KLR
650 raising links installation and review
The Issue: With my KLR650 fully loaded and ready for the next adventure the bike’s suspension had a considerable sag and it was bottoming out on some of the large bumps. The stock suspension works fine for me when the KLR is void of luggage as I weigh in at 170lbs. The problem was that I was heading out on a five day trip and I added my weight to the weight of my ammo box panniers and my camping gear, tool kit, food, clothing etc… my weight was near the 250lbs range. The KLR650 bottoming out on dirt roads now made sense. Replacing the stock suspension was not an option due to the price so I was off to the forums to find a solution.
The Solution: (part 1) The first thing I tried was the 1 inch raising links for the 2008 KLR650. The 1 inch raising links for the KLR650 is designed for riders that are over 250lbs. The links raise the bike by an extra inch but they do not eliminate any of the sag. They did change the handling characteristics of the KLR but the raising links did their job with respect to ground clearance, ride height and the sagging suspension (when fully loaded with gear). I’m completely satisfied with the upgrade but had to adjust a few things in my day to day riding. Weighing in at 170lbs and the upgrade is rated for 250lbs my KLR’s handling changed significantly when in commuter mode. My KLR was a little stiff and the steering was a little twitchy because the rear end was raised and more weight was distributed towards the from the KLR (that was my theory). I now leave my 40mm Ammo Can Panniers, my rain gear, first aid kit and tools on my KLR650 to help distribute the weight more evenly and it seems to have helped.
Installation: Installing the raising links on the KLR650 was simple. You’ll need a ratchet set, torque wrench and jack or lift for your bike. Once the KLR’s rear wheel is off the ground, remove the stock links from the rear suspension, place the new links in place and tighten them (check your KLR’s manual for exact specifications). In total the 1 inch raising link mod took approximately 15 minutes to complete. I recommend the raising links to anyone that is in my situation. I found the links online for $40 and have been extremely happy with the results.
Note: Shortly after my trip, while playing in the dirt, I blew the rear shock on my 2008 KLR650. Thankfully Kawasaki covered it under warranty and shipped me a replacement. While installing the replacement shock I upgraded the rear spring to the 7.4kg Top Gun KLR650 Rear Shock Spring. I’ll update you as soon as possible but so far so good.
Keep obsessing my friends.
