1988Kawasaki GPZ 500 S

33 fields on record

The 1988 Kawasaki GPZ 500 S is a lightweight sport touring twin designed for novice and intermediate riders seeking affordable performance. Known for its manageable 60 horsepower, responsive handling, and practical versatility, it bridges the gap between sport bikes and comfortable touring machines. Its liquid-cooled engine and relatively low weight make it accessible while delivering genuine riding enjoyment.

Capacity: 499.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 179.0 kg
Seat height: 775 mm
Power: 60.0 HP (44.1 kW) @ 9800 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering62%

City riding65%

Daily riding72%

Touring58%

Two-up50%

Track35%

Best for: Designed as an accessible entry-level sport tourer for commuting, learning, and light weekend rides rather than outright performance.
Built for: A friendly, unintimidating twin with smooth midrange delivery, favoring approachable usability over aggressive sportiness.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders chasing high-speed thrills, aggressive cornering performance, or serious long-distance touring comfort.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 499.0 ccm
Power: 60.0 HP (44.1 kW) @ 9800 RPM
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3352 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 74.0 x 58.0 mm
Compression: 10.8:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: transistorised
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Wet sump
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: wet plate

Performance

Top speed: 195.0 km/h (121.2 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1435 mm
Seat height: 775 mm
Dry weight: 179.0 kg
Wet weight: 196.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front wheel travel: 130 mm
Rear wheel travel: 100 mm
Rake (fork angle): 27.0°
Trail: 91 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 270 mm
Rear brakes: Expanding brake
Rear brakes diameter: 240 mm
Front tyre: 100/90-16
Rear tyre: 120/90-16

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	1987	1988	1991	1996	2000	2004
Capacity	499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)	499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)	499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)	498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)	499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)	498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)
Dry weight	—	—	—	179.0 kg (394.6 pounds)	179.0 kg (394.6 pounds)	178.0 kg (392.4 pounds)
Seat height	—	—	—	775 mm (30.5 inches)	775 mm (30.5 inches)	—
Fuel capacity	18.00 litres (4.76 gallons)	18.00 litres (4.76 gallons)	18.00 litres (4.76 gallons)	—	—	18.00 litres (4.76 gallons)
Color options	—	—	—	—	Blue, black, red	—