Off-Road.com's Ride-Net! 2002 Kawasaki Dirt Bikes - KX 500

Feb. 01, 2006 By ORC STAFF

KX500
   


2002 KAWASAKI KX500

The Kawasaki KX500 motocross bike is the biggest and most powerful of Kawasaki's motocross line. It is intended for experienced riders who want the added power of an open-class machine for motocross and other closed-course racing.

The KX500's liquid-cooled 499cc two-stroke engine features the Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System (KIPS), and pumps out nearly 65 horsepower for incredible off-road speed and acceleration. Powerful disc brakes in the front and rear rein in those ponies, and fully adjustable suspension components provide more than 12 inches of wheel travel.

All KX models come with the support of Team Green, Kawasaki's amateur-support program. Team Green attends events across the country, providing regional support vehicles and highly trained technicians who provide technical information and emergency parts assistance for anyone on a Kawasaki. Kawasaki also offers a

contingency program worth millions of dollars for amateur and pro riders placing well at designated events.


FEATURES:

  • Electrofusion Cylinder
  • Improves heat transfer for consistent power output
  • Porous so it holds lubrication well and it resists abrasion and seizure
  • Allows closer engine tolerances for more horsepower

Liquid Cooling

  • More even-running temperatures ensure power output remains consistently strong
  • Allows tighter engine clearances for more horsepower and assures greater reliability

Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System (KIPS-D) with Automatic Decompression System

  • Controls exhaust port height to provide optimum exhaust timing at all rpm
  • Produces a broader powerband, more low-end torque and more top-end power
  • Makes kick-starting a breeze because it bleeds down compression pressure at cranking speeds

39mm Crescent Slide Carburetor

  • Designed for smooth transitions at intermediate throttle openings and good flow at high rpm
  • Improves combustion efficiency by increasing intake velocity and fuel atomization at all throttle settings
  • Adjustable for various conditions

 

Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI)

  • Produces the extremely hot spark needed to ignite the air/fuel/oil mixture of a two-stroke racing engine
  • Easy starts and reliability under extreme conditions

Five-Speed Transmission

  • Positive shifting and durable, enables use of engine's full potential
  • Oil-level window provided

High-Tensile Steel Frame

  • Semi-double cradle design with bolt-on aluminum rear section
  • Race-proven frame geometry offers nimble turning and unmatched stability

46mm Upside Down Cartridge Fork

  • Huge, 46mm diameter fork tubes offer great rigidity for a confidence-inspiring ride without a weight penalty
  • Large diameter cartridge and piston displace oil as the fork compresses and rebounds for effective damping control
  • 18-way rebound- and compression-damping adjustments are provided to fine tune for different riders and conditions

Front and Rear Disc Brakes

  • The front master cylinder is equipped with a sight glass for quick fluid level checks
  • The rear brake caliper is a one-piece design for improved brake feel

UNI-TRAK@ Rear Suspension

  • Lightweight aluminum construction keeps weight to a minimum
  • Progressive action, the more the suspension is compressed the more resistance is applied to counteract it
  • 20-way compression- and 18-way rebound-damping adjustment, along with preload adjustability, allow the rider to fine tune rear suspension for conditions

Triple-Bearing Rear Hub

  • Two ball bearings on the drive side of the hub, and one on the brake side ensure durability
  • Special rear hub oil seals improve bearing durability

Aluminum Swingarm

  • Excellent torsional rigidity enhances ride control and precision
  • Reduces unsprung weight for improved rear suspension responsiveness
  • Features recessed chain adjusters to maximize strength

Fuel Tank Cap Check Valve

  • A check valve in the fuel tank cap vent hose reduces the possibility of fuel seepage

SPECIFICATIONS:

KX500
Engine: 2-stroke single w/KIPS
Displacement: 499cc
Bore x Stroke: 86.0 x 86.0mm
Compression Ratio: 8.3:1 (low speed) - 7.4:1 (high speed)
Cooling: Liquid
Carburetion: Keihin PWK39
Induction: 8-petal reed valve
Ignition: Digital CDI
Transmission: 5-speed
Frame: High-tensile steel perimeter design with subframe member
Rake/trail: 27°/4.6 in.
Suspension type, front: Inverted telescopic cartridge fork, 46mm
Suspension adjustments, front: Preload, 18-way compression and rebound damping
Suspension type, rear: UNI-TRAK® single shock system
Suspension adjustments, rear: 18-way rebound damping damping
Wheel travel, front: 12.2 in.
Wheel travel, rear: 13.0 in.
Tire, front: 80/100x21
Tire, rear: 120/90x19
Brakes, front/rear: Hydraulic disc
Overall length: 86.2 in.
Overall width: 32.1 in.
Overall height: 47.4 in.
Ground clearance: 14.6 in.
Seat height: 37.4  in.
Dry weight: 220.4 lb.
Fuel capacity: 2.6 gal.
Wheelbase: 58.7 in.
Color: Lime Green


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