KLE 500 questions

[Shireboy]

Hi to all. I have just bought a 2007 KLE500. Only 3,500kms on the clock and looks like new. I love the thing. Nice cheap reliable way to see if I like this adventure stuff after 30 plus years of trail riding. It has enough power to keep me happy for now and its great for zipping to work on. I thought about the KLR 650 and I know that bike is much more popular but I dont like the look of the KLR compared to the KLE. You have to like what you see when you walk into that garage. I have a list of questions for any KLE owners out there.

1. Does that rimfire airbox mod actually do anything and does it only work when you change the pipe as well? Will probably fit a Staintune pipe one day as easy to get in Australia. Not sure if there are any other brands available in Oz for the KLE. I like the nice quiet sound of the standard pipe but if the above mods give substaintial more power I will do it. Also has anyone fitted a Staintune pipe without changing jetting or needle settings? Staintune claim this is not needed. I have my doubts.

2. Whats the opinion on a different screen. Being a trail rider wind has never bothered me. The KLE wind buffeting seems Ok to me but if I was to fit something like an Eagle Wide Touring or similiar does it make a big difference?

3. Panniers? Is there anyone out there in Australia with a KLE that has fitted panniers and if so which ones. I saw some nice Oxford soft ones at MCAS in Sydney but no frame. Is this something you have to fabricate yourself?

4. High Front guard? What is the reason for for these ridiculous tyre hugging mud guards they fit to so called adventure bikes? The first bit of thick mud and that thing is going to stop the front wheel in its tracks. Has anyone fitted a high front guard and if so was it just a universal fit or a specific model?

5. Last is the seat. I cant decide if I like it or not. Im 6'3" and the position the dip forces you in feels unnatural to me. Again coming from a flat dirt bike seat where you can move anywhere is what I am used to so maybe I just have to get used to it. Whats the go with numb bum? I get this really bad after only about half hour in the saddle. Do all road bike seats do this? Has anyone out there modified a KLE seat or is something like the Airhawk the way to go?

Any help appreciated especially from Aussies who can point me in the direction of local parts and accessories. I love the bike and for $5200 for what is basically a "As new" bike Ive got a grin from ear to ear each time I ride it. It may not be in the same league as a KTM 990 or BMW 800 and the like but it will do me for now.

Thanks again.