Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Technical, Bike forums > Kawasaki Tech
Kawasaki Tech Kawasaki Tech Forum - For Questions specific and of interest to Kawasaki riders only.
Photo by Andy Miller, UK, Taking a rest, Jokulsarlon, Iceland

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Andy Miller, UK,
Taking a rest,
Jokulsarlon, Iceland



Like Tree1Likes

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 30 Sep 2002
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Posts: 3
Kawasaki KLE 500

Greetings

Almost everyone here is talking about KLRs.Biggest problem about that bike is that the European version of KLR has only 43 HP, quite narrow seat and small fuel tank (compared to US version), and that makes it less popular for traveling(than in USA . Another alternative is KLE 500 (not sold in US) which has engine derived form GPZ 500 but of course it is detuned from 60 hp to 50 hp.
Its more of a street bike with enduro looks(that means that it isnt as good off road as KLR). Still if someone has KLE could he/she please share his or her opinion about the bike.
But there is something that I dont understand.GPZ has 60 hp and its average fuel consumption is 55 mpg. There are also three other kawa models which have same but detuned engines. KLE 500, ER-5 and EN 500.Fuel consumption on both ER 5 and EN 500 is around 55 mpg (similar to GPZs) but KLE has only 45 mpg. Anyone knows why is that so?
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 26 Oct 2002
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Manchester
Posts: 54
The KLE is a fine bike BUT can be very uncomfortable due to its firm, thin seat. Take one for a long ride, if possible - not everyone finds off-roaders uncomfortable. It is indeed a GPZ500 beefed up a bit to handle bad roads, although even Kawasaki would admit they are thinking more of slight potholes in tarmac than badly damaged roads.
If most of your riding is going to be on crumbly tarmac and gravel roads, the KLE will be fine. The engine is proven, but needs careful servicing and frequent oil changes.
I would take the fuel consumption figures you read in magazines ( or even from your mates ) with a pinch of salt. If you ride swiftly but carefully you can easily get up to 70m.pg. out of these bikes, especially if you can cruise at 55-70 m.p.h for long periods. However, if you go off road and spend a lot of time in the low gears, clutch slipping, stopping and starting, you can run on empty within minutes! ( Slight exaggeration, perhaps....)
A good bike, but is it still available new?
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 22 Jun 2006
muthaf9cka's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: London
Posts: 124
Smile My new KLE500

I've recently purchased a brand new '06 KLE500 and I'm extremely impressed with it. Alright, I'm not a very experienced biker and it is only the second bike I've ever owned, but don't take my word for it - my father who has 30 odd years of biking experience liked it too and he competes in trials competitions and lives and breathes classic Triumphs.

So far I've clocked up 1400 miles in 6 or 7 weeks which included my daily 2 mile commute and a trip from London around Dartmoor and I can confidently say it handles traffic, motorways and rough trails with relative ease. It can cruise at 90mph although the windblast gets quite tiring over 70mph. The screen doesn't do much over 60mph and seems to direct the wind directly into your face so goggles or a full face helmet are advisable. The front brake is woeful and I've managed to knacker the front pads in only 800 miles around London, although I can't help really hammering them anyway. The more sensible amongst you might be able to resist that particular temptation and I can still get another 1000 or so miles out of the current pads.

The major problem with this bike from a design point of view is its lack of identity. It can't decide whether it's a commuter bike or a trailie which in some ways is in its favour as it seems to handle both with relative ease although surpasses in neither category. The new model is down on power on previous versions due to tighter emissions regulations, however it still has plenty of usable grunt, especially around the 5,000 rpm mark. Two-up is a bit of a hassle (especially with the high exhaust), but 30-40kg of luggage shouldn't be too much of a problem. A big issue for me is the lack of a centre stand. This means I'll probably get a scott-oiler and an old rug to make servicing easier as there seems to be no obvious place to fit a centre stand as it has a large bash-plate and the exhaust ports run right under the bottom of the frame. I still haven't worked out how to service many aspects of the bike yet, but pads and oil seem easy enough. Stock tyres are Dunlop Trailmax which seem OK and have the benefit of being tubed type which made my first puncture easy enough to repair. This puncture occured due to me filtering too much and leaving the rear tyre over inflated. The reason the rear tyre was over inflated is that I couldn't work out how the hell I was going to get an air jack into the valve due to the tiny rims, chunky rear disc and sprocket. It does require some thought, but is possible.

Being so tall, the bike is a bugger to get on and initally feels very heavy. To coin the cliche, all that weight disappears once it's moving. No, really, it does, this bike handles like a 125 once in first gear and the high riding position is easy to get used to. It does feel a little twitchy off road, but this stabilises at speed or with a generous amount of rear brake. I tried it following 4x4 tracks, but it should handle smoother surfaces better and isn't too heavy to pick up again, unlike a R1150GS for example. Unfortunately, all that lack of weight is deceptive, and I had a couple of hairy moments when I forgot that I was riding a 190kg motorcycle and not a 10 kg bicycle and needed a fair amount of upper body strength not to drop it.

To conclude, if you want a bike that really will do everything, then this is the one. Although it doesn't excel in any one area, it really does have all bases covered and has a good reputation for reliability. If any indication were needed, try finding a secondhand model.

Name:  16-06-06_1143.jpg
Views: 4382
Size:  30.5 KB
__________________
"On that? You're nuts!" - My cousin's boyfriend

Current Bikes - Kawasaki KLE500 '05 (May 06)
Previous Bikes - Hyosung GF125 (Oct 05 to May 06)
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 29 Jul 2006
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: N.E.Essex
Posts: 37
Smile KLE centre stand.

Hi, I was thinking about a scottoiler but I have found a source for a centre stand. It appears that there are brackets that attach to the frame/footpeg brackets, and the stand then attaches to the brackets.
Got to WEMOTO.COM and then go through what make/model you have, scroll down the list to find the centre stand. I think it was about £100.

Cheers, Richard.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 29 Jul 2006
muthaf9cka's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: London
Posts: 124
Quote:
Originally Posted by wobbly
Hi, I was thinking about a scottoiler but I have found a source for a centre stand. It appears that there are brackets that attach to the frame/footpeg brackets, and the stand then attaches to the brackets.
Got to WEMOTO.COM and then go through what make/model you have, scroll down the list to find the centre stand. I think it was about £100.

Cheers, Richard.
Let me know how you get on. I can't find the same part for the B1 ('05) model and I'm not sure the A spec ones will fit.
__________________
"On that? You're nuts!" - My cousin's boyfriend

Current Bikes - Kawasaki KLE500 '05 (May 06)
Previous Bikes - Hyosung GF125 (Oct 05 to May 06)
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 29 Jul 2006
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: N.E.Essex
Posts: 37
KLE center stand

Hi again. I think it'll fit on b1 models. There is an A3 model for sale on Ebay with some decent size photos. In the first photo you can see the right hand side panel is off of a B1 model. I'm just waiting for payday and then I'll be ordering one for myself.
Cheers, Richard.


p.s. anybody use a pdf manual like the ones available on ebay. Any good?
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 13 Aug 2006
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: Otago, New Zealand
Posts: 63
Thumbs up

On the subject of KLE accessories, check out this site
http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade...tview/319/237/
It seems to have a few choice bits that may help.

I collect my new KLE500 later this week, after heated grips, 45 l Givi top box and crash bars have been fitted - can't wait.
Will be the first of two KLEs (plus two 650 Vstroms) for my small rental business. Crash bars will pay for them selves by protecting plactic parts I hope.
__________________
Howie
V-strom 650, Transalp 650, DR-Z250
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 13 Aug 2006
Kumuya's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: Planet Earth
Posts: 105
Crash bars will pay for them selves by protecting plactic parts I hope.[/quote]

You don't have to worry about plastics even without crash bars, if you put reinforced handguards KLE's plastics will have nothing (even without handguards) If it falls it will stop on handlebar (and as you noticed it has a stop point without touching the plastics) and on foot rest (pilot and passenger). I know from my experience .... no plastics were touched.

But for your confort ..... it worth the money.
__________________
See me,
Feel me,
Touch me,
BEER ME!
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 13 Mar 2007
AussieMasada's Avatar
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Honiara, Solomon Islands
Posts: 15
My KLE blew over in a gust of wind straight of the sidestand (am buying a center stand now). It hit the road and the worst of the damage was the rear indicator was broken. No plastic was harmed
__________________
I have only one eye. Do you want me to look at the road or at the speedometer. Moshe Dayan

חובה
גאווה
כבוד
שנפלו הלוחמים עבור
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 13 Mar 2007
Radiohead's Avatar
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Durban, South Africa
Posts: 11
Quote:
Originally Posted by doc_au View Post
My KLE blew over in a gust of wind straight of the sidestand (am buying a center stand now). It hit the road and the worst of the damage was the rear indicator was broken. No plastic was harmed
The length of the sidestand is a little ridiculous! I have to consciously check out places to park that have leftward facing gradients so that the bike doesn't fall over! I'm going to take it off this weekend, cut it and then brace and weld it so that it is about 2 cm shorter.
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 16 Jul 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Port Elizabeth
Posts: 14
Quote:
Originally Posted by Radiohead View Post
The length of the sidestand is a little ridiculous! I have to consciously check out places to park that have leftward facing gradients so that the bike doesn't fall over! I'm going to take it off this weekend, cut it and then brace and weld it so that it is about 2 cm shorter.
did 2 cm do the job or did u find another way?
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 16 Jul 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: iceland
Posts: 7
need kle500 spare parts

i am looking for spare parts for my kle500
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 17 Jul 2007
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
Quote:
Originally Posted by serrento View Post
i am looking for spare parts for my kle500

Serrento,
All of these advertise in the UK as providing Kawasaki spares (some second hand, some new, some both probably. Also some are webpages and others are email addresses):-

parts@frasersofgloucester.co.uk

Twistgrip Motorcycles - Kawasaki Yamaha Honda Suzuki Spares Parts & More!

Welcome to Fowlers Motorcycles
spares@fowlers.co.uk

parts@cradleykawasaki.co.uk


hope this helps you,

Dave
__________________
Dave
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 30 Aug 2008
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Gwandalan, Australia
Posts: 1
Screen

G'day from the Land of Oz.

Just bought a KLE 500, 2006 with 985 km on the clock.

Am interested to hear your thoughts about the windshield. I reckon it could be more efficient? Has anyone fitteed an aftermarket or Kawasaki shield??

Bloody great bike so far. Am going to do heaps of travelling on it.

Also, as a new toureer, any hints on luggage of the soft variety that works?

As we say in Australia, See ya mate.

Cuttsy
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 30 Aug 2008
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: cumbria
Posts: 54
wind screen ,crash bars ,centre stand

hi
i have all these on my 08 kle.
the side stand i shortend well a mate did and it worked well.
the main stand was a must for chain and other work on bike.
i got a taller screen and a head light cover.
the screen is a couple of inchs bigger stop weather more than first screen but still wind in face.
the crash bars make bike look bigger as well as stop any damage.
have a look at my bike
robroymc - Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting

hope this helps
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

  • Virginia: April 24-27 2025
  • Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
  • Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
  • CanWest: July 10-13 2025
  • Switzerland: Date TBC
  • Ecuador: Date TBC
  • Romania: Date TBC
  • Austria: Sept. 11-15
  • California: September 18-21
  • France: September 19-21 2025
  • Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 05:39.