Diagnostic charts for common problems, identifying causes and solutions
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine overhaul procedures, including torque specifications and clearances
Suspension Overhaul:
Front fork seal replacement, rear shock absorber inspection/replacement procedures
Brake System Service:
Brake pad replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetor synchronization, idle speed adjustment, jetting information
Electrical Component Testing:
Testing of stator, rectifier/regulator, starter motor, and other electrical parts
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification of specific tools needed for various repair procedures
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed fault diagnosis and troubleshooting guides
Part Identification:
Exploded diagrams for component identification and assembly order
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text content
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use
Digital Features:
Hyperlinked table of contents and index (if expertly formatted)
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (PDF format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (PDF format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin
Displacement:
498 cc (30.4 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 mm x 58.0 mm (2.91 in x 2.28 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Configuration:
DOHC, 8 valves (2 per cylinder)
Performance
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 50-60 HP @ 8500 RPM (depending on market and tuning)
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 30-35 lb-ft @ 7000 RPM (depending on market and tuning)
Fuel System
Carburetion:
Twin Keihin CVK32 carburetors
Fuel Capacity:
17 liters (4.5 US gal)
Ignition
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with electronic advance
Lubrication
Lubrication Type:
Wet sump
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 2.8 Liters (3.0 US qt)
Recommended Oil:
API SG, JASO MA certified, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (refer to manual for exact spec)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Features
Final Drive:
Sealed O-ring chain
Gear Ratios:
Detailed ratios available in manual
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Overall Length:
Approx. 2100 mm (82.7 in) (varies slightly by fairing style)
Overall Width:
Approx. 740 mm (29.1 in)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1200 mm (47.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 130 mm (5.1 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 780 mm (30.7 in)
Weights
Dry Weight:
Approx. 177 kg (390 lbs)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 187 kg (412 lbs) (with all fluids)
Front Tire Size:
110/70-17
Rear Tire Size:
130/70-17
Wheel Type:
Cast alloy
Wheelbase Measurement:
Metrically measured
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety standards of the era; no formal crash test ratings like cars
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Disc brakes front and rear, responsive suspension
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Chassis rigidity, rider ergonomics designed for control
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Features:
Basic analog instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, coolant temperature gauge, indicator lights. No modern infotainment features.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
None. This is a mechanical motorcycle from the late 80s/early 90s.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None. Mechanical linkages and electrical systems only.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (2,000-3,000 miles) or 6 months
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (4,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 24,000 km (15,000 miles)
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze (ethylene glycol based), 50% mixture with distilled water
Fork Oil Type:
Kawasaki KHL15-10 or equivalent (SAE 10W fork oil)
Fork Oil Quantity:
Approx. 350-360 cc per fork leg (check manual for exact specification and level)
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Carburetor jetting can be lean from factory, leading to potential bogging; weak regulator/rectifier; occasional cam chain noise; fork seal leaks.
Wear Items:
Chain and sprockets, brake pads, tires, fork seals, clutch plates
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long history of motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance and reliability.
Model Evolution
Model Introduction:
The EX500 was introduced in 1987 as a sportier alternative to the GS500E, evolving into the Ninja 500R in North America.
Model Updates Within Period:
Minor cosmetic updates and potential tuning adjustments between 1987-1993. The GPZ500S designation was used in some markets.
Production
Production Period Covered:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards And Recognitions:
While specific awards are not widely documented, the EX500/GPZ500S was consistently praised for its value, reliability, and performance in its class by motorcycle publications of the era.
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