The only topic I would have, is when are they going to update the 500R? It's a bit long in the tooth, isn't it?

 

Not really. They work and work well for a good low cost starter bike. The EX500 was half a Ninja 900/1000 motor when it was new. Using that same plan imagine a new EX500 that was half of a Ninja 10x motor
Probably not going to happen since it is so cheap to make and is still a good bike for the price. If they update it I would expect to see FI and a new fairing.
If they do update it I hope it works as well as the new KLRs update!

 

I wish

It's amazing though what a wall with 3 different fork springs hanging and an $800.00 shock will do for it.

 

It must be EXTREMELY cheap for them to produce the model as I heard/read that the 650R was supposed to replace the 500. But we are now in the third year of the 650R and the 500 is still around.

I wonder if they will revamp the EX250 and the 500 like Suzuki did with their 500. Essentially the same bike, but updated the styling.

Me? I like it. It’s simple, works for newbies, but still fun for the more experienced rider. I hate the color schemes Kawi keeps choosing, though.

 

Remember that Kwacker built the old KZ1000 Police bike until around 2000. That's an over 20 year run. So as long as people keep buying enough 500s Kwacker will probably keep selling them.

The displacement regulations in much of Europe and Asia probably encourage the sales of 500s vs 650s.

 

What they don't still come in GREEN!

Please tell me they still come in green. All Kaws should be green, well some anyway....

 

kawi 500r just fine

the only thing I would change is maybe some more color options owned mine for 2 years now and love it I can keep up with anything on the road except at those insane speeds(140+). Oh by the way how 'bout adding a fuel gauge?

 

Don't forget the KLR.

 

I'm sure you all know, but

For those who don't this is the 500 forum that I enjoy the most:

Ex-500.com - The home of the Kawasaki EX500 / Ninja 500R - Index

 

One short coming

I am one of the people who extoll the capabilities of the littlest ninja. It does have one flaw that I cannot over come. Dirt roads and fire trails. Fortunatly there are plenty of choices now to rectify that. Hmmm, Shannonville isn't as far away as I thought. This becomes a track bike and I get to go shopping. All right so now the short coming becomes an opportunity.

 

Now the only colors they make are yellow and silver, which is both lame and bogus. Thats why I plan on buying a used red or green one.

 

You are correct Green is cool.