Naked Motorcycles
1998Kawasaki ER-5
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The 1998 Kawasaki ER-5 is a beginner-friendly naked bike powered by a liquid-cooled 498cc twin engine producing 50 horsepower. Known for its affordability, reliability, and manageable weight of 174kg, it's ideal for new riders learning fundamental motorcycle skills. Its approachable ergonomics and forgiving performance make it an excellent entry-level platform.
- Capacity
- 498.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 174.0 kg
- Seat height
- 780 mm
- Power
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW)
What’s new for the 1998 Kawasaki ER-5
vs the 1997| Spec | 1997 | 1998 |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 46.0 Nm (4.7 kgf-m or 33.9 ft.lbs) | 41.0 Nm (4.2 kgf-m or 30.2 ft.lbs) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's best suited as an easygoing commuter and learner-friendly all-rounder rather than a performance or adventure machine.
- Built for
- It has the character of a simple, reliable, no-fuss naked bike that prioritizes practicality and ease of use over excitement.
- Not ideal for
- It's not for riders seeking strong acceleration, high-speed touring comfort, or any serious off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 498.0 ccm
- Power
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW)
- Torque
- 41.0 Nm (4.2 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2874 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 74.0 x 58.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.8:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 185.0 km/h (115.0 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1430 mm
- Seat height
- 780 mm
- Dry weight
- 174.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 193.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 16.00 litres
Chassis & suspension
- Front suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear suspension
- Dual shocks with preload adjustment
- Front wheel travel
- 140 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 80 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 24.0°
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Front brakes diameter
- 280 mm
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Rear brakes diameter
- 160 mm
- Front tyre
- 110/70-17
- Rear tyre
- 130/70-17
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1997 | 1998 | 1999 | 2002 | 2004 | 2006 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499 cc | 498 cc | 499 cc | 499 cc | 498 cc | 498 cc |
| Dry weight | 174 kg | 174 kg | 177 kg | 179 kg | 179 kg | 193 kg |
| Seat height | 780 mm | 780 mm | 780 mm | 790 mm | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 16 L | 16 L | 16 L | 16 L | 17 L | 17 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki ER-5?
The 1998 Kawasaki ER-5 has a Capacity of 498.0 ccm (30.39 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki ER-5 have?
The 1998 Kawasaki ER-5 has a Power of 50.0 HP (36.8 kW).
How many gears does the Kawasaki ER-5 have?
The 1998 Kawasaki ER-5 has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki ER-5?
The 1998 Kawasaki ER-5 has a Torque of 41.0 Nm (4.2 kgf-m or 30.2 ft.lbs).
How much does the Kawasaki ER-5 weigh?
The 1998 Kawasaki ER-5 has a Dry weight of 174.0 kg (383.6 pounds).
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