Engineered by Kawasaki for the naked motorcycle segment, the 2006 Kawasaki KLE 500 utilizes a 498 cc (30.4 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 44.3 HP (32.3 kW) while maximum torque reaches 41 Nm (30.2 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 89 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 850 mm (33.5 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,510 mm (59.4 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 Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 11 indexed model years from 1991 to 2006, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
89 HP/L
Standover Height
850 mm (33.5 in)
Engine
Displacement498.0 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power44.3 HP (32.3 kW))
Torque41.0 Nm (4.2 kgf-m or 30.2 ft.lbs) @ 4200 RPM
Compression9.8:1
Bore x Stroke74.0 x 58.0 mm (2.9 x 2.3 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin CVK34 x 2
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
IgnitionDigital
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeDouble-cradle, high-tensile steel
Rake27.0°
Front Suspension220 mm
Rear Suspension200 mm
Wheelbase1510 mm (59.4 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre90/90-M21
Rear Tyre130/80-M17
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø230 mm (9.1 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Seat Height850 mm (33.5 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.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
