Kawasaki EX500 reviews

I bought this bike 3 years ago after I got bit with the motorcycle bug again after an absence of nearly 40 years. I started riding my sons GSXR 600 and thought it would be nice if we could ride together. I bought it on EBay with 15800 miles, it was in good shape. It had Delkevic mufflers an SS pipes, but was otherwise Stock. I immediately changed the springs in the front since I weigh 190 lbs and I tried a rear shock from another bike (SV500) but that did not work. The biggest improvement were the michelin pilot radial tires, they really transformed the handling. I ride with my son and we sometimes trade bikes, and there is no doubt that this is not a highly refined sport bike, the brakes the engine everything is so much better on the GSXR, but also uncomfortable for more than an hour. I can ride the EX all day with no more than the normal aches. I'm 6.1 seating is OK a little cramped power is of course limited but more then enough to have fun on twisty roads. A perfect little bike Show less

I have just finished fixing up my '90 EX500. I bought it last year with only 4400 miles on it for $750.00. It had been dropped on some train tracks and the upper fairing was damaged, also one of the side panels was cracked. I replaced the upper with a Targa unit and replaced the side panel with a used piece. I then had the body work painted "Magma Red" which is Mercedes factory color. Finally, I installed a Lockhart Speedscreen Euro windscreen and 1/2 tank bra. The bike looks very sharp. My wife and I ride 2 up all over the place and are extremely happy with the performance and economy of the machine. My first EX was an '87 that I put 17000 miles on in the one year that I owned it. I had to give that one up due to a divorce and I really missed it. Now I'm back in the sadle again and still loving it. Show less

I just bought my 15th motorcycle, a 1990 Kawasaki EX500.This thing looks great, handles great, and is fast enough. I found one with only 1487 miles in A-1 shape, with $400.00 lower cowling for $2000.00.It's a pleasure to ride anywhere. Mine got an unbelievable 63 mpg on my first tank! I would jump on this bike anytime, and go on an extended camping trip without a concern. The mirrors don't give you a really good view of traffic behind you, but that's my only criticism. It is not only a great first bike, but a great 15th bike too. Also by getting a pre-Ninja, it saved me a pile of money on insurance (the lady asked me if it was a Ninja, with money) Show less

I recently purchased a '90 EX-500 from a friend and I must say it is a great machine. I have owned many sportbikes over the years and though this one is a little down on power from other bikes, it has such light weight and good manners that you soon forget that. It is comfortable, it rides smooth and is very inexpensive and easy to work on. I really enjoy mine, and plan on keeping it a long time to come. It's a good all around package of pure motorcycle fun!! And since there is a huge aftermarket of parts for this machine, you are nearly unlimited on visual and performance upgrades, that is very appealing as well. Compfortable, inexpensive to own and suprisingly fast for a small bike, overall a nice package. Show less