Kurt Simpson quoted:
[650C vs 650A]
> Engine:
>
> Based on that of the KL650A, the KL650C's engine boasts a 10% increase in
> flywheel mass, resulting in increased torque across the rev range.
What a load of bollocks.
Torque is created by gas pressure on the piston. I'm finding it
difficult to see how more flywheel metal increases the cylinder
pressure.
What they don't say is that the alternator is rated at 17A, 3 up
on the 650A, so maybe that heavier flywheel has some use apart
from slowing acceleration.
> Chain-driven engine balancers smooth the big single's pulses and reduces
> noise levels.
Dunno about the chain actually reducing noise levels.
The balance shafts also act as part of flywheel mass.
Running flywheel mass through a chain is not good for chain life,
or gear life for that matter (if gear-driven).
> Clutch has extra plates (8 friction & 7 steel plates). This allows the use
> of lighter springs to reduce effort at the clutch lever.
Maybe compared to the early 650A. Sounds to me like the later 650A has
the same clutch.
> Exhaust system changes include: double-walled exhaust pipe (KL650A is
> single-walled); increased glass wool in silencer, longer inner pipe into
> second chamber; and larger heat guard on silencer. Overall result is greatly
> reduced exhaust noise levels.
My 600 muffler is double walled. Big deal.
> Rigid Frame:
>
> The frame is a semi-double, high-tensile steel unit, with a new stronger
> rear subframe.
The manual shows there is an extra crossbrace near the back.
[...]
> Uni-Trak rear suspension features 5-way spring preload adjustability.
So? The threaded adjuster on my 600 offers "infinitely" variable
preload.
> Front disc brake rotor diameter has been increased 20 mm over that of the
> KL650A, to 280 mm, is a full 5 mm thick, and is gripped by a new, stronger,
> dual-piston caliper.
Struth, was it so hard to spec this brake on the 650A?
> The rear brake is a single, 230-mm disc.
And probably still fades.
> The 21-inch front wheel has been given a wider rim (1.85in) for off-road
> riding, its new Trailmax tire puts down a fatter footprint for improved
> road-handling.
A wider footprint will give less self-aligning torque on the steering
i.e. stability.
> The 17-inch rear wheel accomodates a slimmer profiled, more
> street-oriented 120/90-17 tire.
Huh, didn't a "fatter footprint" give "improved road-handling"?
> Both rims are now steel instead of aluminium.
Which increases unsprung mass, not a good thing on a light bike.
Oh, sorry, I forgot about the heavier muffler.
[...]
> Headlamp has new curved lens for greater range of illumination.
"Greater range"? Bollocks. More like it's a new styling exercise.
[...]
> Key-operated helmet lock adds convenience and security.
As fitted to the 600B?
Mister_T