While seat height is 785 mm, the slim design of both the seat and the rear of the engine gives riders an unobstructed line for their feet to reach the ground. The seat’s flat shape offers ample padding in the front portion without sacrificing the comfortable reach to the ground, which helps riders enjoy the bike with confidence.
Both the full LCD instrument panel on the standard models and the TFT display on the SE models offer smartphone connectivity, enabling riders to connect with their machines to enjoy display notifications, riding logs, and community features.
The Ninja 500 features a trellis frame similar in design to that of the Ninja H2. Kawasaki’s advanced dynamic rigidity analysis was used to ensure optimum rigidity with light weight. The engine is rigid-mounted and used as a stressed member. The frame design contributes significantly to the bike’s low curb mass.
Moving from front to rear with a flowing, layered design, the bodywork on the new Ninja 500 offers a fresh impression, while sporty elements give the machine a purposeful, race-inspired look that owners will be proud to own and show off.
No matter from what angle the Ninja 500 is seen, its distinctive front face and sleek, flowing lines make it clear that this is a member of the Ninja family, with race-inspired, big-bike looks. The shape of the full-fairing bodywork fosters a sense of unity with the rider, helping them feel at one with the bike.
Easy to use is the key, as the compact chassis has been designed to be as user-friendly as possible. Predictable handling thanks to a chassis conceived with light weight, maneuverability, and mass centralization in mind provides excellent feel and inspiring confidence for a wide range of riders. The easy handling also facilitates maneuvering when parking.
Seats with thick cushioning and low-rebound urethane contribute to superb ride comfort. The Ninja 500’s large volume bodywork also offers great wind protection, further contributing to ride comfort.
The power available from the 451 cm3 engine is found through the entire rpm range to make it easy for riders to use, no matter what kind of riding they are doing, from low-end power for accelerating off the line in the city to top end revs for riding on the highway. The engine in the new Ninja 500 is up the task, no matter what it may be.
Measuring Ø 310 mm (the same disc size used on the Ninja ZX-14R), the Ninja 500’s semi-floating front disc offers sure stopping power. ABS models offer added reassurance when riding.
Relaxed rider triangle accommodates a wide range of rider sizes and riding situations. Compared to some other models (whose somewhat extreme riding position compromises comfort), the elevated handle position and slightly foot-forward footpeg position put the rider in a position to control the bike while also offering rider comfort.
The chassis has a supersport-style short-wheelbase/long swingarm design, complemented by an optimized trail setting that delivers light, natural handling. The bike’s light weight also contributes to easy handling and facilitates maneuvering when off the bike, such as when parking.
The Ninja 500’s “face” is based around two newly designed compact headlights. Below them two spoilers protrude forward and complete the striking look.
KIPASS (Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System) is a master key system that allows remote activation of the bike’s main switch and steering lock.
Smooth, powerful acceleration is available with a twist of the wrist from a new 451 cm3 engine. The acceleration feels brisk thanks to plenty of power in the low- to mid-rpm range, and, when the throttle stays on, enough power in the high-rpm range to hit higher speeds with ease. With well-balanced power output and strong acceleration throughout the rev range, the combination of this engine with a lightweight chassis makes the machine well-suited to a wide variety of riding situations including everyday riding.
The Ninja 500 SE features a high-grade full colour display with TFT (thin-film transistor) technology, delivering a high level of visibility. The screen’s background colour is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light.
Kawasaki’s Assist & Slipper Clutch results in a light clutch pull for even more rider-friendly and manageable riding in everyday situations, and reduced skipping and hopping from the rear for better sport riding and added confidence.
KIPASS (Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System) is a master key system that allows remote activation of the bike’s main switch and steering lock.
Based on racing technology, the Assist & Slipper Clutch acts as both a back-torque limiter and a self-servo mechanism that enables a lighter clutch lever pull.
Smartphone connectivity contributes to an enhanced motorcycling experience by enabling riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly.
ERGO-FIT is an interface system that allows a wide range of riders to feel at one with their machine.
The Economical Riding Indicator is a mark appearing on the instrument panel to indicate favourable fuel consumption, encouraging fuel efficient riding.
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) ensures stable braking performance by preventing wheel lock during braking.
| Engine type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, parallel twin |
|---|---|
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Valve system | DOHC, 8 valves |
| Bore x stroke | 70.0 x 58.6 mm |
| Displacement | 451 cm³ |
| Fuel system | Fuel injection: 32 mm x 2 |
| Lubrication | Forced lubrication, wet sump |
| Starting system | Electric |
| Ignition system | Digital |
| Maximum power | 33.4 kW {45 PS} / 9,000 rpm |
|---|---|
| Maximum torque | 42.6 N•m {4.3 kgf•m} / 6,000 rpm |
| CO2 emission | 89 g/km |
| Fuel consumption | 3.8 l/100km |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return shift |
| Clutch | Wet, multi disc |
| Primary reduction ratio | 2.029 (69/34) |
| Gear ratios 1st | 2.929 (41/14) |
| Gear ratios 2nd | 2.056 (37/18) |
| Gear ratios 3rd | 1.619 (34/21) |
| Gear ratios 4th | 1.333 (32/24) |
| Gear ratios 5th | 1.154 (30/26) |
| Gear ratios 6th | 1.037 (28/27) |
| Final drive | Sealed chain |
| Final reduction ratio | 3.071 (43/14) |
| Frame type | Trellis, high-tensile steel |
|---|---|
| Trail | 92 mm |
| Wheel travel front | 120 mm |
| Wheel travel rear | 130 mm |
| Tyre, front | 110/70R17 M/C 54H |
| Tyre, rear | 150/60R17 M/C 66H |
| L x W x H | 1,995 x 730 x 1,120 mm |
| Steering angle L/R | 35° / 35° |
| Wheel base | 1,375 mm |
| Ground clearance | 145 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 14.0 litres |
| Seat height | 785 mm |
| Curb mass | 173 kg |
| Front brake type | Single semi-floating disc |
|---|---|
| Front brake diameter | Ø 310 mm |
| Front brake caliper type | Balanced actuation dual-piston |
| Rear brake type | Single disc |
| Rear brake diameter | Ø 220 mm |
| Rear brake caliper type | Dual-piston |
| Front suspension type | Telescopic fork |
| Front suspension diameter | Ø 41 mm |
| Rear suspension type | Bottom-link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock, and spring preload adjustability |
