From: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com (klr650-digest) To: klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Subject: klr650-digest V1 #124 Reply-To: klr650 Sender: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Errors-To: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Precedence: bulk klr650-digest Wednesday, July 8 1998 Volume 01 : Number 124 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Sun, 5 Jul 1998 10:57:18 +0000 From: snsi@win.bright.net Subject: (klr650) Them Darn Panniers Howdy All, Well I got my Aerostich Tank Panniers, How do you mount them? Kurt Anyone? Jeff Smith Barnes, WI '71 A-HD Sprint 350; '97 Kawasaki KLR650 (King o'La Road) "Beware the dirt bike ... Ground shaking dirt bike" TMBG ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 5 Jul 1998 12:17:47 EDT From: Subject: Re: (klr650) Them Darn Panniers on 7/5/98 8:53:42 AM, snsi@win.bright.net wrote: >Well I got my Aerostich Tank Panniers, How do you mount them? Kurt >Anyone? Jeff, these are from our hosts at the klr site and newsgroup. CA Ron on Sat, Feb 21, 1998 Bill Haycock wrote: snip > On the Pannier bags: > > I have the larger ones and they fit fine but if you can carry what you > want with the smaller bags then that is fine too! The larger bags do > restrict your legs somewhat if you are over 5'10" > > Just mount them over the tank and get the height up toward the top of > the tank, don't want them way down low - mine sit about 1/3 of the way > down from even with the tank top. > > On the bungii cords, I bring the rear one down and hook it to my skid > plate, the front cord is pulled around the front and connected to the > center frame plate - not really critical where you attach them as long > as you have them so the bags are kept in close to the bike. > > Bill - --------------------- on Mon, June 1, 1998 Kurt Simpson wrote: snip >The combo works very well in either the competition or regular size. >With the panniers the trick is to get BOTH straps way forward of the >tank cap and loosen them so they fit very low. If you work with it you >can get them to clear your knees and still give you room to reach >highway bars if you have them.. >Kurt A12 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 5 Jul 1998 11:00:13 -0700 From: "Robert Morgan" Subject: Re: (klr650) eliminating Cal emissions junk Hi Ron I recently tuned up both my McCollough chainsaws. I went to the Home Depot to get parts and purchased tune up kits. In them were fuel pickup filters about the diameter of a dime and not much longer. They have a tiny vacuum size hose barb on one end and are designed to be sumberged in the tank, they are made of black plastic. I bet they would make perfect fuel tank vent filters. Check em out. later Morgan./ ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 5 Jul 1998 17:00:55 -0400 From: PAT_HENSLEY@HP-USA-om32.om.hp.com Subject: (klr650) NKRL: Motard I just read about the KLX Motard in the KLR650 DS newsletter. This may seem like a strange question: I know a motard or a super motard when I see one, but what is the unofficial definition. ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 05 Jul 1998 18:38:29 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) Them Darn Panniers snsi@win.bright.net wrote: > > Howdy All, > > Well I got my Aerostich Tank Panniers, How do you mount them? Kurt > Anyone? > > Jeff Smith Barnes, WI > '71 A-HD Sprint 350; '97 Kawasaki KLR650 (King o'La Road) > "Beware the dirt bike ... Ground shaking dirt bike" TMBG Thanks to Ron for posting Bill's advice on the panniers...I have the large ones as well and benefitted greatly from watching the way Gino had his competition's slung with both straps forward of the gas filler cap. I have mine a little lower than Bill, as low and as forward as I can string them and still get my feet on the highway pegs. It blocks a little air flow to my legs in the hot weather but the cooling system doesn't seem to suffer. They are a beautiful thing... Kurt ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 13:04:09 +1000 From: Ted Palmer Subject: Re: (klr650) NKRL: Motard PAT_HENSLEY@HP-USA-om32.om.hp.com wrote: > This may seem like a strange question: I know a motard or a super > motard when I see one, but what is the unofficial definition. Just about any traillie set up to perform on sealed roads. The most visible mod is usually re-spoked wheels with smaller diameter and wider rims to take sticky sports bike tyres. Suspension is generally stiffer and shorter travel. Brakes are often uprated to take advantage of extra traction as well. Just a roadified traillie, mainly. Mister_T ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 07:31:35 -0400 From: Mike Ratta Subject: (klr650) KLX650 kickstarter kit? Does a kickstarter kit for the KLX650c exist? Has anyone pulled one from a dead KLX650a (and the swingarm and rear damper for that matter..) I miss my KLR's kickstarter. Should my battery go flat on this thing, I'm SOL without it. ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 11:07:34 -0500 (CDT) From: rycomm@webtv.net (Ryan Combs) Subject: (klr650) klrs in Montana I had planned to go to Missoula, but I'm not going to make it, so all you other klrists make sure you have fun crashing thier party. My gs/pd friend left this mornig. I helped (watched) him do the final tuning and packing, and I sure felt like I should have been too. Any way, I am going to FSSNOC and Steamboat in September. Is there anyone else planning on these? Ryan ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 10:28:25 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) klrs in Montana Ryan Combs wrote: > > I had planned to go to Missoula, but I'm not going to make it, so all > you other klrists make sure you have fun crashing thier party. My gs/pd > friend left this mornig. I helped (watched) him do the final tuning and > packing, and I sure felt like I should have been too. Any way, I am > going to FSSNOC and Steamboat in September. Is there anyone else > planning on these? Ryan - -- Ryan, I'm planning on Steamboat in September as I want to watch GO9 legend J.D. Hord win on his HawkGT in what I hear is going to be the final year of running roadraces... Kurt Simpson KLR650 A12 Oingo Boingo Subscribe to KLRDSN ...ask me how ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 10:26:43 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) PBI 16 tooth countershaft sprocket... Bill Wright wrote: > > Kurt Simpson wrote: > > > But Donna will send you the sprocket UPS COD if you have a deliverable > > mailing address. > > > > Caveat...she does not guarantee that there is clearance (we have to do that) but you > > can return the sprocket if you can't make it fit. I ordered one for OB and now if > > someone will order one for their earlier model we can share notes with the list... > > > > Kurt, > > Have you received your 16T sprocket yet? Does it fit? How does it effect your RPM at > highway speeds. > > Bill Wright > Hotlanta, GA > 98 KLR650 - 12061 miles Bill, Donna told me the sprocket batch wouldn't be in stock for two weeks (I'll check soon), so no I haven't received it. According to lister Pat Hensley's very fine GearCalc program here is what we can expect: Stock 15x43=Final reduction ratio of 2.8667, with my 76.5 circumference rear tire that yields 59.8 MPH at 4,200 RPM and 5,696 RPM for 80 MPH. With 16X43=Final reduction ratio of 2.6875, with same rear tire yields 62.9 MPH at 4,200 RPM and 5,340 RPM at 80 MPH. By way of comparison, Jake Jakeman runs a 15x39=final reduction of 2.6000, with same tire yields, 65.8 MPH at 4,200 RPM and 5,166 at 80 MPH. When I go off-road and feel I have to swap out sprockets, I'll run a 14x43=final reduction of 3.071 with same rear tire yielding 55.1 MPH at 4,200 RPM and 6,183 at 80 (NOT). Kurt - -- Kurt Simpson KLR650 A12 Oingo Boingo Subscribe to KLRDSN ...ask me how ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 10:57:28 -0600 From: "John Doe" Subject: (klr650) Electrical failure I have a 1992 KLR650 with about 11,000 miles on it. I returned from a day ride to Telluride and parked the motorcycle at the curb while I opened the garage door. Then I went to start the bike to put it in the garage, and when I turned the ignition key to the "on" position the neutral light came on momentarily and then went off. The headlight is off, the horn does not work, and neither does the starter. Apparently a complete electrical failure, though I checked the park position on the ignition switch and the tail light will light up. I didn't have time to do any checking yet. Does anyone have any suggestions of what I should be looking for? ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 12:04:35 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) Electrical failure John Doe wrote: > > I have a 1992 KLR650 with about 11,000 miles on it. I returned from a day > ride to Telluride and parked the motorcycle at the curb while I opened the > garage door. Then I went to start the bike to put it in the garage, and > when I turned the ignition key to the "on" position the neutral light came > on momentarily and then went off. The headlight is off, the horn does not > work, and neither does the starter. Apparently a complete electrical > failure, though I checked the park position on the ignition switch and the > tail light will light up. I didn't have time to do any checking yet. Does > anyone have any suggestions of what I should be looking for? How old is the battery? Check the battery connections... - -- Kurt Simpson KLR650 A12 Oingo Boingo Subscribe to KLRDSN ...ask me how ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 15:36:11 -0400 From: "Michael Magnatta" Subject: Re: (klr650) Electrical failure (3:35- 7/6 est message) John: After many mysterious episodes of fuse blowing (an '89), the battery shorted out internally, this time no fuse blowing, but with symptoms very similar to yours. I replaced the battery, and the problem was gone. I also replaced the glass type of fuse holder with auto type blades in a waterproof type of fuse holder, just for the heck of it. I figure that one banger does a job on the older style fuses, cheap insurance. Hope this helps. Mike Magnatta - -----Original Message----- From: John Doe To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Date: Monday, July 06, 1998 1:06 PM Subject: (klr650) Electrical failure I have a 1992 KLR650 with about 11,000 miles on it. I returned from a day ride to Telluride and parked the motorcycle at the curb while I opened the garage door. Then I went to start the bike to put it in the garage, and when I turned the ignition key to the "on" position the neutral light came on momentarily and then went off. The headlight is off, the horn does not work, and neither does the starter. Apparently a complete electrical failure, though I checked the park position on the ignition switch and the tail light will light up. I didn't have time to do any checking yet. Does anyone have any suggestions of what I should be looking for? ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 20:20:55 -0500 From: Jeffrey P Bauerr Subject: Re: (klr650) klrs in Montana Ryan Combs wrote: > > I had planned to go to Missoula, but I'm not going to make it, so all > you other klrists make sure you have fun crashing thier party. My gs/pd > friend left this mornig. I helped (watched) him do the final tuning and > packing, and I sure felt like I should have been too. Any way, I am > going to FSSNOC and Steamboat in September. Is there anyone else > planning on these? Ryan I will be leaving for Missoula Wed night from York NE. ETA fri night. However I will riding my RS. If I see any KLR folks there, I hope I can meet you for a beer. I will be the one on the silver RS. Do you think that will narrow it down any? I took the KLR to Baja this spring so it's only fair to take my other bike on this trip. Jeff Bauer 98 KLR-650-A12 77 R-100/RS ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 08:30:38 -0600 From: Marcus_Young@ceo.cudenver.edu (Marcus Young) Subject: (klr650) Stealth Edging Anyone have the URL for the company that makes Stealth Edging? I've searched for it with no luck. thanks in advance, Marcus Young ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 10:33:18 -0400 From: Bill Wright Subject: Re: (klr650) Stealth Edging Marcus Young wrote: > Anyone have the URL for the company that makes Stealth Edging? I've > searched for it with no luck. > > thanks in advance, > > Marcus Young Marcus, Check out http://www.saeng.com/ Bill Wright Hotlanta, GA. 98 KLR650 - 12111 miles ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 14:18:21 From: Robert Kaub Subject: (klr650) Whitehall While on vacation last week I say a KLR parked just north of Whitehall, NY on NY route 22. Could it have been one of the list persons? It was a light blue with a lot of graphics, definitely not a '97 or '98. Nobody was nearby so I couldn't stop and say hi. Thanks. Bob Kaub SUNY Binghamton Watson School Student Shop PO Box 6000 Binghamton, NY 13902 607-777-2715 ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 14:31:07 From: Robert Kaub Subject: (klr650) Coolant Has anyone used the new, long life coolants such as Texaco Dex-Cool yet? It would seem that you would never have to change it since it's rated for 100,000 miles in cars. Thanks. Bob Kaub SUNY Binghamton Watson School Student Shop PO Box 6000 Binghamton, NY 13902 607-777-2715 ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 13:14:41 -0600 From: Marcus_Young@ceo.cudenver.edu (Marcus Young) Subject: (klr650) Side Protectors Can someone give me an idea of what Tim Bernard charges for his side protectors, and what kind of turn around I might expect? I've tried to call him but can't get through. Thanks ~marcus young~ ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 7 Jul 1998 13:31:02 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: RE: (klr650) Side Protectors - -----Original Message----- From: Marcus Young [SMTP:Marcus_Young@ceo.cudenver.edu] Sent: Tuesday, July 07, 1998 1:15 PM To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Subject: (klr650) Side Protectors Can someone give me an idea of what Tim Bernard charges for his side protectors, and what kind of turn around I might expect? I've tried to call him but can't get through. Thanks ~marcus young~ My invoice shows $124 for the racks, $16 for the powdercoating, and $12 for shipping and handling (I bought a couple of other items included in the S&H). Kurt ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 13:53:58 -0700 From: Chris Beasley Subject: (klr650) Progressive Springs Hey folks. Last time the list was talking about progressive suspension springs and other manufacturers of aftermarket M.C. springs, there was some discussion about Progressive's use of 'cheap' steel. It was even suggested that they didn't use spring steel and that there were other manufacturers who did and thus provided a lighter, stronger spring. So, I'm wondering several things. How did Progressive Suspension get to be the standard for all aftermarket springs if their product is not optimal. How much better are 'real' spring steel springs? Who sells them and how much (more) do they cost. Can I get them for my KLR-89 and my VFR-90? Thanks for the info! CA Chris (who's VFR fork bottomed in a tight fast bend the other day prompting the need for stiffer springs) ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 7 Jul 1998 17:30:32 -0700 From: "TGKessel" Subject: (klr650) KLR for sale This is a multi-part message in MIME format. - ------=_NextPart_000_000A_01BDA9CC.F1B5FBE0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable Well my Suburban's engine went south on me, so my KLR must be sold. = Here are the details: - -1995 KLR 650 with 13k miles - -IMS plastic tank- 1 month old - -Good tires front and rear - -Decals removed (so its plain white, green and purple) - -Everything stock - -New carb (with receipt) - -Stock tank (no dents or scratches) - -Eclipse tail bag - -Both factory manuals *$2900 firm (Consumer News says $3100) I've got to sell quickly to pay the bill, so call or email if you're = interested. Tim Kessel 520-634-2428 kessel@verdenet.com I'm in Clarkdale, Arizona - ------=_NextPart_000_000A_01BDA9CC.F1B5FBE0 Content-Type: text/html; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable
Well my Suburban's engine went south = on me, so=20 my KLR must be sold.  Here are the details:
 
-1995 KLR 650 with 13k = miles
-IMS plastic tank- 1 month = old
-Good tires front and = rear
-Decals removed (so its plain white, = green and=20 purple)
-Everything stock
-New carb (with = receipt)
-Stock tank (no dents or = scratches)
-Eclipse tail bag
-Both factory manuals
*$2900 firm (Consumer News says $3100)
 
I've got to sell quickly to pay the bill, so call or = email if=20 you're interested.
 
Tim = Kessel
520-634-2428 kessel@verdenet.com
I'm in Clarkdale,=20 Arizona
- ------=_NextPart_000_000A_01BDA9CC.F1B5FBE0-- ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 21:38:22 +0000 From: "Ken Hall" Subject: (klr650) klr 650 manual? Can anyone suggestion a good shop manual for my klr? The little manual that came with it isn't worth diddley. I have a '98 klr 650. Thanks, Ken ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 19:50:56 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) klr 650 manual? Ken Hall wrote: > > Can anyone suggestion a good shop manual for my klr? > > The little manual that came with it isn't worth diddley. > > I have a '98 klr 650. > > Thanks, > Ken Ken, the only choice is the Kawi Service Manuals, this list, and the website: The base manual,"KLR600 Service Manual" K#99924-1050-01 and the supplement,"KLR650/500 Supplement" K#99924-1080-55 The base manual contains procedures that are not covered in the supplement. - -- Kurt Simpson KLR650 A12 OB HawkGT '89 FS XS-650 '77 FS XS-650 '79 FS XS-650 '80 FS Ask me how to subscribe to the KLR Dual Sport Newsletter. ------------------------------ Date: Sat, 4 Jul 1998 15:07:23 -0700 From: "Jeffrey L. Walker" Subject: Re: (klr650) break lines >I use Russells front and back on mine. I don't think Fastline makes a rear. Fred Hink >has both. MAW has Russells. For those worried about the Russells not being coated, I >followed Rick Clarke's suggestion and used Spiral Wrap, it worked perfectly. > Spoke to the guy at Dual Star (didn't catch the name), and he said that they are having Fastline make rear brake lines. They got one from Fastline, but it wasn't the right length, so they sent it back. But they are definitely planning on having Fastline rear brake lines for sale when they get them right. Jeff ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 05:13:25 -0700 From: "Dean Harrison" Subject: (klr650) Newbie Mistake Hello everyone, I'm new on this list and I have all the new list member questions. I've been on the VFR list for a couple of years and know how frustrating those questions can sometimes be but I hope you'll indulge me. But first I believe I may have screwed up and want your advice. I went to adjust the valves and failed to follow the manual instructions. It says that if you're going to pull the cams, you must first pull out the cam tensioner. I've failed to do this and heard a clicking noise as I tilted the cam to get it out from under the cam chain. I've since found the tech notes which seem very well written on this procedure at the list homepage and it says something to the effect of before pulling the cams "pull out tensioner cap, washer and spring and don't put them back in until the valve cover is torqued into place'. This sounds rather foreboding. So here's the question. Can I just remove the cam tensioner now, out of sequence? I'm worried from the clicking sound and some comments in the service manual that maybe a spring in the tensioner has expanded some kind of mechanism which will not reset now. I hope I'm being paranoid but would really appreciate your comments. I'm in digest mode and either it isn't working or there is not a lot of volume on this list as I've received no mail, so could you please mail me directly with any comments. I hoping to reassemble it tonight. Mail to vfr750@gte.net Thanks, Dean in Seattle 95 VFR750 94 KLR650 ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 09:22:59 From: Robert Kaub Subject: (klr650) RD200 Does anybody know of a list for Yamaha two-strokes? I'm looking to sell an RD200B and getting on a list would help. Thanks. Bob Kaub SUNY Binghamton Watson School Student Shop PO Box 6000 Binghamton, NY 13902 607-777-2715 ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 08:36:14 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: RE: (klr650) RD200 - -----Original Message----- From: Robert Kaub [SMTP:rkaub@binghamton.edu] Sent: Wednesday, July 08, 1998 3:23 AM To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Subject: (klr650) RD200 Does anybody know of a list for Yamaha two-strokes? I'm looking to sell an RD200B and getting on a list would help. Thanks. Bob Kaub SUNY Binghamton Watson School Student Shop PO Box 6000 Binghamton, NY 13902 607-777-2715 [Kurt Simpson] Bob, try www.micapeak.com/info/mlist.html ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 08:43:28 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: RE: (klr650) Newbie Mistake - -----Original Message----- From: Dean Harrison [SMTP:vfr750@gte.net] Sent: Wednesday, July 08, 1998 6:13 AM To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Subject: (klr650) Newbie Mistake Hello everyone, I'm new on this list and I have all the new list member questions. I've been on the VFR list for a couple of years and know how frustrating those questions can sometimes be but I hope you'll indulge me. But first I believe I may have screwed up and want your advice. I went to adjust the valves and failed to follow the manual instructions. It says that if you're going to pull the cams, you must first pull out the cam tensioner. I've failed to do this and heard a clicking noise as I tilted the cam to get it out from under the cam chain. I've since found the tech notes which seem very well written on this procedure at the list homepage and it says something to the effect of before pulling the cams "pull out tensioner cap, washer and spring and don't put them back in until the valve cover is torqued into place'. This sounds rather foreboding. So here's the question. Can I just remove the cam tensioner now, out of sequence? I'm worried from the clicking sound and some comments in the service manual that maybe a spring in the tensioner has expanded some kind of mechanism which will not reset now. I hope I'm being paranoid but would really appreciate your comments. I'm in digest mode and either it isn't working or there is not a lot of volume on this list as I've received no mail, so could you please mail me directly with any comments. I hoping to reassemble it tonight. Mail to vfr750@gte.net Thanks, Dean in Seattle 95 VFR750 94 KLR650 [Kurt Simpson] Dean, the cam tensioner needs to come out to be reloaded. If you have the cams out you have a lot of slop in the chain anyhow. The big thing will be to get everything lined up when you put them back in. I don't take the cams out for that reason...I just tilt them from the rear (rightside) and ziptie them to the frame. When you get it back together if you have any question load it in the trailer or truck and have your friendly mechanic double check your work. The $20 you have to pay will be worth it in peace of mind. Kurt ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 11:59:53 -0000 From: "Mr. Mendez" Subject: (klr650) Anyone listening..... I'm at Puerto Rico ( considered U.S territory), can pick up anywhere on the iland, to arrange for delivery. Looking for dual-sport Kawasaki KLR 650 not over $3,000 (if that's even possible), since there will still be import taxes ( 6.6% of total invoice ) plus registration/tags +_ $200. Any information on any other dual-sport ( Triumph Tiger 900, KTM DUKE, etc. ) is apreciated. I realize that those other are more expensive, reason I'm only asking for information on them. Let me know if I'm on a fool's errand about the KLR. Best regards Javier Mendez Note please: kl R not kl X, very, veery usual mistake. For anyone curious, yes it would still be cheaper then to get one over here in good conditions. ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 11:00:43 -0600 From: Marcus_Young@ceo.cudenver.edu (Marcus Young) Subject: (klr650) Deja Vu If I remember back a few weeks ago, a lister mentioned taking his bike in for service, and getting it back with too much tire pressure. Well, two weeks ago I purchased my 96 KLR out of the paper. The first few rides (a few hundred miles) I was impressed by the way the bike handled any situation, expect for 70 + mph cruising. I figured that those of you who use yours as touring mounts (one of my primary interests with the KLR) must have put some money into higher wind screens, lower fenders, and such. You see, at that speed my bike would wander all over the road, at times feeling on the verge of developing speed wobbles. I wrote it off to the way the stock machine handled wind buffeting. Well, last night I finally took some time to go over the entire machine, and lo and behold, the previous owner had filled the tires to 70 psi! I let 1/2 the air out of each, taking it to the manufacturer recomended 35 psi. Today's ride to work was a joy, 85 mph + was no problem, and none of the wandering/wobling was present. Cornering was of course improved (which I was already more than happy with even with rock hard tires). Just another reminder to check out your mount when you get it back from a dealer or purchase it. I consider myself lucky that I didn't have any sort of accident. Marcus Young ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 08:02:33 -0700 From: "David D. Kessler" Subject: (klr650) Newbie w/questions Hi Folks....I'm new to the list....A buddy of mine just picked up a 89 klr and got my jucies flowing for one also....My question is....is there better years to look for when going out to purchase.....what should I look for in reference to known problems or high maintaince areas. I also checked a local dealer....he has a left over NEW 95 KLR that he said he would sell me for $2650.00.......Don't know if that is a good deal or not. Seems like it to me....Is this a good year? Any help will be appreciated....Thanx Dave Kessler Free web-based email, Forever, From anywhere! http://www.mailexcite.com ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 12:44:06 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: RE: (klr650) Newbie w/questions On Wednesday, July 08, 1998 9:03 AM, David D. Kessler [SMTP:daviddkessler@mailexcite.com] wrote: > Hi Folks....I'm new to the list....A buddy of mine just picked up a 89 klr > and got my juices flowing for one also....My question is....is there better > years to look for when going out to purchase.....what should I look for in > reference to known problems or high maintain areas. I also checked a local > dealer....he has a left over NEW 95 KLR that he said he would sell me for > $2650.00.......Don't know if that is a good deal or not. Seems like it to > me....Is this a good year? Any help will be appreciated....Thanx Dave > Kessler > > > Free web-based email, Forever, From anywhere! > http://www.mailexcite.com The only substantial changes/improvements on the KLR occurred from 1996 (sometimes reported on late '95 models) on. Here is a summary from reports in the Kawasaki 650 Dual Sport News, I can't personally attest to any of it except the counter shaft system: In the 1996 model year the counter shaft utilizes a washer and threaded nut to hold the sprocket on, replacing the old 'C' clip system. The crankshaft halves were supposed to have been made heavier for smoother power transfer. The transmission gears were supposed to have been redesigned for quieter operation, more strength, and taller gearing in second and third gear. The clutch gained an extra plate which required a change in the basket design. Kick start kits for '87-'95 models will not fit the '96 on KLR650. Listers have reported improvements in the stock seat as well. Eldon Carl reports that there are two potentially catastrophic problems with the pre '96 design. The first involves the clutch basket which he claims has brittle springs in the back side which eventually fracture and break. Because of the poor design, the boils can get out of the basket and into the flow of oil. He believes that nearly all pre-1996 KLR650's will have broken clutch basket springs by 25,000 miles. In 1996 the redesigned clutch basket included heavier springs with proper heat treatment. There are no after market replacements for the defective springs. Eldon urges all owners of pre-'96 KLR's and Tengai's to remove the clutch cover and pull the clutch basket for inspection. Check the filter screen and clean it. He says that the new clutch can be installed but some machining must be done and several other '96 parts must be installed including the primary drive spur gear. The other problem he reports concerns the balancer chain adjuster bolt on the pre-'96 models. He claims that if the bolt has been overtightened the adjuster may be inoperative. If this happens, the balancer chain can run off its sprocket and take out the cam chain. Because the adjuster lever is not properly supported on the back side, the lever can be crushed and the spring loaded adjuster arm can't move because it is deformed and drags against the case. The solution is to pull the dyno cover and examine the plate. If you have a crushed lever you will find an inoperative adjuster. The best thing is to not overtighten the bolt. In any case, Eldon suggests installing the redesigned '96 on parts including: 670B1507 o-ring 92150-1923 Adjuster bolt, idler 92200-1263 adjuster bolt washer 92144-1860 adjuster spring, idler The price on the '95 sounds great, I wouldn't hesitate. Kurt ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 14:31:32 -0500 From: David M. King Subject: (klr650) 1998 KLR 650 Specifications If someone out there has the following specifications for the 1998 KLR would you E-mail them to me? Compression Max. Horsepower and at what rpm. Max. Torque and at what rpm. Max. rpm's. (Redline) Ground Clearance Swingarm construction (Material, shape, etc.) I'm doing a comparison and can't find these figures on the Kawasaki web site. Thanks, David M. King E-mail: dking-klr@jdtv.com ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 14:56:07 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: RE: (klr650) 1998 KLR 650 Specifications On Wednesday, July 08, 1998 1:32 PM, David M. King [SMTP:dking-klr@jdtv.com] wrote: > If someone out there has the following specifications for the > 1998 KLR would you E-mail them to me? > > Compression > Max. Horsepower and at what rpm. > Max. Torque and at what rpm. > Max. rpm's. (Redline) > Ground Clearance > Swingarm construction (Material, shape, etc.) > > I'm doing a comparison and can't find these figures on the Kawasaki > web site. > > Thanks, > > David M. King > > E-mail: dking-klr@jdtv.com > Compression 9.5:1 Ground Clearance 9.4 in. Max HP 35.3 kW (48 PS) @6500 rpm Max torque 54.9 N-m (5.6 Kg-m, 40.5 ft-lb @5500 rpm uni-trak rear suspension (double-sided swingarm) consisting of a rear shock, uni-track arm, and link Frame: tubular semi-double cradle Kurt ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 17:40:06 +0000 From: "Ken Hall" Subject: (klr650) Kickstart kit I'm sure this has to have been asked before. Is there a kickstart kit available for the '98 klr? Thanks, Ken ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 16:44:47 -0600 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: RE: (klr650) Kickstart kit On Wednesday, July 08, 1998 11:40 AM, Ken Hall [SMTP:klh@tricountyi.net] wrote: > I'm sure this has to have been asked before. > > Is there a kickstart kit available for the '98 klr? > > Thanks, > Ken > A short answer...no... ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 17:40:36 -0700 (PDT) From: conallob@webtv.net (Conall O'Brien) Subject: (klr650) Holiday KLR ride. Thanks to Kurt S. for forwarding Bill Haycock's installation tips for the Ortleib Dry Bags, things make alot more sense with everyone's well written instructions and suggestions. Just returned yesterday from a leisurely 5 day 1000 mile minitour of Calif. Escaping the urban jungle they call Silicon Valley as quick as possible I head east up the very narrow and twisty road to Mt. Hamilton., site of Lick Observatory. Several short miles later I'm above the cold fog of the bays' natural airconditioning and marveling at the spring like weather and miles of tight twisties ahead, no traffic to boot either.Past the Lick Observatory which is run by UC Santa Cruz,and continuing down the steep and desolate land I stop for a quick bite at the Junction, the only business around in 30 miles for a quick bite.Popular place on the weekends for bicyclists and bikers both, hunters as well. After leaving San Antonio Valley Rd. its onto Del Puerto cyn and through Raines Regional Park which is a MC park w/ camping,motocross and Trials course. then its through free range cattle country (look out for that cow-just like road rash for the playstation), then continuing on past I-5 where for little more than a campsite I find a cheap motel. Fireworks stands sprung up all over the roadsides with big No smoking signs and ridiculous prices. Next morning its off to Mariposa- gateway to yosemite . First afternoon there I did about 30 miles of dirt in the sierras Westfall rd + Chowchilla Mtn finally finding my way out near Fish Camp. KLR was loaded down with all my gear and the Avon Gripsters didn't let me down on the semi-rough , small rock trail which got progressively smoother to a "GS1100 forest road". Tioga pass (elev approx 9500 ft) finally reopened since the winter, just a couple of days ago and was my destination for the next day, continuing to Mono Lake near Lee Vining. 2 ft of snow still capped the areas on the side of the road and the KLR pulled me along all day long at the higher elevations no problem.It's springtime in Yosemite right now and is beautiful with spring flowers and gushing waterfalls.After refilling the petrol and the camelback for me its off to Benton Hot Creek about 60 miles of more dirt desert likeroads ,but still in Calif.Hot Creek is on the map if you look real hard and is my favorite hot creek but dangerous if rare outbursts of super hot sulpher water scares you. After soaking my bones for awhile and enjoying the natural beauty of several fine European women I become lightheaded and decide to head back to Yosemite. To be continued Conall ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 18:45:04 -0700 (PDT) From: conallob@webtv.net (Conall O'Brien) Subject: (klr650) Holiday ride Part 2 The ride back to Yosemite was even better than the ride up with little traffic and 65-70 mph all the way back. Roads here have been freshly paved and very smooth. I find that alot of people are scared away from the park by the so-called big crowds but if you stay out of the yosemite valley it's rather uncongested. Yosemite park is very receptive to M/C,only charging 10 bucks for a week pass compared to 20 dollars for a auto. That night I listen to a pretty decent garage band in the Miner's Inn lounge and then retire. Next day its to Hetch Hetchy dam and Camp Mather which is really beautiful ride as well. Go a couple of miles before i realize something is missing. Hey wait a minute my Throttle Rocker-it's gone. Some lowlife clipped my throttle rocker off the grip while I slept the previous night. Oh well 7 bucks but I sure hope whoever stole it is mature enough to know how to use it without killing themselves.that day I leave to another motel where I can park my bike right in front of my room. Next day it's off to the central coast. decent ride down Hwy 140 to the agrilcultural belt on to Hollister where i pass the Corbin Factory (huge building). Hollister is rather deserted considering they just had another "Wild Ones" reunion over the 4th. Guess all those harley riders got tired of having police helicopters following them everywhere they rode.thens it's onto rt 25 through pinnacles and back roads to king city where i pick up hwy 101 down to Paso Robles and then west to Cambria and Hwy 1. My two favorite rides are yosemite and Hwy 1 central coast and now I'm doing both in one trip. YEEEHAWW. Next day it's up Hwy one where huge sections several hundred yards of the coastal mountains had to be cleared this spring due to about 20 washouts along the route.Once again Caltrans spent millions to get this road in primo repaved shape. they spent more to repair the road this year then as it cost to build the whole 80 mile stretch originally. Hit a few side fire roads for some quick exploring before stopping for lunch in Big Sur. Gotta get a weekend cabin here someday.If only there was work down here, guess you could make tie dye shirts or jewelry NKLR content.Arriving in Santa Cruz i take yet another back road HWY 9 through boulder creek and felton up to skyline . Another successful trip and hope everyone has a chance to ride roads like these. Conall PS I'm going to road rider in San Jose to get another throttle rocker throttle control device if anyone wants me to pick them up one.You can switch them from bike to bike and are really fun to use. if you don't already have cruise control. Approx $8 plus shipping. Fred Hinks I could send you a sample if you want. ------------------------------ End of klr650-digest V1 #124 ****************************