Kawasaki Ninja 500R Review | Perfect First Bike?

[@grilledcheese1318]

"not many clean 500's out there" so true! Clean your bike people! I've had one of these since 2008. Getting it up and running again this year.

[@gantxin]

hahaha yeah it unfortunate, but one man's trash is another man's treasure! A little elbow grease goes a long way :) good luck with her!

[@jayjames1730]

I got one too

[@jayjames1730]

@@shawnmclaughlin7418 I spent a little cash on the bike so far, I would like a ninja 650.

[@bavarianbanshee]

Since there are probably going to be a lot of newer riders watching this to see if they should get a Ninja 500, first of all: YES! Do it! I've had mine for years at this point, and it's a wonderful, wonderful bike. And secondly, I just want to make one small correction to the video. The reason it sounds different from sport bikes isn't because it's a 4-stroke - most modern street bikes are - or because it's a 500cc engine. It's because it's a parallel twin, instead of a straight four. That means that is has two cylinders in a row, like this: I I . A straight four has four cylinders arranged the same way, like this: I I I I . That's also why this 500 makes about 60 hp, while a modern 600 will make about 120 hp. It's not worth going into full detail here, but that's the reason why the 500's engine is the way it is (and part of why it's so great). Great video, btw!

[@RajerThatYT]

Hey, are the carbs easy to work with? How reliable are these guys? Thanks

[@johncolburn4353]

Its not “straight four” it’s inline four. Yes, the carbs are easy to clean and the Ninja 500/500r/er5 is a very reliable bike. Probably run through 2 or 3 sets of tires before you need to clean the carbs.

[@ChristopherT_]

@@RajerThatYT I am an average home mechanic and it took me about 4 hours to clean and rebuild the carbs on my '93. They are very very reliable, I would recommend a 500 all day every day! The rebuild kit is about $60 and I followed this video, kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKnLq4WlbtZ6rLc&pp=ygUWZXg1MDAgY2FyYiByZWJ1aWxkIGtpdA%3D%3D

[@samsherwen6912]

This was my first bike on a full licence - I'd reccomend it - had it for 4 years and added progressive springs on the front and Micron exhaust. Fairing excellent for UK weather. There was enough power to pull away from anything but other bikes but more importantly low down torque and not a scary power band. Used it to commute 15 miles to work daily, visting family 90 miles away down the highway monthly and some great weekend blasts in the Welsh mountains. Can attest they will do 120mph, if you tuck in, but happier criusing at 80-90 mph. Had an off on the highway at 75mph and took 2 months to walk unaided again - but repaired the bike and got back on I loved it that much.

[@lytrix6881]

I just saw an 500 from 1993 belonging to a Grandpa who road it very little and kept it in perfect condition. It was his first Bike and he bought it brand new from the dealership 30 years ago. I am now buying it from him tomorrow :)

[@jaredanderson7494]

How is it?

[@chrishart8548]

He came to riding motorcycles late then ? Is he a young grandpa ?

[@sci-fyguy7767]

He could of been in his 20’s when he bought it.

[@chrishart8548]

@@sci-fyguy7767 that would only make him 50. Still a young grampa

[@steamschaefer4813]

I just did a full carb clean, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fork seal replacement, oil change, front and rear brake cleaning and maintenance, all for under $200 using nothing but cost of parts and youtube videos. I am learning how to ride(im just over a year old as a ride) and am more importantly, learning how to work on and maintain my bike. I get giddy every time I sit on katy.[her name cuz my liscense plate starts with KD] cant go wrong here folks.

[@cortezdeuce]

Just got a 2006 about 3 weeks ago. 1st bike and loving it. Great review!

[@andrewroberts6123]

Fun, fun, fun !

[@carlosvillar5250]

hey quick question, i plan on getting a 2005 ninja 500 and was wondering if a fork stem phone mount will be compatable with this bike

[@mujjuman]

One of the best reviews on one of the best bikes I’ve seen. Great job

[@mujjuman]

And thank you for the video

[@gantxin]

Thank you so much! This means a lot more than you know :) really glad you enjoyed it!

[@sci-fyguy7767]

That bike makes perfect sense every way you look at it. I’ve always thought these are cool bikes & spotted a guy riding one just the other day. 😎

[@EduMotovlogs1994]

It is my third motorcycle, and it has a lot of power and torque, it is in the process of becoming a café racer, excellent video🤘

[@gantxin]

That's awesome ! Love the cafe racer idea, I’ve thought of stripping it down to a street fighter but I’m enjoying it stock for now 🤙 thank you so much for the compliment/feedback :) means a lot

[@andrewroberts6123]

If you're looking for a great fun, reliable motorcycle at an affordable price, then the Ninja500 can't be beat !

[@mrdeathgaming1457]

I remember riding one of these at 130mph down the m3 in uk in 1992!

[@benn1181]

My first bike was an 08 in the same color scheme, with the same exhaust. I have a lot of nice memories on it, I have a zx6r now though.

[@andrewroberts6123]

The Ninja 500 is a fun, comfortable, yet sporty handling motorcycle. I ride a Versys 659 now. The Ninja 500 is probably the most affordable used motorcycles that you can buy.

[@aabe4327]

Very good review! it can be so hard to find reviews that deal with the whole "Powerfull enough, but not too powerfull" argument. It always seems to be either "You dont need ANY power! Buy a Royal Enfield!" or it's bigass 1200cc ADVs described as "normal".

[@matttriestodothings]

Good vid man. Refreshing one of these (well, 1990 EX500) for a family member right now. Last time I rode this bike was probably 12 years ago, hah.

[@KidNamedKuddy]

3:10 was a decent pull. Looking to pick one up this week. Looks good

[@laiky71]

I had a 1990 EX500 bought new in 1991. It was the most fun i ever had on a motorcycle. You can bang gears at redline all day. Great in traffic, will cruise at 80-90MPH and run out to 120 with NO drama

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

All the mentioned is just cool. Great bike overall, I mean.

[@edwardkeeter762]

I've always said that the Ninja 250 is an amazing first bike (it is), and it's also a great all-arounder. It'll cruise at 75 all day long on the highway, and it'll hit 100 if you want it to, but at 75, there's not much acceleration left, and above 75, it's working pretty hard and (on mine at least) burning some oil. The Ninja 500 has all the good stuff of the 250, but it'll be much more at home in that 75-85MPH range in the highway. My 2nd bike is a SV650S, which IMHO is a bit too torquey/powerful to be a good 1st bike for a new rider...but otherwise is absolutely amazing. The Ninja 500 splits the difference between the Ninja 250 and the SV -- really the sweet spot for a new rider. Plus you just gotta love the old-school, 100% analog dash on the 500.

[@unwoundsteak17]

I probably should have watched this before putting an offer on one, but it looks like I made the right choice. Now I gotta hope the deal works out

[@notwocdivad]

I think the fact that it is a 500 twin cylinder makes the different noise. It is also basically half a Ninja 1000 engine so is bound to be revvy, powerful and reliable! Might even get one myself!!!

[@aaronspicer1093]

Omg I am buying a 2003 500r 7000 original kms older gentleman owns it, garage kept under a cover and only ridden on weekends. Sick find!

[@JoshBryss]

getting this for my first bike got it for about 1500 and just need a starter can not wait, should i also get a shift indicators

[@JohnnyDiesel88]

I just picked up a 2008 ninja ex500. I live on the island too, nassau county. bike very fun to ride. insurance very cheap, just gotta refrain from fast boy ish haha

[@andrewroberts6123]

Good fun !

[@Ciupremo]

Next thing, smaller direction indicators and smaller rearview mirrors (actually thinking about buying one, owned Aprilia RS 50 & 125, Zx6R 2008 and now Kasawaki Mach 2 S3 400). It seems like a perfect commuter and nimble as a moped. What about Mpg? I've read fabulous numbers like 53

[@ChristopherT_]

53 sounds about right. the 500s get up to high 50s if you're taking it easy. down to high 40s if you're pushing it.

[@davidmills5764]

Where can I buy the exhaust you have? Or where did you get it from

[@svetozarstojkov6333]

Bought 1998 33k miles today, it's lovely bike 😁

[@gantxin]

Nice!! It is isn't it?! They're simple but so fun :) thanks for the comment!

[@KidNamedKuddy]

How much $

[@andrewroberts6123]

How much $ ?

[@svetozarstojkov6333]

@@andrewroberts6123 1k euros in Serbia, 2 years ago

[@500erider]

It sounds different than most sport bikes simply because it is a parallel twin, not an inline 4, not because it is a 500cc engine, or a 4 stroke. Parallel twins and inline 4's are both (most of the time) 4 strokes. There is NO exhaust system that can make a twin sound like an inline 4, which has more cylinders and a different firing order, obviously.

[@martinmagnia314]

Picked up a clean 07 500 8k miles.. super cheap bike love it

[@gantxin]

Awesome! Glad to hear :) they're great bikes

[@Jayreisa]

Would the 2002 ninja 500 also be considered a sport touring?

[@MiguelGarcia-if2qr]

I’m looking for a service / owner manual for a 2008 ninja 500r. Can you help.

[@kylekline3824]

Do you have a link or more information on the exhaust you put on ?? I wanna get one and make sure I don't order the wrong one.

[@christbonilla.realtor]

Thanks for the video!! I’m about to buy a 08 500R with 750 miles for 2500$ What do you guys think ? It seems it’ll be a perfect bike to start on tbh I’ve been riding dirt bikes all my life tho so hopefully I adapt quick!

[@gantxin]

It's a great bike. 750 miles is nothing so I'd pay a fair price but id look to negotiate that down.

[@ChristopherT_]

I know this situation has probably passed by now, but I would personally pay no more than $1.5k-2.0. at the end of the day, no matter if it has 0 miles, it's still 15 years old. That being said you'll probably be fine, just realize that you'll have to replace more than you think (brake lines, hoses, etc). I've been really enjoying my '93 after putting some work into it. There's a YT short on my channel if you're interested

[@greggferns3278]

They are tons of fun.I've had many bikes,Blackbird,ZZR1100,Pans,vfrs,among many.But they are all big n heavy n faster but you miss out on the fun factor.Gpz500s weigh nothing and you can wring it's neck all day long with no mechanical sympathy in your riding style.I'm about to buy another after many years and can't wait.

[@charlesgyt6275]

You know where I can find fairings?

[@curtisharrington8835]

I have a 2001 and I love it

[@gantxin]

Awesome :) I love mine too, ride safe friend 🤙 thanks for commenting

[@edwardr1483]

Have taking the Ninja 500 on any long trips and what are your thoughts on that ?

[@gantxin]

It's definitely not the best over a couple hours. But, it's doable & better than full sport bikes. I would say explore some more upright options if that's truly your goal. But, these Ninjas are available for much cheaper than most motorcycles.

[@gantxin]

I sold my Ninja for a Honda CB500X & have been loving it for more comfortable, upright riding. Which is better for long trips. The ninja was as great bike but the CB500X is so much more comfy.

[@proteg30]

4:57 Lol bro both of those have literally nothing to do with why it sounds like that. Every bike that has come out past 2000 is a 4 stroke. This bike is a parallel twin engine, 2 pistons, 2 cylinders, high torque, very low top end. 600/750/1000cc Sports are inline 4s, 4 pistons, medium torque, insane horsepower on power band. The Zx25R is a 250cc, check how it sounds.

[@Dsky-vu3nz]

How many hp??

[@gantxin]

~50hp :)

[@philp7648]

“I really enjoy the pipe”👀👀😂😂😂😂

[@Ikarrykids]

Getting an 05 from my father in law soon only 9k miles almost perfect condition

[@Hexavolt]

I love my 500EX but gursh dwamn.... Kawa wants like 1300 for the front fairing. Some OEM parts are stupid expensive. They could've avoided it if they did the front in 3 pieces but the huge wrap around plastics are expensive to make.

[@micko7621]

what price would you recommend for a 20k miles example of this bike ,looks to be in good nick ,atleast visualy?

[@gantxin]

Personally I wouldn't be looking to pay more than 1k for it. Mine was $1.2k with 7k miles on her. Just gotta wait for a good deal to pop up!

[@rajsathy]

My first bike also. Btw did you ever replace the throttle?

[@dakidsbac777]

Just got a 2007 Kawasaki Ninja 500R that Orangeish color.

[@Gideon01]

Comfortability? What happened to comfort?

[@jonobester5817]

You never said that it is only two cylinders, not the 4 to which you are comparing it.

[@michaelrichards3]

I've owned this and a friend of mine has a cbr500 and the cbr was way more comfortable but I like my kawasaki more lol

[@kOlbThreeTimesOne]

does the center stand still work with that exhaust?

[@kOlbThreeTimesOne]

also yep my bike is NOT showroom condition lol, my friend had it sitting in his garage for 4 years before he gave it to me but it's still such an excellent bike

[@gantxin]

yes, the center stand still works. Although be sure to turn the midpipe all the way until the rubber stopper pushes the center stand down a bit so it doesn't hit the chain. :)

[@gosth81]

Is it worth in 2023?

[@justin3131ify]

Actually it's not because its a four stroke that it sounds different, most Sports/ Super sports bikes are four stroke. It sounds different because it's a parallel twin! Most sports bikes are inline four cylinders. It also has a 180 degree crank which gives it the distinctive dirt bike like thump.

[@southernknight9983]

Advice before you tip it over. Get flush mounted, front, turn signals! Those will crack you frame if it hits the ground when travelling. The other stuff that might break when tipped over at speed is more easily replaced. Don't wreck your faring!

[@southernknight9983]

PS: That bike will do 135mph. It can get you in trouble but is far safer and forgiving than 600+ sport bikes.

[@autodrazen]

Not the perfect first bike, is pretty heavy for someone that never touched a motorcycle before(i fell)

[@justinlloyd9342]

I’ve had 2 of these bikes. I wouldn’t take a truck load of ninja 400s for 1 500. The 500 is that good. I had a 07 ninja 650 and it was as comfortable as the 500 minus the seat the seat was the down fall for the 650

[@joelsloper530]

Mpg?

[@zig_zag____1265]

I had one a few years ago and it got like 60-65mpg.

[@iWerli]

I've had my first bike, a grom clone that goes 55mph max, for about 3 months and I'm looking to upgrade. Someone's interested in trading their 500r for my bike (for his gf to learn on) and it seems like a perfect 2nd bike after learning the ropes and getting comfortable on the slow grom clone. Very weird to see a single cylinder 500cc that isn't crazy fast, it's a nice reliable, big but not crazy bike

[@RT22-pb2pp]

the ex500 is twin not single

[@ElderTreeStump]

Its a 2 cylinder engine thats why it sounds like that

[@curtisharrington8835]

The 500r is only a twin cylinder not a inline4 like the 600's

[@gantxin]

Right! Parellel twin. I forgot to say that in the video :( but yeah it's not an inline 4, thanks for the comment!

[@dakidsbac777]

U still got the bike?

[@gantxin]

Glad to hear you got one too 🤙 that's awesome, yeah I still have her haha. Only recorded this a little while ago 😁 thanks for commenting

[@dakidsbac777]

@@gantxin can u do a video on how to downshift like coming to a light or a stop sign or even if u behind a car who's slowing down.

[@gantxin]

@@dakidsbac777 You got it, brother. This is on my list & should be my next video! Thanks for the idea :)

[@dakidsbac777]

@@gantxin everyone talks about blipping throttle, well that's more for experienced heads, how about us noobs.

[@ortiznick1941]

I keep my super clean too bro

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

Really well done. This is one of those bikes that made history. Enjoyed listening. Take care and drop by when you can. You may like my content. Got my like, no. 498. :)

[@CrypticApathy]

There is no bike you will out grow in 1 year. Even groms..... Unless you are dragging elbow at top speed in 6th gear. You arnt ready to upgrade to anything. No matter if its a 250 or a 600. My first bike was a ninja 500. Amazing bike that taught me so many things about riding.

[@sushiandmsbutterfly5145]

i still ride my 500 :)

[@KidNamedKuddy]

0:33 pause

[@starbattles1]

My only problem is that it is a 2 cylinder. I had a 83 GPZ 550 and it was a 4 cyl. And it was just as fast as 600 super sports are today.

[@rontrump8692]

got the same bike 2009 model 11000 miles black runs great clean title wanna sell 1500 if anybody looking for one,in kentucky but can meet up

[@SaintsPurgatory]

I'd def look at it, but I'm a ways from you in NY.

[@hvac42long1]

“Cunftability”? What the heck does that mean?

[@geraldscott4302]

Ninja 500 is a terrible bike. Way back in 1988 I bought a new EX500. I was 29 years old. It was a bit uncomfortable, but I dealt with it. In 1993 I sold it and bought a new Vulcan 750. Much better. I had several cruisers after that. Then in 2009, a local dealer was selling '09 Ninja 500s OTD for hundreds under MSRP. He was seriously overstocked. I couldn't resist the price. Before I got halfway home I was in severe pain, and realized I had made a huge mistake. I kept it for 3 years, put less than 5000 miles on it, almost all of that in pain, especially shoulder and neck pain. I even put expensive GenMar bar risers on it, but the bars were just way too low. The pegs were so high and far back that they cut off the circulation in my lower legs. This is a track bike. Certainly not good for a street bike. And not good for a first bike. Besides the pain, the riding position is awkward. Get a cruiser for a first bike.

[@zig_zag____1265]

Yeah that's why they sold them for almost 25yrs. It's not uncommon to get 80-100k miles on them and you can find them cheap and plentiful in 2022.

[@geraldscott4302]

@@zig_zag____1265 80-100k miles of pain and misery? No thanks. All they needed to do was give it a more standard upright riding position. But as it is, it's pretty worthless for anything but a track bike.

[@gantxin]

To each their own my friend. But these bikes are pretty widly regarded as solid bikes. No, it's not perfect & is based off an 80's design that didn't change much at all. But, it does it's job pretty well & doesn't complai n about it. Light too. I think it's a great starter bike.

[@geraldscott4302]

@@gantxin The '80s no computer carbureted design is one of the things I really like about it. There is nothing mechanically wrong with it. They are known to be reliable. I just can't deal with the riding position. I have to have a bike with an upright riding position.

[@davidwilliams5808]

I put 77k miles on a 2004 Ex500..... I was 5'10 and 180....... Was never in pain...

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Comfortability is not an English word.

[@Meechiam]

You really enjoy the what bruh??😂

[@richardegmontbade7082]

I loved mine. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGHdaauAlLl0a5I It is really fast for a 500 cc bike, almost 200 km/h and very well build. Now I have zzr 600, which is good also, but not so comfortable. I want to get a 500 again and make it a cafe racer. I hate the material of the fairing and I love bikes with a big round chrome headlight