klr vs. klx question for the group.

[Ed Boyd]

Re: KLR vs. KLX Question for the group. > >Message: 3 >   Date: Sun, 14 May 2000 23:08:57 -0700 >   From: "G. Meyer" >Subject: KLR vs. KLX Question for the group. > >What are the difference between these bikes and what exactly justifies the higher price tag on >the KLX? Hi, I just purchased a '96 KLX 650 R, the off road version, so I just researched this very issue. I recommend you search the archives, try "KLX" and you should get a whole bunch of posts returned http://www.listquest.com/lq/search.html?ln=klr650 . Basically, the KLX is more dirt oriented and has upgraded suspension components (upside down forks), a better frame (perimeter frame), and a different motor, relative to the KLR. The KLR is more street oriented with decent dirt capability. There are two versions of the KLX, an R model that is a dirt bike, not street legal (easily converted to street legal with a Baja Designs kit, about $400, I have one on my bike), no lights, kick start, no battery, no electric start, etc and a dual purpose street legal model, one designation was the "C" (has an electric start, battery, lights etc), there may be more. The KLX is not produced anymore, I think the last year was '97? Apparently when the bikes were retailed new, the KLX was more expensive, but now the KLX is generally cheaper vs. the KLR from what I have seen of used bikes. Keep in mind that the KLX is much more dirt oriented, even the dual purpose street legal version, so if you're looking for a bike that can handle the long commute or a long trip, I think the KLR would be the way to go. If you're looking to rip in the dirt with a powerful, relatively light (for its size) bike, the KLX would be the way to go. I love the KLX that I have, its a blast in the dirt, but its tiring on the highway. Also keep in mind that the availability of aftermarket parts for the KLX is low, for the KLR there's a whole industry growing around the bike. Here's a good test from Motorcycle Online about the street legal KLX vs the DR650 and XR650L: http://motorcycle.com/mo/mccompare/opendp.html. I agonized over this decision, but when I couldn't find a KLR (my first choice) in my area in my price range, I went with a great buy on a KLX 650 R that had only 800 miles on it, and I've been very happy.  Lastly, there's a small email group of KLX'ers if you're interested, I can send you the info if you want. Great group, but the volume of posts is low, which is good or bad depending on how much email you receive everyday.  :^) Hope this helps, Ed  Duvall, WA '96 KLX 650 R '82 Katana 1000