1983 Kawasaki KX500
Specifications and workshop reference information for the 1983 Kawasaki KX500, including engine, chassis, service data and setup details.
Note: Specs are compiled from factory data, manuals and owner feedback. Bikes vary — if yours is different, jump into the forum and share it.
General Specifications
| Engine Type | Air-cooled 2-stroke single, reed valve |
| Displacement | 499 cc |
| Bore × Stroke | 86 × 86 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 |
| Maximum Power | 65 hp / 47.4 kW |
| Maximum Torque | Not confirmed |
| Carburetor | 38 mm Mikuni |
| Lubrication | Premix |
| Fuel Mix Ratio | Not confirmed |
| Ignition | CDI |
| Spark Plug | Not confirmed |
| Spark Plug Gap | Not confirmed |
Transmission
| Transmission Type | 5-speed |
| Clutch | Wet plate |
| Primary Reduction | Not confirmed |
| Final Reduction | Chain |
| Overall Reduction | Not confirmed |
Dimensions
| Overall Length | Not confirmed |
| Overall Width | Not confirmed |
| Overall Height | Not confirmed |
| Wheelbase | 1514 mm / 59.6 in |
| Ground Clearance | 325 mm / 12.8 in |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 9.0 L / 2.4 US gal |
Chassis
| Frame Type | Chrome-moly steel tubing, aluminum rear subframe |
| Caster Angle | Not confirmed |
| Trail | 122 mm / 4.8 in |
| Front Suspension | 43 mm leading-axle air-assisted forks, adjustable compression damping |
| Rear Suspension | Uni-Trak |
| Front Suspension Travel | 300 mm / 11.8 in |
| Rear Suspension Travel | 304.8 mm / 12.0 in |
Brakes & Wheels
| Front Tire | 3.00-21 |
| Rear Tire | 5.10-18 |
| Front Brake | Single 220 mm disc |
| Rear Brake | Drum |
500cc Other Specs
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