I was just reminiscing about my anniversary date for my KLR purchase. It passed last weekend as I was turning the 14,000 mile mark. What a strange and beautiful ride it has been in one year.
The day I brought her home and first oil change:
Since that picture, she has been to FL, NC, VA, WV, MD, TN, SC, GA, CO, NM, AZ and UT. Whether highway, byway or no road at all, I have been nothing but impressed with this motorcycle.
I have changed the oil/filter regularly, replaced one chain, replaced one spark plug, replaced front and rear brake pads, one headlight bulb, replaced all four signals w/ LEDs, topped off the battery and tightened all manner of bolts. My stock tires were replaced at 2,600 miles with Michelin Anakees. I regularly switch between the Anakees and D606s depending on the type of ride I am doing.
Most recently, she conquered another goal of attending TDPIII and tackling the roughest terrain yet. I am still impressed and astounded that a person can go into any Kawasaki dealership, plunk down about $5K and ride away on a bike with this much ability and versatility. I will be the first to admit that I have very high expectations of the things that I purchase. I have no qualms about putting a machine through the absolute worst conditions I am willing to endure. This bike has humbled me with its tenacity and unwillingness to quit even when my physical ability has long dwindled.
This is exactly what she looks like right now and I'm not ashamed to say that she looks far better now than she did 14,302 miles ago. Talk about aging gracefully. :nice:
Anyway, that's my deep thought and soul-sharing moment of this year. I just thought I would share the enlightening experience that a year on a KLR can make. Here's to many more years and many more miles.