The Kawasaki KX500 is the biggest and most powerful of Kawasaki's motocross lineup. It is intended for experienced riders who want the added power of an open-class machine for motocross and other closed-course racing. Indeed, Team Green™ racers competing on this versatile machine have won numerous titles, including an AMA 500cc National Motocross Championship, nine straight victories in the grueling Baja 1000, nine AMA National Hare & Hound Championships and two Best in the Desert Las Vegas-to-Reno victories.

The KX500's liquid-cooled 499cc five-speed two-stroke engine features the Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS), and pumps out nearly 65 horsepower for incredible speed and acceleration. Powerful disc brakes in the front and rear rein in those ponies, and fully adjustable suspension components provide more than 12 inches of front and rear wheel travel for smoothly negotiating the gnarliest of terrain.
 

Electrofusion Cylinder

• Improves heat transfer for consistent power output
• Porous design holds lubrication well and resists abrasion and seizure
• Allows closer engine tolerances for more horsepower

Liquid Cooling

• Even-running temperatures helps ensure consistently strong power output
• Allows tighter engine clearances for more horsepower and greater reliability

Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System with Automatic Decompression System (KIPS-D)

• Controls exhaust port height to provide optimum exhaust timing at all rpms
• Produces a broader powerband, more low-end torque and more top-end power
• Bleeds down compression pressure at cranking speeds, making kick-starting a breeze

39mm Crescent Slide Carburetor

• Designed for smooth transitions at intermediate throttle openings at all rpm
• Improves combustion efficiency by increasing intake velocity and fuel atomization at all throttle settings
• Adjustable for various conditions

Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI)

• Produces the extremely hot spark needed to ignite the air/fuel/oil mixture of a two-stroke racing engine
• Easy starts and reliability under extreme conditions

Five-speed Transmission

• Positive shifting and durability, enables use of engine's full potential
• Oil level window provided

High-tensile Steel Frame

• Semi-double cradle design with bolt-on aluminum rear section
• Race-proven frame geometry offers nimble turning and unmatched stability

46mm diameter fork tubes offer great rigidity for a confidence-inspiring ride without a weight penalty

• Large-diameter cartridge and piston displace oil as the fork compresses and rebounds for effective damping control
• 18-way rebound and compression damping adjustments are provided to fine tune for different riders and conditions

Front and Rear Disc Brakes

• Front master cylinder is equipped with a sight glass for quick fluid checks
• Rear brake caliper is a one-piece design for improved brake feel

UNI-TRAK® Rear Suspension

• Lightweight aluminum-constructed swingarm keeps weight to a minimum
• 20-way compression and 18-way rebound-damping adjustment, along with spring preload adjustability, allow the rider to fine tune rear suspension

Triple-bearing Rear Hub

• Two ball bearings on the drive side of the hub, one on the brake side ensure durability
• Rear hub oil seals improve bearing durability
• Hollow rear axle reduces weight

Aluminum Swingarm

• Excellent torsional rigidity enhances ride control
• Reduces unsprung weight for improved rear suspension responsiveness
• Features recessed chain adjusters to maximize strength
  

Comments On This Article?

Top