 |
|
16 Mar 2005
|
|
Contributing Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Posts: 10
|
|
|
KLE500
hi there
this is my first post
I was wondering if anyone has had any rough long distance touring experience with the KLE 500, I see it is about to be re- released in selected countries (not here in oz though).
it seems to me to have some good attributes
eg not too high tech, low seat height, 21 inch front wheel, not too much pretty bodywork to destroy, and, importantly as a lot of our miles will ultimately be on sealed roads ( although I anticipate plenty of dirt as well!),not anywhere near as much vibes as a big single.
I'm planning (it's a long way off yet though) a rtw with my better half, and want to take two identical bikes
Here in oz 2nd hand KLE's go for a pretty cheap price (although they are 10 -12 years old now) so I'm thinking cheap bike therefore cheap carnet, low seat, relatively low weight, with a few good mods (luggage, tyres, bash plate etc) a poor man's F650
what does the rest of the world think / know?
|
10 Apr 2005
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Manchester
Posts: 54
|
|
|
Well I'm pretty sure the KLE has the same engine as the GPZ500 which, so long as you keep those oil and filter changes coming, is a strong and reliable engine. It also has screw and locknut valves, so you can do all servicing yourself, really. ( Although I seem to remember the GPZ needed all coolant drained to do the valves....)
I know that in Britain this bike is sold as the ultimate urban tool - ideal for threading through traffic jams.
Sounds good to me - although Suzuki Bandit 600s are cheaper new here!
|
11 Apr 2005
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Oxford, UK
Posts: 994
|
|
|
They've re-introduced in the UK, saw one yesterday. They're easy to work on & it is the same engine as the old GPZ500S. I helped a friend do the valve clearances on a GPZ & don't remember draining any coolants?
One thing to note on these engines is that the crank rotates the opposite direction to most bikes i.e. viewed from the r/h side, the crank rotates anti-clockwise. The give away is the fact that the cam chain tensioner is on the front of the cylinder block.
They're a shade under £4,000 in the UK, sounds good until you realise that an Aprilia Caponord can be bought new from On Yer Bike in Aylesbury for just under £5k.
|
16 Apr 2005
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Perth
Posts: 263
|
|
|
I tried one a month back, friend of a friend had one at his bike shop. I'd say there OK for the price although the write-up's are not good but it is old technology and nothing flashy about it so a mag wouldn't like it. This is good I guess if wanting to do distance stuff on it, for the price though I'd get a transalp, Honda are doing new one with heated grips and full pannier packs for about £5K. Change the spokes and off you go.
A guy at work has had a GPZ for donkeys years and all he does is change the oil plus filter every 6 months, it's still going- the chain is the rustiest thing I've ever seen! must be a good motor
|
20 Apr 2005
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Mozambique
Posts: 31
|
|
|
I haven't ridden one myself, yet I read in a mag (Bike UK - May 05 edition, yes May 05), that the saddle is quite uncomfortable. Nothing to worry, just make sure you "test drive" the saddle prior to rtw and make any required mods at home. G'luck
|
22 May 2005
|
|
Contributing Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Posts: 10
|
|
|
thanks for the info guys,
I thought the motor was a gpz and have owned one before which seemed to be a preety tough unit, I like the idea of a twin over a single, although I'm aware of the added complexity/weight issues. No chance of me buying a new one though, -we can't get them in Oz. I'm still only in the earliest planning stages, so I've got plenty of time to accumulate info, all of which is much appreciated!
Any couriers out there been destroying one over a long period of time? anything which can survive that has to be pretty rugged.
|
16 Jun 2005
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Natimuk
Posts: 105
|
|
|
just to add to this thread. read a review recently of the KLE. remember that the engine is now has less power due to the catalytic converters fitted to it to get it through the latest euro legislation. i had a gpz500 a while back that was excellect to commute on. 35,000 miles and no probs (replaced cam chain at 25,000) an old full power kle may be a better bet. they are cheap cos no one really wants them and they have the full power engine. what would i take next trip? just done a heap of miles on a dommie in the americas but next trip would take a pre electric start ttr600.
|
20 Jun 2005
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: paris, france
Posts: 86
|
|
|
Hi All, well after months of indecision on what to get, I decided on the new KLE 500.
reasons being,If I was going to spend just shy of 5K (transalp) Id seriously think of another sports 600 instead.
But the KLE is not really sexy or high tech, just a basic reliable bike, and pre registered it was a bargin at £3299, for a brand new anything thats not bad.
My old pegaso was needing ongoing maint and it was not enjoyable anymore. The benefits of a new bike means atleast if I get motivated to do a trip this autum, not too much messing about, panniers on and go.
The speed was not too much of an issuse but the economy of a parrel twin could be useful.
Anyhow i shall give more opinions when i pick it up next month
|
20 Jun 2005
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: paris, france
Posts: 86
|
|
|
Good points about the power and emissions control in the exhaust.
I hoped the insurance would be lower for less power, and 33hp is enough unless your loaded etc, If I wanted speed id gone the popular route of big beemer.
Ref the exhaust, an option i,d consider is a replacement stainless steel complete system, then you can use leaded fuel, dyno adjust carbs for optimun performance etc, then at resale time or MOT you still have serviceable exhausts.
Depending how its restricted, there could be other ways to "boost" it up. Travelling two up is not part of my trip plans anyway..........
|
15 Aug 2005
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland
Posts: 1,350
|
|
|
Dear Blackjack,
Keep the KLE 500 info coming. I'm looking for a new bike for a planned UK-Australia trip and the KLE is the bike that comes closest to my budget! Would be v. interested in your impressions. Otherwise it looks like a XT 660R.
Matt
__________________
http://adventure-writing.blogspot.com
http://scotlandnepal.blogspot.com/
*Disclaimer* - I am not saying my bike is better than your bike. I am not saying my way is better than your way. I am not mocking your religion/politics/other belief system. When reading my post imagine me sitting behind a frothing pint of ale, smiling and offering you a bag of peanuts. This is the sentiment in which my post is made. Please accept it as such! 
|
22 Aug 2005
|
|
Contributing Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Posts: 10
|
|
|
hi all
due to the lack of availability of the new kle500 and the price people seem to want for the older second hand kle's I'm swinging towards spending a bit more on a f650.
However I am still keeping my eye on any kle's that come up for sale just in case something good turns up, I'm still a bit tempted by the reduced worry of taking a cheaper bike.
Would be very interested also to here how your trip goes on the kle Blacjack
|
22 Aug 2005
|
|
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: cardigan,wales
Posts: 249
|
|
|
Just seen a new KLE500 in M&P accessories(swansea) for £3499 all in.Had a good look around it,quite basic but seems reasonably well built to me.
------------------
Just going for a short ride on my bike....
__________________
Just going for a short ride on my bike....
|
21 Apr 2006
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Sydney
Posts: 38
|
|
Quote:
|
Originally Posted by lukerobyn
hi all
due to the lack of availability of the new kle500 and the price people seem to want for the older second hand kle's I'm swinging towards spending a bit more on a f650.
However I am still keeping my eye on any kle's that come up for sale just in case something good turns up, I'm still a bit tempted by the reduced worry of taking a cheaper bike.
Would be very interested also to here how your trip goes on the kle Blacjack
|
The KLE 500 has been re-released in Oz now. From about five months or so ago.
I'm looking at buying one myself, the only thing that puts me off is the small 15 litre petrol tank. I read on a south african forum you only get 160 klicks before reserve?
I'm going to look at larger tank options.
|
29 May 2006
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Sydney
Posts: 3
|
|
|
Performance exhausts
I've found a few suppliers for complete exhaust system for the KLE500
http://www.omexperformanceusa.com/kawasaki.html
This one is around $500 US. for a complete 2 into 1 system.
Another one is Gianelli in Italy. It sells in Oz for around $1100 Aus$. or $1300 Aus$ for the titanium. This is too much money for me, but the American one could probably be shipped here for around $800.
I haven't bought the bike yet but I think that with a sports exhaust, some carbie jetting and a more open airbox, this could be a top little bike with a low centre of gravity and heaps of suspension travel.
|
29 May 2006
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 1999
Location: Vancouver Island, Canada
Posts: 812
|
|
|
I had an EX-500 (the North American name for a GPz500) for a few years. It was as reliable as a stone ax, so I don't think you could go too far wrong with a KLE500.
__________________
Bruce Clarke - 2020 Yamaha XV250
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
Linear Mode
