![]()
No images available
Tap to enlarge
![]()
2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 Overview
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 651 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Single cylinder, four-stroke engine running DOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 9.8:1. The bore and stroke measures 100 x 83 mm. 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 delivers 42.1 hp @ 7000 rpm of peak power and 47 Nm @ 5000 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 149.7 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2009 KLR 650 tips the scales at 194 kg, carries a 23-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 889 mm and spans a 1480 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2009 KLR 650 - Pros & Cons
Strengths
-
⚡
Strong power output: 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 makes 42.1 hp @ 7000 rpm with 47 Nm @ 5000 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
-
⛽
Large fuel range: The 23-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Considerations
-
🔧
Carburetor fuelling: Carbureted engines need occasional jetting attention and can be reluctant in cold weather or at altitude compared to modern fuel-injected alternatives.
-
📏
Tall seat height: The 889 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Carburetor maintenance
Carburetors on the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 benefit from a clean and re-jet if the bike has been stored, run on stale fuel, or modified with an aftermarket exhaust. Owners frequently mention that fresh jets and float needle clips transforms throttle response from flat to crisp.
Valve clearance checks
DOHC engines should have valve clearances checked at the manufacturer's specified interval. Owners report that clearances can tighten over time on higher-mileage bikes, leading to slight ticking from the top end. Catching it early keeps the job simple and avoids more costly remediation.
KLR 650 - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained KLR 650 should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any KLR 650. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Carburetor upkeep
Keep the carburetors clean and free of deposits. If the KLR 650 has been stored, strip and clean the carb float bowls before attempting to start it. Pilot jets are the first to block and the last to be checked - always include them in any carb rebuild.
Valve clearance service
Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used KLR 650. This is a job many owners skip because the bike does not immediately feel wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for proof it has been done.
2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 have?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 uses a Single cylinder, four-stroke engine with 651 cc of displacement. It is liquid cooled.
What is the top speed of the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 has a factory-quoted top speed of 149.7 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 weigh?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 weighs 194 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 make?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 produces 42.1 hp @ 7000 rpm of power and 47 Nm @ 5000 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 has a 23-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 383-460 km between stops.
Is the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 suitable for shorter riders?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 has a seat height of 889 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.
What brakes does the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 have?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 uses Single 280mm disc 2 piston caliper at the front and Single 203mm disc 1 piston caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 use?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 runs 90/90 -21 front and 130/80 -17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 have?
The 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 is fitted with a 5 Speed transmission.
Kawasaki KLR 650 Spec Evolution
The Kawasaki KLR 650 was produced across 23 model years (1988-2023). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
1988 |
1990 |
1992 |
1994 |
1996 |
1997 |
1998 |
1999 |
2001 |
2003 |
2005 |
2007 |
2009 |
2011 |
2013 |
2014 |
2015 |
2017 |
2018 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
| Max Power |
48 hp / 35.0 kW @ 6500 rpm |
41.7 hp @ 7100 rpm |
41.7 hp @ 7100 rpm |
48 hp / 35.0 kW @ 6500 rpm |
48 hp / 35.0 kW @ 6500 rpm |
- |
- |
- |
48 hp / 35.0 kW @ 6500 rpm |
48 hp / 35.0 kW @ 6500 rpm |
48 hp / 35.0 kW @ 6500 rpm |
48 hp / 35.0 kW @ 6500 rpm |
42.1 hp / 31 kW @ 7000 rpm |
42.1 hp / 31 kW @ 7000 rpm |
42.1 hp / 31 kW @ 7000 rpm |
42.1 hp / 31 kW @ 7000 rpm |
42.1 hp / 31 kW @ 7000 rpm |
42.1 hp / 31 kW @ 7000 rpm |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Wet Weight |
189.0 kg / 416.7 lbs |
189 kg / 416 lbs |
189 kg / 416 lbs |
189 kg / 416 lbs |
189 kg / 416 lbs |
- |
- |
186.0 kg / 410.1 lbs |
189 kg / 416 lbs |
189 kg / 416 lbs |
189 kg / 416 lbs |
189 kg / 416 lbs |
194 kg / 432 lbs |
196.0 kg / 432.0 lbs |
196.0 kg / 432.0 lbs |
194 kg / 432 lbs |
194 kg / 432 lbs |
196.0 kg / 432.0 lbs |
196.0 kg / 432.0 lbs |
196.0 kg / 432.0 lbs |
196.0 kg / 432.0 lbs |
206.9 kg / 456.2 lbs |
206.9 kg / 456.2 lbs |
| Dry Weight |
153 kg / 337.3 lbs |
153 kg / 337.3 lbs |
153 kg / 337.3 lbs |
153 kg / 337.3 lbs |
168 kg / 370.4 lbs |
168 kg / 370.4 lbs |
168 kg / 370.4 lbs |
- |
168 kg / 370.4 lbs |
153 kg / 337.3 lbs |
153 kg / 337.3 lbs |
153 kg / 337.3 lbs |
175.5 kg / 387.0 lbs |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Engine Detail |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
- |
- |
- |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Engine Type |
Single cylinder |
- |
- |
- |
Single cylinder |
Single cylinder |
Single cylinder |
Single cylinder |
Single cylinder |
Single cylinder |
Single cylinder |
Single cylinder |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
Single cylinder, four-stroke |
| Top Speed |
163.5 km/h |
163.5 km/h / 101 mph |
163.5 km/h |
163.5 km/h / 101.6 mph |
163.5 km/h / 101.6 mph |
- |
- |
160.0 km/h / 99.4 mph |
157.0 km/h / 97.6 mph |
163.5 km/h |
163.5 km/h |
163.5 km/h |
149.7 km/h / 93.0 mph |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Seat Height |
889 mm / 35.0 in |
889 mm / 35.0 in |
889 mm / 35.0 in |
889 mm / 35.0 in |
870 mm / 34.3 in. |
870 mm / 34.3 in. |
870 mm / 34.3 in. |
870 mm / 34.3 in. |
870 mm / 34.3 in. |
889 mm / 35.0 in |
889 mm / 35.0 in |
889 mm / 35.0 in |
889 mm / 35.0 in. |
889 mm / 35.0 in. |
889 mm / 35 in |
889 mm / 35 in |
889 mm / 35 in |
889 mm / 35 in |
889 mm / 35.0 in. |
890 mm / 35.0 in. |
870 mm / 34.3 in. |
871 mm / 34.3 in. |
871 mm / 34.3 in. |
| Fuel Capacity |
23.00 litres / 6.08 gallons |
23 Litres / 6.0 US gal |
23 Litres / 6.0 US gal |
23 Litres / 6.0 US gal |
23 Litres / 6.0 US gal |
- |
- |
14.00 litres / 3.70 gallons |
23 Litres / 6.0 US gal |
23 Litres / 6.0 US gal |
23.08 litres / 6.10 gallons |
23.08 litres / 6.10 gallons |
23.08 litres / 6.10 gallons |
21.95 litres / 5.80 gallons |
23.09 litres / 6.10 gallons |
23 Litres / 5.8 US gal. |
23 Litres / 5.8 gal. |
23.09 litres / 6.10 gallons |
23.09 litres / 6.10 gallons |
23.09 litres / 6.10 US gallons |
23.00 litres / 6.08 US gallons |
23.09 litres / 6.10 US gallons |
23.09 litres / 6.10 US gallons |
Key Specifications
Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
42.1 hp / 31 kW @ 7000 rpm
Torque
47 Nm / 4.7 kgf-m @ 5000 rpm
Top Speed
149.7 km/h / 93.0 mph
Fuel Capacity
23 Litres / 5.8 US gal.
Advertisement
Full 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 Specifications
Year
2008 - 09
Colours
Ebony, Sunbeam Red, Oriental Blue
Make Model
Kawasaki KLR 650
Ground Clearance (mm)
206 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)
8.1 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)
211 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)
8.3 inches
Seat Height
889 mm / 35 in
Seat Height
889 mm / 35.0 in.
Wheelbase
1480 mm / 58.3 in
Wheelbase
1,481 mm / 58.3 in.
Ground Clearance
210 mm / 8.3 in
Height
1,349 mm / 53.1 in.
Height
1350 mm / 53.1 in
Length
2,296 mm / 90.4 in.
Length
2295 mm / 90.4 in
Width
960 mm / 37.8 in.
Width
960 mm / 37.8 in
Dry Weight
175.5 kg / 387.0 lbs
Fuel Capacity
23 Litres / 5.8 US gal.
Fuel Capacity
23.08 litres / 6.10 gallons
Wet Weight
196.0 kg / 432.0 lbs
Wet Weight
194 kg / 432 lbs
Displacement (ci)
39.72 cubic inches
Engine Type
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Fuel Control
DOHC
Displacement (cc)
651.00 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)
100.0 x 83.0 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)
3.9 x 3.3 inches
Engine Type
Single cylinder
Stroke
4
Displacement
651 cc / 39.7 cu-in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel System
Carburettor. Keihin CVK 40
Fuel System
Carburettor. Keihin CVK40
Bore x Stroke
100 x 83 mm.
Compression Ratio
9.8:1
Compression Ratio
9.8:1
Cooling System
Liquid cooled
Engine Oil Specification
Semi-Synthetic, 10W/40
Fuel Induction
Keihin CVK40
Ignition
Transistorized
Ignition
Fully transistorized
Lubrication
Forced lubrication (wet sump)
Spark Plug
NGK, DPR 8EA/9
Starter
Electric
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Clutch
Wet multi-disc, cable operation
Final Drive
Sealed Chain
Final Drive
Chain
Final Drive Ratio
2.867 (43/15)
Gear Ratios
1st 2.266 (34/15) 2nd 1.444 (26/18) 3rd 1.136 (25/22) 4th 0.954 (21/22) 5th 0.791 (19/24)
Gearbox
5-speed
Gearbox
5-speed
Primary Drive Ratios
2.272 / 75/33
Transmission / Drive
5 Speed
Frame Type
Semi-double Cradle Made of high-tech, round-section, high-tensile steel
Frame Type
Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Suspension - Front
41mm Air-adjustable forks,
Suspension - Front
41mm telescopic fork / 7.9 in.
Suspension - Rear
Uni-Trak® linkage, 5-way preload shock absorber with 4way rebound damping.
Suspension - Rear
UNI-TRAK® single-shock system with 5-way preload and stepless rebound damping / 7.3 in.
Rake
28.0°
Trail
112 mm / 4.4 in
Wheel Travel - Front
200 mm / 7.8 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
185 mm / 7.2 in
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)
240 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)
9.4 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)
280 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)
11.0 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)
11.0 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)
280 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)
9.4 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)
240 mm
Brakes - Front
Single 280mm disc 2 piston caliper
Brakes - Front
Single disc
Brakes - Rear
Single 203mm disc 1 piston caliper
Brakes - Rear
Single disc
Tyres - Front
90/90 -21
Tyres - Front
90/90-21
Tyres - Rear
130/80 -17
Tyres - Rear
130/80-17
Advertisement