Adventure Motorcycles
2006Kawasaki KLE500
27 fields on record
The 2006 Kawasaki KLE500 is an adventure bike for riders who want long-distance comfort with light off-road ability. Its 498cc liquid-cooled twin makes 44.3 hp and 41 Nm, with an 850 mm seat, a 181 kg dry weight and a 15-litre tank.
- Capacity
- 498.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 181.0 kg
- Seat height
- 850 mm
- Power
- 44.3 HP (32.6 kW)
What’s new for the 2006 Kawasaki KLE500
vs the 2005| Spec | 2005 | 2006 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 45.0 HP (33.1 kW) | 44.3 HP (32.6 kW) |
| Top speed | 180.0 km/h (111.8 mph) | not listed |
| Wet weight | 200.0 kg (440.9 pounds) | not listed |
| Front suspension | telescopic fork | 220 mm |
| Rear suspension | — | 200 mm |
| Front brakes | Single disc | not listed |
| Rear brakes | Single disc | not listed |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for long road journeys with the ability to handle gravel and light trails along the way.
- Built for
- An adventure bike from Kawasaki with a 498cc engine; its character is versatile and engaging, with 44 hp on tap.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders who want a low, light city bike or serious competition off-road riding.
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
- 44.3 HP (32.6 kW)
- Torque
- 41.0 Nm (4.2 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2448 HP/kg (dry)
- Compression
- 9.8:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- Digital
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- wet, multi disc
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1510 mm
- Overall length
- 2215 mm
- Overall width
- 880 mm
- Seat height
- 850 mm
- Dry weight
- 181.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 15.00 litres
- Ground clearance
- Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Double-cradle, high-tensile steel
- Front suspension
- 220 mm
- Rear suspension
- 200 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 27.0°
Brakes & wheels
- Front tyre
- 90/90-M21
- Rear tyre
- 130/80-M17
Specs last verified against published sources: .
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 | 1991 | 1995 | 1999 | 2003 | 2006 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 499 cc | 499 cc | 498 cc | 499 cc | 498 cc | 498 cc |
| Dry weight | 181 kg | 181 kg | 181 kg | 181 kg | 181 kg | 181 kg |
| Seat height | 850 mm | 850 mm | 850 mm | 850 mm | 850 mm | 850 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 15 L | 15 L | 15 L | 15 L | 15 L | 15 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 KLE500?
The 2006 Kawasaki KLE500 has a Capacity of 498.0 ccm (30.39 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki KLE500 have?
The 2006 Kawasaki KLE500 has a Power of 44.3 HP (32.6 kW).
How many gears does the Kawasaki KLE500 have?
The 2006 Kawasaki KLE500 has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki KLE500?
The 2006 Kawasaki KLE500 has a Torque of 41.0 Nm (4.2 kgf-m or 30.2 ft.lbs).
How much does the Kawasaki KLE500 weigh?
The 2006 Kawasaki KLE500 has a Dry weight of 181.0 kg (399.0 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2006 Kawasaki KLE 500 is a reliable and versatile adventure bike that is perfect for riders of all experience levels. With its 498cc parallel twin engine, the KLE 500 has plenty of power for both highway cruising and off-road exploration. The comfortable seat and upright riding position make long rides a breeze, while the large fuel tank ensures that you can go the distance without constantly refueling. Overall, the KLE 500 is a great choice for anyone looking for a capable and affordable adventure bike.
In summary, the 2006 Kawasaki KLE 500 is a standout option in the adventure bike market. Its powerful engine, comfortable ergonomics, and ample fuel capacity make it a great choice for riders who want to explore both on and off-road. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, the KLE 500 is a reliable and versatile option that is sure to provide countless hours of adventure and fun.
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