i like my Kawasaki KX 500 simply because it,s like riding a rocket its fast and handles well for its size

I have owned two KX500s. The first was a 1997 and now have had a 2001 since it was new. Both bikes were very reliable and extremely fast. I have raced it against everything from cr's yz's several ktm's, a friends old RM500, and even several street bikes that also included a ninja in a 1 block race and smoked them all easily! Oh, I also raced a thumper racing built Xr600. Bored to 660 with all their trick parts and it wouldnt keep up with my KX500 either! For the guys who say the KX500 isnt fast, try letting someone who knows what they are doing rebuild the motor!

I own a 2002 Kawasaki KX500. Ask old school motocrossers about the KX500. The KX500 is an awesome machine. Great for tracks or trails depending on how its setup. A bigbore 2-stroke cannot be ridden like a 4-popper. To be good on a KX500, requires throttle discipline and clutch mastery. You have to ease on the power and use the clutch as necessary to manage traction. Or you will just spin the tire or loop out. Most old timers say the best things you can do for the KX500 is setup the suspension for the riders weight, skill level, and type of riding. And, perform maintenance at the required intervals. Much cheaper to maintain then a 4-stroke, and way more power. If you want a super fun bike thats powerful, inexpensive and reliable get a KX500.

I wouldn ' t trade my bike for the world, all my friends think I'm crazy for riding such a powerful bike but its all good as long as I ' m always in front, I ' m the only one that doesn ' t have to ride with dust in my face...

The KX500 is a ugly, and outdated (personal opinion). The steering and suspension is average and the ergonomics aren't the greatest. But it you cant scratch that power itch with your 250 or 450, the 500 is the answer. Relentless torque and easy power wheelies is what you are looking at.
I have had a KX500 for over 2 years now and have not had a single problem, never even fouled a plug. In my opinion the engine is bulletproof, I've had it flat out for extended runs, dune missions, creek crossings whatever, it loves it.
Straight off the bat most KX500s are tunned rich and a few ponies and a much crisper throttle can be found in a 20min tweak of the carby. A good after market pipe and muffler will give a nice 2-stroke crackle with more power and crispness.
There are slight differences between the kx and the cr, the cr's handling and suspension is more motocross orientated whilst the kx is more stable at high speed and suitable for woods and dessert riding. The kx has a stronger capability for power as it has the more developed cylinder with power valves whilst the cr looks better.
With an aluminium frame conversion this bike would be unstoppable and even more enjoyable to ride. However this bike is not for everyone, but if you want a 500, you'll already know.

Ive rode with guys with KTM 520 and KTM 495's and CRF 450's and WRF 450's. Nothing, and I mean nothing has been able to stay with the Big Bore KX. I've had or rode everything from the 1978 RM 400 to a 2006 KTM 525 and the KX 500 has it all. The best power, great handling and good suspension. If you a weak rider it is not for you.

This bike is the best I've ever ridden all my friends are scared of the thing it is just an animal it the power is there when you need it even in 5th gear it is just a lovely bike. dont judge this bike until u have ridden one

This Kawasaki KX 500 bike is a real joy to ride or race. I never hesitate to race this awesome piece of motocross history and will carry on doing so until my body says no more. Perfect power, great handling, reliable and a joy to go pass them 4 strokes

I am a woods/hare scramble rider and have never ridden a bike with this much pure speed. My Kawasaki KX 500 has a Steahly flywheel weight (A must for riding in the woods). It is a great bike and is easily the best dollar-per-hp deal you can get. You can make those guys on expensive 4 stroke 450s look like they are standing still. I love this bike, it lugs perfectly in the tight stuff and can climb anything (Which can be a problem because if you do not make the hill, you cant blame the bike) and goes faster in the woods than you need to go. I know it isn't for everyone but it is the perfect fit for someone who likes the extra power and is a little larger. I am 5'10" 200lbs so smaller bikes tend to be a bit soft.

There are a lot of half hearted, hip shooting comments about the Kawasaki KX 500 500. Ignorance is defined as lack of knowledge. The comments about the kx being the fastest. Maybe these guys haven't checked horse power ratings. Or shoot out reviews. Because if they did they would know that KX is definitely not the fastest two stroke on planet. The KTM 495 still holds the record 127 miles per hour set at Salt Flats. The dyno tests are clear as well when two strokes were put side by side. So for the record it goes 495 KTM 550 KTM 540 KTM 500 KTM KX 500 cr 500

My Kawasaki KX 500 is freakishly powerful. The poor handling is made up for in the power department. Awesome. The guy that thinks these aren't great bikes probably just has a duff one. I love mine

The Kawasaki KX 500 pulls wheels in every gear. It must be one of the fastest two strokes ever made I've got a Yamaha 450 quad 2005 and it leaves that in the distance. It's a very good bike at the end of the day.