Positioned in Kawasaki's sport motorcycle lineup, the 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 500R relies on a 498 cc (30.4 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, maximum torque reaches 48.5 Nm (35.8 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 74.0 x 58.0 mm (2.9 x 2.3 inches) with a 10.8:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the Ninja 500R measures 176 kg (388 lbs) dry. Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 775 mm (30.5 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,435 mm (56.5 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 18.16-liter (4.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 4 indexed model years from 2007 to 2010, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Standover Height
775 mm (30.5 in)
Engine
Displacement498.0 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsIn-line four, four-stroke
Torque48.5 Nm (4.9 kgf-m or 35.8 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Compression10.8:1
Bore x Stroke74.0 x 58.0 mm (2.9 x 2.3 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin CVK34 x 2
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeHigh-tensile steel, perimeter design
Rake27.0°
Trail91 mm (3.6 inches)
Front Suspension37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.1 in.
Rear SuspensionUNI-TRAK® system with single shock / 3.9 in.
Wheelbase1435 mm (56.5 inches)
Ground Clearance119 mm (4.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre110/70-17
Rear Tyre130/70-x17
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø220 mm (8.7 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight176.0 kg (388.0 pounds)
Seat Height775 mm (30.5 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.
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.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
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.
