• Introduction

Is the 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 a long-awaited return to glory—or just nostalgia wrapped in new plastics? In ADVMoto Live! Episode #29, host Carl Parker talks with legendary KLR builder “Eagle Mike” Cowan, ADV rider Jessie Kimball, and ADVMoto test writer Dan DeMaio about Kawasaki’s third-generation dual-sport and what it means for both the brand and the community that kept it alive for 35 years.

• Episode Summary

The trio dives into the updates, myths, and realities of Kawasaki’s most enduring adventure motorcycle. After a brief hiatus, the KLR 650 returns with EFI, ABS, refined suspension, and updated ergonomics—but also with a modest weight gain. The discussion balances engineering insight with rider perspective, as Eagle Mike explains how Kawasaki kept the spirit of the KLR intact while modernizing key systems.

• Legacy and Community: Eagle Mike and Jessie Kimball recall how the KLR developed a cult following built on simplicity, affordability, and mechanical friendliness.
• Ride Refinements: Improved frame stiffness, rubber-mounted controls, and reduced vibration make the 2022 model noticeably smoother on the highway.
• Performance Insights: Fuel injection adds reliability and efficiency without changing the bike’s approachable nature—while the power curve remains classic KLR.
• Weight and Handling: Riders discuss how extra pounds come from the stronger frame, swingarm, and modern safety tech—but say it still “feels like a KLR.”
• Doohickey Debate: Eagle Mike confirms the balancer lever system (a.k.a. “doohickey”) still benefits from his aftermarket upgrade for optimal tension and longevity.
• Future of the KLR: Panelists predict the Gen 3 will hold steady for years but hope Kawasaki eventually releases a middleweight twin—perhaps a 750 or 800 ADV.

Beyond the tech talk, the episode celebrates what truly keeps the KLR alive: the riders. As Mike puts it, “The KLR isn’t perfect—and that’s why it’s perfect. It gets people involved with their bikes, and with each other.”

• Highlighted Quotes

“If the bike were perfect, it wouldn’t have built such a great community.” — Eagle Mike Cowan

“It feels like a KLR 650—only smoother, tighter, and ready for another 30 years.” — Jessie Kimball

“The improvements are instantly noticeable—EFI, comfort, and less vibration at 70 mph.” — Dan DiMaio

“Just get on it and ride. Adventure doesn’t wait for perfect conditions.” — Eagle Mike Cowan

• Support & Follow-Up

For more on Eagle Mike’s famous KLR mods—including the torsion-spring “doohickey” upgrade—visit EagleMike.com. Watch the full episode and subscribe at AdventureMotorcycle.com and ADVMoto’s YouTube channel for upcoming discussions on adventure bikes, tech tips, and travel stories.

• About ADVMoto Live!

ADVMoto Live! is the original adventure and dual-sport podcast for riders who live and breathe the long way around. Hosted by Carl Parker, the show features explorers, builders, and dreamers whose stories inspire and define the adventure motorcycling community.