- The 1993 Kawasaki EX500 is a beginner's sport bike with an inline twin-cylinder, four-stroke motor. Differences between the first EX, rolled out in 1987, and each subsequent model, through the EX's production cycle in 1993, were negligible. In 1994, Kawasaki gave the EX the Ninja moniker, the same name as the highly tuned and larger, inline four-cylinder race bikes. Owners of inline four-cylinder Ninjas are quick to point out that they are not the same bike.
- The 1993 EX500 comes equipped with 16-inch wheels and has a 56.5-inch wheelbase. The bike uses disc brakes and has a Uni-Track rear suspension with progressive linkage. The inline twin engine is liquid-cooled, and has a bore and stroke of 74 by 58 mm, with a 10.8:1 compression ratio. The bike features dual overhead cams with four valves per cylinder, and produces peak horsepower at 9,800 RPM and maximum torque of 33.9 ft.-lbs. at 8,500 RPM. The 1993 EX500 uses Keihin Twin CVK34 carburetors and is equipped with a six-speed, chain-driven transmission.
- While the EX500 has a sporty 50 brake horsepower (BHP) and a top speed of 120 MPH, compare that to 150 BHP for its older and bigger brother, the 1,000 cc Kawasaki Ninja. Though quick, the EX500 won't set any acceleration records. If you want performance, you will find it in corners as the frame, suspension and geometry all benefit from Kawasaki's racing design. And you get it with a steady power curve, more appropriate to novice and intermediate riders.
- There are benefits to having less horsepower, most notably in terms of fuel economy. Your mileage will vary with riding style, but you can expect between 48 and 60 miles per gallon. Fewer cylinders means fewer moving parts; this also means fewer repair bills. It looks a little racy, but the EX500 is a very economical commuter bike that happens to go around corners a lot better than most daily drivers.
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