Aside from the paint job, not much changed between the 1987 introduction and the 2008 revisions. The key differences are:
- 1987: Crankshaft is unique to this year.
- 1988: Beefed up the engine cases with extra bolts between the crank and countershaft; crank has a different part number, and may be lighter.
- 1990: Countershaft improved with longer splines for increased engagement with sprocket.
- 1992: Changes to front brake master cylinder.
- Mid-1996: Changed valve cover, added bracket to hold cam chain bumper; changed crank to heavier unit; improved clutch basket with more clutch plates; changed countershaft sprocket retainer from slotted plate to large nut; changed 2nd and 3rd gear ratios. Kickstarter no longer fits with new clutch basket. New left balancer weight/sprocket begins with engine #KLE650AE032206.
- (?) Service manual indicates higher charging system output; only part number change is the rotor. The new power rating is 17A/14V (238 W) @ 7000 rpm; the earlier one was 14A/14V (196 W) @ 8000 rpm (yes, above redline).
- 2001(?) Final assembly shifts from Japan to Thailand. All major parts still made in Japan.
- 2008: New fairing design, new instrument panel, redesigned handlebar control switches, new bar-end weights, revised powerband, revised suspension has reduced travel but with less static sag, new rear swingarm, new turn signals, larger petal-style vented brake rotors, new twin-piston rear brake caliper, increased radiator capacity, fork diameter increased from 38mm to 41mm, new headlight similar to that used on the Kawasaki Ninja 650R, new turn signals, larger luggage rack, firmer seat, larger-diameter wheel spokes. Stator "alternator" upgraded to 17amp output, providing an additional 36watts capacity.
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