2004 Kawasaki KLV 1000

Make Model	Kawasaki KLV 1000
Year	2004
Engine	Four stroke, 90°-V-twin, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Capacity	996 cc / 60.7 cu-in
Bore x Stroke	98 X 66 mm
Cooling System	Liquid cooled
Compression Ratio	11.3:1
Induction	Fuel Injection with 45mm throttle bodies
Ignition	Digital Transistorized
Starting	Electric
Max Power	98 hp / 71.5 kW @ 7400 rpm
Max Torque	101 Nm / 78 lb-ft @ 6400 rpm
Clutch	Cable-operated multiplate wet clutch
Transmission	6 Speed
Final Drive	Chain
Front Suspension	Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped 43mm forks
Rear Suspension	Swingarm, coil spring, oil damped, adjustable for preload and rebound damping
Front Brakes	2x 310mm discs 2 piston calipers
Rear Brakes	Single 260mm disc 1 piston caliper
Front Tyre	110/80 R19
Rear Tyre	150/70 R17
Seat Height	830mm.
Wheelbase	1540 mm / 60.6 in
Seat Height	840 mm / 33.1 in
Dry Weight	207 Kg / 456lbs
Fuel Capacity	22 Litres / 5.8 US gal

The KLV was created through a cooperation with Suzuki and is structurally identical to the Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom. The KLV 1000 is actually manufactured by Suzuki and rolls off the assembly line there; even in the vehicle registration of the KLV Suzuki is specified as the manufacturer.

Changes to the DL 1000 include a different front mask, a different front screen and the rear fender made of matt plastic, which the KLV 1000 has; on the DL 1000 this is painted in the color of the motorcycle. In addition, the KLV has a small V-shaped chrome strip in the mask between the headlights. The KLV was only available in striking orange, which optically set it apart from the Suzuki DL 1000 V current, which was not available in this color. The instruments of the KLV also have chrome rings and are illuminated in green, instead of matt gray instrument rings and yellow lighting as with the V-Strom.

This is a Suzuki’s legendary TL1000 V-twin in the Kawasaki KLV1000. Detuned from a genuine 120-odd rear wheel bhp in the sports bike, it’s still got plenty of shove. It’s a little lumpy at very low revs – as all big twins are but the Kawasaki KLV1000's midrange’s like a tidal wave and there’s decent snap if you rev it hard. It suits the KLV1000 well giving instant overtaking power at a moments notice.

The Kawasaki KLV1000 is extremely rapid on real roads. Yes on a track it’ll feel wobbly, diving into corners under hard breaking but it’s a rapid if slightly softly sprung road bike. It can’t match the far pricier BMW R1200GS and KTM 990 Adventure and off road ability is minimal. Brakes are modest but if in good condition, work well.

The Kawasaki KLV1000 is well tooled up for touring, less suited to off-road action. The seat and riding position are comfy. The Kawasaki KLV1000's adjustable screen works pretty well but there’s still a little buffeting.