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I'm a bit unsure of the rules or etiquette regarding riding reports around here, so bear with me.
When my wife asked me what I wanted for my birthday this year, my response was immediate -- one full day away from civilization. After the past few days/weeks/months of work sucking combined with the seemingly endless list of chores and projects around the house this spring, I needed some solitude in God's green earth. I wanted 1 full day of riding the KLX. My wish was granted. I departed at 630am and returned at 830pm.
I'm fortunate to live about 10 miles from a launch point into arguably some of the best public lands in the lower 48 (unless the Texas billionaire brother a$$holes keep buying more land and closing more Forest Service roads...). I had planned a big loop thru BLM and Forest Service roads with strategic fuel stops planned along the way. I was looking forward to riding thru the lush green mountains which is typical in my neck of the woods in mid-June. The day would provide me with ample opportunity to get a feel for the bike and its "flickability", to gauge its stability on both paved and dirt roads, to determine fuel mileage/range, and to ascertain ergonomics and seat comfort.
As for fuel mileage, I averaged 71mpg first tank and 70mpg second tank. I have not yet filled it since returning home on the third tank, but I figure it's right there about 70mpg again. This was a mix of running ~60mph on asphalt for about 50 miles total throughout the day, the remainder being mostly ~10-40mph on the 250 or so miles of dirt roads. I rode exactly zero single track the entire day (I know, I know -- this is somewhat of a catastrophe). I will gladly accept 70mpg. I was rather expecting 50-60mpg, so 70 was a welcome surprise. I most definitely need to spring for the larger tank, though. I was carrying 3 liters of reserve fuel in my backpack via Primus fuel bottles since I was definitely going to run dry on one of the longer stretches between fuel stops. An Acerbis or IMS tank should prevent this kind of thing in the future.
Overall, I am exceedingly happy with the KLX. It has, in my opinion, ample power for my intended style of riding. It is very easily man-handled thru ruts, up and over very rocky roads, and the occasional fallen tree. I especially enjoy the lack of weight. It will require a better seat in the future though. After 14 hours in the saddle, my **** hurt quite a lot. I may also opt for a 45 tooth sprocket in the rear. I've already gone from 14t to 13t up front. I know I'll be sacrificing highway speed, but I think the lower grunt could eventually come in handy.
Just a quick 300 miles
