transalp vs. klr

[tismybutt@yahoo.com]

I've heard of this KLX needle, does it work? I have NO respect for the tech people at dyno-jet. When I was trying to get my jetting staright for my 81gpz carb swap from FI I called and one fella I talked to was helpful and sent me a set of needles that were re-configured for what I had. Next time, after the cams, I got a bone head that said I could fix all my troulbeles in the midrange by running around with duct tape on my air cleaners! Hey Fred! Do you know if Factory(tha carb people, not KHI) makes a jet kit for the KLR? I've heard nothing but praise for thier stuff. If not, then I'll either go with a dyno-jet kit or make one myself. What all comes in the KLR kit? I got a drill, some needles, and some jets(which were all too rich)inmy Kaw kit, and my Honda kit way back when also included slide springs.

[jimkeal@hotmail.com]

I just spent the last hour looking through the digests from yesterday, great work. Someone was asking about Transalps. I have both a KLR and a TA (my wife's), here are some impressions: Imported to US in '89 and 90(?), still available in Europe. 600cc v- Twin. Exceptionally nice bike. Smooth and refined. Better suspension than KLR, mirrors that work. CDI's have a history of failing, otherwise rock solid reliability. Very comfy on road, not as much suspension travel as KLR. TA is heavier (75lb)and really feels like it. Harder (and more expensive) to get parts for TA. TA's used are far more expensive than KLR. I belive the power rating is similar in both bikes. At 6'4" with a 36" inseam I am more comfy on my KLR. Wife cannot tip- toe KLR. I like the simplicity of one cylinder and the KLR in general. I like riding a bike still in production accross the country, I like the parts availability of the KLR. I choose KLR - parts availability, simplicity, range, suspension (fixed) Wife choose TA - comfort, refinement, smooth, height. She doesn't work on it (I do). If you have more specific questions ask me. -Jim KLR - lawnmower technology, at lawnmower prices