Kawasaki’s most popular dual-sport motorcycle- the Kawasaki KLR650 has been treated to minor updates and unveiled at the 2014 New York International Motor Show. Not to be confused with the 2014 variant of the KLR650, Kawasaki has christened the updated motorcycle as the Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition.
Along with new graphics, updates to the motorcycle include new springs for the front and rear suspension with rebound damping to provide a more stable platform. The suspension update is claimed to make a big difference to the KLR’s handling and feel. The front dive stands reduced during braking on pavement and gives a more real dirt-bike feel during off-roading.
Kawasaki states that the upgraded 41mm forks are 40% firmer with the new springs and rebound damping is firmer by 27%. The Uni-Trak linkage rear suspension now offers 63% higher spring rate while the rebound damping settings are 83% firmer. The five position preload adjustment and four level rebound damping settings have been retained on the Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition.
A new dimpled seat is now narrower and tapered at the front to enable the rider for a shorter reach to the ground while retaining its 35-inch seat height. The back of the seat has been widened and less tapered to enhance rider comfort.
The new KLR650 continues to be powered by the same old (we say BULLET-PROOF) carbureted 651cc single cylinder engine mated to a five speed gearbox. Stopping power is handled by two-piston caliper over a single 280mm petal-type disc at the front and a single-pot caliper with 240mm disc at the rear.
Priced at US$6,599 (a $100 premium over the old variant), the 2014 Kawasaki KLR650 New Edition is available in three color options: Candy Lime Green and Ebony, Metallic Flat Raw Graystone and Ebony, and Pearl Stardust White and Ebony.