1999 Kawasaki KLR650
Only 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1993 | 2 |
| 1995 | 1 |
| 1997 | 1 |
| 1998 | 6 |
| 1999 | 7 |
| 2000 | 8 |
| 2001 | 19 |
| 2002 | 11 |
| 2003 | 6 |
| 2005 | 1 |
| 2006 | 1 |
| 2008 | 116 |
| 2009 | 6 |
| 2017 | 1 |
| 2022 | 1 |
| 2023 | 16 |
| 2024 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 7 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 7 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
WITH LESS THAN 3,000 MILES ON MY 1999 KAWASAKI KLR 650, DURING A ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, A FAILED LEVER, IDLER SHAFT AND SPRING WAS DISCOVERED AND REPLACED WITH AN AFTER-MARKET PRODUCT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20030113
I WAS RIDING ALONG IN TRAFFIC WHEN THE MOTOR SIZED UP LOCKING THE REAR WHEEL ALMOST GETTING ME KILLED FROM THE TRUCK BEHIND ME. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAPPEND.
NHTSA ODI report, 20020708
IN 1993 I BOUGHT A NEW SKAWASAKI KLR650IT WAS ALWAYS MAINTAIND AS PER FACTORY SPEC. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20020702
3 of 7 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
DT: THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOHICKEY CRACKED ON THE MOTORCYCLE. THE DOOHICKEY IS AN IDLER SHAFT LEVER WHICH PUTS TENSION ON THE CHAIN INSIDE THE ENGINE. THERE WERE NO WARNING OR INDICATORS OF A PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI report, 20060103
BALANCER CHAIN BROKE CAUSING ENGINE TO LOCK UP AND LOCK UP THE REAR WHEEL
NHTSA ODI report, 20030112
1 of 7 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1999 Kawasaki KLR650 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1999 Kawasaki KLR650 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1999 Kawasaki KLR650?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline, accounting for 43% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1999 Kawasaki KLR650 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.