Honda Xr650l vs Kawasaki Klr 650
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Honda Xr650l
Kawasaki Klr 650
Horsepower (hp)
34 hp
40 hp
Torque (Nm)
52 Nm
55 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
155 km/h
175 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
166 kg
202 kg
Type
Dual-sport
Dual-sport
Horsepower
34 hp @ 6,000 rpm (note: US-spec figures; often cited as low due to EPA/CARB restrictions)
40 hp @ 6,000 rpm (2022+ fuel-injected model; carbureted models ~35 hp)
Torque
52 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
55 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Top Speed
155 km/h (estimate — actual varies with gearing and rider; note: factory-restricted)
175 km/h (estimated; note: real-world comfortable cruising is closer to 130–145 km/h)
Weight
166 kg (wet/curb weight)
202 kg (wet/curb weight — 2022+ model; earlier carbureted models approx. 193–198 kg)
Fuel
5.5 L/100km or approximately 18 km/L (typical real-world average)
4.5–5.5 L/100km (approx. 18–22 km/L typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Honda Xr650l
7.8/10
"The definition of reliable, if you accept its 1993 soul."
Pros
+Nearly indestructible engine
+Cheap parts everywhere
+Comfortable all-day ergonomics
Cons
−Factory jetting criminally lean
−Heavy for true off-road
−Dated suspension technology
Kawasaki Klr 650
7.5/10
"The world's most capable mediocre motorcycle — buy it used without hesitation."
Pros
+Nearly indestructible engine
+Parts and community support everywhere
+Handles dirt roads competently
Cons
−Doohickey failure kills engines
−Brutal highway vibration
−Suspension embarrassingly basic
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
