Motorcycle specifications KawasakiEN 500 Classic 1998 Custom initiatique

The EN 500, dubbed Vulcan by our American friends, has been gently modernized. One of the cheapest custom bikes on the market, its styling has changed and is now more elegantly stretched. A longer, chunkier fuel tank (+4 liters), the removal of the seat backrest and bevelled exhausts significantly refine the silhouette. Sticks are replaced by spokes. Note the weight increase, the front brake disc is 30 mm larger in diameter (now 300 mm), the turn signals have been relocated and the rear light has been slimmed down.
Kawa's little custom bike draws its inspiration from production on the other side of the Atlantic, except for the mill which, although it remains a twin, is a parallel byclinder. The low rear end and steeply raked forks give it a very "low rider" look, which is very pleasing to the eye, and this impression is reinforced when you climb into the saddle and discover the large speedo mounted on the tank. Previously belt-driven like the Harleys, the transmission is now chain-driven. A pity, but you can't expect the benefits of an Electra Glide on a small machine.

the engine, derived from the 500 GPZ, boasts 9 hp less than the previous generation, a loss compensated by the earlier arrival of power, and more demonstrative torque. As a result, the Japanese twin-cylinder engine feels more powerful and pleasant to ride. True to custom, the bike's chassis is not particularly bad, but it doesn't appreciate bumps - and the rider will have to pay the price. The brakes aren't very reassuring in the event of heavy use; it has to be said that there's only one disc to stop the machine. Otherwise, the machine acquits itself well. For those who want to get started in custom motorcycling, the 500 EN is a very good choice, with a view to becoming an authentic "Rider".

M.B - Manufacturer's photos