Kawasaki's KX500

Kawasaki's 2004 Lineup

Nov. 01, 2005 By ORC STAFF
New Offerings and Old Friends
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2004 KAWASAKI KX500

Power for the KX500 comes from a liquid-cooled 499cc five-speed two-stroke engine featuring the Kawasaki Integrated Power-valve System (KIPS.), and pumps out big-bore horsepower for the entire rpm range. Powerful front and rear disc brakes provide aggressive stopping power, and fully adjustable suspension components provide more than 12 inches of front and rear wheel travel.

KAWASAKI KX500 Features and Benefits

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 rpm
? 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 Upside-down Cartridge Fork
? 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 and the brake side help ensure durability
? Rear hub oil seals improve bearing durability
? Hollow rear axel 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

KX500 SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: Two-stroke single with KIPS®
Displacement: 499cc
Bore x stroke: 86.0 x 86.0mm
Cooling: Liquid
Carburetion: Keihin PWK39
Induction: 8-petal reed valve
Compression ratio: 8.3:1 (low speed) – 7.4:1 (high speed)
Ignition: Digital CDI
Transmission: Five-speed
Frame: High-tensile steel perimeter design with subframe member
Rake / trail: 27° / 4.6 in.
Suspension type, front: 46mm inverted telescopic cartridge fork
Suspension adjustments, front: Preload, 18-way compression and rebound damping
Suspension type, rear: UNI-TRAK® single-shock system
Suspension adjustments, rear: Spring preload, 20-way compression and 18-way rebound damping
Wheel travel, front: 12.2 in.
Wheel travel, rear: 13.0 in.
Tire, front: 80/100 x 21
Tire, rear: 120/90 x 19
Brakes, front / rear: Hydraulic disc
Overall length: 86.2 in.
Overall width: 32.1 in.
Overall height: 47.4 in.
Ground clearance: 14.6 in.
Seat height: 37.4 in.
Dry weight: 220.4 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 2.6 gal.
Wheelbase: 58.7 in.
Color: Kawasaki Lime Green
Specifications are subject to change

 


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