Allround
1987
1987
Kawasaki KLR 650
22 fields on record
The 1987 Kawasaki KLR 650 is a versatile dual-sport machine that appeals to adventure riders and beginners seeking reliable, capable all-terrain performance. Known for its bulletproof single-cylinder engine, manageable weight, and genuine off-road prowess, it became an iconic platform for exploration and long-distance touring on mixed surfaces.
- Capacity
- 652.00 ccm
- Engine
- Single cylinder
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 48.00
Other years
1987
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- 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.
- Built for
- 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.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 652.00 ccm
- Engine type
- Single cylinder
- Power
- 48.00 hp
- Compression
- 9.5:1
- Bore x stroke
- 100.0 x 83.0 mm
- Fuel control
- DOHC
- Cooling system
- Liquid
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission typefinal drive
- Chain
Dimensions & weight
- Wet weight (incl. fluids)
- 189.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 23.00 litres
Brakes & wheels
- Front tyre dimensions
- 90/90-21
- Rear tyre dimensions
- 130/80-17
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
Other
- Model
- Kawasaki KLR 650
- Year
- 1987
- Category
- Allround
- Stroke
- 4
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Top speed
- 154.0 km/h (95.7 mph)
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1987 | 1997 | 2007 | 2016 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 652.00 ccm (39.79 cubic inches) | 652.00 ccm (39.79 cubic inches) | 651.00 ccm (39.72 cubic inches) | — | 652.0 ccm (39.79 cubic inches) |
| Dry weight | — | 168.0 kg (370.4 pounds) | 152.9 kg (337.0 pounds) | — | — |
| Seat height | — | 870 mm (34.3 inches) | 889 mm (35.0 inches) | 889 mm (35.0 inches) | — |
| Fuel capacity | 23.00 litres (6.08 gallons) | — | 23.08 litres (6.10 gallons) | 23.09 litres (6.10 gallons) | — |
| Color options | — | — | Kawasaki Lime Green, Aztec Red | Candy Lime Green, Ebony | — |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki KLR 650?
The 1987 Kawasaki KLR 650 has a Capacity of 652.00 ccm (39.79 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki KLR 650 have?
The 1987 Kawasaki KLR 650 has a Power of 48.00.
Is the Kawasaki KLR 650 air cooled or liquid cooled?
The 1987 Kawasaki KLR 650 has a Cooling system of Liquid.
How many gears does the Kawasaki KLR 650 have?
The 1987 Kawasaki KLR 650 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki KLR 650 weigh?
The 1987 Kawasaki KLR 650 has a Wet weight (incl. fluids) of 189.0 kg (416.7 pounds).
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