2001 Kawasaki KL250 Super Sherpa
Summary:
Fun, reliable, simple, basic transportation
Faults:
Nothing.
General Comments:
I found this at a garage sale; it was not even broken in yet, and had not run in 8 years. I drained the fuel tank and cleaned it out, the carb was clean, put in new battery and it fired right up. I replaced the stock Bridgestone Trailwings for Avon Distanzia tires as I ride more street than dirt. I added a small windshield and trunk on the rear rack, and it makes a good commuter bike for in town use. The seat is not the most comfortable, but I'm comparing it to my Buell Ulysses, which is all day comfortable.
It fits a 6' 200 pound rider with 32" inseam. I can flat foot it at stops, it is easy to ride, the six speed transmission works flawlessly, and it will run Interstate speeds (70 mph), but it's not at home there; it is a great back road / fire trail blaster.
One drawback to it is the small fuel tank; I hit the reserve at around 100-110 miles, but I usually need a break by then anyway. The other is its small size from the front. I had trouble with cars and even other bikers pulling out in front of me, as it must appear to them as a moped not going that fast. I added two fluorescent orange stripes to the windscreen, and that has seemed to helped with that problem.
All in all, a great little bike. I would recommend it as a fun reliable commuter/back road bike.
Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 17th September, 2011