[dsn_klr650] klr 650 comfort mods

[notanymoore]

Based on recent E-Mails -I thought I'd start a thread on making the KLR 650 comfortable for us "normal" riders. I loved the light bike, easy handling and decent all-around performance that didn't cost a lot of money. But after 2 seasons riding a totally stock 2006 KLR 650 (90% street/highway), I was getting ready to trade in for a WeeStrom. My basic complaints: - Squirrelly highway handling, rideability - Buzzing, topping out at 75 MPH - "Numb buns" / "hot buns" after about an hour or so - Numb hands after an hour or so; even with gel gloves - Wind buffeting, wind fatigue Here's my upgrade list gleaned from various posts: - Grip Puppies ($10) - Wal-Mart ATV Seat Cover ($18) - Acerbis mini front fender ($20) - 16 Tooth front sprocket ($20) - MRA Smoked Grey Windshield ($110 from Twisted Throttle) - X-Ring Superbike Chain ($129 installed) - Bridgestone TrailWings ($279 installed) - Nerf Bars ($289) 1) Handling and rideability: replacing OEM knobbies was paramount. Bridgestone TW's are a reasonable compromise between street and trail. Replacing the OEM chain had more impact then I expected in smoothing out the drive train. 2) Highspeed wind buffeting (both bike and rider) comes from two things - two much front fender, not enough windshield. The Acerbis mini-front fender made a big difference offloading wind resistance from the handlebars. The MRA windshield from Twisted Throttle is better than stock, better than the Kaw large screen and slopes more to improve handling by putting downward pressure on the frame (not handlebars) while removing wind from the riders chest. 3) The 16 tooth front sprocket lowers highways revs by 500 RPM. I've noticed no dropoff in mid-high speed performance. Combined with the ATV seatcover and Grip Puppy foam handgrips it makes a huge difference in long rides. Nerf bars protect the bike from laydowns and highway footpegs allow changing seat position which also can improve highway ride over the long haul. Add a JC Whitney trunk and tankbag; and now I've got a decent highway cruiser to keep up with the big boys that can still explore the backroads they can't.

[Jeff Khoury]

#ygrps-yiv-1360163575 p {margin:0;}I went with the Kawi tall windshield plus the Laminar Lip.  Works well for me.  If you're any shorter than me, you probably could get a no-wind ride.  As I sit, the wind just barely hits the top 1.5 inches of my helmet, being 6'0".  if you have a dished seat, you're definitely out of the wind. I'd also add the Kaoko Throttle Lock so you can take your hand off the throttle side once in a while, or just relax your hand a bit on the highway. The Wal-Mart seat cover definitely got rid of the tailbone hot spot, however you still need to shift your riding position from time-to-time.  It really helps, but it's no "Russell Day-Long". -Jeff Khoury

----- Original Message ----- From: "notanymoore" To: "DSN KLR650" DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com> Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2010 2:25:04 PM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific Subject: [DSN_KLR650] KLR 650 Comfort Mods   Based on recent E-Mails -I thought I'd start a thread on making the KLR 650 comfortable for us "normal" riders. I loved the light bike, easy handling and decent all-around performance that didn't cost a lot of money. But after 2 seasons riding a totally stock 2006 KLR 650 (90% street/highway), I was getting ready to trade in for a WeeStrom. My basic complaints: - Squirrelly highway handling, rideability - Buzzing, topping out at 75 MPH - "Numb buns" / "hot buns" after about an hour or so - Numb hands after an hour or so; even with gel gloves - Wind buffeting, wind fatigue Here's my upgrade list gleaned from various posts: - Grip Puppies ($10) - Wal-Mart ATV Seat Cover ($18) - Acerbis mini front fender ($20) - 16 Tooth front sprocket ($20) - MRA Smoked Grey Windshield ($110 from Twisted Throttle) - X-Ring Superbike Chain ($129 installed) - Bridgestone TrailWings ($279 installed) - Nerf Bars ($289) 1) Handling and rideability: replacing OEM knobbies was paramount. Bridgestone TW's are a reasonable compromise between street and trail. Replacing the OEM chain had more impact then I expected in smoothing out the drive train. 2) Highspeed wind buffeting (both bike and rider) comes from two things - two much front fender, not enough windshield. The Acerbis mini-front fender made a big difference offloading wind resistance from the handlebars. The MRA windshield from Twisted Throttle is better than stock, better than the Kaw large screen and slopes more to improve handling by putting downward pressure on the frame (not handlebars) while removing wind from the riders chest. 3) The 16 tooth front sprocket lowers highways revs by 500 RPM. I've noticed no dropoff in mid-high speed performance. Combined with the ATV seatcover and Grip Puppy foam handgrips it makes a huge difference in long rides. Nerf bars protect the bike from laydowns and highway footpegs allow changing seat position which also can improve highway ride over the long haul. Add a JC Whitney trunk and tankbag; and now I've got a decent highway cruiser to keep up with the big boys that can still explore the backroads they can't.

[notanymoore]

Oh yeah, forgot to mention the CrampBuster throttle rocker ($10). Throttle locks scare me.

--- In DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, Jeff Khoury wrote: > > I went with the Kawi tall windshield plus the Laminar Lip. Works well for me. If you're any shorter than me, you probably could get a no-wind ride. As I sit, the wind just barely hits the top 1.5 inches of my helmet, being 6'0". if you have a dished seat, you're definitely out of the wind. > > I'd also add the Kaoko Throttle Lock so you can take your hand off the throttle side once in a while, or just relax your hand a bit on the highway. > > The Wal-Mart seat cover definitely got rid of the tailbone hot spot, however you still need to shift your riding position from time-to-time. It really helps, but it's no "Russell Day-Long". > > > -Jeff Khoury > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "notanymoore" > To: "DSN KLR650" DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com> > Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2010 2:25:04 PM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific > Subject: [DSN_KLR650] KLR 650 Comfort Mods > > > > > > > Based on recent E-Mails -I thought I'd start a thread on making the KLR 650 comfortable for us "normal" riders. I loved the light bike, easy handling and decent all-around performance that didn't cost a lot of money. But after 2 seasons riding a totally stock 2006 KLR 650 (90% street/highway), I was getting ready to trade in for a WeeStrom. My basic complaints: > > - Squirrelly highway handling, rideability > - Buzzing, topping out at 75 MPH > - "Numb buns" / "hot buns" after about an hour or so > - Numb hands after an hour or so; even with gel gloves > - Wind buffeting, wind fatigue > > Here's my upgrade list gleaned from various posts: > - Grip Puppies ($10) > - Wal-Mart ATV Seat Cover ($18) > - Acerbis mini front fender ($20) > - 16 Tooth front sprocket ($20) > - MRA Smoked Grey Windshield ($110 from Twisted Throttle) > - X-Ring Superbike Chain ($129 installed) > - Bridgestone TrailWings ($279 installed) > - Nerf Bars ($289) > > 1) Handling and rideability: replacing OEM knobbies was paramount. Bridgestone TW's are a reasonable compromise between street and trail. Replacing the OEM chain had more impact then I expected in smoothing out the drive train. > > 2) Highspeed wind buffeting (both bike and rider) comes from two things - two much front fender, not enough windshield. The Acerbis mini-front fender made a big difference offloading wind resistance from the handlebars. The MRA windshield from Twisted Throttle is better than stock, better than the Kaw large screen and slopes more to improve handling by putting downward pressure on the frame (not handlebars) while removing wind from the riders chest. > > 3) The 16 tooth front sprocket lowers highways revs by 500 RPM. I've noticed no dropoff in mid-high speed performance. Combined with the ATV seatcover and Grip Puppy foam handgrips it makes a huge difference in long rides. Nerf bars protect the bike from laydowns and highway footpegs allow changing seat position which also can improve highway ride over the long haul. > > Add a JC Whitney trunk and tankbag; and now I've got a decent highway cruiser to keep up with the big boys that can still explore the backroads they can't. >

[Fred Hink]

Have you ever used one?  What "scares" you about them?  A Throttle Lock does not "Lock" the throttle.  It has an adjustable friction point that will let you turn the throttle closed easily if need be.  Once adjusted, they work well and will give both hands a real rest on flat ground.  Not much good in hilly terrain. Fred http://www.arrowheadmotorsports.com     [b]From:[/b] RJTaylor@... [b]Sent:[/b] Thursday, May 13, 2010 3:36 PM [b]To:[/b] DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com [b]Subject:[/b] [DSN_KLR650] Re: KLR 650 Comfort Mods   Oh yeah, forgot to mention the CrampBuster throttle rocker ($10). Throttle locks scare me. --- In DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, Jeff Khoury wrote:

> > I went with the Kawi tall

windshield plus the Laminar Lip. Works well for me. If you're any shorter than me, you probably could get a no-wind ride. As I sit, the wind just barely hits the top 1.5 inches of my helmet, being 6'0". if you have a dished seat, you're definitely out of the wind.

> > I'd also add the Kaoko Throttle

Lock so you can take your hand off the throttle side once in a while, or just relax your hand a bit on the highway.

> > The Wal-Mart seat cover

definitely got rid of the tailbone hot spot, however you still need to shift your riding position from time-to-time. It really helps, but it's no "Russell Day-Long".

> > > -Jeff Khoury > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "notanymoore" > To: "DSN KLR650" > Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2010 2:25:04 PM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific > Subject: [DSN_KLR650] KLR 650 Comfort Mods > > > > > > > Based on recent E-Mails -I thought I'd start a thread on making the KLR 650 comfortable for us "normal" riders. I loved the light bike, easy handling and decent all-around performance that didn't cost a lot of money. But after 2 seasons riding a totally stock 2006 KLR 650 (90% street/highway) , I was getting ready to trade in for a WeeStrom. My basic complaints: > > - Squirrelly highway handling, rideability > - Buzzing, topping out at 75 MPH > - "Numb buns" / "hot buns" after about an hour or so > - Numb hands after an hour or so; even with gel gloves > - Wind buffeting, wind fatigue > > Here's my upgrade list gleaned from various posts: > - Grip Puppies ($10) > - Wal-Mart ATV Seat Cover ($18) > - Acerbis mini front fender ($20) > - 16 Tooth front sprocket ($20) > - MRA Smoked Grey Windshield ($110 from Twisted Throttle) > - X-Ring Superbike Chain ($129 installed) > - Bridgestone TrailWings ($279 installed) > - Nerf Bars ($289) > > 1) Handling and rideability: replacing OEM knobbies was paramount. Bridgestone TW's are a reasonable compromise between street and trail. Replacing the OEM chain had more impact then I expected in smoothing out the drive train. > > 2) Highspeed wind buffeting (both bike and rider) comes from two things - two much front fender, not enough windshield. The Acerbis mini-front fender made a big difference offloading wind resistance from the handlebars. The MRA windshield from Twisted Throttle is better than stock, better than the Kaw large screen and slopes more to improve handling by putting downward pressure on the frame (not handlebars) while removing wind from the riders chest. > > 3) The 16 tooth front sprocket lowers highways revs by 500 RPM. I've noticed no dropoff in mid-high speed performance. Combined with the ATV seatcover and Grip Puppy foam handgrips it makes a huge difference in long rides. Nerf bars protect the bike from laydowns and highway footpegs allow changing seat position which also can improve highway ride over the long haul. > > Add a JC Whitney trunk and tankbag; and now I've got a decent highway cruiser to keep up with the big boys that can still explore the backroads they can't. >

[greg saunders]

I put a Russel Day-Long Touring Saddle and softer grips on my KLR. Two summers ago my son and I rode from St. Paul, MN to eastern Montana in one day.  Not sure how many miles that was, but I do know it was almost 16 hours in the saddle.  I was also running on Dunlap 606 knobbies and never had a moment of butt fatigue.   A taller windshield would be nice.  That is probably next.   Greg   To: RJTaylor@... CC: DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com From: jeff@... Date: Thu, 13 May 2010 14:32:46 -0700 Subject: Re: [DSN_KLR650] KLR 650 Comfort Mods   I went with the Kawi tall windshield plus the Laminar Lip.  Works well for me.  If you're any shorter than me, you probably could get a no-wind ride.  As I sit, the wind just barely hits the top 1.5 inches of my helmet, being 6'0".  if you have a dished seat, you're definitely out of the wind. I'd also add the Kaoko Throttle Lock so you can take your hand off the throttle side once in a while, or just relax your hand a bit on the highway. The Wal-Mart seat cover definitely got rid of the tailbone hot spot, however you still need to shift your riding position from time-to-time.  It really helps, but it's no "Russell Day-Long". -Jeff Khoury

----- Original Message ----- From: "notanymoore" To: "DSN KLR650" Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2010 2:25:04 PM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific Subject: [DSN_KLR650] KLR 650 Comfort Mods  

Based on recent E-Mails -I thought I'd start a thread on making the KLR 650 comfortable for us "normal" riders. I loved the light bike, easy handling and decent all-around performance that didn't cost a lot of money. But after 2 seasons riding a totally stock 2006 KLR 650 (90% street/highway) , I was getting ready to trade in for a WeeStrom. My basic complaints: - Squirrelly highway handling, rideability - Buzzing, topping out at 75 MPH - "Numb buns" / "hot buns" after about an hour or so - Numb hands after an hour or so; even with gel gloves - Wind buffeting, wind fatigue Here's my upgrade list gleaned from various posts: - Grip Puppies ($10) - Wal-Mart ATV Seat Cover ($18) - Acerbis mini front fender ($20) - 16 Tooth front sprocket ($20) - MRA Smoked Grey Windshield ($110 from Twisted Throttle) - X-Ring Superbike Chain ($129 installed) - Bridgestone TrailWings ($279 installed) - Nerf Bars ($289) 1) Handling and rideability: replacing OEM knobbies was paramount. Bridgestone TW's are a reasonable compromise between street and trail. Replacing the OEM chain had more impact then I expected in smoothing out the drive train. 2) Highspeed wind buffeting (both bike and rider) comes from two things - two much front fender, not enough windshield. The Acerbis mini-front fender made a big difference offloading wind resistance from the handlebars. The MRA windshield from Twisted Throttle is better than stock, better than the Kaw large screen and slopes more to improve handling by putting downward pressure on the frame (not handlebars) while removing wind from the riders chest. 3) The 16 tooth front sprocket lowers highways revs by 500 RPM. I've noticed no dropoff in mid-high speed performance. Combined with the ATV seatcover and Grip Puppy foam handgrips it makes a huge difference in long rides. Nerf bars protect the bike from laydowns and highway footpegs allow changing seat position which also can improve highway ride over the long haul. Add a JC Whitney trunk and tankbag; and now I've got a decent highway cruiser to keep up with the big boys that can still explore the backroads they can't.

#ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mkp {border:1px solid #d8d8d8;font-family:Arial;padding:0 10px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mkp hr {border:1px solid #d8d8d8;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mkp #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxhd {color:#628c2a;font-size:85%;font-weight:700;line-height:122%;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mkp #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxads {margin-bottom:10px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mkp .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxad {padding:0 0;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mkp .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxad a {color:#0000ff;text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-sponsor #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-lc {font-family:Arial;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-sponsor #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-lc #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxhd {font-weight:700;font-size:78%;line-height:122%;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-sponsor #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-lc .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxad {margin-bottom:10px;padding:0 0;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass a {color:#1e66ae;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxactions {font-family:Verdana;font-size:11px;padding:10px 0;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxactivity {background-color:#e0ecee;float:left;font-family:Verdana;font-size:10px;padding:10px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxactivity span {font-weight:700;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxactivity span a {color:#5085b6;text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxactivity span span {color:#ff7900;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxactivity span .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxunderline {text-decoration:underline;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxattach {clear:both;display:table;font-family:Arial;font-size:12px;padding:10px 0;width:400px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxattach div a {text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxattach img {border:none;padding-right:5px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxattach label {display:block;margin-bottom:5px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxattach label a {text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass blockquote {} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxbold {font-family:Arial;font-size:13px;font-weight:700;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxbold a {text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass dd.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxlast p a {font-family:Verdana;font-weight:700;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass dd.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxlast p span {margin-right:10px;font-family:Verdana;font-weight:700;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass dd.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxlast p span.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxyshortcuts {margin-right:0;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxattach-table div div a {text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxattach-table {width:400px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxfile-title a, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxfile-title a:active, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxfile-title a:hover, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxfile-title a:visited {text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxphoto-title a, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxphoto-title a:active, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxphoto-title a:hover, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass div.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxphoto-title a:visited {text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass ecxdiv#ygrps-yiv-219800388ygrp-mlmsg #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-msg p a span.ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxyshortcuts {font-family:Verdana;font-size:10px;font-weight:normal;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxgreen {color:#628c2a;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxMsoNormal {} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass ecxo {font-size:0;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxphotos div {float:left;width:72px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxphotos div div {border:1px solid #666666;height:62px;overflow:hidden;width:62px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxphotos div label {color:#666666;font-size:10px;overflow:hidden;text-align:center;white-space:nowrap;width:64px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxreco-category {font-size:77%;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxreco-desc {font-size:77%;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass .ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxreplbq {} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mlmsg {font-size:13px;font-family:Arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mlmsg table {font-size:inherit;font:100%;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mlmsg select, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass input, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass textarea {font:99% Arial, Helvetica, clean, sans-serif;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mlmsg pre, #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass code {font:115% monospace;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mlmsg ecx* {line-height:1.22em;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mlmsg #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxlogo {padding-bottom:10px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-mlmsg a {color:#1E66AE;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-msg p a {font-family:Verdana;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-msg ecxp#ygrps-yiv-219800388attach-count span {color:#1E66AE;font-weight:700;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-reco #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxreco-head {color:#ff7900;font-weight:700;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-reco {margin-bottom:20px;padding:0px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-sponsor #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxov li a {font-size:130%;text-decoration:none;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-sponsor #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxov li {font-size:77%;list-style-type:square;padding:6px 0;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-sponsor #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxov ul {padding:0 0 0 8px;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-text {font-family:Georgia;} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-text p {} #ygrps-yiv-219800388 .ygrps-yiv-219800388ExternalClass #ygrps-yiv-219800388ecxygrp-text tt {font-size:120%;} The New Busy is not the old busy. Search, chat and e-mail from your inbox. http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/the ... 010_3' started.

[roncriswell@sbcglobal.net]

People advised me to get the flat instead of the dip, so I with 29 inch inseam, I was a dip and got the flat, which really even though it is lower than stock, you can't put your feet on the ground very easily as the seat is wider than stock. Mine needs to be recovered and I am just wondering if it can be modified by say a local recover specialist or me to make it narrower up front. It is great for hwy. Criswell(riding with stock right now with feet on the ground)

On May 14, 2010, at 5:17 AM, Jud wrote:   --- In DSN_KLR650%40yahoogroups.com, RobertWichert wrote: > > What about the Corbin seats. Are they the best bet? > > Most riders find the Corbin a big improvement over stock, but not necessarily the best bet. I think the flat Corbin is pretty comfortable, but settle for the less comfortable (to me) dipped model in deference to my short inseam. There are other manufacturers (Sargent, Russell, Renazco, to name a few) who can make or rebuild a seat for you that may be more comfortable, but experimentation can be expensive.

[Monty]

No one said anything about replacing the stock handlebar.  I went with the one Dual Star recommended.  It offered much improved comfort and control.  Arms aren't stretched out like a sail catching the wind.  Really gives the bike a much more tidy feel. 

[notanymoore]

I'd considered a Corbin. But I don't like a dished seat as it restricts your riding position. I hadn't heard anything really great about the flat seat. I just wasn't ready to spend $200+ on an iffy upgrade. Seating improvement for the $18 ATV seatcover was money well spent.

--- In DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, RobertWichert wrote: > > What about the Corbin seats. Are they the best bet? > > > Robert P. Wichert P.Eng > +1 916 966 9060 > FAX +1 916 966 9068 > > > > > > > > > > ======================================================== > > > On 5/13/2010 4:52 PM, Bob K wrote: > > > > In regard to #3 below the 16t is a good mod for street use but it only > > drops rpm by about 300 r's, not 500. > > I agree with the Grip Puppies, they are super. > > > > Now on to a better seat and windshield and I'll be all set. > > > > Bob 2009 Red KLR > > Indiana > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > To: DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com > > From: RJTaylor@... > > Date: Thu, 13 May 2010 21:25:04 +0000 > > Subject: [DSN_KLR650] KLR 650 Comfort Mods > > > > Based on recent E-Mails -I thought I'd start a thread on making the > > KLR 650 comfortable for us "normal" riders. I loved the light bike, > > easy handling and decent all-around performance that didn't cost a lot > > of money. But after 2 seasons riding a totally stock 2006 KLR 650 (90% > > street/highway), I was getting ready to trade in for a WeeStrom. My > > basic complaints: > > > > - Squirrelly highway handling, rideability > > - Buzzing, topping out at 75 MPH > > - "Numb buns" / "hot buns" after about an hour or so > > - Numb hands after an hour or so; even with gel gloves > > - Wind buffeting, wind fatigue > > > > Here's my upgrade list gleaned from various posts: > > - Grip Puppies ($10) > > - Wal-Mart ATV Seat Cover ($18) > > - Acerbis mini front fender ($20) > > - 16 Tooth front sprocket ($20) > > - MRA Smoked Grey Windshield ($110 from Twisted Throttle) > > - X-Ring Superbike Chain ($129 installed) > > - Bridgestone TrailWings ($279 installed) > > - Nerf Bars ($289) > > > > 1) Handling and ri deability: replacing OEM knobbies was paramount. > > Bridgestone TW's are a reasonable compromise between street and trail. > > Replacing the OEM chain had more impact then I expected in smoothing > > out the drive train. > > > > 2) Highspeed wind buffeting (both bike and rider) comes from two > > things - two much front fender, not enough windshield. The Acerbis > > mini-front fender made a big difference offloading wind resistance > > from the handlebars. The MRA windshield from Twisted Throttle is > > better than stock, better than the Kaw large screen and slopes more to > > improve handling by putting downward pressure on the frame (not > > handlebars) while removing wind from the riders chest. > > > > 3) The 16 tooth front sprocket lowers highways revs by 500 RPM. I've > > noticed no dropoff in mid-high speed performance. Combined with the > > ATV seatcover and Grip Puppy foam handgrips it makes a huge difference > > in long rides. Nerf bars protect the bike from laydowns and highway > > footpegs allow changing seat posit ion which also can improve highway > > ride over the long haul. > > > > Add a JC Whitney trunk and tankbag; and now I've got a decent highway > > cruiser to keep up with the big boys that can still explore the > > backroads they can't. > > > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > The New Busy is not the too busy. Combine all your e-mail accounts > > with Hotmail. Get busy. > > http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?tile=multiaccount&ocid=PID28326::T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_4> > > > > >

[notanymoore]

A throttle lock requires positive action to slow down whereas a rocker acts more like a "dead man" switch. The normal accelerator action. I just don't like having to (re-)grip the accelerator in case of emergency when the standard reaction is to simply rotate the wrist and let go. It's just not the natural reaction; and anything that slows down reaction time on a motorcycle ain't good. I suppose a throttle lock makes more sense on a Goldwing riding thru Nebraska, South Dakota and Montana; but not on a KLR650 around a major metro area (Chicago).

--- In DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, "Fred Hink" wrote: > > Have you ever used one? What "scares" you about them? A Throttle Lock does not "Lock" the throttle. It has an adjustable friction point that will let you turn the throttle closed easily if need be. Once adjusted, they work well and will give both hands a real rest on flat ground. Not much good in hilly terrain. > > Fred > http://www.arrowheadmotorsports.com > > > > > From: notanymoore > Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2010 3:36 PM > To: DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com > Subject: [DSN_KLR650] Re: KLR 650 Comfort Mods > > > > Oh yeah, forgot to mention the CrampBuster throttle rocker ($10). Throttle locks scare me. > > --- In DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, Jeff Khoury wrote: > > > > I went with the Kawi tall windshield plus the Laminar Lip. Works well for me. If you're any shorter than me, you probably could get a no-wind ride. As I sit, the wind just barely hits the top 1.5 inches of my helmet, being 6'0". if you have a dished seat, you're definitely out of the wind. > > > > I'd also add the Kaoko Throttle Lock so you can take your hand off the throttle side once in a while, or just relax your hand a bit on the highway. > > > > The Wal-Mart seat cover definitely got rid of the tailbone hot spot, however you still need to shift your riding position from time-to-time. It really helps, but it's no "Russell Day-Long". > > > > > > -Jeff Khoury > > > > > > ----- Original Message ----- > > From: "notanymoore" > > To: "DSN KLR650" DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com> > > Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2010 2:25:04 PM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific > > Subject: [DSN_KLR650] KLR 650 Comfort Mods > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Based on recent E-Mails -I thought I'd start a thread on making the KLR 650 comfortable for us "normal" riders. I loved the light bike, easy handling and decent all-around performance that didn't cost a lot of money. But after 2 seasons riding a totally stock 2006 KLR 650 (90% street/highway), I was getting ready to trade in for a WeeStrom. My basic complaints: > > > > - Squirrelly highway handling, rideability > > - Buzzing, topping out at 75 MPH > > - "Numb buns" / "hot buns" after about an hour or so > > - Numb hands after an hour or so; even with gel gloves > > - Wind buffeting, wind fatigue > > > > Here's my upgrade list gleaned from various posts: > > - Grip Puppies ($10) > > - Wal-Mart ATV Seat Cover ($18) > > - Acerbis mini front fender ($20) > > - 16 Tooth front sprocket ($20) > > - MRA Smoked Grey Windshield ($110 from Twisted Throttle) > > - X-Ring Superbike Chain ($129 installed) > > - Bridgestone TrailWings ($279 installed) > > - Nerf Bars ($289) > > > > 1) Handling and rideability: replacing OEM knobbies was paramount. Bridgestone TW's are a reasonable compromise between street and trail. Replacing the OEM chain had more impact then I expected in smoothing out the drive train. > > > > 2) Highspeed wind buffeting (both bike and rider) comes from two things - two much front fender, not enough windshield. The Acerbis mini-front fender made a big difference offloading wind resistance from the handlebars. The MRA windshield from Twisted Throttle is better than stock, better than the Kaw large screen and slopes more to improve handling by putting downward pressure on the frame (not handlebars) while removing wind from the riders chest. > > > > 3) The 16 tooth front sprocket lowers highways revs by 500 RPM. I've noticed no dropoff in mid-high speed performance. Combined with the ATV seatcover and Grip Puppy foam handgrips it makes a huge difference in long rides. Nerf bars protect the bike from laydowns and highway footpegs allow changing seat position which also can improve highway ride over the long haul. > > > > Add a JC Whitney trunk and tankbag; and now I've got a decent highway cruiser to keep up with the big boys that can still explore the backroads they can't. > > >

[fasteddiecopeman]

"CRAMPBUSTER" rockers scare HELL out of ME!!! What can happen with them is, you're doing a slow speed tight turn to the right, your handle bars are full-lock right, and the heel of your hand contacts the rocker - your throttle goes to WFO, and you CRASH, big time! My .02$ Ed

--- In DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, "notanymoore" wrote: > > Oh yeah, forgot to mention the CrampBuster throttle rocker ($10). Throttle locks scare me.