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KLR650 S

Your Go-Anywhere Adventure Partner Awaits

Our Official Bike Review

Kawasaki KLR650 S – Legendary Capability, Lower Confidence

The KLR650 has always been the go-anywhere machine, but not every rider found confidence with its 870mm seat height. Enter the KLR650 S—a thoughtfully engineered low-down variant that brings legendary KLR versatility within reach of more riders. This isn’t simply a shorter seat bolted onto the standard bike; it’s a comprehensively re-engineered model designed to deliver the full KLR650 experience with enhanced accessibility and confidence.

Performance with Purpose

Under the seat sits the same proven 652cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected single that powers the entire KLR650 family. With 28.5 kW of power and 51.5 N·m of torque, this engine delivers its characteristic flat power curve that transitions effortlessly from low-speed maneuvering to highway cruising. The fuel injection system provides reliable starts in any condition, while the efficient 23-litre fuel tank ensures impressive range between fill-ups. The KLR650 S doesn’t sacrifice performance for accessibility—it simply makes that performance available to more riders.

Rider-Focused Tech

The engineering focus on the KLR650 S centers on rider confidence through improved ergonomics. The suspension has been completely retuned—not just lowered—with optimized spring rates and damping force specifically calibrated for the reduced ride height. Front travel of 170mm and rear travel of 177mm maintain excellent capability while lowering the overall stance. The seat itself has been redesigned with reduced thickness yet optimized urethane foam for long-distance comfort. The shifter-to-footpeg gap increases by 15mm, improving ease of use with various footwear. Standard ABS and the same digital instrument panel as other KLR models ensure you’re never compromising on essential technology.

Design: Aggression Meets Elegance

Finished in Metallic Matte Old School Green, the KLR650 S maintains the family’s rugged adventure aesthetic while its lower profile creates a more approachable stance. The shortened 30mm side stand is perfectly proportioned for the reduced height, making deployment easier from the saddle. Optional large frame sliders add both protection and purposeful styling. The LED headlight, protector-equipped shrouds, and functional design elements carry forward the tough, capable look that defines the KLR650 family. It’s unmistakably a KLR—just more confidence-inspiring at a standstill.

Is It for You?

The KLR650 S is purpose-built for riders who love the KLR650’s versatility but need better ground reach. With its 815mm seat height—55mm lower than the standard model—and 185mm of ground clearance, it opens adventure touring to shorter riders, returning riders building confidence, or anyone who values secure footing when stopped. At 210kg, it weighs the same as the base KLR650 but feels more manageable thanks to the lower center of gravity. If you’ve admired the KLR650’s legendary capability but hesitated due to seat height, the S model delivers everything you’ve been waiting for.

Maximum Power 28.5 kW {39 PS} / 6,000 rpm Maximum Torque 51.5 Nm {5.3 kgfm} / 4,500 rpm
Engine 4-stroke Single Displacement 652 cc
Bore x Stroke 100.0 x 83.0 mm Compression Ratio 9.8:1
Valve System DOHC, 4 valves Fuel System Fuel injection: ø40 mm x 1
Ignition Transistorised ignition Starting Electric
Cooling Liquid-cooled Lubrication Forced lubrication, wet sump
Transmission 5-speed, return Primary Reduction Ratio 2.273 (75/33)
Gear Ratio: 1st 2.267 (34/15) Gear Ratio: 2nd 1.444 (26/18)
Gear Ratio: 3rd 1.136 (25/22) Gear Ratio: 4th 0.955 (21/22)
Gear Ratio: 5th 0.792 (19/24) Final Reduction Ratio 2.867 (43/15)
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual Final Drive Chain

 

Frame Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel Front Suspension ø41 mm telescopic fork
Rear Suspension Uni Trak, single shock with adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload Front Wheel Travel 170 mm
Rear Wheel Travel 177 mm Rake 29.5°
Trail 118 mm Steering Angle (L/R) 44° / 44°
Front Tyre 90/90-21M/C 54S Rear Tyre 130/80-17M/C 65S
Front Brake/s ø300 mm disc Front Caliper/s Dual-piston
Rear Brake ø240 mm disc Rear Caliper Dual-piston
Dimensions (LxWxH) 2,255 x 970 x 1,430/1,395 mm (high/low) Wheelbase 1,515 mm
Road Clearance 185 mm Seat Height 815 mm
Curb Weight* 210 kg Estimated Dry Weight** 190 kg
Fuel Capacity 23 litres

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