Kawasaki KLR 650 - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Kawasaki KLR 650 is a versatile single-cylinder enduro designed for adventure riders and dual-sport enthusiasts seeking reliable off-road capability. Known for its bulletproof durability, modest 36 horsepower, and accessible handling, it excels as an affordable gateway into adventure touring and backcountry exploration for riders of all experience levels.
2008
General information | |
| Category | Enduro / offroad |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Kawasaki KLR 650 |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Starter | Electric |
| Ignition | Digital transistorized |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel system | Carburettor. Keihin CVK 40 |
| Bore x stroke | 100.0 x 83.0 mm (3.9 x 3.3 inches) |
| Compression | 9.8:1 |
| Max RPM | 7800 |
| Torque | 44.34 |
| Power | 36.10 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | Single cylinder |
| Capacity: | 651.00 ccm (39.72 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,481 mm (58.3 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 206 mm (8.1 inches) |
| Seat height | 883 mm (34.8 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 194.1 kg (428.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 175.5 kg (387.0 pounds) |
Kawasaki KLR 650 dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 240 mm (9.4 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. 2-piston sliding caliper |
| Front brakes diameter | 280 mm (11.0 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc. 2-piston sliding caliper |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 130/80-17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 90/91-21 |
| Rear suspension travel | 185 mm (7.3 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Uni-Trak linkage monoshock |
| Front suspension travel | 201 mm (7.9 inches) |
| Front suspension | 41mm Telescopic |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.2057 HP/kg |
| 1/4 mile (0.4 km) | 14.400 seconds |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 5.880 seconds |
| Top speed | 149.7 km/h (93.0 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles) | 4.70 litres (1.24 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 23.08 litres (6.10 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
8.5s
0-60 mph (est.)
93 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track10%
City45%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring65%
Passenger40%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Note: category listed as super motard appears mismatched, as the KLR 650 is actually a dual-sport adventure bike, and this profile is built accordingly; it suits riders with at least some basic experience handling a tall, heavy single-cylinder machine on |
| Purpose | Built as a rugged, affordable dual-sport for long-distance overlanding, gravel roads, and light off-road exploration rather than outright speed or cornering precision. |
| Rider Fit | The tall 871mm seat height and 209kg wet weight demand reasonably long legs and decent upper-body strength, especially when maneuvering it off-road or at low speed. |
| Character | A rider who values reliability, simplicity, and go-anywhere capability over performance, and who enjoys a slow-and-steady, torque-driven riding style. |
| Not Ideal For | This bike is not for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, high-speed highway comfort, or track-day thrills. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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