Segment:
Adventure Touring / Dual-Sport Motorcycle
Competitors:
BMW F650GS, Suzuki DL650 V-Strom, Honda Transalp (though often with smaller engines).
Versatility:
Designed for both on-road commuting and light off-road exploration.
Engine Configuration:
Parallel-twin engine, offering a balance of power and smoothness.
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, tuning, fuel injection, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox internal components, shift mechanism, maintenance and repair.
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, front fork (suspension), rear shock absorber (suspension), steering system.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic), caliper service, master cylinder, brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Exhaust System:
Muffler, exhaust pipes, catalytic converter (if applicable), gaskets and mounting.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fenders, controls, instrument panel.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake pad inspection/replacement, spark plug service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances.
Adjustments:
Carburetor/throttle body synchronization, valve clearance adjustment, ignition timing checks, suspension adjustments.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system schematics with component identification.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 8-valve, parallel-twin
Displacement:
498 cc (30.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
72.0 x 61.2 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 47 hp @ 8000 rpm (varies slightly by region and tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 43 Nm (31.7 lb-ft) @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with electronic advance
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 Liters (2.9 US qt) with filter change
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Length:
Approx. 2150 mm (84.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 800 mm (31.5 in) (overall)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in) (overall, without mirrors)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1455 mm (57.3 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 180 mm (7.1 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 180 kg (397 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 197 kg (434 lbs) (fully fueled, ready to ride)
Fuel Capacity:
18 Liters (4.8 US gal)
Crash Safety:
Motorcycles are not rated by NCAP or NHTSA in the same way cars are. Focus is on rider protection through design and equipment.
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake. Optional ABS on some variants (check specific model).
Suspension:
Telescopic front forks, Uni-Trak rear suspension provide stability and control.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight (depending on region/update).
Ergonomics:
Upright riding position for rider comfort and control.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meters, coolant temperature gauge, indicator lights. No advanced infotainment.
Assistance Features:
Optional ABS on some models, otherwise standard rider control and braking systems.
Connectivity Features:
None. Analog and basic digital displays.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (JASO MA recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with distilled water (50/50 mix recommended)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, chain and sprockets, fork seals, exhaust gasket leaks.
Fuel System Notes:
Early models had carburetor issues; 2005 with EFI is generally more reliable but requires specific diagnostic tools for advanced issues.
Electrical Potential Issues:
Voltage regulator/rectifier failures can occur, affecting battery charging.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki is renowned for its performance motorcycles, from sportbikes to cruisers and dual-sports.
Kle500 Lineage:
The KLE500 line was introduced in the early 1990s as a versatile adventure touring machine, evolving to meet changing market demands and emissions standards.
B1 Generation Features:
The B1 iteration, including the 2005 model, often featured updated styling and fuel injection for improved performance and emissions.
Manufacturing Origin:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Kawasaki Heavy Industries.
