Alright folks, let me tell you about my quest to find the top speed of my KLR 650. It wasn’t pretty, but it was definitely an adventure.
The Setup
First off, my KLR is pretty stock. I’ve got some crash bars and a milk crate on the back, but nothing that’s going to seriously affect aerodynamics. I made sure the tires were properly inflated, the chain was lubed, and the engine had fresh oil. Gotta treat her right, ya know?
Finding the Right Spot
Next, I needed a safe place to do this. No way I’m risking it on public roads with cars and cops. I found this long, straight stretch of deserted backroad. Good visibility, no traffic, perfect for seeing what this bike could do. I picked a day with good weather – no wind to mess with the results.
The Run
- First Run: I started slow, just getting a feel for the bike. I gradually increased the throttle, tucked in as much as I could, and watched the speedometer climb. I hit around 90 mph (indicated) before I started running out of road. Decided to turn around for another go.
- Second Run: This time, I really hammered it. Pushed her to the limit. The wind was roaring, the engine was buzzing, and I felt every vibration. Managed to get to about 93 mph (indicated) before I chickened out. This bike isn’t exactly built for speed, and it felt like it was working hard.
- Third Run (and Final): I wanted to see if I could squeeze out a bit more. Maybe it was the adrenaline, but I actually hit 95 mph (indicated) on this run. But honestly, it felt sketchy. The bike was shaking, and I didn’t feel like pushing it any further.
The Verdict
So, what’s the top speed of my KLR 650? Based on my highly scientific (not really) testing, I’d say around 95 mph (indicated). Now, keep in mind that’s the speed showing on the speedometer. It’s probably off by a few miles per hour. So, real-world, maybe closer to 90 mph. But hey, it’s fast enough for me!
Important Note: I’m not recommending anyone go out and try to max out their KLR. Be safe, be smart, and know your limits (and your bike’s limits).
Final Thoughts
It was a fun experiment, but I learned that the KLR 650 is much happier cruising at 65-70 mph. That’s where it’s comfortable, and that’s where I’ll keep it most of the time. But now I know what it can do in a pinch!
Ride safe everyone!
