 Kawasaki KR500 (1982) | |
| Manufacturer | Kawasaki |
|---|---|
| Production | 1980–1982 |
| Predecessor | Kawasaki H1R |
| Successor | Kawasaki Ninja ZX-RR |
| Class | Grands Prix racing (500 cc class) |
| Engine | 494.7 cc (30.19 cu in) square four, two stroke, liquid cooled |
| Bore / stroke | 54.0 mm × 54.0 mm (2.13 in × 2.13 in) |
| Top speed | 180 mph (290 km/h)[1] depending on gearing |
| Power | 120 hp (89 kW)[1] |
| Transmission | six speed, dry clutch |
| Frame type | aluminium monocoque[2][dead link] |
| Suspension | Front 38 mm Kayaba telescopic forks Rear single shock Kayaba |
| Brakes | Front Dual 290 mm (11 in) discs with Kawasaki magnesium twin piston calipers Rear Single 230 mm (9.1 in) disc with Kawasaki magnesium twin piston caliper |
| Tires | front 16 x 3.00 inch, Dymag wheel rear 18 x 4.00 inch, Dymag wheel |
| Wheelbase | 1,450 mm (57 in) |
| Weight | 133 kg (293 lb) (dry) 150 kg (330 lb)[1] (wet) |
| Fuel capacity | 32 L |
| Related | Kawasaki KR250 |
The Kawasaki KR500 was a racing motorcycle manufactured by Kawasaki from 1980 to 1982 for competition in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing series. The motorcycle was powered by a 494 cc two stroke engine, and used an aluminium monocoque frame, similar to the 1979 Honda NR500 racer, aimed at improving aerodynamics with a small frontal area, improving chassis stiffness and reducing weight.[1]