There are no safety recalls for the 2023 Kawasaki KLR650, but owners have filed 16 complaints with NHTSA.
2023 Kawasaki KLR650 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Steering | 16 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
| Engine | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Steering › Steering Wheel/Handle Bar — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 99 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2023 Kawasaki KLR650 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Steering · reported Aug 15, 2024
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 · reported Jun 24, 2024
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.
Steering · reported Apr 16, 2024
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.
Steering · reported Dec 18, 2023
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. Iâve 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.
Steering · at 99 miles · reported Nov 20, 2023
The contact owns a 2023 Kawasaki KLR650. The contact stated while driving approximately 20-25 MPH and attempting to make a left or right turn, the motorcycle seemed to make a sharp turn. The contact stated that the front-end seemed to be uneven with the rear-end of the motorcycle. The motorcycle had not been taken to the dealer to diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 99.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2023 Kawasaki KLR650 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2023 Kawasaki KLR650 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2023 Kawasaki KLR650?
Owners report steering problems most often (16 reports), followed by suspension (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 99 miles.
Are Kawasaki recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kawasaki dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.