2007-06-01 20:22:05 · 2 answers · asked by Nigel B 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Motorcycles
First launched in 1987, the GPZ500S was Kawasaki’s attempt at modern, lightweight sports-bike. Its parallel twin engine owes much to the GPZ900R of 1984: in many ways, it resembles half a GPZ900R engine. The chassis is dated, but is still capable of being hustled down a fast back road or round a track. The suspension is too soft to offer truly sporting performance, but the brakes work well if kept in good order and the relaxed steering geometry means predictable handling. In 1994 the GPZ500 received a face-lift. New bodywork gave a more up-to-date appearance, while 17" wheels allowed modern rubber to be fitted. Wider 37mm front forks stiffened the chassis, too.
Top speed: around 120mph
Power output: 60bhp
Fuel consumption: about 50mpg
Reliability: Generally very good, but known problem areas are the exhaust, charging system and front forks around the wheel spindle.
Spares: Quite a few GPz 500s still around and the engine was also used in the ER-5 & KLE-500, so plenty of parts are available from breakers. New parts can still be obtained from Kawasaki.
2007-06-01 22:08:28 · answer #1 · answered by Nightworks 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
60 horses about 120-130 mph. its really a sporty commuter for the short of stature a kwak rival for the honda nc30 vfr 400 which is a far superior bike. but anyway its a decent bike. as for reliability infrequent oil changes knacker the cams after 20k so she needs to really well looked after. i've never ridden one but i would'nt say no to a blast on one. i'm sure spare parts are no problem. mpg is average around 50-55. its really classed as an all rounder but thats a bit unfair to me it is a sports bike nothing like a hornet or bandit. but the rear sets are a bit low to make it a true sportster. but its a nice bike i like the look of it.
2007-06-02 05:43:06 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋