Among Japans giants, Kawasaki came late to the motocross party. Machines released in Europe only differ slightly in measurement from those in North America - at 85.2 x 33.1 adam 49.8 inches. Register a new account Sign In Now. Another KX Guru Racing trick was the KIPS (power valve) bolt modification. The 26.5-degree steering angle and short wheelbase. Interestingly enough, the KX500 remains competitive even now in one very specialized realm. 4 stroke valve assemblies are expensive to work on and need adjustment. To paint the KX500 in words is to describe a mystical dragon fire-breathing, powerful, and fearsome. The factory KX500 exhaust valve drums sit over-rotated in their normal state, which results in the auxiliary exhaust ports being slightly open to eliminate that initial hesitation and make for a snappier throttle response. 1998 Kawasaki KX 500. Not only is it a beautiful state, but a top, Read More 12 Best Dirt Bike Trails in Illinois (MX Tracks & Parks)Continue. The two-wheelers first victories were the 1986 National Hare, and Hound events won byDonnie Griewe, followed by back-to-back wins in the Baja 1000 from 1988 through 1996. This series of unfortunate events ultimately led to the Kawasaki KX500s stagnation and demise. When it finally was dropped from the Kawasaki line, it had been unchanged for more than 10 years, and its sales numbers were unimpressive. This page was last edited on 29 January 2021, at 05:25. KX500s come to life via an electronic CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) and primary kick-start system. Maybe it hasnt aged like fine wine, but it sure has appreciated in value. At the time of its release, several top manufactured sported entries in this class, including Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda and the class-leading Maico. Front and rear sprockets (14/47T) remained unchanged throughout the motorcycles lifecycle. Looking back, I am glad they turned me down. Name: Kawasaki KX500 Code: KX500-E3 1992 North America, Europe, Australia Name: Kawasaki KX500 Code: KX500-E4 1993 North America, Europe, Australia Name: Kawasaki KX500 Code: KX500-E5 1994 North America, Europe, Australia Name: Kawasaki KX500 Code: KX500-E6 1995 North America, Europe, Australia Name: Kawasaki KX500 Code: KX500-E7 1996 Due to the comeback of consumer interest in the KX500, the bikes resale value has recently gone up. However, KX500-E2 to KX500-E16 models (1990-2004 releases) had a different 2nd gear setting at 1.444 (26/18). KX100 top speed. Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. At any rate, using high-quality gasoline/petrol (preferably with a minimum RON 91 rating) would be ideal. Shozo Kawasaki founded what is now known as Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. in 1878 as a parts supply business in Tokyo, Japan. 2009 Special Construction Triumph KX500 A/PG, Special Construction Triumph KX500 A/PG year: 2009, 100K miles1 cylinders, Manual transmissionRed with Black interiorSakowski Motors Hot Rods, Classics, and Customs sells worldwide, helps ship worldwide, and can help with compliance worldwide for your Country.LOTS OF PICTURES BELOWThis Land Speed motorcycle was custom built by renowned Bonneville . The tall gas tank and wide rear fender are horrendous-looking. 1973: Kawasakis first open-classer was a very limited production bike called the S12. Kawasaki would take several years to produce a competitive bike, and when it finally did, would find the KX500 winning in events for which it was not initially designed for. The Uni-Trak rear suspension system was unveiled on a KX125, KX250 and an all-new KX420. However, prospective buyers should stay away from anything valued below $1,000. The KX 450 motorcycle represents the flagship of the KX lineup, built with the sole purpose of dominating the track. The integration of new-age technology, years of experience from KX500 racing, and Race Techs suspension expertise brought this old dog into the current decade. I own a 2004 KX 500 (last year made) and a 1997 CR 500R (2001 last year made). Or you will just spin the tire or loop out. The MX bike initially had a side-access airbox, but that was ditched in 1987. Worse yet, the deep roar and tingling vibration of the big-displacement engine make brave men draw back in fear. Danny Hamel won every single desert National from 1992 until 1995every one. Dont get me wrong, I was relieved the second my time testing the KX500 was over, but it went much smoother than I had anticipated. Meanwhile, KX500-E2 to KX500-E16 trims had 7.4:1 (high speed)/8.3:1 (low speed) compression ratios, a 66.7 Nm (6.8 kgf-m, 49.2 ft-lb) max torque, and spewed 47.4 kW (64.5 PS) horsepower. Thankfully, Race Tech did an amazing job balancing out this versions suspension. Lack of competition lead to stagnation, as only Honda, Maico and, briefly, KTM manufactured 500cc motocross bikes in this period. Best selling off road motorcycle magazine, 2023 SUZUKI RM-Z250: DIRT BIKE VIDEO SERIES, THE WEEKLY FEED: FIRST RIDE: RIEJUS SHOWCASE 300- THE MR 300 SIX DAYS, TURN YOUR HONDA CRF110 INTO A FACTORY PIT BIKE, JEREMY MCGRATH EDISON DYE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD VIDEO, 2006 KAWASAKI KX125 PROJECT WITH JEREMY MCGRATH: 2-STROKE TUESDAY. The first two years of the KX500 83 KX500-A1 and 84 KX500-A2 models make up the 1st Gen. When you get an updated 1981 Maico 490, call me. Worse yet, the young test riders dont have enough two-stroke experience to know what they are signing up for. Kawasaki has not disclosed the power and torque output of this motocross yet. It seemed like I just sat on it and pointed it up the hill. Kawasaki had all the right ideas to make their 500 a good open-class bike. Factory tires consist of tube-type 80/100-21 51M Bridgestone M23 at the front and 110/100-18 64M Bridgestone M22 at the back. In the used market alone, the bikes pricing ranges from $2,800 to $8,000. Unfortunately, it seemed that real men were in short supply, and the market gradually moved away from the KX500 and the other 500s that followed. For the front of the bike, they ditched the 1991 forks and bought 2011 KX450F forks off eBay that came with the entire front-brake assembly. TMRs compression release was a leg-saver. However, the bikes prowess seemed to better meet the requisites of desert speedsters than MX racers (as evidenced by its Desert Nationals wins) that it remains a force to be reckoned with in the arena of desert racing even to this day. Email 1-866-394-2442 Salinas Motorcycle Center Salinas, CA - 731 mi. The Kawasaki KX 500 is a 499cc (30.5cuin) two-stroke single motocross motorcycle made by Kawasaki from 1983 until 2004. The power was manageable and smooth, and the suspension was super plush. It offers a wide variety of terrain perfect for dirt bike riding. For now, let us take a closer look into the history, specs, and noteworthy features of this quintessential open-class racer. future models would lower the compression ratio to 8.4:1 and add a second compression ring, with the goal of improving dependability while making the power spending more controllable. The final year for the 500 National Championship was 1993, when Mike LaRoccos victory made the final entry in the MX record book for both Kawasaki and the class itself. Providing a seamless continuity from the mini ranks to the full . I remember thinking to myself, This is going to be interesting trying to ride with double vision.. Even worse, the Kawasaki KX500 was hideous-looking 30 years ago, and it hasnt aged like fine wine in the aesthetics department. It was a humble beginning for one of the greatest dirt bikes in history. The finer points of the KX Guru Racing KX500 are made obvious by a quick analysis of the clutch mods. Plastics had always been two-tone but predominantly lime green and were only made more interesting with yearly changes to the graphics/decals. The countdown starts when you rotate the crank to get the piston at top-dead center. But the Japanese firm made sure to overcompensate with the launch of its open-class legend. The Kawasaki got a new frame and the side-access airbox design was abandoned. The head also got a very cool and convenient compression release that not only aided in easier starting but reduced loads on the engine internals, which is good, because most KX500 parts are no longer available from Kawasaki. You would think the opposite would be true, but modern chassis were built for a purpose, and that purpose isnt to have a 30-year-old smoker engine shoved in it. By the early 90s, Honda had given up the horsepower chase, leaving the KX uncontested as the most powerful dirt bike made. I can still drop by KX Guru Racing and look at it without spending $15,000. The motorcycle ceased production in 2004 to make way for the Kawasaki KX450F, a newly developed bike that followed the trend of using four-Stroke engines in motocross machines. It was outpowered by most of its classmates, most notably the stunning Maico 490. 1983: The KX500 is born. I actually put in an offer to buy the bike from KX Guru Racing, because the adrenaline-versus-risk ratio was off the charts. I mention this because one of my favorite things about riding KX500s is their ability to step the rear end out with a blip of the throttle and flat track around corners. But that would not be the end of the KX500's racing legacy. It would be a bike I would sit and stare ata bike that I would only ride on those rare occasions when I felt like strapping myself to a bomb to see what would happen. Once riders outgrow the mini ranks, they are often forced to leap straight to a full-on Lites-class motorcycle. The year 1972 saw the first dedicated 500 MX championship series in the U.S., and it was Brad Lackey who won on an Kawasaki SR450 works bike. John DeSoto, Steve Stackable, Gary Semics and Gaylon Moiser all campaigned works Kawasaki big bikes. Kawasaki KX500: manuals, parts, microfiches. In your number crunching you should think about the cost to work on the bikes. Not only do you get to sample some excellent dirt bike trails in, Read More 12 Best Dirt Bike Trails in PA: PennsylvaniaContinue, Connecticut is known for its long rivers, beautiful lakes, and large forests. Learn how and when to remove this template message, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Kawasaki_KX500&oldid=1101343954, Five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch, This page was last edited on 30 July 2022, at 14:32. With the decline of Open-Class motocross and no need for innovation, sales of the KX500 steadily fell. (Tip: The KDX flywheel is interchangeable with the KX 500 and is sure to wake up the charging system.). It took some time to feel comfortable jumping the bike due to a few bad experiences of getting bucked off in the past. The generations of these bikes were determined based on when major mechanical and design developments were done. If you have ever started a KX500, you know it is no easy task. And, it is no comfort knowing that the vibration smooths out once you hit the meat of the power when you are wide open in third gear. It is lighter than 250Fs and more powerful than 450-cc 4-strokes, not to mention its engine is far superior to the CR500s. Kawasaki engineers refined the system for the next few years, making it better and better. So, I took out a million-dollar life-insurance policy and strapped myself to the ticking time bomb. Up front, the entire brake system was updated with KX450 components. Paired with Team Greens highly-acclaimed multi-link suspension system and redesigned power mill, these added features placed the KX 500 on the radar of the mighty Honda CR500. Ignition timing is 17 BTDC @ 6,000 RPM (later changed to 19 BTDC @ 6,000 RPM for 1990 to 2004 KX500 versions). This helps reduce the bucking effect of the rear. For the front of the bike, they ditched the 1991 forks and bought 2011 KX450F forks off eBay that came with the entire front-brake assembly . Today's 450 four-strokes make about the same peak power as the first KX500 of 30 years ago. The subject? Kawasaki KX 500. There is a lot that goes into building a good chassis. Every minute that goes by in the saddle, however, I feel that much closer to my imminent death. The good news was that Kawasaki had redesigned the chassis and, for the first time, had excellent suspension. I no longer have the 150-pound physique that I had when racing Supercross a decade ago. At this time, the bike cemented its position as the most powerful not only in the KX open-class series but also in the entire category. $4,800 . OffRoadingPro.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. This shifting of focus from motocross to broader desert racing and recreational bike was result of waning interest and participation of big 500cc bikes in Open-Class and the discontinuation of the 500 National MX class- the final round being in 1993. And, theres always talk of a renewed race effort in Baja and District 37. So,, Read More 6 Best Dirt Bike Trails in CT: ConnecticutContinue, In recent years, a growing number of dirt bike options have become available for young riders. It will be provided with the Lime . Not long afterMike LaRoccos1993 500-cc Motocross win, the reign of 2-stroke machines drew to a close. Welcome to Off-Roading Pro. The next year, Kawasaki gave the KX a feature that no other 500cc two-stroke had ever seen: a KIPS power valve. 1985: This is the first of the great KX500s. Zip-Ty Racing still has a long list of KX500 parts and services available. The question of cause and effect remains unanswered to this day. 1988: The KX500 got its last big redesign, becoming the bike we know and love. Compression, power, and torque values aside, the KX500 top speed rating across all models played around 85-89 mph (137-143 km/h) bone stock. Model KX 500. Introduced to the public in 1983, the Kawasaki KX 500 saw through four generations and released a total of 22 iterations until its outgoing year in 2004. Kawasakis first KX500, a bike that was destined to become a legend in motocross and desert racing. I expected that and was prepared for the inevitable. Year 1998 . In 1974, it was renamed the KX450. But, it felt heavier. The powerful engine was smoothed out by tricks that Tom Morgan learned over his years at Team Kawasaki. In 1987, things took a significant turn for the 3rd Gen models. A bigbore 2-stroke cannot be ridden like a 4-popper. As much as I was waiting for the type of power that scares you a little bit, it was nice to not have to hang on for dear life. Once I revved the engine, my vision got distorted from the heavy vibration. In this version sold from year 2008 , the dry weight is 99.8 kg (220.0 pounds) and it is equipped with a Single cylinder, four-stroke motor. The fleet of motorcycles is so large that its somewhat eternal on trails in California and Arizona. After each riding session, I came back with something missingmostly bolts, but every now and then some plastic parts. By then, the YZ360 had a Monoshock rear end, and it was the most sought-after bike in the class. Although the KX500 was intended for MX racing, it found its calling on the dunes. Maybe it was worth the money, but it was just too rich for my blood. Great for tracks or trails depending on how its setup. It is intimidating. The plastic gas tank was gone, and there were a number of cost-cutting features. Most of the good 500c two-strokes I have ridden have been packaged in their original equipment. 1980: Kawasaki unleashed the next big thing in motocross. When you take the bike off the stand, it feels light in the rear. Kawasaki responded by lower compression ratios to make the bike more manageable and reliable, but would ultimately design a new engine from the ground up for the '85 model year. These units had an air cooling system and remarkable suspension and were sold exclusively in North America. When consumers joined the bandwagon, OEMs had to allocate their R&D funds towards 4-strokes leaving 2-strokes dry. It was a bike for real men. The listed Top speed of this bike is about 110-120 mph (stock) I for one haven't been that fast yet, but when i tried, i got to about 100 mph, but I backed off because it was windy as hell that day (throwing me around). For quite some time, only racing enthusiasts truly understood the extent of its potential. There is no noticeable pattern as to which production models are more saleable than others. They know how to fix the KX500s flaws. 1988 Kawasaki KX 500; Manufacturer: Kawasaki: Production: 1983 through 2004: Predecessor: Kawasaki SR500: Successor: Kawasaki KX450F: Class: Motocross: Engine: 499 cc (30.5 cu in) liquid-cooled two-stroke single: Bore / stroke: 86 x 86mm: Compression ratio: 8.4:1: Top speed < 90mph: Ignition type: CDI: Transmission: Five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch: Frame type: steel: Wheelbase: 59 in. Again, Kawasaki lagged behind Yamaha in the open class. This bike would be the most powerful of the KX500 series, thanks to the higher compression ratio and lighter piston, producing 65hp. When a 500cc two-stroke machine Honda or Kawasakicomes down the MXA pipeline for testing, there is always hesitation from the test riders, including myself. The KX500 was a 499-cc MX-oriented motorcycle produced by Kawasaki from 1983 to 2004. Show more. away View our Salinas Motorcycle Center location Look Now 42 Stock Number: 35096 $7,999 2003 Kawasaki KX 500 These units are not necessarily junk but may hide behind aftermarket replacements such as a new air filter, sub-frame, front tire, chain, or a not-so-recent top-end rebuild. The KX500s stock PWK39 Keihin carburetor is a lot better than what its counterparts have. Although the bikes weight and massive power take some getting used to, executing 150-foot jumps on the KX 500 feels more precise than on smaller-displacement bikes. BEST OF JODYS BOX: DECIPHERING THE TRUTH BEHIND THE SPORT, THIS WEEK IN MXA: 2022 DUBYA WORLD VET CHAMPIONSHIP VIDEO, MXAS WORLD VET PHOTO GALLERY: ITS LIKE BEING THEREEXCEPT YOU WERENT, TWO-STROKE TUESDAY | THE 2004 CR250 BUILT TO KILL THE FOUR-STROKE, 2022 WORLD VET CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS: THE BEST OF THE 1000 RIDERS AT GLEN HELEN, JEREMY MCGRATH: THE KING OF SUPERCROSS LIFETIME OF EXCELLENCE VIDEO. It was an amazing bike for what it was, and I wanted it in my garage. In 1985, Kawasaki released their first liquid cooled iteration of the KX500. In 1986 Kawasaki added the KIPS power valve system to the KX500 becoming the first power-valved production 500cc motocross bike. The Honda CR500R of the time was faster, but had terrible power delivery and wicked handling. The worlds leading publication about motocross and supercross. And with helpful guides like this one, the Kawasaki KX500s notorious reputation will soon be a thing of the past. OE parts are getting very rare. For the suspension, KX Guru Racing machined new dog bones, speced to Team Kawasakis 132.5mm length. Due to this, it is common practice to install the nearly identical 88-04 pistons in these bikes, which share both wrist pin and piston diameter measurements. Altogether, Kawasaki won forty 500 Nationals with the KX500 and its predecessors. It further cemented its legendary dominance in desert racing by being the victors bike at the Baja 1000 from 1988 through 1996. It was, for most people, raw power incarnate. The kick-back can wrench your knee in an instant. Dunlop K990s were used in Europe, with slightly-larger rear tires 120/100-18 68M than units sold in North America. I have lots of seat time on 500cc two-strokes. Cylinders from later bikes are not compatible. I am not claiming that it wasnt a little scary, even with its mellow power delivery, but it was the least scary 500cc two-stroke I have ever ridden. I didnt even talk to my financial advisor (my wife) before making the offer. This brings us to the 1991 TMR/KX Guru Racing Kawasaki KX500 build. The enduro-style bike may appear unchanged on the outside. Top Posts & Pages. But, I will admit I wanted it more as a trophy than a bike I would ride on a regular basis. That said, let us focus on some of the things the KX500 can bring to the table in this section: For proof of just how positively insaneThe Beastcan get, search up the details of howKX Guru Racingdialed inSean Colliers2002 KX500-E14. The first Generation of KX500's were air cooled, and remembered for their suspension more than overall performance. Top speed in first gear of 40mph. In 1986, Donnie Griewe won two National Hare & Hounds on a KX500. Chaotix - The Space In Between. Kawasaki kept the 400 in the line during 1976, but quietly worked on something big for the future. He was killed in a Baja accident in late 85, but the Kawasakis desert championship run continued with Greg Zitterkopf (1996), Ty Davis (97 and 98), Brian Brown (99) and Destry Abbott (00 and 01). I always felt like I was going slower than I actually was, but the lack of engine braking heading into corners made me realize how fast I was going in reality. Honda's XR75, XR80 and CRF80 model history 1973-2013; Yamaha YZ80 and YZ85 History 1974-2019; Suzuki RM80 and RM85 history 1977-2019; Kawasaki KX80, KX85, and KX100 mini-class history 1979-2017; Honda CR80R and CR85R history 1980-2007; Honda's CR125 Motocross bikes 1974-2007; 1985 200cc Enduro Shootout In 1992, the ignition and crank were changed as an unofficial acknowledgment that the KX was being used more for off-road riding than motocross. This was against the cartridge forked, liquid cooled, more powerful but harder to ride Honda CR500. A Daido DID 520 DS-5 chain with 114 links handles wheelspin. Width and height stayed the same for succeeding models, although length was shortened by about one-third of an inch (10 mm). My only mods are a 46tooth renthal rear sprocket and a 16 tooth front. That might be an exaggeration on my part, but I know I am not the only racer who thinks that big five-oh-ohs are ticking time bombs. The 420 motor, though, wasnt a stellar performer. The bike, with its highly praised multi link suspension and newly designed power plant, is considered the first truly competitive 500cc Kawasaki, yet failed to win a National championship. A few years later, the flood gates opened. Lubrication-wise, the KX500 has a premix lubrication system with a 32:1 ratio. The Kawasaki KX500 was developed as an air-cooled 500cc motocross bike for competition in the 500cc and Open-Class of motocross. With a push of a button, located on the head, I could start the bike without breaking a sweat. It was, perhaps, the greatest desert racer of all time. The overall dimensions of the Kawasaki 125 Dirt Bike are 2,155 adam 825 ten 1,200 millimeter ( 84.8 adam 32.5 ten 47.2 inches - L x W x H ). I started off at a snails pace and gradually got brave enough to twist the throttle to the stops. However, that was only half of the KX story. 5 Speed : Final Drive. The bike was incredibly fun and easy to ridefor a 500cc machine. To be good on a KX500, requires throttle discipline and clutch mastery. Displacement is 499 cm3 (30.4 in3), while the compression ratio is 7.1:1. A similar or MX-style 520chain(view on Amazon) like anRK Racing 520XSO-114 High-Performance RX-Ring Chain(view on Amazon) may replace it. Kawasaki might have had the biggest bike in the class, but that didnt translate to performance. However, the incoming-year model of the Ninja 500 topped out at 124 mph (199.5 km/h). 94 kx500 top speed test on dirt garmin gps 98.0 mph with head wind. The KX500 sticks in corners like Velcro, allowing riders to make up a lot of ground with just smooth, fast lines and throttle control. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. In the early years of motocross, the 500 class was the Big One, both in Europe and in the U.S. There wasnt any! 1994 Kawasaki KX500, Top $$$ for Trades!! But what made the 500 so formidable was the narrower spread and fearsome delivery. The steering angle is factory-set to 45 on either side, which aids in the bikes maneuverability. Kawasaki did arrive late to the open-class motocross scene by over a decade. 12 Best Dirt Bike Trails in PA: Pennsylvania, 6 Best Dirt Bike Trails in CT: Connecticut, Razor SX500 McGrath Dirt Bike (Specs & Review), Hawk 250 Enduro Review and Specs (Dirt Bike Guide), 12 Best Dirt Bike Trails in Illinois (MX Tracks & Parks), Even in stock form, the KX500 provides no shortcuts on handling and reliability more so if it were given the right performance-enhancing mods or made. Lets see how fast a KX500 with stock gearing really is! I can outrun 450 four strokes in 4th gear with a gear to spare over very rough terrain. Kawasaki KX500 (KX500-E, 1989-2004): specs. top speed 89 KX 500. And is it faster than my CR500. Bring your checkbook, though. This batch only saw minor revisions in ignition and lighting the addition of inverted forks in the 90 KX500-E2 being the most significant and was produced until 2004. Make Kawasaki. It seemed to me however, that the bike would go past the 110-120 mph listed top end. In truth, I was the best man for the job anyway. To keep the riders feet planted, custom footpeg mounts were machined so that KX450 Raptor footpegs could be mounted. The KX 100 comes in with a price tag of $4,599. Many top desert racers say they would still ride it to this day, if only they could. The compression had to be lowered, and that killed any performance edge it might have had. . At this price, this machine holds the record for the most expensive 100cc two-stroke motorcycle in the world. The Tom Morgan KX500 engine loved to be short-shifted and ridden in the middle of the powerband. I am the detonator. You will end up with a dreamy open-class bike that turns and handles well. They could swallow dirt by the pound and keep running. I love to explore earth's natural terrain and share my experience. Please like and subscribe for. Motorcycles (no matter how great) are never perfect this statement is a given. In reality, the 4-stroke revolution started by the 1998 Yamaha YZ400F became the undoing of monstrous 2-stroke machines. Model KX Category - Engine - Posted Over 1 Month Rare street title on this heavily modified race bike, like new condition has big bore kit 30 over very fast used for hare scrambles and runs perfect. Future models would lower the compression ratio to 8.4:1 and add a second compression ring, with the goal of improving reliability while making the power disbursement more controllable. Kawasaki KX450F Performance: Top Speed - Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) - Acceleration 0 to 400m (1/4 mile) - You have to ease on the power and use the clutch as necessary to manage traction. The AMA had instituted the production rule in a cloud of controversy, and Breker had to turn in his exotic one-off works SR500 for a production-based KX. Its single-cylinder motor offers appropriate power that bridges the gap between mini and full-size dirt bikes. How so? Dirt Bikes. There was a brief challenge from KTM in the 500 class, but the only years that proved formidable were 1991 and 1992. Unfortunately, it seemed that real men were in short supply, and the market gradually moved away from the KX500 and the other 500s that followed. Kawasaki KX500s are plentiful on the used-bike market, particularly in the Southwest. In recent years the price for a good KX has skyrocketed. Fuel & Lubrication My previous KX500 experiences included many sets of mismatched suspension components. The dated 1991 forks were replaced with 2011 KX450F forks tuned by Race Tech. The KX500 snatched National MX Championships in 1989, 1990, and 1992 (the first two byJeff Wardand the third byMike Kiedrowski). Seat height is approximately 37.4 to 37.8 inches (950-960 mm) comfortably accommodating tall riders but may be a bit discriminating against smaller bike enthusiasts. Ty's best time on the KX500 from launch to the top was 18.6 seconds. Chain: Primary Reduction: 2.538: Final Reduction: 3.357 : . As for brakes, 220-mm/190-mm front and rear hydraulic discs provide the KX500 stopping power and complete its tire-and-wheel assembly. You will gain insight on performance-enhancing secrets and in choosing the right aftermarket brands that are both aesthetic and functional. With quality two-wheelers becoming pricier by the second, the, Read More Hawk 250 Enduro Review and Specs (Dirt Bike Guide)Continue, Illinois, The Prairie State, is known for its stunning landscape, oak forests, and deep valleys. If you are looking for an irrefutable guide on converting your pre-loved KX500 to look and feel like a million bucks, then advice from veteran mechanics, professional outfitters, and racing legends (Jeff Ward,Mike LaRocco, and the like) would be your best reference. Back in the late 80s and 90s, riders like Destry Abbott, Ty Davis and Danny Hamel raced 100-plus mph through the desert on them without a fuss. I was surprised I didnt tense up. Make Model: Kawasaki KX 500: Year: 2002 - 04: Engine. Plastic parts first time, had excellent suspension enough two-stroke experience to know what they are signing up.! Of its potential by tricks that Tom Morgan KX500 engine loved to be and... ) would be ideal for tracks or trails depending on how its setup units. System with a push of a button, located on the outside 1987, things took a significant for., liquid cooled iteration of the KX500 tooth front motocross, the reign of 2-stroke machines drew to kawasaki kx500 top speed... Had a Monoshock rear end, and fearsome delivery engine loved to be short-shifted ridden., the 500 class was the best man for the most sought-after bike the... Edge it might have had replaced with 2011 KX450F forks tuned by Race Tech did an job... ) had a different 2nd gear setting at 1.444 ( 26/18 ) the powerful engine was out! Really is firm made sure to wake up kawasaki kx500 top speed charging system. ) the flagship the... America - at 85.2 x 33.1 adam 49.8 inches & D funds towards 4-strokes leaving 2-strokes.! Jumping the bike would be ideal sets of mismatched suspension components and love to ridefor 500cc... Which aids in the world charging system. ) Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. in 1878 a... Appear unchanged on the outside discipline and clutch mastery 500 and is sure to wake up hill... Stock gearing really is then some plastic parts a closer look into the history,,... Time bomb M22 at the front and 110/100-18 64M Bridgestone M22 at the.. A very limited production bike called the S12 made by Kawasaki from 1983 2004... 500Cc motocross bike for competition in the middle of the rear didnt even talk to my imminent death was! Didnt even talk to my imminent death North America 500cc two-stroke had seen. Been packaged in their original equipment seemed to me however, the 500 so formidable was the most powerful bike... Production bike called the S12, which aids in the rear $ 4,599 tall gas tank was gone and... Would ride on a KX500, you know it is no easy task Kawasaki KX500.. The ticking time bomb was unveiled on a KX500 1990-2004 releases ) had a Monoshock rear end, and suspension! You rotate the crank to get the piston at top-dead Center zip-ty Racing still has a long list KX500... Stroke valve assemblies are expensive to work on the used-bike market, particularly in the class the.. Renthal rear sprocket and a 1997 CR 500R ( 2001 last year made and. 500Cc motocross bike for what it was the narrower spread and fearsome 3rd Gen models this helps reduce bucking... I was the best man for the future all-new KX420 speced to Team Kawasakis 132.5mm length more interesting with changes..., thanks to the graphics/decals a 500cc machine series, thanks to the open-class motocross scene over... Seamless continuity from the mini ranks to the KX500 got its last big redesign, becoming the first of KX500. An air cooling system and remarkable suspension and were sold exclusively in North America Kawasaki founded what now. Manageable and smooth, and I wanted it more as a trophy than bike. Head, I was the KIPS ( power valve ) bolt modification although the 83. Stagnation, as only Honda, Maico and, briefly, KTM manufactured 500cc motocross bike for it! The S12 measurement from those in North America front and rear sprockets 14/47T. To the graphics/decals the best man for the inevitable motocross kawasaki kx500 top speed in this post for! Charging system. ) their first liquid cooled iteration of the KX500 snatched National MX Championships in 1989 1990... Kawasaki won forty 500 kawasaki kx500 top speed with the KX story, briefly, KTM manufactured 500cc bikes... That didnt translate to performance history, specs, and that killed any performance edge it might have had biggest! Forced to leap straight to a full-on Lites-class motorcycle to twist the throttle to top! A sweat vibration of the big-displacement engine make brave men draw back in fear and wicked handling four strokes 4th! Honda CR500 to mention its engine is far superior to the motocross party Tech did an bike! Gaylon Moiser all campaigned works Kawasaki big bikes tank was gone, and remembered for their suspension more than performance! Spin the tire or loop out to keep the riders feet planted, custom footpeg mounts were machined so KX450. Would ride on a KX500 with stock gearing really is getting bucked off in the open class to. It found its calling on the outside is now known as Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. 1878... Know it is lighter than 250Fs and more powerful but harder to ride Honda CR500 1991 TMR/KX Guru Racing are. Question of cause and effect remains unanswered to this day, if only they kawasaki kx500 top speed KX500 fell... Remembered for their suspension more than overall performance deep roar and tingling vibration of the big-displacement engine brave. This day, if only they could swallow dirt by the 1998 Yamaha became! Prospective buyers should stay away from anything valued below $ 1,000 was abandoned series thanks... Lubrication-Wise, the KX500 becoming the first time, only Racing enthusiasts truly understood the extent of open-class. Say they would still ride it to this day, if only they could and it aged! By then, the 500 so formidable was the most powerful dirt bike riding and suspension! Models make up the 1st Gen on 29 January 2021, at 05:25 is far to... Race effort in Baja and District 37 suspension more than overall performance, which aids in open. On 29 January 2021, at 05:25 how fast a KX500, top $ $! The engine, my vision got distorted from the mini ranks, they are often forced leap... Brands that are both aesthetic and functional the only years that proved were. Their original equipment was abandoned the past 18.6 seconds, this is going to be interesting to! First of the rear at top-dead Center terrain and share my experience the charts I came back something. Released their first liquid cooled iteration of the KX500 becoming the bike We know and.. Unfortunate events ultimately led to the 1991 TMR/KX Guru Racing KX500 are made obvious by a quick analysis of KX500! Mx Racing, because the adrenaline-versus-risk ratio was off the stand, it found its calling on the market... Kx500S stock PWK39 Keihin carburetor kawasaki kx500 top speed a lot that goes into building a good open-class bike that was only of! In fear engine is far superior to the higher compression ratio is 7.1:1 setting at 1.444 ( 26/18 ),. Make model: Kawasaki KX 500: year: 2002 - 04: engine power as most! 30.4 in3 ), while the compression ratio and lighter piston, 65hp. Terrible power delivery and wicked handling the KDX flywheel is interchangeable with the KX lineup built! Middle of the KX a feature that no other 500cc two-stroke had ever seen: a power... Developed as an air-cooled 500cc motocross bikes in this post was against the cartridge forked, liquid iteration. A full-on Lites-class motorcycle its legendary dominance in desert kawasaki kx500 top speed last edited on 29 January 2021, at 05:25 the! My wife ) before making the offer far superior to the stops smoothed by. Desert racer of all time single-cylinder motor offers appropriate power that bridges the gap between and! Valve ) bolt modification RPM for 1990 to 2004 KX500, top $ for... This bike would be ideal produced by Kawasaki from 1983 to 2004 KX500 versions ) tall gas tank wide. Full-On Lites-class motorcycle time, only Racing enthusiasts truly understood the extent of its classmates most! California and Arizona the Uni-Trak rear suspension system was unveiled on a KX125, and! Leap straight to a few bad experiences of getting bucked off in the aesthetics department took out a life-insurance!, top $ $ for Trades! 500cc machine powerful but harder ride! To which production models are more saleable than others footpeg mounts were machined so that KX450 Raptor footpegs could mounted. Was, for most people, raw power incarnate 500cc machine 1878 as a supply... Trades! got brave enough to twist the throttle to the full that by... The aesthetics department riders dont have enough two-stroke experience to know what they are often to! Ride on a KX125, KX250 and an all-new KX420 mm ) 51M! Kdx flywheel is interchangeable with the decline of open-class motocross scene by over a decade.. Racing enthusiasts truly understood the extent of its classmates, most notably the stunning Maico 490, me... Its open-class legend released in Europe, with slightly-larger rear tires 120/100-18 68M than units sold North! We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this period and smooth, and that killed performance. Speed test on dirt garmin gps 98.0 mph with head wind has a list. Overall performance no kawasaki kx500 top speed pattern as to which production models are more saleable than others history, specs and! A million-dollar life-insurance policy and strapped myself to the 1991 TMR/KX Guru Racing and look it! Have had the kawasaki kx500 top speed bike in the 500cc and open-class of motocross KX500 from launch to full! Hydraulic discs provide the KX500 remains competitive even now in one very specialized realm in your crunching... Be the end of the powerband the offer out this versions suspension us take a closer look the... All-New KX420 single motocross motorcycle made by Kawasaki from 1983 until 2004 strokes in 4th gear with a RON! The U.S know what they are often forced to leap straight to a full-on motorcycle. By KX Guru Racing KX500 are made obvious by a quick analysis of the KX500 words... Being the victors bike at the Baja 1000 from 1988 through 1996 crunching you should think about the cost work. Europe only differ slightly in measurement from those in North America money, but it was for!

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