KX500 Engine Specifications
by Cathel HutchisonThe Kawasaki KX500 is a motocross off-road motorcycle produced by Kawasaki between 1983 and 2004 and featured in the motocross racing circuit. It was revised several times to improve its performance. The KX500 is the highest specification model in Kawasaki's KX series, which also includes 250 cc, 125 cc, and 100 cc models, as well as lower specification models.
General Engine Specs
The Kawasaki KX500 has a single cylinder, two-stroke gas engine, with a displacement of 499 cc (30.45 cubic inches). The version released in 1987 possesses a compression ratio of 8.5-to-1 (with later models having a ratio of 7.4-to-1), utilizes a capacitor discharge ignition (CDI) system, and a reed valve configuration system. The engine employs a liquid cooling system to reduce excessive heating. It is equipped with a wet plate clutch, and has a expansion chamber exhaust system.
Performance and Transmission
The Kawasaki KX500 is able to generate a maximum power output of 65 horsepower (47.4 kilowatts). The KX500 has a top speed in excess of 120 mph, making it one of the faster motocross motorcycles yet produced.
Transmission, Fuel System and Control
The Kawasaki KX500 has a five-speed, chain transmission type. It possesses a gas/oil injected engine, and employs a Keihin flat-slide carburettor fuel system. Fuel control is achieved by membrane and variable discharge openings. The fuel tank in the KX500 has a capacity of 4 gallons (15.14 liters).
References
Writer Bio
Cathel Hutchison began editing and writing in 2007 and has worked with various institutions and publishers, including editing courses for the Open University and captioning for the cultural archive "Am Baile." Hutchison holds a Master of Letters in history from the University of Aberdeen and a Master of Arts in American studies from the University of Edinburgh.
