A firm favourite with new riders and with riding schools all over the country, Kawasaki’s ER5 makes sense for riders who want a reliable no frills workhorse that will do the job, but still looks cool and modern.

A good all rounder, its comfortable for most people, has a low seat height, it’s cheap to run and repair.

It’s 498cc, liquid cooled, parallel twin cylinder engine delivers a healthy 49bhp, more than enough for staying ahead of the traffic. Six gears later the bike is nudging a useful 90mph+, which is about as fast as you would want to go without any protection from a fairing.

The chassis, brakes and adjustable suspension are kept simple and do the job well. The bike goes well, stops well and even handles reasonably well. It’s capable of carrying a pillion passenger and they are provided for in the shape of a comfortable seat and grab rail. Wheels are 17-inch 3-spoke alloy and add to the bikes good looks.

The clutch and brake levers are adjustable for your own comfort and there is space under the seat for a U-lock or similar.

Fuel economy is good at around 60mpg giving a range of close to 200 miles between fill-ups. Servicing is easy and it should not be expensive to maintain.

Ideal as a commuter for all year round, also useful at the weekend for trips further a field. Good value for money.

Available in Red, Blue, Black and Champagne colours for Europe.

 Any information on this model you would like to see included you can send it here

Last updated 09/03/02