Engineered by Gilera for the scooter motorcycle segment, the 2008 Gilera Nexus 500 pairs a 460 cc (28.1 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 40.1 HP (29.3 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 43 Nm (31.7 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a automatic gearbox. With a specific output of 87.2 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (5,500 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the Nexus 500 measures 216 kg (476 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.19 HP/kg (5.39 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 780 mm (30.7 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,515 mm (59.6 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Gilera archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 2005 to 2009, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
87.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.19 HP/kg (5.39 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,500–7,500 rpm
Standover Height
780 mm (30.7 in)
Engine
Displacement460.0 ccm (28.07 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power40.1 HP (29.3 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque43.0 Nm (4.4 kgf-m or 31.7 ft.lbs) @ 5500 RPM
Compression10.5:1
Bore x Stroke92.0 x 69.0 mm (3.6 x 2.7 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionElectronic inductive discharge, variable spark advance controlled by electronic injection
LubricationWet sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
GearboxAutomatic
Performance
ExhaustClosed loop system with lambda sensor and three-way catalytic converter in exhaust pipe
Chassis
Frame TypeDouble cradle trellis made of high-strength steel tubes
Front SuspensionKayaba telehydraulic fork, and #1440;41 mm shafts
Rear SuspensionProgressive POWER DRIVE, Kayaba gas shock absorber with spring preload
Rear Travel76 mm (3.0 inches)
Wheelbase1515 mm (59.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-15
Rear Tyre160/60-14
Front BrakesSingle disc. Stainless steel double disc, 260 mm, with floating calliper and two Brembo pistons 28 mm front left and two Brembo pistons 26 mm front right
Front Brake Ø260 mm (10.2 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Stainless steel disk, 240 mm, fixed calliper, two 34 mm opposed pistons
Rear Brake Ø240 mm (9.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.216.0 kg (476.2 pounds)
Seat Height780 mm (30.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2090 mm (82.3 inches)
Overall Width765 mm (30.1 inches)
Fuel Capacity15.00 litres (3.96 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Notes
Meets all chapters of European Multidirective (Euro 2 )
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
