Page 114 of Kawasaki Motorcycles by Kawasaki USA

MODEL FEATURES Engine The LTD 500 engine is based on the sporty Ninja 500 but with special tuning for use in a cruiser chassis. Power comes in low and strong in proper cruiser fashion. Lightweight, liquid-cooled, 498cc, DOHC, 8-valve, twin-cylinder engine is tuned for broad usable torque. Compact parallel twin is smooth running with its gear driven engine balancer. Free breathing, 8-valve cylinder head boosts low end torque and provides maximum valve area for optimum flow at high speeds. Compact combustion chambers reduce the possibility of detonation on todays gasolines. Special camshaft profiles and lots of flywheel effect boost low-end torque Lower 10.2:1 compression ratio (10.8:1; EX500D) smoothes out the low speed power delivery. Smaller CVK 32mm (34mm; EX500D), semi-flat slide carburetors are chosen for improved low speed throttle response and power delivery. Large, 15 litre fuel tank ensures an incredible touring range. Transistor Controlled Breakerless Ignition (TCBI). Digital microprocessor-controlled timing is ultra-responsive to engine needs and never needs adjustment. Electronic ignition module features anti hot-wire circuitry to prevent midnight joy rides. Large radiator with automatic fan keeps engine temperatures in check. More even running temperatures with liquid cooling ensures long engine life and allows closer engine tolerances for quieter running. Smooth-shifting 6-speed transmission has a gear for every situation, from low-speed city traffic to highway use. The transmission features Kawasakis exclusive positive neutral finder that makes selecting neutral at stoplights a breeze. At a stop, just lift up on the shifter from first gear and the transmission stops at neutral every time. Chassis Compact design, tank-mounted speedometer and LED indicators complement the bikes clean look.

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