KLR 650 Mods

The KLR 650 is a long-standing model in the Kawasaki lineup. It came out in 1987, and it is still in production up to this day. The bike is now in its third-generation series, which definitely speaks a lot about its reliability and overall market acceptance. That's in addition to the reputation of its maker when it comes to producing good motorcycles.

Some may say the 2022 KLR 650 is just another version of the bike with fuel injection. However, there's more to what meets the eye in this moto as Kawasaki has reconfigured several elements of the product for it to deliver better performance and improved ride quality. You can certainly add more to it through the use of modifications, which we will center on in our discussion here.

Mod Checklist for the KLR 650

If you are looking to bring out more power, reliability, durability, safety, or comfort features from your KLR 650, we got you covered using these mods:

  • Turbo Kit
  • Piston Kit
  • Fuel System Assembly Upgrade
  • Custom Rims
  • Tire Upgrade
  • Doohickey and Torsion Spring
  • Skid Plate
  • Crash Bars
  • Handguards
  • Grip Heaters

Make Your Kawasaki KLR 650 Better with These Mods

When it comes to motorcycles, one of the most popular models is the Kawasaki KLR 650. This bike is known for its durability and reliability, and many riders enjoy taking it off-road. However, there are areas where the KLR 650 could use some improvement.

Fortunately, there are aftermarket upgrades available that can give this motorcycle the enhancements that it needs.

1. Turbo Kit

A turbo kit for the Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle can provide a number of benefits. It can increase power and torque, improve fuel economy, and reduce emissions.

The most important component of a turbo kit is the turbocharger itself. This device forces more air into the engine, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power. The increased airflow also helps to cool the engine, which can improve its efficiency.

2. Piston Kit

Piston upgrades work by increasing the displacement of the engine, which allows the KLR 650 to produce more power. Additionally, they can also improve the efficiency of the engine, resulting in better fuel economy. And since they're made from high-quality materials, they can also extend the life of your engine.

3. Fuel System Assembly Upgrade

A fuel system assembly upgrade for the Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle can provide plenty of advantages. One of the main benefits of a fuel system assembly upgrade is that it can help improve performance. This is because a higher-quality fuel system will be able to deliver more power to the engine, resulting in better acceleration and overall speed. In addition, a fuel system assembly upgrade can also enhance fuel economy by allowing the engine to run more efficiently.

Another advantage of a fuel system assembly upgrade is that it can extend the life of the engine by reducing wear and tear. This is because a higher-quality fuel system will be less likely to experience problems such as clogging or leaks, which can cause damage to the engine over time.

4. Custom Rims

Custom rims can provide plenty of advantages to the Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle. With custom rims, the bike can better handle off-road conditions and make it more stable on uneven terrain.

Custom rims also help protect the tires from debris and rocks that can cause punctures. In addition, custom rims can give the bike a more aggressive look that is sure to turn heads when cruising down the street. If you are looking to improve the performance and appearance of your KLR 650, then custom rims are definitely worth considering.

5. Tire Upgrade

Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycles are some of the most versatile machines on the market, and one of the big reasons for that is the wide range of tire options available for them. Depending on how you plan to use your KLR 650 - whether it's for commuting, touring, off-roading, or a combination of all three - there's a tire out there that can help you get the most out of your bike.

In general, there are three main types of tires available for the Kawasaki KLR 650: street tires, dual sport tires, and off-road tires. Each type of tire has its own good side and downside, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs.

Street tires are designed for use on pavement, and they offer the best grip and handling when riding on smooth surfaces. However, they don't fare as well in off-road conditions, and they can wear out quickly if you do a lot of off-roading.

Dual sport tires are a good compromise between street and off-road tires. They're not as good on the pavement as street tires, but they offer better grip and durability in off-road conditions. Dual sport tires are a good choice if you plan to do a mix of on- and off-road riding.

Off-road tires are designed for use in tough terrain, and they offer the best grip and durability when riding in the dirt, mud, or sand. However, they don't perform as well on pavement, and they can wear out quickly if you do a lot of street riding.

6. Doohickey and Torsion Spring

Doohickey and Torsion Spring upgrades can deliver plenty of advantages to the Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle. The Doohickey is designed to keep the chain tight, preventing it from jumping off the sprockets. It also keeps the chain aligned with the rear sprocket, which reduces wear and tear on both the chain and sprockets.

The Torsion Spring upgrade aids in absorbing shocks, reducing stress on the engine and other components. Together, these upgrades can help to extend the life of your KLR 650 and keep it running smoothly for many years to come.

7. Skid Plate

A skid plate is a metal or plastic piece that covers the bottom of a motorcycle. It is designed to protect the bike from damage if it slides on the ground. Skid plates can be made from different materials, such as aluminum, steel, or plastic. They vary in thickness and durability, depending on the material they are made from.

Skid plates are an important upgrade for the Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle. This is because the KLR 650 is a dual-purpose bike, meaning it can be ridden both on and off-road. The skid plate protects the engine and other vital parts of the bike from damage if it hits rocks or other debris while riding off-road. It also helps to prevent the bike from getting scratched or dented if it slides on the ground.

There are many advantages to upgrading to a skid plate for the Kawasaki KLR 650. First, it protects the engine and other vital parts of the bike. This is important because it can help extend the life of the motorcycle.

Second, it prevents the bike from getting scratched or dented. This is important because it can help to keep the motorcycle looking new for longer.

Third, it can help to improve the performance of the motorcycle. This is because it can shield the engine from debris and rocks.

Fourth, it can help reduce noise levels as the skid plate can act as a barrier between the engine and the ground.

Fifth, it can aid in improving the fuel economy of the motorcycle because the skid plate can reduce drag on the engine.

8. Crash Bars

The most vulnerable part of a motorcycle is the engine, which is why many riders choose to install crash bars. Crash bars are designed to defend the engine in the event of a fall or collision, and can significantly reduce the amount of damage that may occur.

There are many different types and styles of crash bars available, but they all serve the same basic purpose. Some crash bars are made specifically for certain models of motorcycles, so it is important to check that the bars you are considering will fit your bike correctly.

9. Handguards

Handguards are an important aftermarket upgrade for the Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle. They provide protection to your hands from the elements and debris while riding, and can also help to improve the bike's overall performance.

Handguards are typically made of tough plastic or metal, and they attach to the handlebars using brackets or clamps. Some handguards also come with integrated mirrors, which can be a great addition for riders who need to see behind them while on the road. Handguards are an essential piece of equipment for any serious rider with safety in mind, and they can make a world of difference when it comes to enjoying your ride.

10. Grip Heaters

Grip heaters work by circulating warm air around the grips, providing a comfortable grip even in cold weather. Installation is easy and only requires a few tools. The advantages of grip heaters include increased comfort, improved control, and increased safety.

Which One are You Looking to Install in Your Kawasaki KLR 650?

These upgrades can help bring out the best of your Kawasaki KLR 650 bike if you're looking for better performance, added safety, or more reliability out of it.

These are fairly easy to install with the proper tools and knowledge but we strongly advise employing the service of a professional mechanic in some of the more intrusive upgrades, particularly those that require tinkering with the electronics and the engine, to prevent risking the crucial internal components of your bike.

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CarAraC Research

About the authors

The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering

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