Kawawaki Ninja 500 - Test Ride - Review in bio (reupload)

Hi everyone, welcome back to my channel. Today, I’m diving into a detailed review of the Ninja 500 as a beginner bike. Unfortunately, I had some issues with my audio during the test ride, so I'm typing out this review to ensure you get all the insights you need.

The Kawasaki Ninja 500, also known as the EX500 or GPZ500S, has been a staple in the beginner motorcycle market for many years. Its production spanned from the late 1980s until 2009, making it a tried-and-true choice for new riders looking for a reliable, versatile, and easy-to-handle bike.

#### Performance
Let's start with the heart of the bike: its performance. The Ninja 500 is powered by a 498cc parallel-twin engine that produces around 50 horsepower. This might not sound like much, especially compared to larger sportbikes, but for a beginner, it's more than enough. The power delivery is smooth and predictable, which is crucial for those still getting used to handling a motorcycle.

The bike accelerates briskly without being overwhelming, making it perfect for learning how to manage throttle control. It’s also forgiving if you make mistakes, giving you the confidence to improve your skills without the fear of an unruly engine. The Ninja 500 has a 6-speed transmission that shifts smoothly, making it easy to find the right gear for any situation.

#### Handling and Ride Quality
The handling of the Ninja 500 is another area where it shines for beginners. It has a lightweight chassis that makes it very nimble, allowing you to navigate through traffic and tight corners with ease. The bike weighs around 388 pounds (176 kg), which is manageable for most new riders. The suspension setup is fairly basic, with a telescopic front fork and a rear mono-shock, but it does a decent job of absorbing road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride.

The braking system, consisting of a single disc in the front and a drum brake in the rear, is adequate for the bike's power and weight. It’s not overly aggressive, which helps beginners get used to braking without the risk of locking up the wheels too easily.

#### Seating Position
Now, let’s talk about the seating position. The Ninja 500 has an upright seating posture that is comfortable for longer rides. The seat height is about 30.5 inches (775 mm), which is relatively low, allowing riders with shorter inseams to easily plant their feet on the ground at stops. This feature is particularly important for beginners, as it boosts confidence when balancing the bike at a standstill.

The handlebars are positioned to provide a relaxed riding stance, reducing strain on your wrists and shoulders. The foot pegs are also placed in a way that doesn't force your legs into an overly aggressive position, making the bike comfortable for both short commutes and longer rides.

#### Overall Experience
The Ninja 500 is a fantastic bike for beginners due to its combination of manageable power, comfortable ergonomics, and forgiving nature. It's not just a bike you’ll outgrow quickly; many riders find it to be a reliable companion even as their skills improve. Its versatility allows it to handle city commuting, weekend rides, and even light touring with ease.

While it might not have the modern electronics or high-tech features of newer bikes, the Ninja 500 makes up for it with its simplicity and reliability. Maintenance is straightforward, and parts are readily available due to its long production run.

#### Conclusion
In conclusion, the Kawasaki Ninja 500 is an excellent choice for new riders looking for a bike that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and ease of use. Its seating position is beginner-friendly, and its performance is both forgiving and sufficient for a wide range of riding scenarios. Whether you’re just starting or looking for a dependable bike to grow with, the Ninja 500 is worth considering.

I hope you found this review helpful. Apologies again for the lack of audio; I'm working on fixing the issue for my next video. If you have any questions or comments about the Ninja 500, feel free to leave them below. Thanks for watching, and ride safe!