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Adventure Motorcycles

2021Kawasaki KLR650

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The 2021 Kawasaki KLR 650 is a versatile dual-sport motorcycle powered by a reliable 652cc single-cylinder engine producing 38.2 horsepower. Known for exceptional durability and go-anywhere capability, it suits adventure riders and long-distance travelers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient machine. Its proven design and torquey power delivery make it ideal for mixed on-road and off-road exploration.

Capacity: 652.0 ccm
Engine: Single, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 189.0 kg
Seat height: 870 mm
Power: 38.2 HP (27.9 kW) @ 6000 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

What’s new for the 2021 Kawasaki KLR650

vs the 2020

Spec	2020	2021
Power	40.0 HP (29.4 kW)	38.2 HP (27.9 kW) @ 6000 RPM
Torque	47.0 Nm (4.8 kgf-m or 34.7 ft.lbs) @ 5000 RPM	51.5 Nm (5.3 kgf-m or 38.0 ft.lbs) @ 4500 RPM
Seat height	890 mm (35.0 inches)	870 mm (34.3 inches)
Wheelbase	1480 mm (58.3 inches)	1540 mm (60.6 inches)

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 2027

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 2021 Kawasaki KLR650, with a moderate knee angle of around 95 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.

More bikes at 821-900 mm — Long Legs →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 652.0 ccm
Power: 38.2 HP (27.9 kW) @ 6000 RPM
Torque: 51.5 Nm (5.3 kgf-m) @ 4500 RPM
Engine type: Single, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2021 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 100.0 x 83.0 mm
Compression: 9.8:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Electric CDI
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, wet

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-disc manual clutch

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1540 mm
Overall length: 2280 mm
Overall width: 970 mm
Overall height: 1465 mm
Seat height: 870 mm
Dry weight: 189.0 kg
Wet weight: 196.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 23.00 litres
Ground clearance: 210 mm
Oil capacity: 2.50 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Front suspension: 41mm telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Uni-Trak single-shock system with 5-way preload and stepless rebound damping
Front wheel travel: 200 mm
Rear wheel travel: 185 mm
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
Trail: 121 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single piston
Rear brakes diameter: 240 mm
Front tyre: 90/90-21
Rear tyre: 130/80-17

Other

Color options: Pearl Sand Khaki
Warranty: 24

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	2017	2021	2027
Capacity	652 cc	652 cc	651 cc	651 cc	652 cc	652 cc
Dry weight	153 kg	153 kg	153 kg	—	189 kg	189 kg
Seat height	889 mm	889 mm	889 mm	889 mm	870 mm	871 mm
Fuel capacity	23 L	23 L	23.1 L	23.1 L	23 L	23.1 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2021 Kawasaki KLR 650 is a versatile and reliable adventure motorcycle that offers excellent performance on both paved roads and dirt trails. The bike's powerful 652cc single-cylinder engine delivers plenty of low-end torque, making it easy to tackle off-road terrain with confidence. With its comfortable riding position and long-travel suspension, the KLR 650 is well-suited for long-distance touring as well as weekend off-road excursions. The bike's rugged build quality and legendary durability make it a popular choice for riders looking for a capable all-terrain motorcycle.

Overall, the 2021 Kawasaki KLR 650 is a fantastic choice for riders seeking a versatile and durable adventure motorcycle. Its powerful engine, comfortable riding position, and off-road capability make it a top contender in its class. Whether you're exploring backcountry trails or cruising down the highway, the KLR 650 delivers a fun and reliable riding experience.

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