The Kawasaki KLR650 is a legend, a bike known for its go-anywhere attitude. But that go-anywhere spirit is only as good as the rubber connecting you to the road (or trail). Finding the right tires can transform your KLR from a decent ride into an awesome adventure machine. The stock tires are okay, but upgrading unlocks a whole new level of performance and confidence, no matter where you’re headed. I’ve put together a list of some top tire contenders to help you make your choice.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Michelin Anakee Adventure: Excellent on-road grip with good off-road capability.
- Continental TKC 80 Twinduro: Aggressive off-road tire that still performs well on the street.
- Shinko 705 Series: A budget-friendly option that offers good all-around performance.
- Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR: Stylish and capable, balancing on and off-road needs.
- Mitas E-07+ Dakar: A long-lasting, durable tire built for tough conditions.
Top 5 Best Tires For Kawasaki KLR650
Michelin Anakee Adventure
The Michelin Anakee Adventure is a fantastic tire for KLR650 riders who spend a good amount of time on pavement but still want the ability to tackle gravel roads and light trails. It provides excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions on the road. I felt super confident leaning into corners with these tires.
Pros:
- ✅ Great on-road handling and stability
- ✅ Good grip in wet and dry conditions
- ✅ Decent off-road performance for gravel and light trails
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit noisy at higher speeds
- ❌ Not ideal for aggressive off-road riding
- ❌ More expensive than some other options
Verdict: The Anakee Adventure is a solid choice for KLR riders who prioritize on-road performance and want a tire that can handle occasional off-road excursions. Perfect for touring and commuting.
Continental TKC 80 Twinduro
The Continental TKC 80 Twinduro is an aggressive tire designed for serious off-road adventures. Its large blocks provide excellent traction in dirt, mud, and gravel. I remember one particularly muddy trail where these tires just kept digging and pulling me through when others were spinning out.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent off-road traction in various conditions
- ✅ Surprisingly good on-road performance for a knobby tire
- ✅ Aggressive look that complements the KLR650’s style
Cons:
- ❌ Can be noisy and vibrate on the road
- ❌ Shorter lifespan compared to more road-oriented tires
- ❌ Less stable on the road than tires with a tighter tread pattern
Verdict: If you’re primarily riding off-road and need a tire that can handle tough terrain, the TKC 80 is an excellent choice. Be prepared for some compromises on the road.
Shinko 705 Series
The Shinko 705 Series is a popular budget-friendly option that offers a good balance of on-road and off-road performance. It’s a versatile tire that can handle a variety of conditions without breaking the bank. I’ve seen a lot of KLR riders swear by these as a reliable, affordable option.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point
- ✅ Good all-around performance on and off-road
- ✅ Decent lifespan for the price
Cons:
- ❌ Not as grippy as premium tires in extreme conditions
- ❌ Can feel a bit vague in corners on the road
- ❌ Off-road traction is adequate, but not exceptional
Verdict: The Shinko 705 is a great choice for KLR riders who want a versatile tire at an affordable price. It’s a good option for commuting, touring, and light off-road riding.
Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR
The Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR is a stylish and capable tire that strikes a good balance between on-road comfort and off-road performance. It looks great on the KLR and performs admirably in a variety of conditions. I think it’s one of the best looking tires on the market.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent on-road handling and stability
- ✅ Good off-road traction for gravel and light trails
- ✅ Stylish design
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit expensive
- ❌ Not ideal for aggressive off-road riding in mud or sand
- ❌ Wear can be faster than some other options, depending on riding style
Verdict: The Scorpion Rally STR is a great choice for KLR riders who want a tire that looks good and performs well on and off-road. If you appreciate style and balanced performance, these are worth considering.
Mitas E-07+ Dakar
The Mitas E-07+ Dakar is a tough and durable tire designed for long-distance adventure riding. The “Dakar” version features a stronger carcass for increased puncture resistance. I’ve heard stories of these tires lasting incredibly long, even on harsh terrain.
Pros:
- ✅ Long lifespan and excellent durability
- ✅ Good off-road traction in a variety of conditions
- ✅ Strong carcass for increased puncture resistance
Cons:
- ❌ On-road handling can be a bit vague
- ❌ Can be noisy on the road
- ❌ More expensive than some other options
Verdict: If you’re planning a long-distance adventure ride and need a tire that can withstand tough conditions, the Mitas E-07+ Dakar is an excellent choice. Be prepared for some compromises on the road.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right tires for your KLR650 depends on how you plan to use your bike. Here are a few things to consider:
- On-Road vs. Off-Road: How much time do you spend on pavement versus dirt? If you’re mostly on the road, prioritize tires with good on-road handling and stability. If you’re mostly off-road, prioritize tires with aggressive tread patterns for maximum traction.
- Riding Conditions: What kind of terrain will you be riding on? If you’re riding in mud, sand, or rocky terrain, you’ll need tires with a more aggressive tread pattern. If you’re riding on gravel roads or smooth dirt trails, you can get away with a less aggressive tire.
- Tire Size: Make sure you choose the correct tire size for your KLR650. The recommended sizes are typically listed in your owner’s manual or on the tire sidewall.
- Budget: Tires can range in price from affordable to expensive. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it.
- Read Reviews: Before you buy any tires, read reviews from other KLR650 riders. See what they have to say about the tire’s performance, durability, and value.
- Tire Lifespan: Consider how long you want the tires to last. Softer compounds offer better grip but wear faster, while harder compounds last longer but may sacrifice some grip.
FAQs
What’s the best tire pressure for my KLR650?
Recommended tire pressures can be found in your KLR650’s owner’s manual or on a sticker on the bike itself. These are starting points; adjust based on your weight, riding conditions, and personal preference. Lower pressures can improve off-road traction, but be careful not to go too low, or you risk pinch flats.
How often should I replace my tires?
Tire replacement depends on wear and tear. Regularly inspect your tires for tread depth, cuts, and bulges. If the tread is worn down to the wear bars, it’s time for new tires. Also, replace tires if they show signs of damage or are more than five years old, regardless of tread depth.
Can I mix different tire brands on my KLR650?
It’s generally not recommended to mix different tire brands or tread patterns on the same bike. Different tires have different handling characteristics, and mixing them can negatively affect your bike’s stability and handling.
What does a tire’s DOT number mean?
The DOT number indicates that the tire meets the Department of Transportation’s safety standards. It also includes the tire’s manufacturing date. The last four digits indicate the week and year the tire was manufactured. For example, “1023” means the tire was made in the 10th week of 2023.
Conclusion
Choosing the best tires for your KLR650 is all about finding the right balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. Consider your riding style, the type of terrain you’ll be tackling, and your budget. Whether you prioritize aggressive off-road traction, long-distance durability, or affordable versatility, there’s a tire out there that’s perfect for your KLR. By doing your research and considering your individual needs, you can transform your KLR650 into the ultimate adventure machine.
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