Upon its introduction back in 1983, the KX500 was instantly polarizing. It was the biggest bike in its class and boasted an excellent suspension setup — but a substandard combustion chamber made the big green earthmover unreliable.
Accordingly, Kawi set about implementing improvements year after year. In 1985, the KX got a more dependable liquid-cooled engine, in ’86, it became the first 500cc motocross bike with a power valve system, and by ’87, the two-stroker was going toe-to-toe with Honda in the sand leading to an incredible Baja run in the 1990s.
For more info on what makes the big KX special, check out this review on Off-Roading Pro.
This example is VIN: JKAKXVE15LA003469. The seller acquired it two years ago from a private party in Huntington Beach, California through Craigslist.
During his ownership, the seller has not covered any miles. There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
“I restore bikes as a hobby, some I keep and some I sell.”
Maintenance:
“I dont have any specific documentation I bought parts and used services such as powder coating.”
As part of his restoration, the seller performed the following:
“Front & rear wheel rims refurbished & trued new ss spokes & nipples.
New wheel bearings and seals.
Front & rear calipers cleaned and new seal kits installed.
New discs front & rear.
New tires & inner tubes.
New ss brake lines with new banjo bolts.
Forks polished.
New dust seals.
All new bodywork front to back.
New fuel tank.
1990’s decals swing arm $ radiator guards.
99% bolting fasteners are ss.
New foam & seat cover period correct.
Rear caliper guard added.
New chain & sprockets.
New front chain guard.
New clutch cable.
New front & rear master reservoirs.
New grips.
Added handlebar operated compression release with a modified head.
New clutch & brake perch.
Engine bored and honed new piston / rings 1st over.
New engine gaskets and seals.
Leak down test done to ensure sealed engine.
Rear shock spring, frame & tail section powder coated.
Side stand added.
Rear shock completely restored new seals and nitrogen bladder re-charged.
Swingarm polished.
Carb cleaned & jetted.
New reed valves
New radiators & silicon hoses, including new ss clamps.
New iridium spark plug..”
Modifications:
Per the seller: “The frame and tail section have been powder coated.”
Horse Power Ignition electronic ignition.
Compression release.
Motion Pro throttle.
Side stand was modified from a universal unit.
Aftermarket silencer.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Artrax tires with date codes of 1622 and 4922.
The sale includes an “oversized spare tank.”
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Castaic, California, this Kawasaki is offered on a clean California Off-Highway title. Have any KX500 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
