Kawasaki KLE 500 - 2005 Specifications and Reviews

The 2005 Kawasaki KLE 500 is a versatile middleweight dual-sport designed for adventure-minded riders seeking balanced on-road and light off-road capability. Its 498cc parallel-twin engine delivers manageable power and torque, making it ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike. The KLE 500 is best known for its reliability, affordability, and practical nature as a genuine go-anywhere motorcycle.

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General information

CategoryEnduro / offroad
Year2005
ModelKawasaki KLE 500

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Clutchwet, multi disc
Transmission typefinal driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemforced lubrication (wet sump)
StarterElectric
Ignitionbattery and coil (transistorized ignition)
Fuel controlDOHC
Valves per cylinder4
Fuel systemCarburettor. KEIHIN CVK34 x 2
Bore x stroke74.0 x 58.0 mm (2.9 x 2.3 inches)
Compression9.8:1
Max RPM13000
Torque41.00
Power45.00
Stroke4
Engine typeTwin
Capacity:498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,500 mm (59.1 inches)
Ground clearance180 mm (7.1 inches)
Overall width880 mm (34.6 inches)
Overall length2,215 mm (87.2 inches)
Overall height1,270 mm (50.0 inches)
Seat height850 mm (33.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc200.0 kg (440.9 pounds)
Dry weight181.0 kg (399.0 pounds)

Kawasaki KLE 500 dimensions and frame

Exhaust system2in1
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesSingle disc
Front suspensiontelescopic fork
Trail105 mm (4.1 inches)
Rake (fork angle)27.0°
Frame typecastor

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.2486 HP/kg
Top speed180.0 km/h (111.8 mph)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsblack / silver
Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles)4.50 litres (1.19 gallons)
Reserve fuel capacity3.40 litres (0.90 gallons)
Fuel capacity15.00 litres (3.96 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

44.3 hp
Peak Power
6.5s
0-60 mph
111.8 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track15%
City60%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding65%
Touring55%
Passenger40%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits riders from intermediate skill level upward who want a forgiving, torque-light single to build confidence on mixed terrain.
PurposeIt's built as a dual-sport all-rounder, equally at home commuting through town and tackling gravel tracks or light trails.
Rider FitThe tall 850mm seat height and 21-inch front wheel demand reasonably confident leg reach and some upper-body strength for slow-speed maneuvering off-road.
CharacterSimple, rugged, and unpretentious, this is a low-maintenance workhorse rather than a machine that thrills with outright performance.
Not Ideal ForIt's not for riders chasing high-speed thrills, sport-bike cornering precision, or plush two-up long-distance touring comfort.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2005 Kawasaki KLE 500 Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 850mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with tip-toe one foot on the 2005 Kawasaki KLE 500, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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