I bought a 2008 KLR 650 last week and absolutely love it. Being only 5'8" and a brand new rider, I have dropped it twice now while trying to get rolling from a stop. Today, I was leaving my friend's aunt's place, and dropped it for the second time. The clutch lever broke in half, and the shift lever got bent a little. I was able to ride home still. Can anyone recommend any new levers to get? I'm going to order a Corbin dual-platform seat tomorrow
I only offer these up as an example. There are a number of options that offer loop protection...they come around to the handlebar end and attach, offering some impact protection to not only your levers, but for your hands.
The factory stock foot shifter sucks. They do a number of not desirable things. They break, they bend, and on a really bad day, they can punch a hole in your engine cover. Most after market shifters have a flex-end on the shifter, are a bit stronger.
Brand new rider, you say? At your height the KLR is gonna be a tough bike to learn on IMHO. And topheavy. Not trying to be a dick...I'm 6'2" and it's a tall bike for me. But two drops already...I don't know if the seat will lower it enough??? Did you take an MSF course? The fact that you dropped it twice trying to get rolling makes me think that you aren't comfortable in the friction zone yet. And is there any way you could borrow a smaller bike to get the feel on?
Anyway, not passing judgement, but someone had to say it. :character00271:
Lockjaw, I do realize its a tall bike, the seat is going to be a first step, if I feel I still need to lower it, I definitely will. I did take the MSF course and have found it invaluable (I had no clue how to even start a bike's engine before). I think you are right on my issue being based in my comfort in the friction zone. My friend who I've been with both times I've dropped it thinks I just need to let out the clutch faster. Borrowing a smaller bike is actually a good idea, I'll definitely look into that.
Right on, man. And one of the great things about a KLR is that grabbing a bunch of throttle is fun, but not deadly. I would also recommend you get a copy of PROFICIENT MOTORCYCLING by david hough. Have fun, dude. And stop dropping your bike.
Spend an afternoon letting the clutch out slow with no throttle and then working your way up. The epiphany will come.
Best thing to do is to borrow a dirt bike and go play. You will have it figured out by the end of the day and then some.
Kurt
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