I have a camo 2018 KLX250 and minimal technical knowledge about motorcycles and mods. Currently the only mod on the bike is a skid plate I had installed. I also have a cruiser I use for longer trips, the KLX is more for having fun off-road. I live in the city though, so I do take it on the highway to get to the woods – it’s not uncommon for me to push it to top speed, anywhere between 120-145kmh (how fast I can get it to go varies, depending on if I’m going downhill, have the wind at my back, etc.) Also, if it matters, I'm about 5'9, 180 lbs.

The bike is fun but I’d like to get better performance, ideally without spending a ton of money. More torque would be great, I’d like to be able to get it to wheelie. What should I get done? Explanations, links for parts that ship to Canada, and approximations of part/installation cost would be especially appreciated.

Not interested in a new exhaust or anything that makes the bike significantly louder – I’m not trying to be some hooligan irritating my neighbours.

From my research, the things I’m thinking about are:

- Electronic Jet Kit (will this do much if I don’t do any other mods, such as new exhaust?)

- 13T sprocket (will this adversely affect my top speed on the highway?)

- Doing *something* to the air box (?)



Any guidance about this would be greatly appreciated!

 

Considering that you will be running the stock exhaust, the only mod that'll make a difference is the MCM.
Add the MCM and then the EJK ( "Electronic Jet Kit" ? ) , enrich the low to mid range fueling one full "light" from the recommended stock bike settings..
See my PDF, about the MCM, on my link below..

 

Is the MCM something I could get done by a mechanic at a motorcycle shop? And if so, what should it cost? I don't have a garage or tools, nor the technical know-how and confidence to do much myself.

What about the 13T sprocket, wouldn't that make a difference? Or would it completely undermine my top speed on the highway?

 

A nearby member with MCM skills is your best bet for a properly done MCM.
I'd do an MCM for $249.99 plus beer.. Wait, I forgot I don't casual drink.. So bring girls, beer, and I'll call it a party..

13T is your only other option to try.. You may be surprised regarding "top speed" with it on a stock bike..( Stock bike can't "pull" 6th gear very well with stock sprockets..)

 

This echos my experience as well. 13T sprocket doesn't hurt top speed at all because 6th gear with the 14T sprocket bordering on useless. So to the original poster, 13T will give you a very noticeable improvement in acceleration without really any sacrifice other than you'll be turning a bit higher RPM at speed but you get used to that. It makes 6th gear actually usable though and is a great value at only $20 or so (I went with SunStar).

 

Agreed. I fitted a 13 tooth sprocket and it is a noticeable improvement. I've done a +2 on the rear of my Ducati and had similar results. It is a cheap mod that gives you more usability in my opinion.