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: JKAKXVD17JA000152, Engine #: KX500BE006761.
There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, we cleaned and synced the carbs, rebuilt the forks, flushed the brakes, cleaned and oiled the oil filter, and serviced the chain. Our service department notes the following on their condition report.
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Transmission Oil Level: Ok
Transmission Oil Quality: Ok
2T Oil Level: Pre-Mix
Coolant Level: Ok
Coolant Quality: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: New, <1.5% Moisture
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: New, <1.5% Moisture
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A, Cable
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Ok
Headlight High Beam: N/A, DIRT BIKE
Headlight Low Beam: N/A
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: N/A
Tail Light: N/A
Brake Light (Front Switch): N/A
Brake Light (Rear Switch): N/A
Plate Light: N/A
Horn: N/A
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 80%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 80%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 37/17
Tire Date Code Rear: 20/10
Tire % Remaining Front: 90%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90%
Tire Press. Front: 14 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 14 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: N/A
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: N/A
Running Condition: Runs on bench
Test Ride Completed: None taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
• Upper Exhaust frame mount broken
• Welded and JB Welded Clutch Cover
• Frame Repainted
• Rear Mudguard Stitched together
• Front bolt on ignition coil loose
• Has 1990-1991 KX500 Front end
• Mika KX high bars
• TUF Racing Bar clamp
• Pro Circuit Race Exhaust
• Work Studio Racing aluminum radiator
• Pivot Pegs
• Shock Leaking
• Exhaust leak near head
• Silicone Radiator Hoses
• Shifter Loose
Modifications:
Pro Circuit exhaust.
Upgraded 1990-91 KX500 front end.
Repainted frame.
Work Studio Racing aluminum radiator.
Mika KX high bars.
TUF Racing bar clamp.
Pivot pegs.
Cycra brake cable guide.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop Geomax MX51 and Kenda Ibex tires with date codes of 2010 and 3717.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Panorama City, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Kawasaki is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any KX500 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
