2023 Kawasaki KLR-650 Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2023 Kawasaki KLR-650 recalls

No safety recalls on file for the 2023 Kawasaki KLR-650.

Most common 2023 Kawasaki KLR-650 problems

Problem areas named in the 16 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Steering	16
Suspension	1
Engine	1
Power Train	1

What owners report

2024-08-15, Steering
This is a new Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle with 220 miles now on it and there is a steering issue at low speeds from 5 to 15 mph. It feels like the steering is catching and you have to fight the handlebars to get the motorcycle to turn. This is dangerous when starting off or at low speeds in traffic. After checking for recalls there are none but as I researched this problem I have found that most or all 2023 models are having this same problem if the VIN# starts with the letters ML. This means assembled in Thailand. Apparently the factory used incorrect torque settings when tightening the steering stem bolt or preload on steering stem bearing. I will be taking to dealer to have this dangerous

2024-06-24, Steering
When making a slow speed turn that requires a little extra handlebar input the bike seems to act like the steering head is stuck, gets briefly stuck in a "notch" and then releases making it very hard to be smooth in a slow speed trun which can be very dangerous depending on traffic/road way situation. Have read of several other new owners experiencing the same thing. This has been happening since the bike had a 100 or so miles on it.

2024-04-16, Steering
I bought the motorcycle new from the dealer. At low speeds (12mph - 30 moh), the steering "catches" or "falls off" suddenly. Sometimes if feels like there are notches in the steering. I took it to the dealer to fix and they loosened the steering head nut above the head bearings. It seemed OK for about 50 miles and then came back even worse. Now the steering is so bad it is barley rideable.

2024-04-09, Engine
Steering bearing overtorqued by factory, dealer warranty loostened and readjusted, initial tendency, failure to return to neutral, rough bearing feeling, caused many near misses with vehicles ahead, problem unresolved, I can feel it, dealer can not. Contra Costa Powersports, 1150 Concord Ave Ste 100, Concord, CA 94520 (925) 687-7742. Issue regarding drive train, false neutral. Potentially hazardous conditions occurred three times. Pulled over to adjust GPS, engine running, shifted to neutral, neutral light illuminated on dash, put the side stand down,, released the clutch bike still in gear, bike lunged forward, off of sidestand, bike headed for ground with rider, lucky first two times I h

2023-12-18, Steering
When the front brake is applied, especially in a hard braking situation the entire Steering mechanism turns to the right. This unavailable steering turn to the right that cannot be overcome by the rider can result in a loss of control. I’ve been riding for over 50 years having owned most motorcycle brands and I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS. As a former motorcycle mechanic this problem cannot be corrected because all front steering components are fixe bolted connections with no adjustments.

2023 Kawasaki KLR-650 questions

Does the 2023 Kawasaki KLR-650 have any recalls?

No. NHTSA has no safety recalls on file for the 2023 Kawasaki KLR-650 at this time.

What are the most common problems with the 2023 Kawasaki KLR-650?

Based on 16 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Steering (16), Suspension (1), Engine (1).

How do I check if a recall on my 2023 Kawasaki KLR-650 has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.