imported post
imported post
I've had my 08 for 10 days now. Compared to my 02, it's a much better bike. I rode to Whistler yesterday and was very impressed with the handling. It feels really solid and very sure footed. The front end feels a bit heavier. I think it might have something to do with the larger forks and larger wheel spokes. There is less suspension travel and therefore felt more like a road bike. I could take the curves at a high rate of speed with lots of confidence. Withplenty ofroad clearance, I bet ballsy riders on the 08 could give sport bikes a real run for their money in the twisties.
The power seems better. The power band is very smooth, with the engine pulling evenly throughout the revs. Very little handle bar vibration.They've added handle bar weights on the end. Hmm, now how to attach the Acerbis.
The brakes are excellent, especially compared to the 02.
I also like the signal cancellation; push to cancel.
The headlights are also very good. On high beam, the projection is very wide. Felt like you had driving lights on.
The seat is better than the 02. But still not as comfortable as the Corbin on my Concours.
The larger fairing gave better protection to the lower body. I still had to plug in my heated vest for the early morning ride. Can't wait to get the taller windshield option.
From a maintenance point of view, the owner's manual makes no reference to the doohickey (balancer chain adjuster). This is good as the doohickey of the previous series of KLRs was a weak point. Also you do not have to inspect valve setting until 24,000 km. The manual also said to check your tire pressure once a year or every 12000 km. I'm a little suspicious of this. This has to be an error. Hell, the manual also refers to a 6 speed transmission!!! Oh, wouldn't that be an IMPROVEMENT!
I have not taken it off road. Perhaps someone else can report on off road characteristics. All I know is that I don't think I want to drop it as eagerly as I did my 02....the plastic fairing looks way more expensive!
I think Kawi did an excellent job on improving the KLR for on road. It's a great commuter bike and now I'm thinking of taking it on my California ride rather than the Concours.
Cheers, Ed :dr::clap:
