Kawasaki Ninja 500R - 2010 Specifications and Reviews

The 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 500R is an accessible sport bike ideal for beginner and intermediate riders seeking an affordable entry into sportbike ownership. Its 498cc parallel-twin engine delivers manageable power with excellent fuel efficiency and reliability. The bike is best known for its approachable handling, lightweight chassis, and perfect balance of performance and practicality.

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General information

CategorySport
Year2010
ModelKawasaki Ninja 500R
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
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
Engine typeTwin, four-stroke
Capacity:498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

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

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity18.16 litres (4.80 gallons)
Wheelbase56 mm (2.2 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 height838 mm (33.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc197.0 kg (434.4 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsMetallic Diablo Black, Candy Plasma Blue
StarterElectric

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

2010 Kawasaki Ninja 500R Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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Feet:

At 838mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 500R, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). 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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