Adventure Motorcycles
2023Kawasaki KLR 650 S
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The 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 S is a versatile super motard suited for adventure riders and dual-sport enthusiasts seeking a capable middleweight platform. Its liquid-cooled 652cc single-cylinder engine delivers accessible torque through a five-speed manual transmission, making it equally at home on pavement and light trails. Known for reliability and affordability, the KLR 650 S excels as a beginner-friendly adventure bike with genuine off-road capability.
- Capacity
- 652.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 189.0 kg
- Seat height
- 815 mm
- Power
- 40.0 HP (29.4 kW)
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for long-distance adventure touring and rough-road exploration rather than outright speed or sport riding, despite being mislabeled here as a super motard.
- Built for
- A rugged, torque-focused thumper with a no-frills character that rewards patience over aggression and thrives on adventure rather than performance.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high top speed, or a lightweight, flickable city commuter.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 652.0 ccm
- Power
- 40.0 HP (29.4 kW)
- Torque
- 53.0 Nm (5.4 kgf-m) @ 4500 RPM
- Engine type
- Single, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2116 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 100.0 x 83.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.8:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- CDI
- Spark plugs
- NGK DPR8EA-9, NGK DPR8EIX-9
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet multi-disc manual clutch
- Sprockets
- 15/43 (front/rear)
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1514 mm
- Overall length
- 2256 mm
- Overall width
- 970 mm
- Overall height
- 1466 mm
- Seat height
- 815 mm
- Dry weight
- 189.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 206.9 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 23.10 litres
- Ground clearance
- 185 mm
- Oil capacity
- 2.50 litres
- Carrying capacity
- Aluminum rear carrier
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Tubular, Semi-Double Cradle
- Front suspension
- 41mm telescopic fork
- Rear suspension
- Uni-Trak® single shock with adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload
- Front wheel travel
- 170 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 185 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 29.5°
- Trail
- 117 mm
- Fork tube size
- 38 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc. Two-piston calipers. Optional ABS.
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. Single piston. Optional ABS..
- ABS
- Optional
- Front tyre
- 90/90-21
- Rear tyre
- 130/80-17
- Brake fluid
- DOT 4
- Tire pressure front
- 22 PSI (1.5 Bar or 150 kPa)
- Tire pressure rear
- 29 PSI (2 Bar or 200 kPa)
Other
- Color options
- Pearl Storm Gray, Candy Lime Green
- Warranty
- 12
- Comments
- Small windscreen. ABS adds 4.4 lbs.
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 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 652 cc | 652 cc | 652 cc | 652 cc |
| Dry weight | 189 kg | 189 kg | 189 kg | 189 kg |
| Seat height | 815 mm | 815 mm | 815 mm | 815 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 23.1 L | 23.1 L | 23.1 L | 23.1 L |
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 S?
The 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 S has a Capacity of 652.0 ccm (39.79 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki KLR 650 S have?
The 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 S has a Power of 40.0 HP (29.4 kW).
How many gears does the Kawasaki KLR 650 S have?
The 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 S has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki KLR 650 S?
The 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 S has a Torque of 53.0 Nm (5.4 kgf-m or 39.1 ft.lbs) @ 4500 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki KLR 650 S weigh?
The 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 S has a Dry weight of 189.0 kg (416.7 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 S is a rugged and versatile adventure bike that is designed to handle a wide range of terrain. With its powerful 652cc single-cylinder engine and long-travel suspension, this bike is capable of tackling off-road trails and highways with ease. The comfortable seat and adjustable windscreen make it ideal for long rides, while the large fuel tank ensures that you can go the distance without needing to stop for gas. Whether you're heading out on a weekend camping trip or embarking on a long-distance tour, the KLR 650 S is ready for whatever adventure you have in mind.
In addition to its impressive performance capabilities, the 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 S also comes equipped with modern technology features. The bike boasts a digital display with a range of information including speed, fuel level, and more, while optional accessories such as saddlebags and a top case provide additional storage space for gear. With its rugged build and advanced features, the KLR 650 S is a top choice for riders who are looking for a capable and reliable adventure bike.
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