 4 stroke Enduro and because it wasn't as powerful as the 350's my buddies bought, I was able to make mistakes that didn't bite me and make me pay too big of a price by getting hurt. My friends who bought the more powerful bikes both ended up getting hurt as they made mistakes and both ultimately ended up quitting riding. I took my time, learned and got comfortable on that little 250 4 stroke and now years later I'm one of the better riders out there and progressed to a 300 2 stroke. Reality is I could still jump back on that 250 4 stroke and have a blast by grabbing fist fulls of throttle and ringing it out whereas on my 300 you just don't get the same ability to whiskey throttle it and have to respect it which is probably how you feel now on the KLR vs the Africa Twin. KLR you can be more aggressive and it won't make you pay but on the Africa Twin you had to respect the power and use it cautiously. Super happy and excited for you and can't wait to watch your new adventures on the KLR.

@yerto2222 2 года назад

Love your Chanel , and now even more with the klr650 !

@wesscheese4071 2 года назад

Great video! I agree %100. These reasons are why i purchased a Honda XR650L. Granted the XR needs upgrades, but all for the same reasons.

@michaelrolof9359 2 года назад

I love the background. You are doing a great progress!

@DorkintheRoad 2 года назад

Thank you so much!

@danabrown387 2 года назад

Welcome to the KLR club, you will find that it’s a bike that can do anything…just not well. I’m looking forward to seeing how the Gen 3 does compared to the Gen 1’s and 2’s…that efi should be a game changer. StrykerADV