1999 Kawasaki EN 500 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Engineered by Kawasaki for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 1999 Kawasaki EN 500 utilizes a 499 cc (30.5 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 46 HP (33.6 kW) at 7,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 39 Nm (28.8 lb-ft) at 4,200 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 92.2 HP per liter and a 2,800 rpm working window between peak torque (4,200 rpm) and peak power (7,000 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 EN 500 measures 214 kg (472 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.21 HP/kg (4.65 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 715 mm (28.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,595 mm (62.8 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.9 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 306 km (190 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 159 km/h (99 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 12 indexed model years from 1990 to 2002, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
92.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.21 HP/kg (4.65 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
4,200–7,000 rpm
Theoretical Range
~306 km (190 mi)
Engine
Displacement499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, four-stroke
Power46.0 HP (33.6 kW)) @ 7000 RPM
Torque39.0 Nm (4.0 kgf-m or 28.8 ft.lbs) @ 4200 RPM
Compression10.2:1
Bore x Stroke74.0 x 58.0 mm (2.9 x 2.3 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed159.0 km/h (98.8 mph)
0-100 km/h6.70 seconds
60-140 km/h18.00 seconds
Fuel Consumption4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Front Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Rear Travel70 mm (2.8 inches)
Wheelbase1595 mm (62.8 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-19
Rear Tyre140/90-15
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake
Rear Brake Ø180 mm (7.1 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.214.0 kg (471.8 pounds)
Seat Height715 mm (28.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
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.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.