klr's european brother?

[cpatstone2001]

Hello from a first-time poster. Thanks to all of you who put so much great info out there, so KLR ownership is much easier for newbies like me. Got my first motorcycle in late August - a beater A3 with 9K miles and cheap street tires for $950, and that included one of those monster Kryptonite locks. Replaced the tires with Conti's (TKC-80s -- GREAT!), installed a NOS rear shock, and new fork oil and boots, and Voila - my very own KLR650. Anyhow, ~500 on/off miles later, I've started daydreaming about its replacement. Sure, I can find a nicer / newer KLR. The new red color scheme just doesn't do it for me. The black/silver european model looks much better... but speaking of European models, has anyone heard any intentions on Kawasaki's behalf of importing the KLE500? That bike looks great, albeit heavier. Reference - http://www.kawasaki.ch/index/kx_enduro/kle_500/gl_kle_500.htm Any comments? Thanks in advance, Chris Patstone Northampton MA