Motorcycle specifications KawasakiKLE 500 2004 Access to the trail

presentation of the KLE 500 2004

Stepping on the toes of the Honda Transalp is no easy task, and the KLE has learned this the hard way. Despite its obvious qualities, Kawa's little trail bike has never managed to make a name for itself in the sun. Its engine is the reworked version of the mini-sport GT 500 GPZ. It has been redesigned to offer greater smoothness at low speeds and better consistency at mid-range. The frame is a conventional steel double cradle that does the job very well. When you get to know it, its handling is more entertaining than that of its Honda competitor. It's a shame, however, that its twin-cylinder engine lacks the high revs of the Transalp. The extension is nice, but all the same, we regret the lack of gniak in town. Don't worry, the bike performs with a smile. No worries about roadholding or handling. The machine is not lacking in liveliness, and you can have a lot of fun behind the wheel. The brakes, however, lack a little power. Not sad, the KLE would not mind a renewed interest from the public - it doesn't fall short of the mark.

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Published on 10/12/20
by Greg

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Key facts Kawasaki KLE 500 (2004) : What you need to know before you buy

Highlights

• Partie-cycle
• Petit twin rage scent
• Versatility

Weak points

• Medium front brake
• Lack of low-end torque
• TT limited

Prices

	Basic version
France	5,899€

Bikers' reviews

of 28 reviews Read reviews

Model sold in 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

Replace KLE 500 2003

KLE 500 2003

Replaced by

KLE 500 2005

Performance

• Max speed : approximately 180 km/h (111.80 mph)

Competitors

Yamaha XT 660 R 2004

Honda XL 650 V TRANSALP 2004

Suzuki DL 650 V-STROM 2004

Find others On-Off Road of 2004

Bikers' reviews Leave a review - 28 reviews

PierreButta Model 1997

I've got 2 of them, one from 1993 with 115,000km and one with 33,000km from 1999. These 2 machines are tough and reliable. Weak point: the rotor and the voltage regulator. Apart from that, I'm delighted with them.
I pull them a little but rarely, diabolical reliability, the 1993 still has its original clutch. Consumption averages 5l/100 on a normal ride. to improve braking at a lower cost, i fitted aviation hoses to both bikes. it's not crazy, but the difference is obvious. the 2 bikes sleep in a garage, and never ride a TT, and very rarely in the rain. normally, given their power and age, they don't steal from each other, and start at 1/4 rpm. For me, the power is sufficient and in line with the chassis. 03/30/2025 19:49 Rating : 5/5 Respond to PierreButta

Petite question

Loy17 Model 1997

Could someone tell me if there are any differences between a 96 and a 2000 engine? 04/20/2021 15:38 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Loy17

titi Model 2000

bonjour c'est une bonne moto avec une meccanique facile,mais un manque de freinage ce que je ne comprends pas c'est que j'ai la premiere en haut et le reste en bas,peut être le fait que j'ai monter un er 5 a la place d'un kle . 10/04/2019 07:32 Rating : 4/5 Respond to titi

Gilles

to answer titi
you've just fitted the selector rod the wrong way round, reverse the direction and your gears will be positioned as they should be! 07/15/2020 13:15 Rating : 4/5 Participate in the conversation

Trés bonne moto

Manoff Model 1991

I started with a KLE, having validated the A2 license, and given that it's just 47.5hp, there's no need to restrict it. I really like this KLE, with a full engine that doesn't hesitate to rev. The kle can also be driven in a leisurely fashion, thanks to its interesting torque. Be sure to replace the magnetic flywheel before 50,000 km on older models. Approx. 200 km range with 12 to 15-liter fuel tank. Avia hose for front brake essential. Hyper-handling motorcycle with nice noise! 02/14/2019 15:46 Rating : 4/5 Respond to Manoff

fusible principale saute

gg Model 1998

Hello
I broke down because the main fuse blew.
There is a circuit somewhere;
Can someone please help me (I don't know anything about it)?
Sincerely
Gérard 07/24/2017 16:10 Rating : 4/5 Respond to gg

Puissance exacte kle en kW (pour permis

TriFidE Model 1994

Hello,
I intend to take my motorcycle licence (A2) very soon and am interested in a 1994 KLE... advertised at 48 hp, but 35 kW corresponds to 47.6 hp
Does anyone know the exact power in kW of the 1994 KLE 500?
Thanks 😉 11/15/2016 12:49 Rating : 3/5 Respond to TriFidE

Pistoun

to reply to TriFidE 8 years later, but this information may still be useful: the KLE500 with chassis number LE500A-045001 AAND ALL KLE 500 MODELS with VIN numbers JKALE500AAA.... and JKALE500ABA.... are eligible for a progressive A2 license without any modifications.
the serial number is indicated on the registration card in space E. If you look up the dates of these chassis numbers, it corresponds to models from 1996 onwards. 1996 - 1999 model would make 32KW Information also found on the Mutuelle des Motards website, with their tool "Quel permis pour quel 2 roues ?" 06/09/2024 14:09 Rating : 5/5 Participate in the conversation

revue technique KLE 500 en français ?

mas Model 2003

is it possible to find a technical magazine in French, model 2003? 10/18/2015 14:00 Rating : 1/5 Respond to mas

nombre de rapports

phil Model 1998

i wonder why I have 5 gears when everywhere I read that there are 6....???
my bike takes its turns and my top speed with road tires passes 160km/h... 10/03/2014 16:24 Rating : 3/5 Respond to phil

fredfredyfredo Model 1997

This Trail is a daily pleasure, whether riding quietly or pushing the machine...
I'd recommend it as a first bike, or for anyone looking for a fun, inexpensive machine all year round! 08/04/2014 03:39 Rating : 5/5 Respond to fredfredyfredo

somefatcat Model 2003

Bought when looking for a reasonable motorcycle, it's much more than that. Very economical purchase price and insurance, average fuel consumption of 4.8 l/100 and a delight on country roads.
For a return to motorcycling, it's a real pleasure. Good extension, the engine comes to life above 6500 rpm, yet remains usable in 6° at 3500 rpm at around 70 km/h. Handling, lightness, a machine that's very easy to get to grips with.
On the negative side, the front brake lacks bite, and there's some fairing vibration. 10/03/2012 11:16 Rating : 4/5 Respond to somefatcat

rene Model 2003

A motorcycle to (re)discover for those who haven't yet. The bike is still very much up to date in terms of enjoyment, especially since 1994 for comfort in particular, and 2005 for lower fuel consumption (better torque and compliance with European standards). What's more, the 2005 45hp version is sure to join the closed circle of motorcycles under 35kw for the future European A2 license. Not a sad motorcycle, thanks to the gpz engine's pleasant feel (satisfying torque all the same), all you need to do is fit it with avia hoses for the most demanding braking enthusiasts. A very versatile bike, despite its small displacement. You'll love it 09/21/2012 10:43 Rating : 4/5 Respond to rene

Speedo pour KLE 500

pablo Model 1997

Hello. -
I bought the speedometer (part between the suspension and the front wheel) and the speedometer cable
sent to Argentina. -
Now I'm looking for a Speedo cable but especially a SPEEDO DRIVE PICKUP, so if you have that in stock ... 09/16/2012 02:43 Rating : 3/5 Respond to pablo

rene Model 1999

Slightly tall, slim, comfortable and easy to handle thanks to handlebars that aren't too wide for a trail bike, a weight that's not a worry, good balance and an engine that responds well from the lowest revs. The impression is pleasant as soon as you get on the bike, with the soft seat and attractive instrument panel contributing to this, as does the good finish. This is confirmed as soon as you hear the astonishing sound of the gpz engine. A little rough around the edges, this strong-willed, wide-range engine was renowned for its unrivalled smoothness and reliability. Today, its worthy descendant is the l\'er6 and versys engine. Despite its small displacement, its performance and pleasure are still astonishingly up to date. I can only recommend this very good bike, just like its elder sister the gpz500s, the same but closer to the ground. 08/23/2012 07:40 Rating : 4/5 Respond to rene

Philippe Model 2000

i had to sell a big V-Twin passion, but weaning and the desire for 2 wheels has me looking for the cheapest possible trail bike.
Used "mono" bikes are too expensive for what they are
That leaves the Bi... Aie !!! a cheap transalp equals a lot of bollards.
Finally, the KLE motorcycle when I got my license 15 years ago, a super utility bike for 1500 balls and 16000 kilometers, a good overhaul at home and I'm not a mechanic, and let's go
Ideal for the "work sleep" and more if affinity (with the saddle), I changed it by one more ressente.
The duo is fine if you're not too greedy for performance
In town, you're a cador, it goes everywhere, it's a real bike, it's light, it steers, it's cool. I've never ridden as often as with this Brelon, it's not even afraid of rain, and I think snow will be the only thing stopping me
Good at everything, I don't regret it, the used price is unbeatable, but you can't say it or prices will go up
The day I can go back to my favorite big v_twin, well, I'll keep the KLE
One regret: it's hard to find second-hand parts, unlike in the Transalps, and only Kawa can come up with such poor colors. One more thing: the squeaky plastic noises sound a bit rattly, but it doesn't matter, we don't care, that's not what I'm asking of it
Good little machine, to be picked up early or late

Philippe - 02/09/2006

09/01/2006 23:26 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Philippe

Tiche Model 2000

What an idea to start riding a motorcycle at 40! Fortunately, I made the right choice: a 2002 KLE. In one year and 6000Km, I don't regret giving up the metro. I drive it every day, winter and summer, on a 2 x 20 km route that's half highway, half city, and it's a blast! Easy, inexpensive maintenance. Conso régo but limited range (200km). Always ready to go, never a pain (not much chrome to work on). For what it's worth, I recommend it. 01/26/2006 15:05 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Tiche

Tiche Model 2000

What an idea to start riding a motorcycle at 40! Fortunately, I made the right choice: a 2002 KLE. In one year and 6000Km, I don't regret giving up the metro. I drive it every day, winter and summer, on a 2 x 20 km route that's half highway, half city, and it's a blast! Easy, inexpensive maintenance. Conso régo but limited range (200km). Always ready to go, never a pain (not much chrome to work on). For what it's worth, I recommend it. 01/24/2006 16:05 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Tiche

carpe Model 2000

i tried the latest 500 kle bought by a friend.no big feeling,light braking,acceleration not lightning,this bike on the other hand sure is intended for people without too much experience.for beginners. 12/10/2005 20:49 Rating : 5/5 Respond to carpe

phil Model 2000

i own a 94 kle, ....

minuses: sensitivity to side winds, short range (200 km before reserve, about 6 liters of fuel consumption), uncomfortable seat, light braking (especially under load), limited power for two-up riding and turbulence felt between 80 and 110 km/h (probably due to the tall passenger)

these plusses, easy to use, all-weather, all-terrain bike, very comfortable (except the seat), good protection thanks to the fork head, can be ridden on rolling dirt roads (dunlop trailmax 103 € rear tire), easy to load (large luggage rack and sturdy tie-down hook), good performance given its low displacement, good top speed if necessary, reliable and economical, accessible mechanics, a bike for every day riding and that accepts longer rides with the added possibility of going where other bikers don't know how

the day I change my bike, I'm thinking of getting back on a kle 07/10/2005 11:59 Rating : 5/5 Respond to phil

vince Model 2000

I've got a kle 93 super motard prepared by M'sieurs Godier&Genoud: 70 bourins and a bit more for a 500 it really rocks. it's really a bomb this "little one"! 06/24/2005 18:27 Rating : 5/5 Respond to vince

motorève Model 2000

I've been dreaming about it for a long time, since 1992 to be precise. Now I've bought it, and it lives up to all its promises, a 2001 model in metallic beige, just what you need to enjoy yourself, a high seating position, a certain elegance, a "playful" engine that's as good as it gets, and a good response... the brakes? I don't know what's wrong with it, but I'm lacking in references. Easy maintenance, very reasonable fuel consumption, in short, everything I need. The 500 KLE hasn't been around for almost fifteen years... 05/16/2005 20:06 Rating : 5/5 Respond to motorève

dom78 Model 2000

42,000 km it's from '91. It's my pleasure bike, and only when the weather's fine. All my friends are impressed by its acceleration. It's easy to maintain, without having to pay the big bills. As for braking, you have to anticipate, but it's a rule of driving! A leisure motorcycle for medium-sized journeys. Recommended !!!! 2005 model of dubious color for my taste !!! 04/20/2005 13:31 Rating : 5/5 Respond to dom78

Lavis de D Model 2000

It's my first bike, and after a bit of freshening up, I'm starting to enjoy it. It's a sympathetic bike at a lower cost. Today I'm going to equip it as a super motar, and I hope to make a success of it. It's true that it forgives beginner's mistakes. I'm starting to do the first few laps with my wife, and she's enjoying it! What fun! 04/08/2005 19:01 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Lavis de D

voyageur.f Model 2000

Designed in the 90's (still), its design positively amazes many people even today (in 2005!!!). I own a 2003 model. A magnificent motorcycle, comfortable and fast, pretty to look at and pleasant to ride (mountains, winding roads, seaside...), it's a faithful companion on rides as long as you're alone on it ("egoists", here's a machine for you :-)...). Sound too discreet for my taste, I equipped mine with a complete laser produro inox" line and I can assure you that it responds well. Remove a tooth from the rear sprocket and you've got a super-road trail bike that consumes far less fuel and stretches farther
One last word, I don't always understand why it's called a "beginner's bike"? I've had more than one in my life (GSXF750, CAGIVA Gran Canyon, Honda 650 SLX and so on...) and I find that the KLE does very well considering its fairly average displacement. A good bike that I recommend to EVERYONE! Have a nice ride. 03/09/2005 16:48 Rating : 5/5 Respond to voyageur.f

Dom Model 2000

It's been 1 year since I bought this bike, for me it's a safe bike that doesn't encourage me to ride like a maniac; that's what I was looking for.
A little more power/torque for duo riding wouldn't have been a luxury.
Braking a bit limited indeed
NB: mine only consumes 4.5l to 5l/100Km (I drive cool) 01/12/2005 17:54 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Dom

Blackdohc Model 2000

It's a great bike to get your feet wet on. It's easy to ride, forgiving of youthful mistakes, with a measured maintenance budget and attractive lines. You should check the manifold studs from time to time, as they break over time. This cost me a cylinder head. You also need to watch out for corrosion on the cylinder head. Its height and lightness make for unpleasant but not dangerous wobbles in sideways gusts of wind. My main use is commuting in almost any weather. Its biggest flaw, in my opinion, is the lack of carburetor tank heating, which prevents me from using it at low temperatures. This problem, which I believe has been solved since 1994, is a handicap. It's an endearing bike, but one that's not widely available in view of its qualities. It's fun to ride, with an engine that's a little hollow at low revs, but becomes furious at higher revs. My 1992 model, which has now clocked up over 76,000 km, has even been on the track.... (53,000 km in 4 and a half years). I hope that 2005 will be the year of rebirth and reconaissance. 01/06/2005 17:19 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Blackdohc

Tan Model 2000

Correction, I'm re-reading the KLE data sheet on Moto-planète and it seems that the weak front brake is general. It's indicated in the "minus" section of the technical data sheet 01/06/2005 17:19 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Tan

Tan Model 2000

The virus having struck again after 6 years of withdrawal, I was looking for an accessible bike. A bike that's simple, reliable, easy to handle and forgiving of mistakes while you get your reflexes back. As for reliability, I can't say yet, as I haven't had it long enough (but it hasn't broken down at all). A very good introductory bike, loved by insurers (the wallet's empty, but they didn't eat my hand holding it). The only downside is that the front brake seems weak, but maybe that's a problem with my machine and not with KLEs in general. 01/06/2005 17:19 Rating : 5/5 Respond to Tan

nemo3 Model 2000

I landed on it by chance, to please my insurer, and I'm now its very happy owner, good at everything and everyone, bad at nothing.I use it mainly in town and sometimes on the smaller roads, a bike that just wants to dance.The Honda Transalp next door is for the sad ones on the roads. When I take it out on the highway, I'm happy with its sufficient power, decent average, and motorcycle-like comfort.Nickel.To please myself, I've simply opted for a denser fork oil, a harder set of brake pads and a stainless-steel hose.A Trail 500 in bi that blasts along at 10,000-11,000 rpm as if it were kidding, it's fun. The mechanics and maintenance are easy and inexpensive, and perfectly essential. 01/06/2005 17:18 Rating : 5/5 Respond to nemo3

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FAQ Your frequently asked questions about the KLE 500 2004

What is the power of the KLE 500 2004?

The KLE 500 2004 develops a power of 48 ch (47.30 hp)

What is the torque of the KLE 500 2004?

The maximum torque of the KLE 500 2004 is 4.30 mkg to 7,000 rpm.

What is the maximum speed of the KLE 500 2004?

The KLE 500 2004 is capable of reaching a top speed of approximately 180 km/h (111.80 mph) on the track.

What is the weight of the KLE 500 2004?

The KLE 500 2004 has a a dry weight of 181 kg (399 lb), a weight when fully loaded of 200 kg (441 lb).

QWhat is the seat height of the KLE 500 2004?

To ensure good accessibility, the KLE 500 2004 offers a minimum seat height of 850 mm (33.46 in).

What is the price of the KLE 500 2004?

The price of the KLE 500 2004 is 5,899€ in France