Michael Boobyer I kind of like them. I have an 04 Concours that’s basically the big version of this with more fairings and bags and 2x the engine. I wouldn’t mind having one of these to sit beside it for around town, my bike is just too heavy really to have fun on short trips.
Sheldon Bourgeois I got used to mine as well being the only bike I’ve had for 10 years, I just don’t find myself enjoying just running around town as much anymore, especially if I have to make a lot of stops. It’s not that it lacks power or is too heavy to manage or anything, it’s just harder to maneuver at slow speeds, it’s hot at slow speeds, especially with gear on. Sometimes I just miss being a bit more careless and riding a small bike with no fairing and windshield and going out wearing nothing really and getting some wind on me. I’m not getting rid of mine anytime soon, especially since it really isn’t worth much anymore, I’d just like another bike in the stable.
Just bought one of these today. 1994 Ninja500 7k miles, $500!! Guy had it sitting in a warehouse for years. Got it to start, doesn’t idle well, but lil TLC and we’re golden.
Had an 07 500R for my first bike, was a great bike to learn on had it for 3 years & put about 7k miles on it. loved that bike, enough power to go fast but not enough to get away from you. super reliable too.
@@Spartansrule118 Yes these have a carb, i have an 06 and as long as you use Ethanol free fuel during the winter they will last forever. my bike is still running great with the factory carb.
My first bike was a blue Ninja 500r. I thought it was PLENTY fast for the road. Unless you're racing and being irresponsible, you don't need more power for everyday riding. Lots of fun!!
My first motorcycle was a 1989 Kawasaki Ninja EX500, like the video. Perfect beginner bike. Not intimidating and like Sean said, after about 5000 rpm you can feel the back end sink down as you roll the throttle. Real fun bike fo sho!!
The first bike I ever bought that wasn't a dirtbike was an 1100 Ninja. I had nowhere NEAR the expierience needed to put it through its paces. Frankly, it scared me straight and taught me some humility. I DEFINITELEY should have started out with a smaller bike like a 500.
Very true! Picked up an 06 500r few months ago for $650. After a new battery, rebuilt carbs and a new clutch cable, she rides like a dream. Enough power where I think its fast and keeps me happy for now. I'll still keep it around even after I get my second bike soon.
Had one of these for nearly 5 years. Got me through college. I was able to double up, freeway commute, city commute, everything I needed it to do (well, no touring with it, wasn't comfortable enough). Otherwise, a great bike. Unfortunately it had rear drum brakes and would catch and locked up the rear wheel. Unable to figure out the problem I finally sold it to a bike shop. If nothing significantly changed between the years on this bike, I'd definitely recommend the EX500 again (with rear disc brakes) to a new rider.
@elliot dobson they literally just released the Ninja 400 this year. Yeah, they had the ER4f in Canada and new Zealand, but just Canada and New Zealand, not the rest of the world
I have a 1998 Ex500, 32k miles, ripped off the front fairing, cluster, light, mount, mirrors and threw some basics on it to be a road legal street fighter. I’ve been riding for 11 years and I still ride the 500 more then my GSXR600, and honestly I get just as many compliments since the way it looks now is sick. The only downside to the 500s is the looks, mainly the front fairing. Once you throw some aftermarket gear on the front it’s a very nice looking ride. Gets over 50mpg, will smoke just about any car that’s below a Vett or Cobra. Has a center kickstand, makes this great as a adventure bike and has just the right tire width to get off-road tires. Very cost effective, I paid for this bike in the gas and insurance savings over 2 years. Less than $90 per year to insure, takes 87 octane and has a fuel reserve mode. Not to mention they are rock solid engines, wish they went to fuel injection but oh well. As for the 300cc comparison, the 500 will blow the damn fairings off a R3 or any 300cc for that matter. The newer 400cc might be able to hang, but I had a R3 test me about 2 years ago and I had him in the mirrors instantly. The 500 is the only bike you can buy as a beginner, learn the ways of 2 wheels and not get tired of after 2 months. It’s also a man sized bike, the 250s and 300s are noticeably small.
I bought my first bike this week. Kawasaki Ninja GPZ500S from 1998 because of the clip you made of it. Thank you! You are doing so many great things. I wish I could it bought it from you guys but I live in Europe. Greetings & Respect from Romania, Europe.
THIS was my first bike (1995). I was able to ride this thing from Fort Stewart to Charleston with ease. Heck, even to Myrtle Beach with a break in the middle. Lovely bike. I regret selling it.
That was my first bike! Rode the hell out of it for 2 years and loved it. Really was able to build some great skills by riding it at its limits. Now I own a ninja 650, not a huge upgrade, but it's nice to have those baseline skills on a bigger and nicer bike.
I recently bought one of these, but a model from 1990. Beautiful little machine. Mine came in 80s blue and white stripe styling, which is kinda tacky but I like it.
I have an 06 Ninja 250 and I love it. I'm even part of the 1% of riders who dig the 1980's styling. My only complaint about it in the whole world is that it's not well suited to 70+MPH highway riding for any duration. I'm sure that when new it would run 75-80 MPH all day long, but I just don't trust a 14-year-old, 248cc engine to run for hours on end at 9,000 RPM without having some problems. The Ninja 500 has everything I like about my Ninja plus it loves the highway and it's got a little more get up and go. I think this is my next bike.
I had that bike for 3 years when I was in the Navy. Idid over 38,000 miles on her and then popped the clutch cable and traded her in. I drove from San DIego to Portland on it and back. Its a solid bike.
FlyBaby must be a really comfortable bike for LD, I rode my r6 from the Bay Area to LA I was like damnnn I should ship the bike home and fly back to the bay 😂
Still here!! You're video convinced me to go with the 500r with no riding experience. Bought a 06 500r with 6,347ml, five months later my skills are growing and i absolutely love it. Actually hanged with an r6 during some shenanigans but once he fully opened his, he was gone😂 . Definitely gonna jump to a r6 or zx600 next year. You've tought me a lot man thanks. Hopefully i can come buy one from you!
@@miguelrodriguez-pe1ss not sure if you're still in the market, but I bought 2003 500r with barely a thousand miles, and over the last few seasons I put around 5k miles on it - it held up great. The only issue was when clutch cable snapped, besides it's been awesome. I'm ready for an upgrade but don't want to spend money yet
Thanks for sharing this one! The Kawasaki Ninja 500 was my first new bike, and my first ever sport bike. It was perfect for me as a new rider and would still make a great commuter today.
That thing next to the clutch lever is a Bluetooth remote for a phone. Also, my first bike was a 1997 ex500. Loved it and had it for 3 years before getting a zx600e.
this was my first bike and i will buy another one at some point! Best bike ever for beginners. you don't need more than this in the first 2 years. Tip to beginners that buy one: and this is available for all 2nd hand bikes, nonmatter what the previous owner tells you, do the maintenance work ! replace all cables, tiers, brake pads/calipers, chain and sprocket, etc, check everything before starting riding it. you gonna push it hard and these bikes are old. My accelerator cable broke on the highway at 180km/h and boy oh boy it wasn't a nice ride let me tell ya! there is an alternative for beginners - the Kawasaki ER6N/F . modern bike with abs ,beginner friendly with linear power band but still a lot of fun. it was my second bike
Still here... My first bike was a red 2002 “Ninja” 500 (EX500). I had a blast on it and wish I hadn’t sold it. The EX500 doesn’t make a lot of power, but it’s a fun bike that’s somewhat quick. I think mine topped out at around 115 mph. I rode mine hard for about a year and went out and bought a 2003 Hayabusa.
I do not think the bike is ugly. Especially with a nice color, it's decent looking considering the price. Some have a slightly outdated color combination, but with the styling is nothing wrong imo. Sure it's not the best looking, but for what you get and pay, it's the bike that you really can fall in love with and appreciate it for what it is.
Mine's '96 GPZ500S, the Europe version of it, it's completely original with only 16k miles on it. What I love about it, is its perfect 2 cylinder sound and the 80s vibe about it.
I have a 2009 Ninja 500r and it really moves out. I get 53 mpg with nearly zero maintenance costs and my insurance is only $25 per month. When the carburetor gets clogged after sitting for several months, I just remove it, take off each reservior cover, clean the jets with WD-40 and an .11 electric guitar string, and I'm back in business. That's all it's ever needed besides brake pads and new tires. I go all over California with it and it has never left me stranded.
I just did the CMSP and got my learner's permit. I'm looking for a first bike and this one seems awesome. Plenty are available around me for around the same as a Ninja 250. Definitely considering learning on one of these.
My '08 Ninja 500 was indeed my first starter bike and was plenty of power to keep up with 600s (top speed was 115mph chasing my friend's Busa🤣). Yet, not enough power where you have to mind your throttle. So fun I wish I could have kept it.. but like every beginner bike it must be sacrificed 😔
yeah they are great, got one and its super cheap to run, cost less than £500 to buy. Ive been up to scotland on it and back. I live in wiltshire so thats quite a run for her and shes just pure fun.
Didn't this come with 58hp or something? So it does affectively double the horsepower of a 250. I really wish they had kept this style of bike. In my opinion this bike was basically a sport touring bike. It had a much more upright position and they were comfortable as hell. Really wish I could find one of these around here.
I started on a 06 ninja 500 and that was a great decision cause you won't get bored of it as quickly as a 250 or 300 so I recommend it. Had it for two years and then I test drove an 11 fz8 and I knew It was time to upgrade.
I bought a Kawasaki ninja 500 2008 recently for 2200 and i would recommend it its a really fun motorcycle and with no experience drove it multiple times with no crashes or dropping it its really easy machine to control when you get the hang of it but always do your research before driving a motorcycle if you have no experience and always wear gear and drive safe!
Simple parallel twin carbed liquid cooled engines that ran forever. Nice bike and untouched on top of it having the stock pipes..My son wants it and we are from northern Pa. This engine has been around forever since the 80's and for good reason. More of a sport tourer with a sit up type of ride with very good handling and fun power..No, not even close to an I4 600cc class of bike, but many a I4 rider has been embarrassed by one of these bikes on a track day from a rider that knew what he/she was doing with the twin 500. Much more powerful than the 250/300 bikes,,,not sure on the newest 400 Kawasaki but that bike isn't set up to ride longer distance like the good old EX500/Ninja 500r. They should bring it back imo with updated styling and FI.
I'm 53 and I own a Kawasaki ZX9R and a Gpz500S, as it's called here in the UK. I mainly bought it to ride around back country roads with a buddy (Who has bone cancer) on his Honda 250. It's my 3rd Kawasaki Gpz 500. I had an ER500 with 74,000 miles and KLE500. Great bikes. Robust and fun.
To put the bikes performance into perspective. It’s faster than any 250 300 or 400 and can keep up pretty alright with a 650. Not quite as fast but top end not to far off. Love these bikes for the money
Meet my biological father at 21 for the first time. He was on this bike all red and black with nonplastics, it was tuned up and a big hammer and sickle on the windshield. It was the first bike I drove and fell in love. He sold it since and got a 660rr but I'll never forget the 550 and July fireworks and beer at 20 mph xD
I bought a 2003 a couple weeks ago it's my first bike and even though it's not super fast I love it and it still scares the shit out of me I'm so glad I didn't get anything bigger. I'm excited to learn it and advance in to a better rider.
I have the same bike in the same color scheme...it randomly died 1 time in 2017 and then again in 2018 and i never got it fixed till the other day. Thing is better than i remember, despite feeling cheap and simple. Even with 10 year old tires it handles great!
I got my 500 up to 135 on flat, no problem. The riding position is perfect and comfortable all freaking day! I wouldn't recommend a 250 to any guy. The 500 is the perfect entry level motorcycle. I wouldn't mind buying another one.
It’s also the perfect bike for riding in congested downtown cities. Easy to dart in and out of bumper-to-bumper traffic. It won’t overheat in traffic jams. Easy to park. No fear of dropping it. Rides well on bumpy and pot-holed roads. Easy to carry passengers.
Oh so many memories from behind those bars come floodin back with this video. I put way too much time and money customizing mine. Flame paint and all, oh to be a teen again.
I just got my first bike, turns out to be this exact same one. Was a bit worried bc it feels a bit too slow to be a 500cc but super excited I got my assurance from this video
I just got en 89 ex 500 stored under cover in garage since 94.....like new.....it does have 5k miles but looks like new......removed the tank to clean it out but filled the carbs with new gas and it fired right up and runs perfect got it so my son can learn to ride better and cruise around with me.....I think he will love it.....I have a v65 sabre that's pretty nice but not nice like this.....got it for 600 bucks....yeeeehaaaaw
I bought a low miles 09 ninja 500r and wrecked 08 ninja 500r parts bike for $1200 and was my first bike! Best beginner bike ever! And heck I still jump on it sometimes and go for a rip! It’s a fun bike and gets up to 120 pretty quick for what it is.
I love my 93 500, I can't wait to get my 98 600e on the road. The suspension is a bit soft on the 500 but cutting the springs and adding spacers takes care of that. The speedometers all read high so 130 is really closer to 120, it has 50hp and at 100 mph it take 50hp for a corvette to push the air away from from the front of the car. So that's one reason why it only goes so fast. The 2007 and down 250s are air cooled 5 speeds but 08 and on are water cooled 6 speeds so they are not as loud/high rpm at highway speeds and don't over heat while on the freeway. In terms of competition for the 500 the cbr is the closest match followed by the ninja 400, the 300 from what I read is no match and this summer I hope to ride with my neighbor and we will see what his 300 has to offer. The 500 has enough power to get out of the way. If it's a gen to it had duel front calipers and rear disk brakes with a comfortable upright riding position. You can't go wrong with the 500 as your first bike. Ride safe.
I have this bike. I bought because I'm a new rider. It has a upgraded single exhaust. I like it a lot. But I hate the rearview mirrors. The brakes are not that good, or maybe it's just my brakes. But its fast enough for my skill level. Its buzzy in the highway and a litle scary to be honest
I remember driving my ninja 250 thinking it was so fast and all the power I need. Got a 600rr and absolutely love it. Was terrified of its power for months. Still am 😅
I used to commute 2 hours a day on the PA turnpike on one of these. Other than pegging it full throttle and waiting for it it was a great ride! I actually had 2 of them at the time.
Well, I like it! Luv the instrument cluster. It really transformed when you got on it! Looks like a fun little bike, affordable! I'm 66 still riding my Cbr1100xx, it's too good!
I must be a 1 percenter because I waaaaay prefer this to any of the new stuff. Oh, and you want to know where all the 250s are? They're in Australia, where I couldn't find a 500 despite looking for ages.
I Have to say i found this Video after i got my Ninja 500 (GPZ 500 for Europeans) and it is really the perfect Bike for Beginners. Mine is from 1998 but there is no difference.
I loved my 91 GPZ500, loved it! My first bike ❤ You can grow, develop, go realy 5h straight, you can go really fast, you can dragrace your next door turbo car, you can comute, I drove my 500 3 year all year until a drunk lady "hit and run"
It's similar to the 250 but not the same, the engine is essentially the middle two cylinders of a GPZ1000r and is a much heavier duty engine... With 60bhp its not quite double but its significantly mo power baby 😊 and these engines are known to go on and on. I've had an ER5 commuter and EN500 custom cruiser with essentially the same engine and always wanted the Gpz500s (ninja 500r in the USA)... And now I have one... Hope this one went to a good home... Best wishes from the UK
Yeh.. I’ve been riding dirtbikes and Honda three wheelers for YEARS I’m trying to figure out a bike to get into street motorcycles. Was think a Yamaha R7 or maybe a ninja 400 but after seeing this video I’m going to keep the ninja 500r in mind!
This must be fate, I was looking at getting a 2007 ex500 from a shop In Houston. Ugly gold color, but it's starting to grow on me everytime I see it online.
I really didn't need to go find one since learning that my Vulcan 500 Custom runs the same plant as this machine. Just a different spin on the same machinery. Thank you.
Ive had a 06 Fz6 for almost 2 years and i love it! I was looking at newer 500s when i bought it but the displacements were so low. Love the sporty look with a more relaxed seating position, Enough power to where its hard to use it to its full potential and more than enough to get you in trouble.
I have been riding motorcycles 49 years. I owned 10 to 12 motorcycles at a time most of my adult life, now that I'm retired I keep around two dozen at a time. I came to the conclusion early on that the best beginner street bike is the twin cylinder 450cc class which includes 400 cc's to 500 cc's.
From what I've seen...and I could be wrong but for the size of them the 500's seem like they've got some pretty good power. I like the sound of them aswell as the looks.
Just bought a 2009 ninja 500r and I'm loving it. It's not my first bike it's my 5th and I still drive my drz but man I love the 500r Also I started on a 2015 kawasaki ninja 300 and if I could go back I'd start on this or a dirtbike
Am I the only one who likes the look of these older 80’s looking bikes
me too
Nope I do.sometimes things don’t have to look super aggressive
Michael Boobyer I kind of like them. I have an 04 Concours that’s basically the big version of this with more fairings and bags and 2x the engine. I wouldn’t mind having one of these to sit beside it for around town, my bike is just too heavy really to have fun on short trips.
@@mcearl8073 Love my 06 Concours, gobs of midrange power. I'm used to the weight and don't find it all issue at all.
Sheldon Bourgeois I got used to mine as well being the only bike I’ve had for 10 years, I just don’t find myself enjoying just running around town as much anymore, especially if I have to make a lot of stops. It’s not that it lacks power or is too heavy to manage or anything, it’s just harder to maneuver at slow speeds, it’s hot at slow speeds, especially with gear on. Sometimes I just miss being a bit more careless and riding a small bike with no fairing and windshield and going out wearing nothing really and getting some wind on me. I’m not getting rid of mine anytime soon, especially since it really isn’t worth much anymore, I’d just like another bike in the stable.
Just bought one of these today. 1994 Ninja500 7k miles, $500!! Guy had it sitting in a warehouse for years. Got it to start, doesn’t idle well, but lil TLC and we’re golden.
Super late comment, but I just got a 2006 500R for $250, same deal as yours, but I got a family discount tacked on. I'm excited to get it running
@@Link30567 And I'm about to pay $3k for mine :/ cheapest one I can find within 200 miles of me.
I found one same price needs new motor
I found one for $500 today! About to go pick it up with my buddy tomorrow
3:18 dang that got dark real quick RIP to your buddies
Just picked up my 2001 ninja 500r today for only $1,200 and I love it, my first bike was a Honda rebel 450 and I feel a big difference!
Dam what a steak im looking at a pretty nice one today for 2509
Had an 07 500R for my first bike, was a great bike to learn on had it for 3 years & put about 7k miles on it. loved that bike, enough power to go fast but not enough to get away from you. super reliable too.
Was it carbureted? Did the carb give you issues?
@@Spartansrule118 Yes these have a carb, i have an 06 and as long as you use Ethanol free fuel during the winter they will last forever.
my bike is still running great with the factory carb.
This was my first bike back in 2006. It was indeed a perfect start to my riding life. Lots of pleasant memories on that bike.
Exact same with me great starter bike a lot of fun
How are they for mantince
The bike is listed for $102,000, lol 😆😂😆 😂 #Blooper
My bad, under 2000. #Suzukigs500
@@hunteringlis9262 Super easy maintenance and parts are cheap.
I just bought a 2002 ninja 500r the other day. Love it more than anything else in the world.
Nice, how's the acceleration and top speed. And how's it run?
Congratulations! Have fun and ride safe
xxdragonxx36 they’re like 125 stock
xxdragonxx36 and they accelerate good
I just bought a 2003 and just like you I love it
My first bike was a blue Ninja 500r. I thought it was PLENTY fast for the road. Unless you're racing and being irresponsible, you don't need more power for everyday riding. Lots of fun!!
My first motorcycle was a 1989 Kawasaki Ninja EX500, like the video. Perfect beginner bike. Not intimidating and like Sean said, after about 5000 rpm you can feel the back end sink down as you roll the throttle. Real fun bike fo sho!!
The first bike I ever bought that wasn't a dirtbike was an 1100 Ninja. I had nowhere NEAR the expierience needed to put it through its paces. Frankly, it scared me straight and taught me some humility. I DEFINITELEY should have started out with a smaller bike like a 500.
Very true! Picked up an 06 500r few months ago for $650. After a new battery, rebuilt carbs and a new clutch cable, she rides like a dream. Enough power where I think its fast and keeps me happy for now. I'll still keep it around even after I get my second bike soon.
Had one of these for nearly 5 years. Got me through college. I was able to double up, freeway commute, city commute, everything I needed it to do (well, no touring with it, wasn't comfortable enough). Otherwise, a great bike. Unfortunately it had rear drum brakes and would catch and locked up the rear wheel. Unable to figure out the problem I finally sold it to a bike shop. If nothing significantly changed between the years on this bike, I'd definitely recommend the EX500 again (with rear disc brakes) to a new rider.
No, they dropped the 500 in 2008 and replaced it with the 650. Since then the Ninja 250 was bumped up to the 300 and then 400.
@elliot dobson they literally just released the Ninja 400 this year. Yeah, they had the ER4f in Canada and new Zealand, but just Canada and New Zealand, not the rest of the world
I wish they made a new 500, not like I could afford it tho.
Last year they made the 500r was 2009. Then they changed the body style
@@Dennell_Mount_and_Blade I've got one near me I'm looking at that is @ $2000.
They made the ninja 500r till 2010.
I have a 1998 Ex500, 32k miles, ripped off the front fairing, cluster, light, mount, mirrors and threw some basics on it to be a road legal street fighter. I’ve been riding for 11 years and I still ride the 500 more then my GSXR600, and honestly I get just as many compliments since the way it looks now is sick. The only downside to the 500s is the looks, mainly the front fairing. Once you throw some aftermarket gear on the front it’s a very nice looking ride. Gets over 50mpg, will smoke just about any car that’s below a Vett or Cobra. Has a center kickstand, makes this great as a adventure bike and has just the right tire width to get off-road tires. Very cost effective, I paid for this bike in the gas and insurance savings over 2 years. Less than $90 per year to insure, takes 87 octane and has a fuel reserve mode. Not to mention they are rock solid engines, wish they went to fuel injection but oh well. As for the 300cc comparison, the 500 will blow the damn fairings off a R3 or any 300cc for that matter. The newer 400cc might be able to hang, but I had a R3 test me about 2 years ago and I had him in the mirrors instantly. The 500 is the only bike you can buy as a beginner, learn the ways of 2 wheels and not get tired of after 2 months. It’s also a man sized bike, the 250s and 300s are noticeably small.
Got a link to a pic? would love to see it
Caz Gerald imgur.com/gallery/4vNcAXs
3:22
Wow. That got sobering/depressing quick.
Oleg S did he mean the bikes or his friends?!?
Yeah, well...when you try to ride over your experience/talent you end up dead.
@@xcolton199x His friends..Yeah.
I bought my first bike this week. Kawasaki Ninja GPZ500S from 1998 because of the clip you made of it. Thank you! You are doing so many great things. I wish I could it bought it from you guys but I live in Europe. Greetings & Respect from Romania, Europe.
THIS was my first bike (1995). I was able to ride this thing from Fort Stewart to Charleston with ease. Heck, even to Myrtle Beach with a break in the middle. Lovely bike. I regret selling it.
This was also my first bike too. Its a very emotional experience a bike is not like a car. It has a soul. Should have never sold it.
damn this is my first and only bike and I love it I don't think I'll get rid of it.
Just got one 2004 900 miles steal for 2gs and i absolutely am in love
That was my first bike! Rode the hell out of it for 2 years and loved it. Really was able to build some great skills by riding it at its limits. Now I own a ninja 650, not a huge upgrade, but it's nice to have those baseline skills on a bigger and nicer bike.
I recently bought one of these, but a model from 1990. Beautiful little machine.
Mine came in 80s blue and white stripe styling, which is kinda tacky but I like it.
I have an 06 Ninja 250 and I love it. I'm even part of the 1% of riders who dig the 1980's styling. My only complaint about it in the whole world is that it's not well suited to 70+MPH highway riding for any duration. I'm sure that when new it would run 75-80 MPH all day long, but I just don't trust a 14-year-old, 248cc engine to run for hours on end at 9,000 RPM without having some problems. The Ninja 500 has everything I like about my Ninja plus it loves the highway and it's got a little more get up and go. I think this is my next bike.
Still here bud. One year later and a hell of a lot smarter since I first found your videos. Hoping to one day buy a bike from you.
I had that bike for 3 years when I was in the Navy. Idid over 38,000 miles on her and then popped the clutch cable and traded her in. I drove from San DIego to Portland on it and back. Its a solid bike.
FlyBaby must be a really comfortable bike for LD, I rode my r6 from the Bay Area to LA I was like damnnn I should ship the bike home and fly back to the bay 😂
@@2A5X4A ima tryna see if I can make it to Texas from NYC lol
I popped a clutch cable less than a year after I got mine. Still it was a cheap fix
I'm in too, looking for a cheaper nice quick thing to drive around with
Still here!! You're video convinced me to go with the 500r with no riding experience. Bought a 06 500r with 6,347ml, five months later my skills are growing and i absolutely love it. Actually hanged with an r6 during some shenanigans but once he fully opened his, he was gone😂 . Definitely gonna jump to a r6 or zx600 next year. You've tought me a lot man thanks. Hopefully i can come buy one from you!
About to buy the same bike, how did she hold up?
@@miguelrodriguez-pe1ss not sure if you're still in the market, but I bought 2003 500r with barely a thousand miles, and over the last few seasons I put around 5k miles on it - it held up great. The only issue was when clutch cable snapped, besides it's been awesome. I'm ready for an upgrade but don't want to spend money yet
Thanks for sharing this one! The Kawasaki Ninja 500 was my first new bike, and my first ever sport bike. It was perfect for me as a new rider and would still make a great commuter today.
my first bike 7 years ago, the 1992 EX500. I loved it, wouldnt have wanted to start on anything else
That thing next to the clutch lever is a Bluetooth remote for a phone. Also, my first bike was a 1997 ex500. Loved it and had it for 3 years before getting a zx600e.
this was my first bike and i will buy another one at some point! Best bike ever for beginners. you don't need more than this in the first 2 years. Tip to beginners that buy one: and this is available for all 2nd hand bikes, nonmatter what the previous owner tells you, do the maintenance work ! replace all cables, tiers, brake pads/calipers, chain and sprocket, etc, check everything before starting riding it. you gonna push it hard and these bikes are old. My accelerator cable broke on the highway at 180km/h and boy oh boy it wasn't a nice ride let me tell ya! there is an alternative for beginners - the Kawasaki ER6N/F . modern bike with abs ,beginner friendly with linear power band but still a lot of fun. it was my second bike
Still here... My first bike was a red 2002 “Ninja” 500 (EX500). I had a blast on it and wish I hadn’t sold it. The EX500 doesn’t make a lot of power, but it’s a fun bike that’s somewhat quick. I think mine topped out at around 115 mph. I rode mine hard for about a year and went out and bought a 2003 Hayabusa.
Where did you sell it at? I just bought an 02 red 500ex
I do not think the bike is ugly. Especially with a nice color, it's decent looking considering the price. Some have a slightly outdated color combination, but with the styling is nothing wrong imo. Sure it's not the best looking, but for what you get and pay, it's the bike that you really can fall in love with and appreciate it for what it is.
When you said and they’re all dead... that was one of the eeriest things I ever heard.
I think he ment the bikes not the people.
I see a lot of these at track days, fast enough to have fun, cheap & if you wreck it, no big deal.
Mine's '96 GPZ500S, the Europe version of it, it's completely original with only 16k miles on it. What I love about it, is its perfect 2 cylinder sound and the 80s vibe about it.
Bought my first bike a Ninja 500R 2007 two weeks ago. Such a good time
I have a 2009 Ninja 500r and it really moves out. I get 53 mpg with nearly zero maintenance costs and my insurance is only $25 per month. When the carburetor gets clogged after sitting for several months, I just remove it, take off each reservior cover, clean the jets with WD-40 and an .11 electric guitar string, and I'm back in business. That's all it's ever needed besides brake pads and new tires. I go all over California with it and it has never left me stranded.
I just did the CMSP and got my learner's permit. I'm looking for a first bike and this one seems awesome. Plenty are available around me for around the same as a Ninja 250. Definitely considering learning on one of these.
My '08 Ninja 500 was indeed my first starter bike and was plenty of power to keep up with 600s (top speed was 115mph chasing my friend's Busa🤣). Yet, not enough power where you have to mind your throttle. So fun I wish I could have kept it.. but like every beginner bike it must be sacrificed 😔
In the UK they are called the gpz 500 and produce around 60bhp and are a very inexpensive introduction to motorcycling with ease of maintenance.
yeah they are great, got one and its super cheap to run, cost less than £500 to buy. Ive been up to scotland on it and back. I live in wiltshire so thats quite a run for her and shes just pure fun.
I’ve got a 1998 model with 40 ,000 miles ,been very reliable and is great fun to ride , punchy low down and revvy at the same time , great character.
I picked up this exact motorcycle last week .. First bike.. Love it.. 8,000 miles $2200
Didn't this come with 58hp or something? So it does affectively double the horsepower of a 250. I really wish they had kept this style of bike. In my opinion this bike was basically a sport touring bike. It had a much more upright position and they were comfortable as hell. Really wish I could find one of these around here.
60ps dohc 8 valve liquid cooled it was very good in 1986 when it came out
Specs on the bike says 81hp. The 250 is like 28hp. Almost triple the hp.
@@electronicdawg Not 81 hp, cant be. Much more a puppy dog bike. 119 mph top speed all tucked in. I had mine for many years.
The original ninja 900, the 500 had half it's engine.
Ninja 500 had 49hp to the rear wheel.
Sean I'm still watching 2 years on, oh and bought a super clean 1991 ninja 500 (gpz500s in UK) for under 600 today!
Out of your mind bro. 1980’s bike are super cool. Best looking bikes ever. My favorite bike of all time is the 1984 gsx750s3 katana
I started on a 06 ninja 500 and that was a great decision cause you won't get bored of it as quickly as a 250 or 300 so I recommend it. Had it for two years and then I test drove an 11 fz8 and I knew It was time to upgrade.
I bought a Kawasaki ninja 500 2008 recently for 2200 and i would recommend it its a really fun motorcycle and with no experience drove it multiple times with no crashes or dropping it its really easy machine to control when you get the hang of it but always do your research before driving a motorcycle if you have no experience and always wear gear and drive safe!
Still here. Just bought my first and it's an 04 500r. Even as a newbie it's so comfortable.
My wife has that same year. I rode the shit out of last summer. Keep it rolling above 6500 rpm and you will love it!
Simple parallel twin carbed liquid cooled engines that ran forever. Nice bike and untouched on top of it having the stock pipes..My son wants it and we are from northern Pa. This engine has been around forever since the 80's and for good reason. More of a sport tourer with a sit up type of ride with very good handling and fun power..No, not even close to an I4 600cc class of bike, but many a I4 rider has been embarrassed by one of these bikes on a track day from a rider that knew what he/she was doing with the twin 500. Much more powerful than the 250/300 bikes,,,not sure on the newest 400 Kawasaki but that bike isn't set up to ride longer distance like the good old EX500/Ninja 500r. They should bring it back imo with updated styling and FI.
Was half the engine from the Ninja 900 back in the day.
@@bigpapa8152 Half the gpz rx 1000
Faster than the 400 I’ve ridden a few
I'm 53 and I own a Kawasaki ZX9R and a Gpz500S, as it's called here in the UK.
I mainly bought it to ride around back country roads with a buddy (Who has bone cancer) on his Honda 250.
It's my 3rd Kawasaki Gpz 500. I had an ER500 with 74,000 miles and KLE500.
Great bikes. Robust and fun.
Ninja.... The version in Italy was called "GPZ 500 S" , I had one of that for three years. Very nice bike to begin and to use with passenger.
The Ninja 250 has really high output for a 250. The 500r is a much less stressed engine.
Yeah compared the the CBR 250 and such it is way more powerful with around 32hp on the older models
To put the bikes performance into perspective. It’s faster than any 250 300 or 400 and can keep up pretty alright with a 650. Not quite as fast but top end not to far off. Love these bikes for the money
Meet my biological father at 21 for the first time. He was on this bike all red and black with nonplastics, it was tuned up and a big hammer and sickle on the windshield. It was the first bike I drove and fell in love. He sold it since and got a 660rr but I'll never forget the 550 and July fireworks and beer at 20 mph xD
Love the 80s bikes!
that engine was around for many years. was capable of 110 box stock. frame, brakes, etc good for the time.
I bought a 2003 a couple weeks ago it's my first bike and even though it's not super fast I love it and it still scares the shit out of me I'm so glad I didn't get anything bigger. I'm excited to learn it and advance in to a better rider.
I have the same bike in the same color scheme...it randomly died 1 time in 2017 and then again in 2018 and i never got it fixed till the other day. Thing is better than i remember, despite feeling cheap and simple. Even with 10 year old tires it handles great!
I got my 500 up to 135 on flat, no problem. The riding position is perfect and comfortable all freaking day! I wouldn't recommend a 250 to any guy. The 500 is the perfect entry level motorcycle. I wouldn't mind buying another one.
It’s also the perfect bike for riding in congested downtown cities. Easy to dart in and out of bumper-to-bumper traffic. It won’t overheat in traffic jams. Easy to park. No fear of dropping it. Rides well on bumpy and pot-holed roads. Easy to carry passengers.
Oh so many memories from behind those bars come floodin back with this video. I put way too much time and money customizing mine. Flame paint and all, oh to be a teen again.
I had one of these - it was a great commuter.
I just got my first bike, turns out to be this exact same one. Was a bit worried bc it feels a bit too slow to be a 500cc but super excited I got my assurance from this video
That’s what my first bike was! Definitely a great beginner bike and super fun.
I just got en 89 ex 500 stored under cover in garage since 94.....like new.....it does have 5k miles but looks like new......removed the tank to clean it out but filled the carbs with new gas and it fired right up and runs perfect got it so my son can learn to ride better and cruise around with me.....I think he will love it.....I have a v65 sabre that's pretty nice but not nice like this.....got it for 600 bucks....yeeeehaaaaw
I bought a low miles 09 ninja 500r and wrecked 08 ninja 500r parts bike for $1200 and was my first bike! Best beginner bike ever! And heck I still jump on it sometimes and go for a rip! It’s a fun bike and gets up to 120 pretty quick for what it is.
My son started out on a BMW R65 6 years ago and he still loves it. Totally a BMW guy but doesn't want a boxer newer than 1988
I love my 93 500, I can't wait to get my 98 600e on the road. The suspension is a bit soft on the 500 but cutting the springs and adding spacers takes care of that. The speedometers all read high so 130 is really closer to 120, it has 50hp and at 100 mph it take 50hp for a corvette to push the air away from from the front of the car. So that's one reason why it only goes so fast.
The 2007 and down 250s are air cooled 5 speeds but 08 and on are water cooled 6 speeds so they are not as loud/high rpm at highway speeds and don't over heat while on the freeway.
In terms of competition for the 500 the cbr is the closest match followed by the ninja 400, the 300 from what I read is no match and this summer I hope to ride with my neighbor and we will see what his 300 has to offer.
The 500 has enough power to get out of the way. If it's a gen to it had duel front calipers and rear disk brakes with a comfortable upright riding position. You can't go wrong with the 500 as your first bike.
Ride safe.
I just traded a cruiser for my 98 500 and still here buddy. Epic wheelie hang around.
Late 80s early 90s sport bike looked awesome, smooth flowing sporty and not as uncomfortable as new ones
Still waiting for the wheely
I have this bike. I bought because I'm a new rider. It has a upgraded single exhaust. I like it a lot. But I hate the rearview mirrors. The brakes are not that good, or maybe it's just my brakes. But its fast enough for my skill level. Its buzzy in the highway and a litle scary to be honest
I remember driving my ninja 250 thinking it was so fast and all the power I need. Got a 600rr and absolutely love it. Was terrified of its power for months. Still am 😅
I used to commute 2 hours a day on the PA turnpike on one of these. Other than pegging it full throttle and waiting for it it was a great ride! I actually had 2 of them at the time.
Strangely, this bike is a dream for me to own, I just love something about those older 80s-90s styled sport bikes
I got a 2001 of one of these. Love it, but for some reason I never liked the way the dual exhaust looks.
i know the SHO, and they are one of the best engine ever made in this world.
5:49 the sound you make when a wasp flies in your car
Well, I like it! Luv the instrument cluster. It really transformed when you got on it! Looks like a fun little bike, affordable! I'm 66 still riding my Cbr1100xx, it's too good!
I must be a 1 percenter because I waaaaay prefer this to any of the new stuff. Oh, and you want to know where all the 250s are? They're in Australia, where I couldn't find a 500 despite looking for ages.
I Have to say i found this Video after i got my Ninja 500 (GPZ 500 for Europeans) and it is really the perfect Bike for Beginners. Mine is from 1998 but there is no difference.
4 years later, still here. Looking at getting this bike ASAP!
I loved my 91 GPZ500, loved it! My first bike ❤ You can grow, develop, go realy 5h straight, you can go really fast, you can dragrace your next door turbo car, you can comute, I drove my 500 3 year all year until a drunk lady "hit and run"
I did wheelie, you suck!
It's similar to the 250 but not the same, the engine is essentially the middle two cylinders of a GPZ1000r and is a much heavier duty engine... With 60bhp its not quite double but its significantly mo power baby 😊 and these engines are known to go on and on. I've had an ER5 commuter and EN500 custom cruiser with essentially the same engine and always wanted the Gpz500s (ninja 500r in the USA)... And now I have one... Hope this one went to a good home... Best wishes from the UK
Lmao "the bikes ugly,I'm ugly" same brother!
I've been riding a 1989 ex500 for years. Great bike 🏍 600$ and reliable 👏
I had a 97 as my first big bike, sounded and felt like a tractor but it was Hella reliable and 60bhp felt rapid back then! Gearbox was lovely though
Yeh.. I’ve been riding dirtbikes and Honda three wheelers for YEARS I’m trying to figure out a bike to get into street motorcycles. Was think a Yamaha R7 or maybe a ninja 400 but after seeing this video I’m going to keep the ninja 500r in mind!
This must be fate, I was looking at getting a 2007 ex500 from a shop In Houston. Ugly gold color, but it's starting to grow on me everytime I see it online.
I really didn't need to go find one since learning that my Vulcan 500 Custom runs the same plant as this machine. Just a different spin on the same machinery. Thank you.
Different carbs, and side covers at least on the shifter side for sure. But yeah same engine. Really love my Vulcan 500.
Just bought one as a commuter bike and its awesome!
Just picked up a mint 09 with 600 miles for $700:)
Where?
Jesus that’s one hell of a deal
700$ with 600 miles! 😮
Just bought a 06 with only 460 miles
$1000 with 1800 miles garage kept
Still here buddy. Bought my first bike couple weeks ago cuz of this video.. '06 500r :) 7k miles paid $1,700
Andrew Avery damn that sucks wouldnt catch me dead on this pos
@@Shaquille796 it's a good first bike my guy
sabfly you sound like the type of idiot that gets slapped in the face all the time so you decided to talk shit on the internet lol get a life
Thats my bike i have a o4 .it tops out at 125 mph it will pick up the front end it handles good on the bends .its a good bike
“the bikes ugly, i’m ugly. the bikes fun, i’m fun.” 10/10 i’m sold.
Yamaha kind of pulled it off with making a 600cc sportbike for beginners by having the fzr line and the YZF line
Ive had a 06 Fz6 for almost 2 years and i love it! I was looking at newer 500s when i bought it but the displacements were so low. Love the sporty look with a more relaxed seating position, Enough power to where its hard to use it to its full potential and more than enough to get you in trouble.
I have been riding motorcycles 49 years. I owned 10 to 12 motorcycles at a time most of my adult life, now that I'm retired I keep around two dozen at a time. I came to the conclusion early on that the best beginner street bike is the twin cylinder 450cc class which includes 400 cc's to 500 cc's.
Looked this up after seeing this bike on Facebook market. Hope I can get it before someone else snatches it. It’s gonna be my first bike
Same here! Except craigslist lol
My very first bike which I still have is a 09 ninja 500r and I am glad I started on this it gives me a great appreciation for my Honda Vtx 1300c
From what I've seen...and I could be wrong but for the size of them the 500's seem like they've got some pretty good power. I like the sound of them aswell as the looks.
Just bought a 2009 ninja 500r and I'm loving it. It's not my first bike it's my 5th and I still drive my drz but man I love the 500r
Also I started on a 2015 kawasaki ninja 300 and if I could go back I'd start on this or a dirtbike
Mine was from the 80s. I still have the front plastic😍