Kawasaki Ninja 500 R - 2005 Specifications and Reviews

The 2005 Kawasaki Ninja 500 R is an accessible sport bike ideal for new riders and commuters seeking an agile, reliable machine. Its lightweight 498cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth power with excellent fuel efficiency, while the nimble handling and forgiving character make it perfect for building foundational riding skills. Known for dependability and affordability, this model remains a popular entry-level sportbike choice.

2005
5 stars Average rating: 5 from 1 votes
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General information

CategorySport
Year2005
ModelKawasaki Ninja 500 R
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
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)
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 height1,161 mm (45.7 inches)
Seat height775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight176.0 kg (388.0 pounds)

Kawasaki Ninja 500 R dimensions and frame

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesSingle disc. Hydralic
Rear tyre dimensions130/70-17
Front tyre dimensions110/70-17
Rear suspensionUNI-TRAK® system with single shock
Front suspensionHydraulic telescopic fork
Rake (fork angle)27.0°
Frame typeHigh-tensile steel, perimeter design

Speed and acceleration

Color optionsEbony/Metallic Graystone, Candy Thunder Blue/Ebony
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

Track40%
City70%
Cornering65%
Daily Riding65%
Touring40%
Passenger35%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits beginner to intermediate riders who want an approachable entry-level sportbike.
PurposeIt is designed primarily for light sport riding, commuting, and learning the fundamentals of sportbike handling.
Rider FitIts low seat height and light dry weight make it manageable for riders of smaller stature or those new to bigger bikes.
CharacterIt has a friendly, forgiving nature with modest power delivery that rewards smooth, confident riding rather than outright aggression.
Not Ideal ForIt is not suited for experienced riders seeking high-speed performance, long-distance touring comfort, or off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2005 Kawasaki Ninja 500 R 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 2005 Kawasaki Ninja 500 R, 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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