KAWASAKI EX 500R Ninja (GPZ 500S) (1987-1993) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Kawasaki Ninja 500R, originally named EX500 and also known as the GPZ 500S, was a sports machine part of the Ninja series in Kawasaki's range. The bike debuted in 1987 and was manufactured until 2009 when it was replaced by the Ninja 650R.

Although the bike delivered a sporty appearance, it provided a more standard, upright riding experience with great comfort and versatility. Also, the bike offered performance with low operating costs, making it a perfect first motorcycle for new riders and more experienced ones who rode on a budget.

In the aesthetic department, the bike was fitted with standard features, such as a half fairing, a rectangular headlight, a small windscreen, a one-piece dual seat with a passenger grab rail, a side stand, and lightweight aluminum wheels.

Underneath its fuel tank, the 1987 Kawasaki EX 500R Ninja (GPZ 500S) had installed a 498cc four-stroke parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine fed by two Keihin carburetors, boasting 60 hp at 9,800 rpm and 46 Nm (34 lb-ft) torque at 8,500 rpm.

The engine power was transferred to a six-speed manual transmission linked to the rear wheel through a final chain drive, pushing the motorcycle to a top speed of 198 kph (123 mph).

The bike's suspension system comprised a 38 mm telescopic fork on the front with 130 mm wheel travel and an adjustable shock absorber on the rear with 100 mm wheel travel, delivering optimum suspension performance and handling.