Im my two weeks here, I've already purchased a custom, modified Yamaha Raptor 690 four wheeler, a 2007 Honda CRF250R, a 2009 Orion 125cc pitbike and a DJI Phantom drone to future shots of my travels. I've also completely rebuilt the KLR; the only thing I didn't touch was the crankcase and the rear suspension (both already upgraded previously).
I replaced both tires with new rubber, most importantly the great Heindeau K-60, a beast of a tire with excellent longevity and traction both on and off road. Next was the front suspension, which did already have progressive springs that I had installed previously. I flushed and changed the fluid to a 20 weight oil and replaced the shock covers with Moose Racing Fork skins, a much cleaner and slicker look.
I upgraded all the lights on the bike as well. I replaced the headlights with a Cyclops LED kit, which made a profound difference. I lined the taillight housing with reflective tape. I also installed a second set of driving lights, some very powerful LED cubes. I redid all my wiring for all the lights, as well as my charging ports, which I installed a third one of, and all new switches. New LED dash bulbs from SuperbrightLEDs.com, which was a super great upgrade. A voltmeter on the dash to keep on eye on everything, including the brand new battery I put in. Some fresh decals of the world I would soon see made the bike look a little more the part.
I repacked my Big Gun Evo R exhaust and did a terrible job at it, putting in a new exhaust gasket at the same time. I bolted on 1 1/2" inch handlebar risers, which had a great feel to them. I replaced the brake reservoir bolts with upgraded steel from Eagle Mike, as well as a new Iridium spark plug.
Digging deeper into the motor, I installed a 685 big bore kit, and found a damaged camshaft and cam journal, which I sent out and had machined at a great company in California that I would highly recommend - Engine Dynamics. While I was inside, I advanced the timing a notch, known as the "MC Mod" and threw on a new Uni air filter. A complete valve job from them as well put the motor in excellent shape, and better then when it came off the factory floor. Please, don't ask how much all this cost.
At this time, I have to throw the valve cover on in the morning, load it all up and drive the 4 hours north to the cabin, where good times and mountains await. The radio is full of Taylor Swift, I've got gummies and ice tea waiting for the ride and I've got somewhere to be. It feels great to have travels and adventures ahead of me, instead of more society and cities. It's been far too long since I've slept on a mountain top or gotten lost among some back road. My excitement for the future can only be expressed by my actions, for they are beyond words. I mean, I'm saving gummies- something big is about to happen!
Until the next time my friends.
Road.
