'91 Kle 500

**yoashman** · #1 21 Mar 2008

Hey. Im thinking about buying a '91 KLE 500. Can you guys give me any info on any probs that I should look out for on this bike other then the usual things. Also your thoughts on this model, the reason for buying such an old bike is lack of money!!! I have previously had big expensive dual sport trail bikes including the 04 KTM Adv S which I loved!!! But Im not expecting the KLE to live up to the KTM, but I still wanna havesome fun! Im looking at the KLE as I said because of the price its going for (£700), and also so I can ride 2up with my partner as well as along the odd fire road or dirt track. Also ifany of you have any pics of you (old) kle 500 that would be grand. Thanks alot!!!

**klaus** · #2 22 Mar 2008

I guess you made a wise decision!! I owned a KLE for quite some time, well it was the Japanese 400ccm model. Great bike, took me touring to Mt. Fuji without any problems and many other places. Riding it year round, summer, fall, winter and spring and it never let me down. Gas milage good, maintenance no problem, I just loved my "baby". Had to sell it because of health reasons (mine, not the bike!!!). Back on the road again since last year with an old (but good-looking!!) Honda TransAlp, model 1991, again 400ccm. For pics, just check my homepage at My Photo Gallery. There you can see both of my bikes and some of the touring I did over here in Japan.

Hope (and assume) you will enjoy your ride,

Klaus

**jmpb** · #3 22 Mar 2008

Hi Yoashman,

I have just done the very same thing in that I aquired a old KLE today so I will watch your thread with interest!

I managed to write my Aprilia RSV Tuono

off in January which resulted in seven weeks off work with a broken and dislocated ankle.

For the first time in 30 years there is no motorcycle in the garage.

The word soon got out at work which resulted in an offer of a KLE 500

which a colleague would let me have for not many £’s (sub £400). It would need a bit TLC as it has spent most of its life outside.

Details are,

Registered June 1992
7500 Miles, yes just 7500!
Full service history
New tyres
Scottoiler from new
Comes with a few bits and bobs, paddock stand, cover, etc.
It even has 3 months tax remaining, although it does need an MOT.
It does however sport a large crease in the tank which I will just have to live with.

Main issues are cosmetic I am sure a bit of TLC would sort a lot of it.

I would be interested to hear if any of the forum members think I am barmy taking the KLE on

, bare in mind I did not pay a lot for it.

My main concern are the exhaust headers

.

I have attached a couple of pics of the poor thing.

**jmpb** · #4 22 Mar 2008

Forgot to mention,

One owner from new,
Both keys present etc,
all paperwork in order,

Just need to get her home....................

**yoashman** · #5 23 Mar 2008

Great stuff, cheers for the pics, and nice one getting the bike for such a good price!!! I have bee bike-less for almost 5 months now...and Im starting to go crazy!!!! Also I havnt been able to get hold of the guy selling the KLE as his phone has been switched off all weekend! Argh!!!!!! Letme know how you new bike fairs. Thanks!

**Big John** · #6 29 Mar 2008

yoashman hi matey, i'm new on here but here goes! this is my kle 1991 46,000 miles and still going strong lol. bought for £800 a few years back, probs with the bike ? not really so long as you do the required maintenance REGULARLY. only gripe ive got ( like a lot of other people ) is that damn seat ! got some more photees, if i can find them i will bang them on at a later date hope you have as much enjoyment out of your bike as i have cheer's