Kawasaki KLE 500 - 1997 Specifications and Reviews

The 1997 Kawasaki KLE 500 is a lightweight dual-sport enduro designed for novice and intermediate riders seeking affordable adventure touring and light off-road capability. Its modest 34 hp parallel-twin engine delivers accessible performance with manageable seat height, making it ideal for commuting and weekend exploration. The KLE 500 is best known for its reliability, low maintenance costs, and forgiving nature for riders building dual-sport skills.

Not Rated stars Average rating: Not Rated from 0 votes
.

General information

CategoryEnduro / offroad
Year1997
ModelKawasaki KLE 500

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Gearbox6-speed
Torque36.00 Nm (3.7 kgf-m or 26.6 ft.lbs) @ 3000
Power34.00
Engine typeTwin, four-stroke
Capacity:499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesSingle disc
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Seat height850 mm (33.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.1910 HP/kg
Dry weight178.0 kg (392.4 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

44.3 hp
Peak Power
6.5s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track15%
City60%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding65%
Touring55%
Passenger40%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits riders from intermediate skill level upward who want a forgiving, torque-light single to build confidence on mixed terrain.
PurposeIt's built as a dual-sport all-rounder, equally at home commuting through town and tackling gravel tracks or light trails.
Rider FitThe tall 850mm seat height and 21-inch front wheel demand reasonably confident leg reach and some upper-body strength for slow-speed maneuvering off-road.
CharacterSimple, rugged, and unpretentious, this is a low-maintenance workhorse rather than a machine that thrills with outright performance.
Not Ideal ForIt's not for riders chasing high-speed thrills, sport-bike cornering precision, or plush two-up long-distance touring comfort.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 850mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with tip-toe one foot on the 1997 Kawasaki KLE 500, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

Rider Reviews

Add a Comment


Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.