2026 Kawasaki KLR 650 Specs & Review

The 2026 Kawasaki KLR 650 remains a rugged, do‑it‑all single built for commuters, backroad explorers, and budget‑minded adventure riders. If you want a simple, dependable thumper with real dirt-road chops, the 2026 Kawasaki KLR 650 specs show why it’s still a favorite in the dual‑sport class.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 652 cc
• Engine type: 4-stroke, single-cylinder, DOHC
• Power (claimed): 40 hp @ 6,000 rpm (ISO 4106)
• Torque (claimed): 39.1 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
• Curb weight: 456.2 lb (non-ABS) / 460.6 lb (ABS)
• Seat height: 34.3 in (870 mm)

Engine & Performance

This big-bore single puts its emphasis on usable thrust, not peak numbers. With a claimed 40 hp at 6,000 rpm and 39.1 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm, the KLR’s 652 cc thumper dishes out low- to midrange torque that makes real-world riding easy—pulling smoothly off idle in the city, chugging through dirt two‑tracks, and settling into a relaxed rhythm on the highway. Power is listed under the ISO 4106 standard, and the character is classic KLR: steady, tractable, and friendly.

Fueling comes via DFI with a 40 mm throttle body, contributing to predictable response in varying conditions and elevations. A 5-speed return-shift transmission and a wet multi‑disc clutch keep things simple, while a sealed chain final drive underscores the bike’s low-maintenance ethos. It’s a workhorse setup aimed at reliability and consistency rather than razor-sharp sport performance—and for this category, that’s exactly the point.

Handling, Comfort & Kawasaki KLR 650 Seat Height

Chassis geometry leans toward stability and confidence when loaded or on mixed terrain. A 60.6 in wheelbase and 30.0° rake with 4.8 in of trail deliver surefooted manners on gravel and pavement alike. The tubular, semi-double cradle frame complements the bike’s dual-sport mission, while the 21/17 wheel combo (90/90-21 front, 130/80-17 rear) puts tire choice firmly in the adventure lane.

Suspension travel is generous without being excessive: a 41 mm telescopic fork with 7.9 in of travel up front and a Uni‑Trak single shock in the rear with 8.0 in of travel, plus adjustable rebound and spring preload. Ground clearance is 8.3 in—enough to get over ruts and rocks with reasonable line choice.

As for the Kawasaki KLR 650 seat height, it’s 34.3 in (870 mm). Taller riders will appreciate the legroom and vantage point off-road, while shorter riders may find it a stretch at stops; practicing one-footed stops and considering seat or preload adjustments can help. The Kawasaki KLR 650 weight comes in at 456.2 lb for the non‑ABS model and 460.6 lb for ABS. That curb weight sits on the heavier side for a single, but the low-end torque and stable geometry help it feel planted at speed and manageable at low pace once you’re rolling.

A practical touch: overall height is listed at 57.7/56.3 in (screen hi/lo), giving a sense of the windshield’s two-position range and its effect on airflow.

Equipment & Features

• Brakes: Single 300 mm front disc with a 2‑piston caliper and a single 240 mm rear disc with a single‑piston caliper. ABS is optional front and rear, offering a safety net on slick pavement and variable surfaces.
• Suspension: 41 mm front fork (7.9 in travel); rear Uni‑Trak with adjustable rebound and spring preload (8.0 in travel).
• Frame: Tubular, semi-double cradle for durability and ease of maintenance.
• Tires: 90/90‑21 front and 130/80‑17 rear for true dual-sport versatility.
• Fuel capacity: 6.1 gal (23.1 L) for extended time between fill-ups.
• Electronics/engine management: DFI with 40 mm throttle body; CDI ignition.
• Drivetrain: 5-speed transmission; sealed chain final drive.
• Dimensions: Wheelbase 60.6 in; ground clearance 8.3 in; overall length 89.8 in; overall width 38.2 in; overall height 57.7/56.3 in (screen hi/lo).
• Colors (2026): Pearl Solar Yellow; Metallic Spark Black.
• Warranty: 12‑month limited warranty.
• Pricing (US): $6,999 (non‑ABS); $7,299 (ABS) — Destination $685.

Who Is the 2026 Kawasaki KLR 650 For?

Riders who value function over frills will feel right at home. The KLR 650 is ideal for commuters who want a durable machine that can hop curbs and handle potholes, newcomers to the ADV scene who prefer approachable torque over high-strung horsepower, and travelers who prioritize simplicity and range potential. Beginners with longer inseams can make it work thanks to the linear power delivery; more experienced riders will appreciate its load-carrying nature and steady behavior on gravel and secondary highways.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a Kawasaki KLR 650 review, the headline is clear: the KLR remains a go-anywhere, do‑most‑things dual-sport that leans on simplicity and sensible engineering. Strengths include tractable torque from the 652 cc single, long‑travel suspension, stable geometry, large 6.1‑gallon tank, and a choice of ABS. The equipment list is straightforward, and the pricing stays firmly in the value lane.

On the flip side, the curb weight is notable for a single, and the 5‑speed gearbox plus modest peak output mean it isn’t chasing performance leaders. But taken as a complete package—and judged by the 2026 Kawasaki KLR 650 specs—it’s a faithful, budget‑friendly workhorse that still hits the sweet spot for riders who want durability, range capacity, and genuine mixed‑surface ability.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Kawasaki KLR 650 good for beginners?

  • It can be, especially for taller new riders. The power is a manageable claimed 40 hp @ 6,000 rpm with 39.1 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm, and ABS is optional. Note the 34.3 in seat height and curb weight of 456.2–460.6 lb.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Kawasaki KLR 650?

  • The Kawasaki KLR 650 seat height is 34.3 in (870 mm).

• How heavy is the 2026 Kawasaki KLR 650?

  • Curb weight is 456.2 lb (non‑ABS) and 460.6 lb (ABS).

• Does the 2026 KLR 650 have ABS?

  • ABS is optional, with a single 300 mm front disc and 240 mm rear disc.

• What colors and price are available for 2026?

  • Colors: Pearl Solar Yellow; Metallic Spark Black. US MSRP: $6,999 (non‑ABS); $7,299 (ABS) — Destination $685.