Looking for the best 650cc Dirt Bike? We will be dragging down the Kawasaki KLR650 vs Suzuki DR650 at all the propositions and see if they tie the knots, and one or the other leads.
Kawasaki KLR650:
If you’re an avid rider or an adventure seeker, you’d know that the most significant equipment to own is a reliable bike. Whether you’re travelling on smooth roads, gravel paths, or rugged terrains, you need a motorcycle that can take you where you want to go safely. And if you’re in the market for a durable and versatile adventure bike, the Kawasaki KLR650 is one of the most popular choices among riders.
The Kawasaki KLR650 is a dependable motorcycle that can keep up with any ride, whether it’s for solo adventure touring or off-road adventures. In this blog post, we will learn what makes the KLR650 such a trustworthy bike and why it should be your next adventure companion
Suzuki DR650:
Looking for a versatile adventure bike that can tackle any terrain? Look no further than the Suzuki DR650! This beloved bike has been a staple of the adventure biking community for years, and for good reason. From long-distance road trips to off-road exploration, the DR650 is a true workhorse that can handle anything you throw at it. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into what makes the Suzuki DR650 such a great choice for adventure riding, and why it’s a bike that every rider should consider adding to their stable.
The Suzuki DR650 is an incredibly versatile bike that can handle just about any riding situation. With a 644cc four-stroke engine, the DR650 is powerful enough to tackle highways and dirt roads alike, while still maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or hitting the trails, the DR650’s lightweight frame and nimble handling make it easy to maneuver in any situation.
Kawasaki KLR650 vs Suzuki DR650 at a Glance
For riders who love adventure motorcycles, the Kawasaki KLR650 and Suzuki DR650 are two of the most popular models in the market. Both are known for their excellent performance and unmatched durability, thanks to their strong and reliable engines. In this post, we will take a closer look at the Kawasaki KLR650 engine and the Suzuki DR650 engine, their features, benefits, and why they have become favorites among riders.
1. Kawasaki KLR650 Engine
The Kawasaki KLR650 engine is a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder, DOHC engine that boasts an impressive power output of 42 hp at 6,500 RPM. This power comes from its four valves, which ensure maximum efficiency and performance at all times. The KLR650 engine also features a balancer shaft that reduces vibration, making for a smoother ride.
One of the most significant benefits of the KLR650 engine is its reliability. This engine has been tried and tested over the years and has proven to be incredibly durable and robust, making it perfect for long-distance adventures. It also has an excellent fuel economy of 45 miles per gallon, making it more efficient compared to other adventure bike models.
2. Suzuki DR650 Engine
The Suzuki DR650 engine, on the other hand, is an air-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine with a power output of 46 hp at 6,500 RPM. With a cylinder bore and stroke of 100 mm × 82 mm, this engine is known for its torquey power, which is ideal for riders who love off-road experiences.
Like the KLR650 engine, the Suzuki DR650 engine is also built for durability and reliability, making it ideal for long adventures. One of the significant advantages of this engine is its low-maintenance design, which means that it requires fewer oil changes and repairs, ultimately saving you on maintenance costs.
Comparing the Kawasaki KLR650 and Suzuki DR650 in Terms of Torque
1. Kawasaki KLR650 Torque
The Kawasaki KLR650 is powered by a 651cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, which produces a torque of 28.0 pound-feet at 6,500 RPM. The KLR650’s torque is strong enough to deliver a great off-road experience, making it a popular choice among adventure riders. The smooth and responsive engine also makes it easy to ride in different types of terrains.
2. Suzuki DR650 Torque
The Suzuki DR650 has a 644cc, four-stroke, air-cooled engine. It delivers a torque of 39.4 pound-feet at 5,000 RPM. This means that the Suzuki DR650 has more torque than the Kawasaki KLR650, making it a better option for riders who want more power when riding off-road. The Suzuki DR650’s engine is also more reliable because of its air-cooled design.
3. Kawasaki KLR650 Top Speed
The Kawasaki KLR650 has a top speed of around 100 mph. This is an impressive speed for an adventure motorcycle, especially given its excellent off-road handling. However, riders who want to use their motorcycles for long highway rides may prefer a faster top speed.
4. Suzuki DR650 Top Speed
The Suzuki DR650’s top speed is not as high as the Kawasaki KLR650, with a top speed at around 95 mph. The reasons for this lower top speed are due to the Suzuki DR650’s air-cooled engine, which can get hot when ridden at higher speeds for extended periods of time.
Transmission
1. Features of Kawasaki KLR650 Transmission
The Kawasaki KLR650 is a beast when it comes to off-road adventures, and its transmission plays a crucial role in its performance. This motorcycle comes with a five-speed manual transmission, making it more versatile when it comes to switching gears. The transmission also features a reasonably wide gearing range that allows for smooth and comfortable cruising or an enjoyable off-road experience. One downside of the KLR650 transmission is that it may not handle heavy loads well, which could lead to wear and tear of the gears.
2. Features of Suzuki DR650 Transmission
The Suzuki DR650 is another fan-favorite among dual-sport motorcycles thanks to its excellent overall performance. The DR650 comes with a five-speed manual transmission similar to the KLR650, allowing for better control over speed and power on different terrains. It also features a wet, multi-plate clutch that offers a smooth and easy gear shift. One significant advantage of Suzuki DR650’s transmission is that it can handle the stress of heavy loads or riders, making it a suitable choice for adventure trips.
3. Maintenance and Care for Your Transmission
A well-maintained transmission is essential for the longevity and performance of your motorcycle. Always ensure your transmission has enough lubrication and the right type of oil to prevent overheating and wear and tear of the gears. You should also change your transmission fluids regularly to avoid any sludge buildup, which could cause internal damages to the gearbox. Remember always to check the shifting mechanism and clutch plate and replace them when necessary to avoid any malfunctions while on the road.
4. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Motorcycle Transmission
When buying a motorcycle, the transmission is one of the essential aspects to consider. Your choice largely depends on your riding style, the terrain you frequent, and the overall nature of your riding. Manual transmissions offer better control and versatility, while automatic transmissions provide more convenience for riders. You should also ensure your transmission can handle the load of your motorcycle and gear, and choose a transmission that matches your skill level.
Suspension
Riding an adventure motorcycle might be one of the most thrilling experiences a person can have. The freedom of the open road, the scenery, and the feeling of carving your way through a trail all make the experience unforgettable. But, as anyone who has ridden an adventure motorcycle knows, the ride can be quite bumpy. That’s where suspension comes in – but what do you know about it? In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about suspension on two popular adventure motorcycles: the Kawasaki KLR650 and the Suzuki DR650.
Kawasaki KLR650 Front Suspension
The front suspension on the Kawasaki KLR650 is a telescopic fork, with 41mm stanchions and adjustable rebound damping. The fork can be adjusted in four ways: preload, rebound damping, compression damping, and adjustable travel. Preload is adjustable via a threaded ring on the top of each fork tube, allowing the rider to adjust the initial compression of the springs. Rebound damping is adjusted via a screw on the lower fork legs, and compression damping is adjusted via a screw on the top of each fork leg. Finally, adjustable travel is possible by changing the oil level in each fork leg.
Suzuki DR650 Front Suspension
The Suzuki DR650 also uses a telescopic fork, but with 43mm stanchions and a fork brace. It has only two adjustments: preload and rebound damping. Preload is adjusted via a threaded ring on each fork tube, and the rebound damping is adjusted via a screw on the bottom of each fork leg.
Kawasaki KLR650 Rear Suspension
Moving to the rear suspension, the Kawasaki KLR650 uses a Uni-Trak system. It has a gas-charged shock with adjustable preload, rebound damping, and compression damping. Preload is adjustable via a threaded collar at the top of the shock, while rebound and compression damping are adjustable via screws on the bottom of the shock.
Suzuki DR650 Rear Suspension
The Suzuki DR650 also uses a Uni-Trak system, but with a more basic shock that only has adjustable preload. Preload is adjusted with a threaded collar at the top of the shock.
Size Differences Between the Kawasaki KLR650 and Suzuki DR650
The Kawasaki KLR650 and the Suzuki DR650 are both great adventure bikes, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. First, let’s take a look at the Kawasaki KLR650. This bike features a seat height of 35 inches, making it a great fit for taller riders. It also has a weight of 432 pounds, making it a bit on the heavier side, but great for stability on rough terrain. The tank capacity is 6.1 gallons, which is larger than the competitors, which is a great advantage for long rides. The bike has a 651cc single-cylinder engine which produces 42 horsepower and 35 lb-ft of torque. The KLR650 is not a great bike for top speed but is perfect for an off-road adventure with a comfortable ride.
Now, let’s compare that to the Suzuki DR650. This bike has a slightly lower seat height than the KLR650 at 34.8 inches, making it a great fit for riders of all sizes. It weighs in at 366 pounds, making it lighter and more agile compared to the KLR650. The tank capacity on this bike is 3.4 gallons – much smaller than the KLR650 – which limits the distance the bike can be ridden before refueling. The bike has a 644cc single-cylinder engine which produces 43 horsepower and 37 lb-ft of torque. The DR650 is not the quickest bike for acceleration but has significant torque advantage over the KLR650, perfect for tough climbs on rough terrain.
When it comes to luggage capacity, the KLR650 comes with an aluminum rear luggage rack and can hold up to 22 pounds; whereas, the Suzuki DR650 does not provide any provisions for luggage racks and aftermarket solutions must be found. However, both models have very basic standard equipment: The Kawasaki KLR650 features a digital instrument cluster with speedometer, odometer, two trip meters, fuel gauge, clock, and a voltmeter. The Suzuki DR650 comes with analog instruments including a speedometer, odometer, and a trip meter.
Both bikes come with a standard five-speed transmission, and while the KLR650 has a larger fuel tank, the DR650 is lighter and more nimble. So, the decision between the two will be largely influenced by what you’re looking for in an adventure bike.
Kawasaki KLR650 vs Suzuki DR650 Handling Comparison
Let’s start with the Kawasaki KLR650. The KLR650 has a long history of being a reliable workhorse, but its handling has always been a little bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, the bike is very stable and predictable. The long-travel suspension provides a smooth ride, and the bike feels planted on the road. However, the KLR650 can feel a little bit heavy and sluggish in tight turns. The bike’s long wheelbase and high center of gravity make it a bit more difficult to maneuver in technical terrain. If you plan on doing a lot of off-road riding, the KLR650 might not be the best choice for you.
On the other hand, the Suzuki DR650 has a more nimble and responsive feel than the KLR650. The bike’s shorter wheelbase and lower center of gravity make it easier to tackle tight turns and technical terrain. The DR650 is also very stable and predictable on the road, making it a great choice for long-distance touring. However, the DR650 has a reputation for having a stiffer suspension than the KLR650, which can make for a rougher ride on rough terrain. Additionally, some riders find that the DR650’s narrower handlebars can feel a bit cramped.
When it comes to braking, both bikes perform well. The KLR650 has dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake, while the DR650 has a single front disc brake and a single rear disc brake. In terms of power, both bikes offer plenty of stopping power, and the brakes are very responsive. However, some riders may prefer the added control of the KLR650’s dual front disc brakes.
When it comes to overall handling, neither bike is perfect. Both the KLR650 and DR650 have their strengths and weaknesses. If you’re looking for a bike that’s better suited for off-road riding, the DR650 is the better choice. If you’re more interested in long-distance touring or commuting, the KLR650 might be the better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences and riding style.
Brakes
Let’s start with the Kawasaki KLR650. This bike comes equipped with a single disc brake up front and a drum brake at the rear. While some riders may prefer the stopping power of dual disc brakes, the KLR650’s braking system is more than enough for most off-road situations. However, it’s important to keep the brakes well-maintained for optimal performance. Make sure to check the brake pads regularly and replace them as needed. You should also keep an eye on the brake fluid level and replace it when it starts to look dirty or discolored.
As for the Suzuki DR650, it also comes equipped with a single disc brake up front but has a disc brake at the rear. This gives it a bit more stopping power than the KLR650. However, like the KLR650, it’s important to keep the brakes in good condition. Check the brake pads regularly and replace them as needed. You should also bleed the brakes occasionally to remove any air bubbles in the system that may affect performance.
Both of these bikes can benefit from upgrades to their braking systems. One option is to replace the brake pads with higher-performance pads. These pads are designed to provide better stopping power and can be especially useful for riders who tackle particularly steep or rocky terrain. Another option is to upgrade to a dual disc brake system. This can increase the amount of stopping power your bike has, but it does come with a higher price tag.
Another factor to keep in mind when it comes to braking is the use of engine braking. Engine braking occurs when you slow down your bike by downshifting instead of using the brakes. This technique can be useful in certain situations, such as going down steep hills, as it can help prevent your brakes from overheating. However, it’s important to use engine braking in moderation, as relying on it too much can wear down your clutch and transmission
Ground Clearance:
First things first, what exactly is ground clearance and why is it important? Ground clearance refers to the distance between the lowest point of a vehicle and the ground. In the case of motorcycles, this typically means the lowest point of the engine or exhaust system. When it comes to off-roading, ground clearance is crucial because it determines how high you can go over obstacles without getting stuck.
Now let’s take a look at the ground clearance of the KLR650 and the Suzuki DR650. The KLR650 has a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, while the Suzuki DR650 has a ground clearance of 10.4 inches. That’s a significant difference of 2.1 inches in favor of the Suzuki DR650.
But why does the Suzuki DR650 have more ground clearance than the KLR650? One reason is that the Suzuki DR650 has a larger rear wheel, which lifts the rear of the bike and increases ground clearance. Additionally, the Suzuki DR650 has a higher seat height than the KLR650, which also contributes to its higher ground clearance.
Another factor to consider when it comes to ground clearance is the type of terrain you’ll be riding on. If you’re planning on tackling rocky, technical terrain, then the Suzuki DR650’s extra ground clearance will come in handy. However, if you’ll be mainly riding on dirt roads or relatively smooth trails, then the KLR650’s ground clearance is more than sufficient.
It’s also worth noting that ground clearance isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing an adventure bike. The KLR650 has a larger fuel tank than the Suzuki DR650 (6.1 gallons vs 3.4 gallons), which means you can go further on a tank of gas. The KLR650 is also known for being a more comfortable bike, with a more plush seat and better wind protection.
Fuel Capacity:
KLR650 Fuel Capacity
The Kawasaki KLR650 is a legendary motorcycle renowned for its off-roading capabilities, reliability, and versatility. One important feature of the KLR650 is its fuel capacity. The KLR650 gas tank can hold up to 6.1 gallons of fuel, making it one of the biggest tanks in its class. This makes it a great choice for long-distance touring or off-roading where gas stations can be scarce. The KLR650 fuel tank is also very easy to access, which makes it easy to refill on the go.
Suzuki DR650 Fuel Capacity
The Suzuki DR650 is a dual-sport motorcycle known for its simplicity, durability, and performance. One important factor to consider when choosing the DR650 is its fuel capacity. The DR650 fuel tank can hold up to 3.4 gallons of fuel, which is significantly smaller than the KLR650’s fuel tank. This means you’ll have to refill more frequently, especially if you’re going on long-distance tours. However, the DR650 is known for its fuel-efficient engine, which gives it an impressive range.
KLR650 vs Suzuki DR650 Fuel Efficiency
Another important factor to consider when comparing the fuel capacity of these two motorcycles is their fuel efficiency. In general, the KLR650 is known to be less fuel-efficient compared to the DR650. This means that even though the KLR650 has a bigger fuel tank, you may still have to refill more frequently if you’re doing long-distance touring. However, with the DR650, you’ll have to refill less frequently but you might not be able to go as far on a single tank of gas.
Fuel Capacity and Weight
The fuel capacity of a motorcycle can also affect its weight. If you’re planning on taking your motorcycle off-road, you’ll want to consider the weight of your motorcycle when it’s fully fueled. The KLR650 weighs around 432 pounds when it’s fully fueled, while the DR650 is around 366 pounds. This means that the KLR650 is heavier and may be more difficult to handle off-road compared to the DR650.
Price:
When it comes to the price, the Suzuki DR650 has a slight advantage over the KLR650. The current MSRP for a new Suzuki DR650 is around $6,699 while the KLR650 is priced at $6,999. However, it’s worth noting that the KLR650’s price comes with several features included that the DR650 does not, which we’ll get into later in this blog.
Who is the winner? Kawasaki KLR650 vs Suzuki DR650
Finally, the Kawasaki KLR650 and Suzuki DR650 are comparable in price, with a starting price of around $6,600. However, when it comes to value, the KLR650 offers more comprehensive features and capabilities, such as fuel injection, adjustable suspension, and a more modern design.
When it comes to deciding which dual sport motorcycle is the winner, it all comes down to individual rider preferences and needs. Both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses, but if you’re looking for a more modern and versatile motorcycle, the Kawasaki KLR650 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer classic design and vintage appeal, the Suzuki DR650 is an excellent option that can hold its own in terms of performance and handling. Either way, both bikes offer an excellent balance of off-road capability and on-road comfort, making them a great choice for adventure riding and off-road exploration.
