Enduro / offroad

2001
Kawasaki KLR 650

28 fields on record

The 2001 Kawasaki KLR 650 is a versatile single-cylinder enduro designed for adventure riders seeking reliable dual-sport capability. Known for its durable carbureted engine, manageable weight, and forgiving handling, it excels at blending street performance with off-road competence. This machine suits riders prioritizing practicality and simplicity over cutting-edge power.

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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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

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 2001 Kawasaki KLR 650, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and a slightly forward 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
Bore x stroke: 100.0 x 83.0 mm
Fuel system: Carburettor

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission typefinal drive: Chain

Dimensions & weight

Dry weight: 168.0 kg
Seat height: 870 mm
Wheelbase: 1,490 mm
Fuel capacity: 14.00 litres
Ground clearance: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension travel: 220 mm
Rear suspension travel: 200 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front tyre dimensions: 90/90-S21
Rear tyre dimensions: 120/90-S17
Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 280 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 230 mm

Other

Model: Kawasaki KLR 650
Year: 2001
Category: Enduro / offroad
Stroke: 4
Valves per cylinder: 4
Top speed: 157.0 km/h (97.6 mph)
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	2001	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)	—	14.00 litres (3.70 gallons)	23.08 litres (6.10 gallons)	23.09 litres (6.10 gallons)	—
Color options	—	—	—	Kawasaki Lime Green, Aztec Red	Candy Lime Green, Ebony	—