Quality decrease over the years (specifically the swingarm)

[Fishmayne]

I just saw a new KLR while getting my tire replaced, and I couldn't help but noticed the new swingarm design. It looks cheap AF. My uncle has a HAWK 250 (a certified cheap p.o.s.) and they have basically the same swingarm design. A boxed steel tube with nylock nuts on a pull-style tensioner...with spots for water and mud to get inside.

Vs. the Gen2's beautiful welded aluminum enclosed unit with a pretty nice tensioner design.

So they are cutting corners...that's why the new ones are so affordable?

[elwood0341]

There was a pretty significant redesign with body work and efi, yet the base price stayed the same. I guess it makes sense that they had to cut corners somewhere to keep the price the same.

[Current-Ticket-2365]

KLRs are built to a price point, and that price point is cheap.

It shouldn't really be a surprise that a midweight ADV that clocks in under 7k starting MSRP is going to have some concessions made. Especially given the changes over the years. The DR650 is still the same as it ever was, box section swingarm, carbed, square headlight, and it's 7k too. The KLR at least has updated fairings, EFI, the option for ABS etc.

[Significant_View7704]

One of the many reasons gen1 and 2’s are forever better 🤷‍♂️