2001 KLR 650 Refresh

zero_dgz · 06-09-2023, 11:17 AM

I have to say, I've never been a fan of the kickstand and clutch bypasses. I know they're a popular mod due to generalized paranoia that these will somehow "fail" in the field but I own a KLR and ride the shit out of it, and everyone in my riding group also has their own KLR's and ride the shit out of those, and I have never, ever actually seen a clutch or kickstand switch fail in the field.

I would much prefer to know that my bike will not lurch me into a tree or a ditch or off of its sidestand if I space out and mash the starter button while in gear... I don't think it's much of a safety consideration; I'd rather just not annoy myself or dump my bike for a stupid reason.

If you want my advice, and you probably don't, I would replace your header pipe with one from a Gen 2 bike. The Gen 2 (2008+) header pipes are stainless from the factory and I believe it is a direct fit. They hold up a lot better than the Gen 1 pipes.

06-09-2023, 11:17 AM	#1
zero_dgz Join Date: Jan 2020 Posts: 257	I have to say, I've never been a fan of the kickstand and clutch bypasses. I know they're a popular mod due to generalized paranoia that these will somehow "fail" in the field but I own a KLR and ride the shit out of it, and everyone in my riding group also has their own KLR's and ride the shit out of those, and I have never, ever actually seen a clutch or kickstand switch fail in the field. I would much prefer to know that my bike will not lurch me into a tree or a ditch or off of its sidestand if I space out and mash the starter button while in gear... I don't think it's much of a safety consideration; I'd rather just not annoy myself or dump my bike for a stupid reason. If you want my advice, and you probably don't, I would replace your header pipe with one from a Gen 2 bike. The Gen 2 (2008+) header pipes are stainless from the factory and I believe it is a direct fit. They hold up a lot better than the Gen 1 pipes.
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