Are you looking for the best exhaust for a KLR650? Then, you’re in the right place.
Before you replace the exhaust of your KLR650, here is some must-know information. An exhaust has two primary roles during the combustion of fuel and air.
Firstly, it removes toxic gases from the engine, and secondly, it reduces the high noise created, which has high decibel levels. The exhaust releases these loud noises by passing them through mufflers, plates, and other systems.
You can see the benefits of enhanced engine performance by reducing overheating and increasing torque and horsepower. In addition, if you are replacing the exhaust to improve the engine sound, you are bettering the engine performance.
Below we’ve reviewed the six best exhausts for a KLR650. So, go ahead and take a bite of our exhaust reviews and our recommendation.
Best Exhausts for KLR650 – Comparison Table
| Image | Model | Years | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delkevic Mini 8" (Top Pick) | 1987-2019 | Check Price |
 | FMF 042319 Exhaust (Close Runner-Up) | 2008-2014 | Check Price |
 | Jardine RT4 Exhaust (Great but Expensive) | 1984-2007 | Check Price |
 | FMF 042320 Exhaust (Our Pick for Older Models) | 1984-2007 | Check Price |
 | Two Brothers Racing S1R Exhaust (Runner-Up for Newer Models) | 2014-2018 | Check Price |
 | FMF 042318 (Runner-Up for Older Models) | 1987-2007 | Check Price |
1. Delkevic Mini 8” Exhaust (Editor’s Choice)
Shaped out of industrial-grade stainless steel and buffed up to offer a mirror finishing, this exhaust is the best exhaust for Kawasaki KLR650. The Mini 8” aftermarket slip-on round muffler by Delkevic boasts high-grade 304 stainless steel that has been polished painstakingly to give it an elegant appearance. You’ll be hard put to find a muffler that has a tone quieter yet profound than this Delkevic muffler.
The sounds of this 8” muffler almost resemble those of the stock muffler in your KLR 650, ideal for long rides. The kit comes equipped with all essential hardware and accessories needed for installing the same onto the exhaust. At the same time, you’ll not have to carry out any remapping or re-jetting once you have mounted and fitted this muffler on your bike.
Nevertheless, Delkevic suggests that all bikers and motorcyclists perform a dynamometer test to assess the bike’s torque and rotational speed. Like all other Delkevic mufflers, this mini muffler comes with detachable baffles, is compatible with OEM tuning, and doesn’t feature a catalytic converter.
You can rest assured that the Delkevic 8-inch slip-on mini muffler will go a long way in boosting your bike’s performance and aesthetics as it has been handcrafted from premium materials.
Pros
- Crafted from high-quality 304 stainless steel for lasting performance and durability
- Polished for imparting a mirror-like finish eventually accentuating your bike’s overall look
- Includes all required hardware for a simple installation
- It comes with a detachable baffle to ensure the muffler is companionable with stock tuning
- No need to remap or reset any exhaust part or component following installation
Cons
- Cleaning the baffle and getting rid of oil stains could take some doing
2. FMF 042319 Exhaust
FMF 042319 is the best exhaust for a KLR650 available on the market.
This slip-on exhaust is an excellent selection for closed-course racing competitions and is easy to install. The best part is that it comes with all the required bolts and a spark arrestor.
Features
At 6.6 pounds, this exhaust takes away much weight from your bike, giving you better performance. The high-capacity stainless steel core is built to last, and it has formed end caps too. The end caps are made from an aircraft-grade aluminum canister. It gives the low start quite a boost and good power performance across all ranges.
The package includes four stickers, two extra nuts, bolts, and USFS approved spark arrestor. All in all, you get higher performance with increased HP, improved torque, and higher durability for cross-country driving. In addition, the entire exhaust is made from stainless steel and aluminum.
You get an increased sonic evacuation that gives higher flow and increased power. In addition, you can easily unassemble it for any maintenance that you may need.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide variety of bikes
- Several pounds lighter than stock
- Thumper sound on the street run
- Excellent performance – value for money
Cons
- Sounds very loud – need to add a quiet core; I’m not sure if it’s a disadvantage, though
- The provided bolts were either too short or too long for some people.
Overall, a perfect exhaust for your KLR-650 is undoubtedly built for racing under closed circuits or off-road biking. However, if you consider using it on the street, you need to ensure that the noise levels are under the state regulations using a quiet insert. California 65 proposition applies.
3. Jardine RT4 Exhaust
This model is one of the best KLR650 exhaust options. However, it’s the most expensive exhaust on our list.
If your engine is screaming for extra horsepower, you have to consider this exhaust by Jardine. Engineered for high performance and extended durability, each exhaust is tested for the highest quality by dyno testing.
Features
The Jardine RT4 is 100% American-made, built for tough performance, and has a lightweight billet aluminum construction. It also has a silicone O ring that can withstand high temperatures when the engine is fired up.
This exhaust by Jardine is USFS approved, and it includes a type of spark arrestor that can easily be detached through the end cap made from billet aluminum. This will prep it for racecourse competitions. In addition, quiet inserts can drastically reduce sound levels to help you if your state regulations are strict.
These are tested for smooth mandrel bends, taper-flowed tubing, race-style spring-tensioned slip-fit connections, and shining TIG welding. Installation is a whiz through, and the sound produced is like a purr to ears. This package comes with the requisite hardware, mid-pipe, and detailed instructions.
Experienced bikers know that sound only improves after the bike has been ridden for a while.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to install
- It comes with a spark arrestor installed.
Cons
- California 65 proposition warning
- Check for use in NE and ME states.
Overall, it’s an excellent strong performance-packed exhaust for a KLR650.
4. FMF 042320 Exhaust (Runner-Up)
FMF first offered this model of exhausts in 2007 as second-gen Q series mufflers. This was specially engineered for the market and was a completely new design, offering the best maximum performance and sound. It is also called Q4.
Features
Thanks to the advanced and specially designed technology for this Q4 muffler exhaust. The Blue Ribbon Coalition and ORBA approve it. This exhaust is built for a better power-to-weight ratio with its lightweight construction and weighs only 2.84 pounds. It offers excellent cushioning with only minimal loss of performance.
FMF is famed for their low sound/ high-performance mufflers, and the Q4 is one of the best in them. In this exhaust (the Q4), the entire muffler unit is moved forward and closer to the engine to centralize the body mass. This enables an enhancement in handling features.
The unit has a high flow-formed end cap that one can maintain easily and has higher durability than others in the market. Developed from research into bike racing championships, it has a 2-stage insulation insert for lower noise emissions.
Additionally, it also provides extended life to the insulation material. It has inner chambers and inserts that are positioned accurately. It reduces the noise emissions to a maximum and relieves you of state regulations.
This KLR 650 FMF exhaust comes with a spark arrestor that stops the exhaust gas’s ignition from flowing at a high rate. A carburetor re-jetting is recommended after the replacement of the exhaust. This slip-on exhaust is easy to install as a DIY.
Pros
- Lightweight at 6.3 pounds
- Easy to install slip-on
Cons
- Not intended for street use
- California Prop 65 caution
This exhaust is the best for a closed course racing competition or off-road racing championships. However, this exhaust is not built for street performance unless you install the quiet insert to keep noise levels below your state’s regulations.
5. Two Brothers Racing S1R Exhaust
If you opt for an excellent KLR650 exhaust upgrade in terms of power-packed performance, this model might be for you.
The Two Brothers S1R exhausts are the black series exhausts built with black billet aluminum inlets and signature carbon fiber weave. They are dyno tested for race track performance.
Features
These six-pounder exhausts offer high-temperature carbon fiber sleeves, similar to ones used in aircraft engines. These sleeves are covered with aluminum. The spiral-wound perforated core technology ensures a throaty sound that many bikers prefer.
The rubber-lined muffler camps are lightweight and angled to hold the pipes securely. As a result, they reduce weight significantly for bikers. The end cap is made of magnesium and has a non-stick Teflon coating. Fitted with stamped spring-fit inlets, they pull in air at an excellent rate for the exhaust.
It is a good sign if you see the exhausts turning amber/golden amber in color. It lets you know that the exhaust is built using high-quality stainless steel. It is doing its job as is expected. You may want to install sound inserts (P1 and PX1 not included) or the anodized bolts kits available (sold as extras).
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Stamped spring-fit
- Black-colored billet aluminum pipes.
Cons
- State anti-tampering laws may prevent availability in a few states.
- California 65 proposition caution
To sum up, this exhaust offers power-packed performance. In addition, the sound from the exhausts is excellent to the liking of many. However, you may want to check your state regulations before buying them.
6. FMF 042318
This exhaust is for people who need performance at an economical price.
Features
The FMF 042318 has a high-quality muffler with improved torque, increased horsepower, and rugged durability. Built for durability with stainless and aluminum, it has an internal packing of a space-age material that gives longevity. This Space Age material is also used in the aerospace industry, where the engine temperatures are much higher.
The exhausts may typically require a spark arrestor for safety (included) and a quiet insert to absorb all the noises – the FMF 042318 has both features with the quiet insert of 96dB. The champagne color anodized can have a cool look.
Weighing at 6.7 pounds, this exhaust takes away a lot of weight from the bike.
This exhaust also has a Hi-Flo stainless steel core which betters air circulation. The increased sonic evacuation removes the exhaust gases and increases power. In addition, the formed end caps are made with a high-grade aluminum canister, which increases the bike’s overall performance.
Pros
- Increased torque and horsepower
- 90-day warranty
- Built for durability
Cons
- Not intended for street use
- California Prop 65 caution
If you are looking for an exhaust with excellent performance, this is the one to go for. It is built for bike racers in closed-course circuits. However, if you are looking for street performance, you may want to check that the noise emitted is under state regulations despite the quiet insert provided.
This KLR 650 exhaust review wraps up our list. So how to pick the correct exhaust for your KLR 650? We prepared several pieces of advice for you below.
How to Pick the Best Exhaust for a KLR650?
Finding the best exhaust for a KLR650 can be a challenge. For your convenience, we have an in-depth guide with essential points to consider before you buy an exhaust for your KLR650.
Discussed below are the factors in choosing the best exhaust for a KLR650:
Cost
The above-reviewed exhausts are available in a price range of 350$ to 550$. Though you will find costlier exhausts, choosing an exhaust that gives the best results and comes at an affordable price will be wise.
Regulations
Review the state regulations that disallow OEM parts’ change in vehicles because they could cause damage and be a safety concern for the public.
Noise Levels
Most aftermarket exhausts offer a 96dB quiet insert that should reduce the noise levels from 1 to 6 dB. However, many bikers like the loud noise and don’t use the quiet insert. All KLR 650 exhaust systems on this list are pretty loud and have overall great sound.
We recommend that you check your state regulations for the maximum permissible limit before buying an exhaust. You don’t want to get a ticket for the loud noise.
End Caps
We recommend looking for exhausts with a formed end cap made of high-quality aluminum or stainless steel. These can sustain the high temperatures of exhaust gases. We compared all the options in our great article about the best exhausts for Ninja 300.
Headers
A long piped, shorty header with a Hi-Flo removes exhaust gases quickly close to the engine. This gives you enhanced engine performance. Go for it.
Accessories
We recommend replacing any rubber parts, gaskets like O rings when replacing an exhaust. Replacing these increases the durability & performance of the KLR650 exhaust.
When Should You Replace Your Exhaust for a KLR650?
Immediately, if you have a breakdown of your exhaust is the answer.
For new bike owners of KLR650, you are OK to replace it if you are determined; if unsure or you are new to bikes, we recommend you to get a feel and pulse of your bike’s performance; listen, measure the torque, experience it before you decide to replace.
Wrap-Up: the Best Exhaust for a KLR650
So, what the best KLR 650 exhaust upgrade is? We need to pick now.
The winner from the above list of our top recommendations is Delkevic Mini for its performance for multiple reasons. It is the best aftermarket exhaust for KLR 650 on the market.
The bespoke space-age packing is one of the main features that resist high temperatures; the pipe itself has a Hi-Flo, and the formed ends are resistant to high-temperature exhaust gases. Finally, you cannot ignore the lightweight of the exhaust compared to the stock -exhaust.
So, chose the best exhaust for your Kawasaki bike wisely. Then, throw your leg over the bike, kick start the bike, and disappear into eternity, enjoying the bike’s new experience.