Segment:
Dual-sport / Adventure Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a versatile, reliable motorcycle for commuting, touring, and light off-road use.
Key Competitors:
Honda Transalp, Suzuki V-Strom (earlier models), Yamaha TDM series.
Unique Selling Points:
Robust parallel-twin engine, comfortable riding position, practical for daily use and long-distance travel, relatively simple mechanicals for maintenance.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, valves, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetors), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission Systems:
Gearbox assembly, clutch operation, gear shifting mechanism, lubrication.
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection and repair, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system, wheels, hubs, spokes.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), hydraulic circuits, brake fluid, caliper and master cylinder service.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starting system, ignition system, instrumentation.
Fuel And Emission Systems:
Carburetor adjustment and overhaul, fuel tank, fuel lines, emission control components (if applicable for the region).
Bodywork And Fairings:
Panel removal and installation, seat, fairings, windscreen.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, brake fluid flush, coolant change, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, valve clearance check.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems related to starting, running, electrical faults, and performance issues.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly, including engine rebuilds and suspension overhauls.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, performance data.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive. Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and chassis overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for professional technicians and experienced home mechanics.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 x 58.0 mm
Valve Configuration:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 47 hp (35 kW) @ 7,500 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 47 Nm (35 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Twin Keihin CVK34 carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH (or equivalent JASO MA)
Oil Capacity:
2.6 L (2.7 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture (50% coolant, 50% distilled water)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 1.4 L (1.5 US qt)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Final Drive:
Sealed chain drive
Gear Ratios:
Gear ratios typically: 1st: 2.750, 2nd: 1.944, 3rd: 1.556, 4th: 1.292, 5th: 1.045
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 80 API GL-4 (same as engine oil for some models, refer to specific manual)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.7 L (0.7 US qt)
Overall Length:
Approx. 2,170 mm (85.4 in)
Overall Width:
Approx. 850 mm (33.5 in)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1,265 mm (49.8 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,460 mm (57.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 180 mm (7.1 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 820 mm (32.3 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 194 kg (428 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 213 kg (470 lbs) (fully fueled)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
18 L (4.8 US gal)
Safety Certification:
CE certified (for European models), EPA compliant (for North American models). Specific crash ratings are not typically applicable to motorcycles in the same way as cars.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Optional ABS was not commonly available for this model year.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame for rigidity and durability.
Ergonomics:
Upright riding position and wind protection from fairing contribute to rider comfort and reduced fatigue.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, coolant temperature gauge, and warning lights. Basic but functional.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was generally not a standard or widely available option for the 2005 KLE500.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated connectivity features such as Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Chain Lube Adjust:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or as needed, particularly after wet riding.
Air Filter Service:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified)
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, chain and sprockets, wheel bearings, fork seals, brake pads.
Carburetor Performance:
Carburetors can require synchronization and cleaning over time, especially if the bike sits for extended periods. Pilot jets can be prone to clogging.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or looseness in electrical connectors can lead to intermittent issues, particularly in older models or those exposed to adverse weather.
Suspension Durability:
Fork seals and rear shock absorber may require service or replacement after significant mileage, as with most motorcycles.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long history of producing reliable and performance-oriented motorcycles, particularly in the adventure and sport-touring segments.
Kle500 Development:
The KLE500 was introduced in the early 1990s as a mid-displacement dual-sport offering, building on Kawasaki's experience with parallel-twin engines. The 2005 model represents a refined version of this platform.
Generations:
The KLE500 saw a major update in 2005, receiving a new front fairing design inspired by the larger KLR650, improved suspension, and updated engine components to meet emission standards.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Production Years:
1991-2007
