Kawasaki KLE500

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Kawasaki KLE500

Manufacturer	Kawasaki Motorcycle & Engine Company
Parent company	Kawasaki Heavy Industries
Production	1991–2007
Successor	Kawasaki Versys 650 (KLE650)
Class	Dual-sport
Engine	498 cc (30.4 cu in) liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve DOHC parallel-twin
Bore / stroke	74.0 mm × 58.0 mm (2.91 in × 2.28 in)
Compression ratio	9.8:1
Power	45 hp (33.6 kW) @ 8,300 rpm
Torque	41 N⋅m (30.2 lb⋅ft) @ 7,500 rpm
Ignition type	CDI
Transmission	6-speed manual, chain final drive
Frame type	Steel double cradle
Suspension	Front: 41 mm (1.6 in) telescopic fork Rear: Swingarm with monoshock and adjustable spring preload
Brakes	Front: Dual-piston caliper with single floating 300 mm (11.8 in) disc Rear: Dual-piston caliper with single 230 mm (9.1 in) disc
Tires	Front: 90/90-21 Rear: 130/80-17
Wheelbase	1,510 mm (59.4 in)
Dimensions	L: 2,215 mm (87.2 in) W: 880 mm (34.6 in) H: 1,270 mm (50.0 in)
Seat height	850 mm (33.5 in)
Fuel capacity	15 L (4.0 US gal)
Related	Kawasaki KLR650 Kawasaki Ninja 500R

Introduced in 1991, the Kawasaki KLE500 is a motorcycle produced by Kawasaki that is powered by a 498 cc (30.4 cu in) parallel-twin engine. As a dual-sport motorcycle, it can be used both on roads and in light off-road conditions.

The KLE500 features a sump guard that provides protection to the oil pan during off-road usage. As for aerodynamic protection, it relies on a small windshield. However, depending on the rider's height, the head and upper torso might be 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 for other brands for the latest series, thanks to the interchangeability of parts with the widespread Z1000. The seat is wide enough to accommodate the 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. However, the instrumentation does not have a light indicating the use of the fuel reserve. For this, one can use the fuel valve manually operated to allow passage to the "reserve" position.

From the model year 2003 onward, any motorcycles produced lost the ability to turn off their low beams using a switch on the handlebars.

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, Kawasaki included a face-lift that rejuvenated the line. In particular, it redesigned the windshield making it similar to that of Z1000 and Z750, using the same glass unit. They also changed the turn signals and the instrument panel. The earlier fairing of the disc brake was removed.

• Kawasaki Owners Club Forum