Enduro / offroad

1998
Kawasaki KLR 650

16 fields on record

The 1998 Kawasaki KLR 650 is a versatile single-cylinder enduro designed for adventure-seeking riders tackling on and off-road terrain. Known for its reliable 652cc engine, manageable weight, and proven durability, it excels as an affordable entry-level dual-sport for both beginners and experienced riders seeking no-nonsense trail capability.

Capacity: 652.00 ccm
Engine: Single cylinder
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 168.0 kg
Seat height: 870 mm
Power: 42.00

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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail82%

Cornering35%

City riding45%

Daily riding55%

Touring65%

Two-up40%

Track10%

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.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 870mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with tip-toe one foot on the 1998 Kawasaki KLR 650, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 652.00 ccm
Engine type: Single cylinder
Power: 42.00 hp
Torque: 47.00 Nm

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission typefinal drive: Chain

Dimensions & weight

Dry weight: 168.0 kg
Seat height: 870 mm
Ground clearance: Not on record - add it

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes: Single disc

Other

Model: Kawasaki KLR 650
Year: 1998
Category: Enduro / offroad
Stroke: 4
Power/weight ratio: 0.2500 HP/kg

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	1998	2007	2016	2026
Capacity	652.00 ccm (39.79 cubic inches)	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)	168.0 kg (370.4 pounds)	152.9 kg (337.0 pounds)	—	—
Seat height	—	870 mm (34.3 inches)	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	—