I recently purchased a new addition to the training fleet. A very nice little '07 Kawasaki KLE 500. I have been considering one for a while but since the LAM's legislation changes it has become a very versatile mount. I will use it for a learner bike for the taller students going for their RE as it is more accommodating for the taller rider but has a friendly nature with moderate controllable power, wide bars and not too high in the saddle. Anyone considering a second bike in the Adventure area or an entry level mount as their only mount, this would be a great solution.
I have started a list of standard equipment that needs to be replaced with better quality/more suitable items. In addition, the list will contain items that are not offered as standard but are essential to make a functional, robust and reliable Adventure mount. Anyway, to date (I have only had the bike for a few weeks) here is the list so far.
PEGS
Obviously supplied standard but are very ordinary street affairs. Non removable rubber inserts/tops. Very slippery and not very sturdy. Will be considering Pivot Pegs or similar
STAND
Only comes with side stand. The center stands I have seen are not attractive but seem to work. May compromise ground clearance which is not abundant but OK.
BASH PLATE
The standard bash plate is good for defending against small to medium projectiles coming from under the front wheel, however it will not take much punishment from grounding the full weight of the bike over rocks, ruts and banks etc. The mounting points may be sturdy enough to take a reinforced plate however I think some welding will be required to fit a plate that will help out on rocky ground.
ENGINE BARS
The cosmetic damage alone could be significant in a small fall but the radiator is a little vulnerable. There are small 'bars' on the frame under the plastic but not adequate if confronted by a log or rock impact. Also water pump is vulnerable. Good bars will solve these issues.
BARK BUSTERS
Standard wind deflectors are fitted but provide no protection from physical impact as they are connected to the bars at only the inside ends. A goos supply of 'bark buster' type units are available, will short list some options soon.
I will post I will post the progess in section soon along with other reviews, opinions and suggestions about the hardware and suppliers we have used. Justllok for articles titled "Project KLE-"
!!!!UPDATE!!!!!
EXHAUST and JETTING
Well it's been a while since I posted on the KLE project. That does not mean that no progress has been happening. In fact, other than the Bash Plate it's pretty well done. The latest development has been the replacement of the stock exhaust headers and muffler with a beautiful Stainless twin system from Head to Tail so to speak with a Delkevic system from the UK. This system is designed for the GPZ500S on which the engine in the KLE is based. It required some modifications but is on and the carbs have been re-jetted. Read here for the results.
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