Built around Kawasaki's super motard motorcycle platform, the 2011 Kawasaki KLR 650 relies on a 651 cc (39.7 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 100.0 x 83.0 mm (3.9 x 3.3 inches) with a 9.8:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the KLR 650 measures 196 kg (432 lbs) wet (curb). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 889 mm (35 in) seat height — reflecting a long-travel chassis stance that favors ground clearance and off-pavement control, combined with a 1,481 mm (58.3 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 21.95-liter (5.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 29 indexed model years from 1987 to 2025, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Standover Height
889 mm (35 in)
Engine
Displacement651.0 ccm (39.72 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Compression9.8:1
Bore x Stroke100.0 x 83.0 mm (3.9 x 3.3 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin CVK40
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionElectric CDI
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeSemi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Rake28.0°
Trail112 mm (4.4 inches)
Front Suspension41mm telescopic fork / 7.9 in.
Rear SuspensionUni-Trak single-shock system with 5-way preload and stepless rebound damping / 7.3 in.
Wheelbase1481 mm (58.3 inches)
Ground Clearance211 mm (8.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre90/90-21
Rear Tyre130/80-17
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø280 mm (11.0 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.196.0 kg (432.0 pounds)
Seat Height889 mm (35.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1349 mm (53.1 inches)
Overall Length2296 mm (90.4 inches)
Overall Width960 mm (37.8 inches)
Fuel Capacity21.95 litres (5.80 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsMetallic Flat Raw Graystone/Ebony, Candy Plasma Blue/Galaxy Silver, Candy Burnt Orange/Galaxy Silver
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
