Kawasaki has launched the updated version of the dual-sport KLR 650 motorcycle. The 2023 year model now gets the S badge and is expected to be a US-only model.

Imports to Europe were paused due to the ever-tightening emission norms. However, sales of the KLR 650 in the US continued past 2021.

In terms of changes to the motorcycle, the S now gets a revised rear suspension linkage, lowered seat height and a shorter-travel suspension. Compared to the 2021 KLR 650, the seat height is now reduced to 815 mm from 871 mm. The front wheel travel is reduced from 200 mm to 170 mm, and at the rear from 193 mm to 185 mm. Along with the earlier changes, the bike now gets a 30 mm shorter side stand to accommodate the revised height. Shorter riders will appreciate this. The gap between the foot peg and shifter has also been reduced by 15 mm for ease of use by riders of different foot sizes.

The bike gets a 652cc 4-stroke single-cylinder engine that develops 36.47 BHP @ 6,100 rpm and 58.2 Nm of peak torque @ 4,600 rpm. ABS is optional for the off-road bike in the US.

The bike also gets features like the multi-functional digital instrumentation panel, a high-tensile double-cradle frame, and an LED headlight borrowed from the KLR 650. The fuel pump continues to get the petrol from the bottom of the tank thereby increasing the useable range of the motorcycle.

The KLR 650 S is available in a choice of 2 colours – “Pearl Storm Grey” and “Candy Lime Green”. The retail price for the bike is set at US$ 6,899 for the non-ABS version, while the ABS version will total up to US$ 7,199.