The Kawasaki Ninja 500 is a prime contender in the world of middleweight sports bikes, offering a perfect blend of power, design, and features. This bike succeeds the highly popular Ninja 400 and continues Kawasaki’s legacy in producing bikes that are not only high-performing but also visually striking. As an upgrade to the smaller Ninja 400, the Ninja 500 comes with a host of improvements, making it an exciting option for sports bike enthusiasts.
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Introduction to Kawasaki Ninja 500
Launched with a fresh approach in the middleweight segment, the Kawasaki Ninja 500 has captured the attention of riders looking for a sporty and capable motorcycle that offers more than just performance. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or an enthusiast stepping up to a bigger bike, the Ninja 500 promises to deliver a fantastic ride. This bike is powered by a 451cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine that delivers 44.7 bhp and 42.6 Nm of torque, ensuring that the Ninja 500 remains an exciting proposition for its riders.
In this review, we will dive deep into the design, performance, features, and competition surrounding the Kawasaki Ninja 500, ultimately helping you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Kawasaki Ninja 500 Overview
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | ₹5,29,001 (Ex-showroom) |
| Engine | 451cc, Parallel-Twin, Liquid-Cooled |
| Power Output | 44.7 bhp @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 42.6 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14 liters |
| Kerb Weight | 171 kg |
Design & Aesthetics
One of the standout features of the Kawasaki Ninja 500 is its aggressive and sporty design. Kawasaki has maintained its legacy of sharp, dynamic looks that exude power, performance, and precision. This bike is unmistakably part of the Ninja family, but it features subtle updates that enhance its appeal. The front fairing, angular lines, and the new Kawasaki Green accents give the Ninja 500 a distinctive presence on the road, setting it apart from its predecessor, the Ninja 400.
The rear end of the Ninja 500 features a broader design, including twin exhaust pipes and a wider fender, giving it a more robust appearance. Additionally, the new color scheme brings a dash of vibrancy, making it more eye-catching than the previous all-black variant. Kawasaki’s focus on design means that the Ninja 500 is not just a powerful bike, but a beautiful one too.
Design Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Colour Options | Kawasaki Green |
| Fairing Type | Aerodynamic, Sharp |
| Design Focus | Aggressive Stance, Muscular Lines |
| Road Presence | Bold and Attention-Grabbing |
Engine and Performance
The Ninja 500 is powered by a 451cc parallel-twin engine, delivering an impressive 44.7 bhp and 42.6 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, which allows for smooth gear shifts and better control over power delivery. Whether you’re cruising on highways or tackling winding mountain roads, the engine provides the right balance of power and efficiency.
The engine’s power output at 9,000 rpm and torque at 6,000 rpm ensure that the Ninja 500 is not just about top-end performance but also about providing ample low-end torque for a thrilling riding experience. The liquid-cooled engine ensures optimal performance even during prolonged rides, keeping engine temperatures in check.
Additionally, the assist and slipper clutch reduce the chances of engine braking when downshifting, providing a more enjoyable and safe riding experience. The Ninja 500 is capable of reaching a top speed of 190 km/h, making it suitable for both highway rides and occasional track days.
Engine Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Capacity | 451cc |
| Power | 44.7 bhp @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 42.6 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed Manual |
| Cooling System | Liquid Cooled |
| Clutch Type | Assist and Slipper Clutch |
Brakes and Suspension
Braking performance is an essential aspect of any sports bike, and the Ninja 500 doesn’t disappoint. Equipped with dual-channel ABS, it provides excellent braking control under various conditions. The 310mm front disc brake and 220mm rear disc brake ensure that you can bring the bike to a stop efficiently and quickly, even at high speeds.
For the suspension, the Ninja 500 features a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock absorber at the rear. This setup strikes a balance between performance and comfort, ensuring that the bike handles well on both smooth and rough surfaces. The rear monoshock can be adjusted for preload, giving you the flexibility to fine-tune the ride quality based on your preference.
The combination of effective braking and a well-balanced suspension makes the Ninja 500 a joy to ride on both straight roads and twisty corners.
Braking and Suspension
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Front Brake Type | Disc (310 mm) |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc (220 mm) |
| Suspension Front | Telescopic Fork |
| Suspension Rear | Monoshock Absorber |
| ABS | Dual-Channel |
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Kawasaki Ninja 500 strikes a balance between aggressive performance and rider comfort. The 785mm seat height makes it accessible to a wide range of riders, while the overall ergonomics of the bike provide a sporty yet comfortable riding position. The slightly forward-set footpegs and higher handlebars encourage an active, aggressive stance, perfect for spirited riding.
The seat is well-cushioned, offering adequate support for long rides. Although the Ninja 500 is designed with sporty handling in mind, Kawasaki has ensured that it remains comfortable for riders who plan on long journeys. The pillion seat, although not the most spacious, is functional and provides enough comfort for shorter rides.
The overall weight of the bike is 171 kg, which is manageable for most riders. The bike’s center of gravity is low, which contributes to its stability and maneuverability. Whether you’re commuting or going on a weekend adventure, the Ninja 500 offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Comfort Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Seat Height | 785 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 171 kg |
| Footpeg Position | Sporty, Aggressive |
| Pillion Seat | Stepped Seat |
| Pillion Footrest | Yes |
Technology and Features
In terms of technology, the Ninja 500 might not be the most feature-packed motorcycle in its segment, but it still includes all the necessary features to enhance the riding experience. The negative LCD display provides essential information such as fuel gauge, speedometer, trip meters, and even mobile notifications. The instrument cluster is easy to read, even under direct sunlight.
Other notable features include LED lighting for the headlamp and tail light, hazard warning lights, and USB charging ports for convenience. The bike also offers mobile phone connectivity, allowing riders to receive notifications directly on the instrument cluster. However, the bike lacks some of the more advanced features seen in its competitors, such as traction control and ride modes.
The Ninja 500 is equipped with safety features like dual-channel ABS and a stand alarm. These features add to the overall reliability and safety of the bike, especially for those new to the world of sports bikes.
Technology & Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Instrument Console | Negative LCD Display |
| Connectivity | Mobile Notifications, Bluetooth |
| Lighting | LED Headlamp, Tail Light, Turn Signals |
| Safety Features | Dual-Channel ABS, Hazard Lights |
| Additional Features | USB Charging Port, Stand Alarm |
Competitors in the Market
The Ninja 500 is not alone in the middleweight sports bike segment. It faces stiff competition from bikes like the Aprilia RS 457 and the Yamaha R3. Both of these competitors offer excellent performance, though they have different design philosophies and feature sets.
The Aprilia RS 457 is another strong contender, known for its tech-heavy approach and superior handling. The Yamaha R3, on the other hand, offers a more agile and lightweight design, making it a great option for those who prioritize cornering and agility over raw power. Despite its price point, the Ninja 500 stands out for its aggressive design and well-rounded performance.
Competitors Comparison
| Competitor | Key Feature | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| Aprilia RS 457 | High-tech features, performance | ₹5,60,000 |
| Yamaha R3 | Performance, agility | ₹3,70,000 |
| Kawasaki Ninja 500 | Aggressive Design, Strong Performance | ₹5,29,001 |
Pricing and Value Proposition
At ₹5,29,001, the Ninja 500 is positioned as a premium offering in the middleweight segment. While it might seem more expensive than some of its competitors, it offers an excellent blend of performance, design, and features that justifies the price tag. Kawasaki’s attention to detail, quality, and brand legacy make the Ninja 500 a valuable option for sports bike enthusiasts.
The Ninja 500 comes with a standard 3-year or 36,000 km warranty, ensuring peace of mind for the buyer.
Pricing Overview
| Feature | Price |
|---|---|
| Ex-showroom Price | ₹5,29,001 |
| Competitor Price (Yamaha R3) | ₹3,70,000 |
| Competitor Price (Aprilia RS 457) | ₹5,60,000 |
Conclusion: Is the Kawasaki Ninja 500 Worth It?
The Kawasaki Ninja 500 stands as a formidable contender in the middleweight sports bike segment. Its balance of power, design, and comfort makes it an attractive choice for riders looking for an aggressive yet practical bike. While it may not offer as many tech features as some competitors, the Ninja 500 excels in areas like performance, design, and safety.
If you’re looking for a bike that combines high performance with a striking design and solid build quality, the Kawasaki Ninja 500 is a bike worth considering.
Final Thoughts
| Feature | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Performance | Excellent Engine Power, Smooth Shifting |
| Design | Aggressive, Sporty |
| Features | Good, but could include more tech |
| Overall Value | Great balance of price and features |
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