Kawasaki KLE500

Kawasaki KLE 500

Manufacturer	Kawasaki
Also called	KLE500
Production	1991–2007
Predecessor	none
Successor	Kawasaki Versys (Kawasaki KLE650)
Class	Dual-sport
Engine	498 cc four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valve per cylinder, parallel twin Bore x Stroke: 74.0 x 58.0 mm CR: 9.8:1
Power	33 kW (45 hp) at 8300 rpm
Torque	41 Nm (4.2 kgm) at 7,500 rpm
Ignition type	Digital CDI ignition
Transmission	Primary transmission gear Secondary chain
Suspension	Front: 41mm air assisted forks with 220mm travel Rear: monoshock with 220mm travel and adjustable preload
Brakes	Front: Single disk 300 mm floating caliper with two pistons Rear: 230 mm single disc with single piston caliper
Seat height	850 mm
Fuel capacity	15 l
Related	Kawasaki KLR650, Kawasaki Ninja 500R, Kawasaki GPz500, Kawasaki EX500, Kawasaki ER5n

The Kawasaki KLE 500 is a motorcycle produced by Kawasaki with a displacement of 498 cm³, and powered by a parallel twin four-stroke engine. As a dual-sport motorcycle, it can be used both on roads and in light off road conditions. The model was introduced in 1991.

Description

It has a sump guard which protects the oil pan during off-road use. Aerodynamic protection relies on a small windshield and depending on the height of the rider, the head and upper torso are exposed to the wind. The situation can be improved considerably with the use of windshield accessories, available as an accessory for the original Kawasaki model but also other brands for the latest series, thanks to the interchangeability of parts with the widespread Z1000. The seat is wide enough to accommodate driver and passenger. The bike is equipped with a large rear rack.

The instrumentation includes speedometer, odometer, tachometer, indicators for the turn signals and high beam. Does not have the a light indicating the use of the fuel reserve. For this, use the fuel valve manually operated to allow passage to the "reserve" position.

From the model year 2003 onwards, for all motorcycles, the low beam can not be turned off by a switch on the handlebar and thus remain always on.

Kawasaki KLE 500, 2005 before the restyling

2005 Model Year

The changes in the 2005 model year stem from the need to update the KLE's anti-pollution system to the Euro 2 standard. Previous model characteristics were within the Euro 1 guidelines.

Given the need to renew the model, the parent company included a facelift that rejuvenated the line. In particular, it redesigned the windshield making it similar to that of Kawasaki Z1000 and Kawasaki Z750, using the same glass unit. They also changed the direction indicators and the instrument panel. The earlier fairing of the disc brake was removed.

External links

• Kawasaki Owners Club Forum