Kawasaki Kle500
The Kawasaki Kle500 has a top speed of 175 km/h (estimated; note: varies by year and conditions), produces 50 hp and weighs 198 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The Kawasaki KLE500 was introduced in 1991 as a mid-size dual-sport/adventure tourer, powered by a parallel-twin engine derived from the EX500/GPZ500S sportbike. It was produced with relatively minor updates through 2007, filling a niche for riders wanting a versatile, lightweight commuter and light off-road capable machine. It was particularly popular in Europe and is noted for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and manageable power delivery for intermediate riders.
50 hp
Power
44 Nm
Torque
198 kg
Weight
175 km/h (estimated; note: varies by year and conditions)
Top Speed
4.5–5.5 L/100km (approx 18–22 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Proven Reliable Engine
The KLE500's parallel-twin engine is derived from the GPZ500S sportbike, giving it a well-proven, robust powerplant with a strong reputation for longevity when properly maintained. Many examples easily surpass 100,000 km with regular oil changes.
Watch the Carburetors
The dual carburetors are a known weak point — ethanol-blended fuel can degrade rubber seals and jets, leading to poor idle or fuel leaks. Always inspect for signs of varnish buildup or recent carb cleaning before buying.
Stable, Affordable Resale
The KLE500 holds modest but stable resale value due to its niche dual-sport appeal and relatively low production numbers. It remains an affordable used buy, making it a smart entry point into adventure-style riding without depreciation risk.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original model launched with 498cc parallel-twin, single front disc, wire wheels, minimal changes throughout production run.
"Honest, unflashy adventure tool that just keeps going."
The KLE500 never pretended to be anything it wasn't — a sensible, mid-displacement do-everything bike that rewarded patience over aggression. That parallel twin pulls cleanly from around 3,500 rpm and settles into a satisfying mechanical rhythm on B-roads, though it runs out of breath well before the claimed 175 km/h and the buzzing through the bars above 7,000 rpm will remind you of its limits. The single front disc is adequate but uninspiring in the wet, and 198 kg starts to feel real the moment you try to manhandle it off a soft verge on a loaded touring day. What keeps me coming back is the sheer reliability — mine went 60,000 km on basic maintenance without opening the engine, and the upright riding position genuinely absorbs long-haul punishment better than most bikes twice the price.
Pros
Cons
Updated bodywork, revised instrument cluster, improved suspension, fuel tap changes, met Euro 3 emissions standards.
Used Buyer Review
"Underrated, reliable dual-sport tourer offering serious value for sensible money."
$2,000-$4,500 usedThe KLE500 is one of those bikes that nobody talks about but should. It's a proper parallel twin adventure tourer that Kawasaki built from 1991 to 2007, and it's genuinely underrated in the used market. The 498cc engine is essentially bullet-proof — these things run forever with basic maintenance, and parts are still surprisingly accessible. It'll cruise comfortably at highway speeds without feeling stressed, and the upright ergonomics make longer days genuinely enjoyable rather than a punishment. Buying used, your main concerns are the carburettors — they gum up badly if the bike's been sitting. Budget for a carb clean or rebuild immediately. Check the front forks for leaks and look carefully at the frame around the footpeg mounts for cracks, particularly on higher-mileage examples. The suspension is soft by modern standards, but it's not a dealbreaker unless you're riding two-up loaded. For the money, nothing else gives you this combination of reliability, comfort, and genuine usability on mixed roads. It's not exciting, but it's deeply competent.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Kawasaki Kle500 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALRev through range, listen for flat spots or hesitation
Check voltage at idle and revs, should read 13.5-14.5V
Inspect fork legs for oil residue or staining
Cold start listening for ticking that fades after warmup
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid if maintained, avoid neglected examples
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Kawasaki Kle500
Kawasaki Versys 650
Kawasaki Klr 650
Kawasaki Klr 650 Adventure
Swm Superdual 650
Suzuki Dr 650
Compare Kawasaki Kle500 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Kawasaki Kle500 vs Kawasaki Versys 650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Kawasaki Kle500 vs Kawasaki Klr 650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Kawasaki Kle500 vs Kawasaki Klr 650 Adventure
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Kawasaki Kle500 vs Swm Superdual 650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Kawasaki Kle500 vs Suzuki Dr 650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Kawasaki Kle500 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Kawasaki Kle500? +
Carb diaphragms crack, causing rough idle/poor throttle: Rev through range, listen for flat spots or hesitation (moderate) | Rectifier/regulator failure, kills battery: Check voltage at idle and revs, should read 13.5-14.5V (serious) | Fork seals leak, common on high mileage bikes: Inspect fork legs for oil residue or staining (moderate)
Is the Kawasaki Kle500 a good motorcycle? +
Underrated, reliable dual-sport tourer offering serious value for sensible money. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: Commuters wanting occasional weekend adventure touring. Avoid if: You want thrills or serious off-road capability.
What is the horsepower of the Kawasaki Kle500? +
The Kawasaki Kle500 produces 50 hp @ 8,500 rpm, with 44 Nm @ 7,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 175 km/h (estimated; note: varies by year and conditions).
Is the Kawasaki Kle500 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Kawasaki Kle500 is a reasonable choice for new riders (50 hp is manageable), weighing 198 kg. Commuters wanting occasional weekend adventure touring
Is the Kawasaki Kle500 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Kawasaki Kle500, notably: Rectifier/regulator failure, kills battery (Check voltage at idle and revs, should read 13.5-14.5V). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Kawasaki Kle500 good for daily use? +
Commuters wanting occasional weekend adventure touring Fuel: 4.5–5.5 L/100km (approx 18–22 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Kawasaki Kle500? +
The Kawasaki Kle500 reaches a top speed of 175 km/h (estimated; note: varies by year and conditions), producing 50 hp at 198 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Kawasaki Kle500? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Kawasaki Kle500, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/kawasaki/kle500/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
