Kawasaki is a motorcycle giant whose brand is synonymous with many positive words you’d want to hear when picking a bike: reliability, power, speed, enjoyment, thrills, and many others. They continue this tradition with their redesigned KLR650, all-new for 2022 but also a resurrection project as this third generation replaces the outgoing model discontinued back in 2018 after three decades.
The 2022 offerings include:
- 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 ($6,699 MSRP)
- 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 ABS ($6,999 MSRP)
- 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 Traveler ($7,399 MSRP)
- 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure ($7,999 MSRP)
First, a look at the outgoing 2018 KLR650 compared to the new 2022 model:
KLR650 Main Features: What’s New for 2022?
Power and performance
The first thing to note about the new design KLR650 for 2022 is its 652cc fuel-injection four-stroke Kawasaki engine. The Japanese motorcycle giant is known for its superlative engines with pleasing acceleration and long-term mechanical reliability. This engine features a compression ratio of 9.8:1 and is paired with a 5-speed return-shift manual transmission with a wet multi-disc clutch and sealed train for the final drive. It will get up to 39.1lb-ft of torque at just 4,500rpm for great performance on every terrain.
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Here’s a quick look at key performance specs:
| Spec | Metric |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Stroke, single cylinder, DOHC |
| Displacement | 652cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 100.0 x 83.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel System | DFI w/40mm Throttle Body |
| Ignition | CDI |
| Transmission | 5-speed, return shift with wet multi-disc manual clutch |
| Final Drive | Sealed Chain |
| Maximum Torque | 39.1 lb.-ft. @ 4,500rpm |
| Spec | Metric |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension / Wheel Travel | 41mm telescopic fork/ 7.9 in |
| Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | Uni-Trak, single shock with adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload / 7.3 in |
| Front Tire | 90/90-21 |
| Rear Tire | 130/80-17 |
| Front Brakes | Single 300mm disc with 2-piston calipers, ABS |
| Rear Brakes | Single 240mm disc with single-piston caliper, ABS |
As a dual-sport bike, the KLR650 must be as comfortable off-road as it is on the road. To help with this, Kawasaki has delivered a 41mm telescopic fork front suspension with 7.9” wheel travel (20cm), paired with a Uni-Trak single-shock rear suspension with adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload and 7.3” wheel travel (18.5cm). Finally, and also to serve dual on- and off-road purposes, Kawasaki has installed a large windscreen at the front of the bike for increased protection and comfort.
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Safety addition: ABS as standard
Adding anti-lock brake systems (ABS) as a standard feature is relatively new to Kawasaki bikes. Many bikes that don’t come with ABS are still available in markets worldwide because it is not a legal requirement. In North America, an increasing number of cycles now offer it as standard. The 2022 KLR650 comes with Kawasaki’s ABS, which not only better protects the rider and allows them to retain control when braking hard or suddenly but also better protects the bike itself by keeping the wheels moving and, thus, the rider more firmly in control.
When you get past the pleasing mechanics, the KLR650 is also an attractive unit with Kawasaki’s signature angular design DNA. The 2022 KLR650 comes in two colours, namely Pearl Lava Orange and Pearl Sand Khaki. Both look very well suited to off- and on-road riding and add an air of simplicity and elegance to the overall design.
Starting MSRP is $6,699:
This is a relatively straightforward offering for riders of different levels. It has straightforward, elegant, athletic, and dynamic looks, a suitably powerful yet accessible engine both for newer and more experienced riders and great safety features to help all users feel secure and comfortable. Beginners needn’t be intimidated by the 652cc engine displacement. The firm suspension and reliable drive systems make learning on the KLR650 more possible than you think.
The Non-ABS model starts at $6,699, and the model with ABS begins at $6,999. The 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 is available now at many Kawasaki dealerships. You can locate one and secure yours right away.
