From: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com (klr650-digest) To: klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Subject: klr650-digest V1 #41 Reply-To: klr650 Sender: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Errors-To: owner-klr650-digest@lists.xmission.com Precedence: bulk klr650-digest Monday, March 30 1998 Volume 01 : Number 041 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:13:11 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) KLR650 vs V45 Magna jann schwarz wrote: back road, or duncing around in a pasture, the KLR rules. > > My question is I have a stock 89 KLR650 with 12000 mi. I replaced the stock tires with Gripsters @ 6 K with the hope the 75 mph weaving would stop. No Luck. Anyone know how to stop the hispeed weaving so I can sell the Honda? Check the headstock bearings for correct tightness and the swingarms bearins as well. Also make sure that the rear wheel is not crooked in the swingarm. KLRs typicaly get a little light-feeling in the front at speed, but they generaly stay pointed where you aim them. Aside from these solutions, I cant think of anything else. - -Tom '96 KLR 650 Rock-stable at 80MPH today ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:21:19 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) newbe with a question Bob Zeliff wrote: > . > > The engine was working , the fan was on when everything stopped. > > Any how after 3/4 minutes I tried it again....started right up! > > I turned around and started out...prudent under the circumstances > > and it did it again. Did the same things....including flicking the > side stand...exerciseing the interlock switch. > > in a couple of minutes it started up....it runs fine now. > > is there a thermal engine kill circuit? Dont think so. > How do I defeat the side stand interlock circuit? I cant say for sure that this is your problem, but you need to dispense with the sidestand interlock switch in any event becasue it seems they *always* fail sooner or later. Simply remove the switch and linkages and cut the wires immediatly below the quick disconect on the frame, solder these little pigtails of wire together and wrap in tape. This leaves you with a cheap-but effective anti-theft device, especialy handy in case you have to abandon the bike for a while. Simply pull the little tab of wire off and the bike is dead. And it could well sove your problem, too. - -Tom '96 KLR 650 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:28:59 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) Re: wire under headlight Jim Barthell wrote: > > > What is the easiest way to replace the headlight bulb? Do you have to remove the > fairing? Tank? Seat? Side panels? etc etc Unless you have hams for hands (like me) you can turn the bars to some odd position and just barely slip your hands in to change the bulb without removing anything. Not easy, but doable. Otherwise you can just pull the fairing off. - -Tom '96 KLR 650 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:31:39 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) Re: wire under headlight Norman D Coffenberry wrote: > I installed a 80/100 headlight bulb and was running the aux lighting > circuit wires to my Farnham heated grips and all was fine until the first > foggy, frosty morning that I had the 100 watter bug killer AND the grips > on at the same time. I thought I had gone blind! I pulled over to the > shoulder sat against a tree trunk and waited until sun up contemplating > the meaning of life... and the capabilities of the KLR headlight fuse. I > kept the grip warmers and will stow the bulb until June or July... ...which kinda' leads back to the issue of the rewire I had to do on my bike. You could run household appliances off of the wires I used. :) - -Tom '96 KLR 650 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:39:20 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) SS Brake Lines jfountain@webtv.net wrote: > BTW > fastline dosen't make a rear line for these > bikes, they say there is not enough > interest to justify the cost of making them. I had to replace my rear brake line after an unfortunate Close Encounter of the Yale Padlock Kind upon leaving a restaraunt one night (was sober, but forgetful :) I ended up using a Russle rear brake line off of a Kawa sport bike of some sort. All I had to do is give the line an 1/4 twist and it was a perfect fit. - -Tom KLR 650 of the '96 kind ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:41:39 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) Tank Bags Tim Clayton wrote: > > Can anyone share their experience with tank bags?? Specifically, I really > could use one to hold remotes for gate and garage as well as other small > things you need on the road - but was wondering if there is a down side to > the seemingly convenient magnetic bags?? I'm not sure if you can get a magnetic bag to work with the odd profile of the KLR tank. I use a Tourmaster TB-12 with the addition of two small bungees. Works very well for me. - -Tom '96 KLR 650 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 20:45:32 -0600 From: se Subject: Re: (klr650) KLR650 plus and minus (vibration) My 87 definitely vibrates. Sometimes more, sometimes less. Many things seem to affect the level of the problem but no one or even two things has given me the "big fix". Things that helped the most were: Fill up (add weight), slow down (80=>60), adjust the counterbalance, change "cupped out" front tire. Change course/destination so you are not going head on into the wind. The best solution I have found so far is: Forget the expressway and your destination. Take the first dirt road you see to where ever it takes you. I keep trying to test different things but get more or less effect under different conditions. I plan on trying a "Day Long" next I guess. Vibration is my only KLR complaint. Engine load, full/empty tank, gas, rpm, weather (more power on cool days reduces vibration), tight chain, tires, and counterbalance adjustment have made a difference but no one thing appears to be a major fix or major problem. DOES ANYONE HAVE SOME BETTER OR ADDITIONAL SOLUTIONS? Robert 87 KLR650 83 GL650I Cloudhid wrote: > >I have a 97 model .... as smooth as I could want. > >maybe the 96 models on are benefit ting from the balancer feature? HAS THE BALANCER DESIGH CHAANGED SINCE 86/87? > >Bill > > '96 and I could swear I remember feeling some vibration in it. . . need > balancing?. > > Ron (hummin' along) ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 19:49:25 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: (klr650) SS Brake Lines I have te russel on the rear of my bike, and although I personally do not feel much more power was passed on to the caliper, it sure looks cool.the line is real thin and looks better compared to the stock line. when I switched out the front line for the steel braided fastlne unit, there was a much better feel to the brake and I feel I can really get down on the thing now. I also have the oversize rotor though so I was not able to feel the difference this line switch would make with stock rotor set-up. at $43.00 for the front and $35.00 for the rear it is a cheap way to go as far as brake performance upgrades. I paid $200.00 for the rotor kit. I have seen alot of mention of the dunlop sport pads and my dealer said he has never sold a single pair of those pads and suggested EBCs all around. I put those in but don't know what I gained or lost as far as that goes. I mean this isn't a road race bike. jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 18:48:38 -0800 (PST) From: Tom Vervaeke Subject: (klr650) Copper Canyon | Rally in Moab Hello Group: Two items: 1. I just completed a 8-10 day Copper Canyon ride and wrote up a lengthy trip report on it. We rode BMW R1100 GS's. If anyone would like an ascii copy just send an email to tom_vervaeke@rocketmail.com. I won't clog the arteries of this list with my report. However, I started in Deming and went to more or less all of the places you folks in October will be going to, including Creel and Batopilas (love that road!). 2. I'm planning on attending the Moab rally in April on my XR600 unless I find a KLR and get it ready before that. I've got a 4 gallon tank on the bike and adding a .5 gallon enduro jug on the bars ought to give me a range of 125 miles or so. Not having ever ridden in the dirt in Moab, is that range going to be enough or will I have to grovel to the KLR's and carry a fuel hose in hopes of bumming some fuel. I'm going to trailer my XR (or KLR) from Colorado Springs to Moab in case anyone in the local Colorado area would like to bum or share a ride. I've got a trailer big enough for 3 bikes. Would love to ride but it can still snow lots in the mountains of Colorado in April. 3. Am close to a deal on a 95 KLR with 5.7K on it. Still working over on the price with the seller but it's in fine mechanical and cosmetic shape. The color scheme leaves a little to be desired though. Tom Vervaeke Colorado Springs, CO _________________________________________________________ DO YOU YAHOO!? Get your free @yahoo.com address at http://mail.yahoo.com ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 19:59:09 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: (klr650) 98 KLR for sale.. I can't hardly believe it myself,but some guy I ran into once at the shop is already selling his KLR. heard it from another friend and word is it has only 600mi on it, I know he has some kind of tank bag ( maybe the kawasaki stuff ) don't know yet if he has done anything else to it. I do know the guy was older and retired and the bike is in brand new condition ( probably because it is brand new huh?) anyhow for anybody interested, it is a 98 and I hear he is asking $4300.00 don't know if he is flexible on the price. my friend said he called and left a message on his machine about selling it, and said he has approx. $5300.00 into the bike so maybe he has done a bit more to it. contact me if you want his # jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 22:03:29 EST From: Cloudhid Subject: Re: (klr650) KLR650 plus and minus (vibration) >Forget the expressway and your >destination. Take the first dirt road you see to where ever it takes you. Robert, Did you ever butcher my words! I have a '96 that vibrates. I'm with you on all your solutions except if you're recommending tightening the chain more than spec. The dirt road one is my favorite. After turning off my puter this morn, I warmed up the klr and headed north on the 5 frwy. At 80mph the vibration was noticeable, but I live with it. After about an hour of this, I exited the expressway and did the twisties along Soledad Canyon. This led me to a dirt road (Texas Canyon). The rains have had their way with us this year. No other vehicle tracks. I was in heaven. What usually is a trickle of a creek had worn away all but a sliver of the dirt in places. Scraping the canyon wall in places to get through. Cold, clear, windy, hairy, and beautiful. Funny thing is at this point in my ride I have no recollection of anything but good vibrations with the bike. Ron (at a loss for words) ======================= >My 87 definitely vibrates. Sometimes more, sometimes less. Many things seem >to affect the level of the problem but no one or even two things has given >me the "big fix". >Things that helped the most were: Fill up (add weight), slow down (80=>60), >adjust the counterbalance, change "cupped out" front tire. Change >course/destination so you are not going head on into the wind. The best >solution I have found so far is: Forget the expressway and your >destination. Take the first dirt road you see to where ever it takes you. >I keep trying to test different things but get more or less effect under >different conditions. I plan on trying a "Day Long" next I guess. >Vibration is my only KLR complaint. Engine load, full/empty tank, gas, >rpm, weather (more power on cool days reduces vibration), tight chain, >tires, and counterbalance adjustment have made a difference but no one >thing appears to be a major fix or major problem. >DOES ANYONE HAVE SOME BETTER OR ADDITIONAL SOLUTIONS? >Robert >87 KLR650 >83 GL650I >Cloudhid wrote: >> >I have a 97 model .... as smooth as I could want. >> >maybe the 96 models on are benefit ting from the balancer feature? >HAS THE BALANCER DESIGH CHAANGED SINCE 86/87? > >>Bill > >> '96 and I could swear I remember feeling some vibration in it. . . need >> balancing?. > > >Ron (hummin' along) ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 20:15:16 -0700 From: "Fred Hink" Subject: Re: (klr650) Copper Canyon | Rally in Moab >2. I'm planning on attending the Moab rally in April on my XR600 unless I > find a KLR and get it ready before that. I've got a 4 gallon tank on the > bike and adding a .5 gallon enduro jug on the bars ought to give me a > range of 125 miles or so. Not having ever ridden in the dirt in Moab, is > that range going to be enough or will I have to grovel to the KLR's and > carry a fuel hose in hopes of bumming some fuel. > > I'm going to trailer my XR (or KLR) from Colorado Springs to Moab in > case anyone in the local Colorado area would like to bum or share a ride. > I've got a trailer big enough for 3 bikes. Would love to ride but it can > still snow lots in the mountains of Colorado in April. There has been some interest about sharing rides to Moab. I'm sure there are are some that will take you up on your offer. I ride an XR600 and a XR650L both with 4 gal. tanks. They are plenty for all the trails/roads here. Is your XR street legal? Or should I say does it have a tag? If you want to do anything in the parks you'll need that plate. The "White Rim" is inside the Park. Fred Hink moabmc@lasal.net Arrowhead Motorsports http://cctr.umkc.edu/user/khink/moabmc/index.html ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 22:13:19 EST From: K650dsn Subject: Re: (klr650) Balancer Adjustment In a message dated 98-03-29 21:00:39 EST, you write: << Also, when is someone going to tackle detailing step by step how to > adjust valves? This would be great! Bill are you listening? A new tech > post for the webpage? >> Hoping to get that in the July August issue. Just the way things are working out. I might see if i can get it into the next issue, but doubtful. Gino ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 22:25:41 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) SS Brake Lines jfountain@webtv.net wrote: > > I have seen alot of mention of the dunlop > sport pads and my dealer said he has > never sold a single pair of those pads and > suggested EBCs all around. I put those > in but don't know what I gained or lost > as far as that goes. I mean this isn't a > road race bike. > jeff I've used both now. Both work well enough. I think the Dunlopads last a fair bit longer. - -Tom '96 yada-yada ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 20:51:41 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: (klr650) KLR650 plus and minus (vibration) ron, where in cal do you live? you mention soledad cyn. I grew up in valencia. I still have family out there and will most likely be out there for easter this year. I may perhaps get a chance to meet the most popular lister known to us! jeff( would like to see at least one run through before we roll camera on that passenger shot please...) ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 20:53:42 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: (klr650) question... whats the name of that company that makes the headlight guard for the KLR? was it dual star? jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 22:00:56 -0600 From: se Subject: Re: (klr650) Re: wire under headlight Great suggestion Eric. I also found the 80/100 to be a major improvement on both low OR high beam! Why "OR" & not "AND"? NOR is this a Boolean algebra test for GearCalc programmers, Pat. MY PROBLEM WITH THE 80/100 BULB IS: If I adjust my high beam correctly then my low beam points too low AND if I adjust my low beam correctly then my high beam is pointed too high? Has anyone else had this problem? Could it be that the filaments in my bulb are incorrectly positioned? Maybe I need to try another brand of bulb? If this "too low/high situation" is normal you could properly adjust your new 100 Watt high beam, then add one auxiliary 35 watt driving light adjusted just low enough to not blind oncoming traffic. It would light the blind spot in the middle and not exceed the KLR pwr limititation. Night blind in deer country, Robert PAT_HENSLEY wrote: > > .. get auxiliary headlight for my US KLR.? .. photo of the aux headlight? .. Anyone installed it? Me too Pat. I am trying to come up with a low cost, legal, not butt ugly way to do this also. Robert Eric Mercer wrote: > If you want more lighting, replace the stock 55/60 watt headlight bulb with a > 80/100 watt bulb and keep the stocker for a spare. ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 20:58:37 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: (klr650) Copper Canyon | Rally in Moab fred, I am going to want 3 of those magnetic drain plugs for the KLRs. I will call you tommorow with the credit card info so you can ship 'em on out to me. do you have them in stock? also, abou those IMS shifter levers. I hear of switching out these for the stock units for increased length and strength, however was this only on the earlier model KLRs ? from what I have read the latest models like my 97 have much stronger levers on them stock. jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 23:02:21 EST From: Cloudhid Subject: Re: Re: (klr650) KLR650 plus and minus (vibration) >jeff( would like to see at least one run >through before we roll camera on that >passenger shot please...) Sorry Jeff. The cast has requested a closed set. I'll need to check with the legal dept. before I can disclose the filming location, (gotta make sure we're in sync with the local zoning and standards laws). But I will assure you that I left all the women of Valencia safe and happy on my way through. Ron (playing his part to keep America warm and fuzzy) ================================================= >ron, where in cal do you live? >you mention soledad cyn. I grew up in >valencia. I still have family out there and >will most likely be out there for easter >this year. I may perhaps get a chance to >meet the most popular lister known to >us! >jeff( would like to see at least one run >through before we roll camera on that >passenger shot please...) ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:09:12 -0700 From: "Fred Hink" Subject: Re: (klr650) Copper Canyon | Rally in Moab Jeff, I think I 've got three "plugs" if not I have more coming that should be here tomorrow or the next day. My problem is that I have JURY duty tomorrow, so I will be out of the shop till evening. I have some MSR shifters for the KLR in stock that look pretty strong and finished nice. They cost $22.95. Fred Hink moabmc@lasal.net Arrowhead Motorsports http://cctr.umkc.edu/user/khink/moabmc/index.html - -----Original Message----- From: jfountain@webtv.net To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Date: Sunday, March 29, 1998 9:01 PM Subject: Re: (klr650) Copper Canyon | Rally in Moab fred, I am going to want 3 of those magnetic drain plugs for the KLRs. I will call you tommorow with the credit card info so you can ship 'em on out to me. do you have them in stock? also, abou those IMS shifter levers. I hear of switching out these for the stock units for increased length and strength, however was this only on the earlier model KLRs ? from what I have read the latest models like my 97 have much stronger levers on them stock. jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 22:12:07 -0600 From: se Subject: Re: (klr650) Re: wire under headlight Its almost simple Jim. Nothing to remove but 1) the connector, 2) the dust cover and 3) the bulb and spring from the rear of the headlamp assembly. Limited space for your hand though. To get the bulb out just push it in and turn it counterclockwise. Note the position of the widest tab on the back of the bulb (three locating tabs) for reference. Reverse the procedure to install the new bulb and as the box says, "Don't touch the glass". Robert Jim Barthell wrote: > Eric Mercer wrote: > > > If you want more lighting, replace the stock 55/60 watt > > headlight bulb with a 80/100 watt bulb > > What is the easiest way to replace the headlight bulb? Do you have to remove the > fairing? Tank? Seat? Side panels? etc etc > > -- > Jim Barthell - TX > > '97 'C-O-O-O-W'...asaki KiLleR 650 > FSSNOC #2421 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:15:20 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: (klr650) problems.. heres my problem with the shift lever deal. when I put the burly pegs on the bike, they considerably raised the placement of my foot in relation to the shift lever. It has been o.k. because a pro like myself can change and adapt to things like these but a slightly longer lever might help make things alittle more right. don't know if they are longer than stock, those MSR ones I mean. but, those who have been following my upgrades know that all that os really important is if they are black or not! will call you in a few days to give you enough time to vote to fry the bastard!!! jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:16:15 -0700 (MST) From: Jeffrey P Moorbeck Subject: Re: (klr650) Balancer Adjustment Peter, I just received April 1998 issue of Motorcycle Consumer News. They have an excellent article on shim-under-bucket valve adjustments. While not specific to the KLR, with this article and the service manuals for the KLR the job should be do-able. In fact, as my '89 KLR has recently turned 10,000 miles I will need to check valve clearance. Since I have never worked with the shim-under-bucket valve design I thought if adjustment was necessary I would have to have a shop do it. With the MCN article I now feel confident I can tackle the job if necessary. And, there's nothing like the satisfaction of doing it yourself and knowing the job was done right! -jeff moorbeck On Sun, 29 Mar 1998, Peter J McMahon wrote: > Is the adjustment of the balancer chain as simple as it says in the > owners manual? Loosen, then tighten? Is there any torque value to this > and why even do it? > > Also, when is someone going to tackle detailing step by step how to > adjust valves? This would be great! Bill are you listening? A new tech > post for the webpage? > > TIA > > Pete McMahon > '93 R100R (GS Lowrider) > '97 KLR (Learning to work on it) > > _____________________________________________________________________ > You don't need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail. > Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http://www.juno.com > Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-5866] > > > ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 23:15:15 EST From: Cloudhid Subject: Re: Re: (klr650) Copper Canyon | Rally in Moab >I have some MSR >shifters for the KLR in stock that look pretty strong and finished nice. >They cost $22.95. >Fred Hink That beats the OEM price. Kawa#13242-1233......$27.88 list! How do I know? It aint that strong on a '96. Course ya didn't say if yous got it in black for Jeff:-) Ron (countin' beans) ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 22:23:02 -0600 From: se Subject: Re: (klr650) New member/Copper Canyon Has anyone found some mirrors that stick out more and reduce vibration too? All I see in my stock mirrors is my blurred shoulders and the shoulders of the road. (i.e. I can't see the road behind me unless I move my head several inches left or right.) Seems like the bar end type would too vulnerable for off road plus cause clearance problems. Robert Marick Payton wrote: > tried bar end mirrors on their KLR to solve the vibration problem? ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:22:15 -0700 From: "Fred Hink" Subject: Re: (klr650) problems.. Have you tried putting on your shift lever up one spline? Fred - -----Original Message----- From: jfountain@webtv.net To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Date: Sunday, March 29, 1998 9:17 PM Subject: Re: (klr650) problems.. heres my problem with the shift lever deal. when I put the burly pegs on the bike, they considerably raised the placement of my foot in relation to the shift lever. It has been o.k. because a pro like myself can change and adapt to things like these but a slightly longer lever might help make things alittle more right. don't know if they are longer than stock, those MSR ones I mean. but, those who have been following my upgrades know that all that os really important is if they are black or not! will call you in a few days to give you enough time to vote to fry the bastard!!! jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:22:08 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: Re: (klr650) shifters.. whats the real difference between the IMS or the MSR levers? both the same length? jeff( mine's long enough but another inch can only make it better!) ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:25:50 -0700 From: "Fred Hink" Subject: Re: Re: (klr650) Copper Canyon | Rally in Moab >>I have some MSR >>shifters for the KLR in stock that look pretty strong and finished nice. >>They cost $22.95. >>Fred Hink > >That beats the OEM price. Kawa#13242-1233......$27.88 list! >How do I know? It aint that strong on a '96. > >Course ya didn't say if yous got it in black for Jeff:-) > >Ron (countin' beans) > They are blacker than.... you can finish the punch line. ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:26:04 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: (klr650) problems.. yes. these pegs are really different than stock though. It is a good thing I am such a hard core pro and am able to adapt to varying conditions and equipment. jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 21:31:53 -0700 From: "Fred Hink" Subject: Re: Re: (klr650) shifters.. whats the real difference between the IMS or the MSR levers? both the same length? I don't know, I don't have an IMS to compare it to. jeff( mine's long enough but another inch can only make it better!) That's what she said! ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 23:10:14 -0600 From: se Subject: Re: (klr650) KLR650 plus and minus (vibration) Cloudhid wrote: > >Forget the expressway and your destination. Take the first dirt road you see > to where ever it takes you. > > Robert, > Did you ever butcher my words! Sorry Ron, I was trying to extract the essence of what you said. God didn't make me literate. > I have a '96 that vibrates. I'm with you on all your solutions except if > you're recommending tightening the chain more than spec. NOOO! When the dealer mounted my new Gripsters they set the chain toooo tight! I was expecting a big improvement in vibration since I was removing a cupped out more off-road type front tire. Instead, my bike vibrated about the same amount but with different characteristics. Then I decided my old chain was going out. When I pulled over to check the chain I found that it was adjusted too tight by the dealer. Not Good! Went about 50 miles before I figured out was wrong. Robert, with a little boney sore rear end and a heavy body ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 1998 00:08:23 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) Copper Canyon | Rally in Moab Fred Hink wrote: > > Jeff, > > I have some MSR > shifters for the KLR in stock that look pretty strong and finished nice. > They cost $22.95. Ooh! Those are the *must-have* aftermarket part for a KLR, and that is an excelent price! I went direct to IMS for mine and got full- listed for $35 (ouch!). This is a part that could save you much misery. - -Tom '96 KLR 650 who had his OEM one fail in Edgefield SC on a Sunday morning. Do you know how hard it is to find a welder in Edgefield on a Sunday morning? Correct answer is, "very". ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 98 21:08:58 PST From: "Marick Payton" Subject: (klr650) Blurry mirrors All the discussion about blurry mirrors motivated me to pay special attention to the ones on my newly acquired KLX. They are perfectly clear up to 75 mph. (Bike's not yet fully broken in so I don't want to push it higher yet.) No need for bar ends. I guess it's the counter-rotating dynamic balancers built into the KLX mirrors. Actually, the whole bike is very smooth at all speeds, tho it does have a fair amount of vibration clatter at lower rpm's. I know the frame is different in the KLX and KLR. Maybe that helps. The engines are more or less the same, aren't they? Marick ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 22:11:00 -0700 From: jfountain@webtv.net Subject: Re: (klr650) IMS shifters.. $35.00 !!!!! my dealer can get it for me for $15.00 thats my cost. I will probably pick one of those MSR units up from fred since he has them in stock. are there any diffs between the two brands that you know of? ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 1998 00:17:07 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) Blurry mirrors Marick Payton wrote: > > All the discussion about blurry mirrors motivated me to pay special > attention to the ones on my newly acquired KLX. They are perfectly > clear up to 75 mph. (Bike's not yet fully broken in so I don't want > to push it higher yet.) No need for bar ends. I guess it's the > counter-rotating dynamic balancers built into the KLX mirrors. > Actually, the whole bike is very smooth at all speeds, tho it does > have a fair amount of vibration clatter at lower rpm's. I know the > frame is different in the KLX and KLR. Maybe that helps. The > engines are more or less the same, aren't they? They are identical, only everythings different. :) Put the two side-by-side and start compairing *closely*, and you will see what I mean. - -Tom '96 KLR 650 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 98 21:17:50 PST From: "Marick Payton" Subject: (klr650) Bar end mirrors The bar end mount protrudes about 1 inch from the end of the bar. The mirror itself will stick out somewhat farther, depending upon how you orient it. But, you can rotate them in for off-road riding so that the inch of mounting is all that sticks out. Not to big a price to pay for being able to spot that black and white sneaking up on you. Marick ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 1998 00:22:08 -0500 From: Thomas Simpson Subject: Re: (klr650) IMS shifters.. jfountain@webtv.net wrote: > > $35.00 !!!!! > my dealer can get it for me for $15.00 > thats my cost. I will probably pick one > of those MSR units up from fred since > he has them in stock. are there any diffs > between the two brands that you know > of? I have no idea. I didnt know MSR made on until this very evening. And *my* dealer said he couldnt get one. My Kawa dealer is a pretty good outfit, but if it aint OEM or in the PU or TR catalog, it dosent exist in their eyes. The dealer couldnt get it. MAW couldnt get it. Nobody on DUST or Thumper-L knew where I could get it. I was desperate, okay? :) - -Tom '96 KLR 650 ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 1998 00:15:32 -0500 From: Cameron Scott Cole Subject: RE: (klr650) question... Lockhart make one. - -----Original Message----- From: jfountain@webtv.net [SMTP:jfountain@webtv.net] Sent: Sunday, March 29, 1998 10:54 PM To: klr650@lists.xmission.com Subject: Re: (klr650) question... whats the name of that company that makes the headlight guard for the KLR? was it dual star? jeff ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 23:04:26 -0700 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: (klr650) headlight guard... At 12:15 AM 3/30/98 -0500, you wrote: >Lockhart make one. > >-----Original Message----- >From: jfountain@webtv.net [SMTP:jfountain@webtv.net] >Sent: Sunday, March 29, 1998 10:54 PM >To: klr650@lists.xmission.com >Subject: Re: (klr650) question... > >whats the name of that company that >makes the headlight guard for the KLR? >was it dual star? >jeff > Dual Star makes one, I just received mine. Ventura makes one also. Kurt ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 23:09:21 -0700 From: Kurt Simpson Subject: (klr650) Triple density seats... Gino, have you seen one of Eldon Carl's seats? Any thoughts? $125 and exchange sounds pretty good if the aesthetics and comfort are there. Kurt ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 1998 00:00:52 -0800 (PST) From: Duelund Subject: (klr650) Noise test of KLR 650 I just returned from a one year trip in Central- and South America. Me and my wife bought two KLR650 motorcycles in Miami, Florida and drove them to Santiago de Chile 40.000km to the south. We tried to sell the bikes in Santiago, but without success. We are now trying to import them to Denmark, but there are no other KLR's here. Therefore we have problems with the certification. We espicially have problems concerning a noise test that will cost 1000$ (no kidding). To aviod spending this ridiculous amount of mony I'm searching for a piece of paper (test sheet?) showing the results such at noise test. Some facts about the MC: - ------------------------ Kawasaki KLR 650 1997 model, registered in Miami, FL. Serial number JKAKLEA..... I appreciate very much if any of you can help me. Niels Duelund duelund@rocketmail.com _________________________________________________________ DO YOU YAHOO!? Get your free @yahoo.com address at http://mail.yahoo.com ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 98 05:55:23 PST From: "Marick Payton" Subject: (klr650) Noise test on klr 650 Niels, I can't help with the noise test but I'd love to hear more about your trip through Central and South America. I'm many others on this list would also. Marick ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 98 06:11:08 PST From: "Marick Payton" Subject: (klr650) Being seen In addition to adding a brighter headlight, another very effective way to add conspicuity is with a headlight modulator, sold by Kisan Electronics. It causes your headlight to continuously flash back and forth between high and low. It has an ambient light sensor which deactivates it at night. Got one on my Hawk GT and plan to add it soon to the KLX. They also make a brake light flasher which causes your brake light to flash (surprise) in a pattern. Another good safety tool, I think. Marick ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 1998 09:30:27 From: Robert Kaub Subject: (klr650) First 250 miles Wonderful weekend here in the Northeast so I rode a lot Saturday. Here's my impressions of the '98 KLR. Keep in mind that I'm still breaking-in and can't exceed 4000rpm. 1. Mirrors vibrate all over the place. 2. Engine pings (pre-ignition) constantly under even the slightest load. I hope I don't fry a piston here. Stopped at the dealer and he said to put premium fuel in it. I was able to squeeze about 2.5 gallons into it but it didn't make any difference. Still pings like a mad dog. 3. Front brake clicks when applied (rear does not). Engine backfires continously when coasting down a hill in gear at slower speeds. Sounds like loud popping. 4. Bike goes just fine on the dirt roads, especially the many nasty (MUD) spots. 5. I didn't fall over. 6. Doesn't use much gas. 7. Temperature gauge never went past half way. 8. Stalled the engine once and couldn't get the starter to turn over. One of those safety switches? 9. Spent a lot of time in second gear. 10. Engine seems to like running at 3000rpm. 11. Seat isn't all that comfortable, especially riding two-up. Passenger keeps sliding forward and pushing me against the tank. 12. Brakes don't seem too touchy but the rear is easier to lock-up. 13. Hand grips are too short. 14. For what I do, this bike is the best compromise. Bob Kaub SUNY Binghamton Watson School Student Shop PO Box 6000 Binghamton, NY 13902 607-777-2715 ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 30 Mar 1998 09:33:40 EST From: Cloudhid Subject: Re: (klr650) Noise test of KLR 650 Niels, Tell me if I have this straight. You are trying to Import a Japanese bike, that you bought in the US, rode through every Latin American country, into Denmark? Just out of curiousity do they sell the Trans Alp or African Twin in Denmark? There would be some poetic justice in that for me. I would love to hear about your trip. Now let's see......... They were imported to the US, so our ever vigilant government would have required a similar test of Kawasaki. If you haven't already tried, and no one here comes up with the test for you, I would try contacting the US Department of Transportation (DOT) office of the Secretary Inspector General Audits......or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). After your gov makes you jump through that hoop, you could be all ready for them when they ask you about the spark arresting capabilities @ US Department of Forestry. Whatever you do.....do not contact the Internal Revenue Service, or the Central Intelligence Agency. Then there's 'ol Kawasaki Heavy Industries themselves. Either in Japan, the US, or any European country that imports them. It's a 10 year old model, but maybe they haven't shredded the documents yet. Another option would be to contact someone who imports bikes into Denmark, on the chance that they have already gone to the trouble. Oh and don't forget.....they're probably going to make you add that 4 watt city light. Ron (whose diplomatic attache is in his pocket) =========================================== In a message dated 3/29/98 11:55:32 PM, you wrote: >I just returned from a one year trip in Central- and >South America. Me and my wife bought two KLR650 >motorcycles in Miami, Florida and drove them to >Santiago de Chile 40.000km to the south. >We tried to sell the bikes in Santiago, but without >success. We are now trying to import them to Denmark, >but there are no other KLR's here. Therefore we have >problems with the certification. We espicially have >problems concerning a noise test that will cost 1000$ >(no kidding). To aviod spending this ridiculous >amount of mony I'm searching for a piece of paper >(test sheet?) showing the results such at noise test. > >Some facts about the MC: >------------------------ >Kawasaki KLR 650 >1997 model, registered in Miami, FL. >Serial number JKAKLEA..... > > >I appreciate very much if any of you can help me. > >Niels Duelund >duelund@rocketmail.com ------------------------------ End of klr650-digest V1 #41 ***************************