Kawasaki Ninja 500R - 2009 Specifications and Reviews

The 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 500R is an accessible sport bike ideal for beginner and intermediate riders seeking genuine sportbike styling with manageable performance. Its 498cc liquid-cooled twin engine delivers smooth power through a six-speed transmission, making it perfect for learning track fundamentals and daily commuting alike.

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General information

CategorySport
Year2009
ModelKawasaki Ninja 500R

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
Fuel controlDOHC
Fuel systemCarburettor. Keihin CVK34 x 2
Bore x stroke74.0 x 58.0 mm (2.9 x 2.3 inches)
Compression10.8:1
Stroke4
Engine typeTwin
Capacity:498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,435 mm (56.5 inches)
Ground clearance119 mm (4.7 inches)
Overall width701 mm (27.6 inches)
Overall length2,096 mm (82.5 inches)
Overall height1,161 mm (45.7 inches)
Seat height775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc197.0 kg (434.4 pounds)
 
 

Kawasaki Ninja 500R dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear tyre dimensions130/70-17
Front tyre dimensions110/70-17
Rear suspension travel99 mm (3.9 inches)
Rear suspensionUNI-TRAK® system with single shock
Front suspension travel130 mm (5.1 inches)
Front suspension37mm hydraulic telescopic fork
Rake (fork angle)27.0°
Frame typeHigh-tensile steel, perimeter design

Speed and acceleration

Color optionsMetallic Diablo Black, Candy Plasma Blue
Fuel capacity18.16 litres (4.80 gallons)
 
 

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

5.5s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track45%
City78%
Cornering72%
Daily Riding70%
Touring40%
Passenger35%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits beginner to intermediate riders who want an approachable, non-intimidating sportbike to build skills on.
PurposeIt's designed as an entry-level sportbike for learning cornering, commuting, and general road riding rather than outright performance.
Rider FitIts low seat height and light overall weight make it manageable for shorter or less physically strong riders.
CharacterThe parallel-twin engine and lightweight chassis give it a friendly, forgiving personality that rewards smooth, momentum-based riding over raw power.
Not Ideal ForThis bike is not suited for riders seeking high-speed touring comfort, serious off-road capability, or big-bore sportbike thrills.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2009 Kawasaki Ninja 500R Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 775mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 500R, with a cramped knee angle of around 65 degrees and a forward-leaning 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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