First Kawasaki evar! KX500 SUMO conversion help needed! Seattle USA

[Motophotog]

Hi all,

Thought I'd drop a note and say hi. Im 29, been riding since I was 4, I've done the dirtbikes, the streetbikes, raced in WMRRA, raced supermoto, and then did some adventure riding... I love it all, but supermoto still has the most fun per buck, for me, living 2 miles from a brand new track(Pacific Grand Prix, Kent, WA), I have to be hooked!

So I'm back! This time with a 2 stroke. I know the KX500 is a beast and I cant wait to get it running.

I picked up a 1990 KX500 for stupid cheap. I've been looking for a bit but this one has FMF pipe and muffler, boyssen reeds, boyssen cage, k&n filter, newer plastics/graphics, and fresh rubber front and back for dirt. Unfortunately the motor isnt running, sounds like a blown headgasket or maybe a waterpump seal? I'm going to tear into it and hopefully get it situated with some help. I'm DEFINITELY not a mechanic, i consider myself 1 step above newbie when it comes to actually working on the bikes. I want to learn, so this will be the next step.

I come to you guys because I have no idea what 17" wheels will fit either without modification, or with very little mod (like spacers or something). Can anyone assist in this first question? Thanks very much, look forward to your guys' input!

Darren
Covington, WA

[Motophotog]

Ok 30 views and no response....... 

Why is it that I see the supermoto threads when im logged out, but once I login, I cannot see or reply? 

[sandblaster]

Try this thread:
http://www.kxriders.com/forums/index.php/topic,9835.0.html

[Friar-Tuck]

Hey MotoPhoto,
  Glad to have you with us, have you been able to straighten out the ability to see the whole site?
The Sumo guys will probably have all the info you need, but you may also consider a service manual.
  Here are a few pages:
http://www.kxriders.com/coppermine/thumbnails.php?album=lastup&cat=0&page=2

[kwakman]

hi MP, the easiest way of getting sm rims without spacers and all that garb is to have your rims re laced with 17 inch rims and spokes, using existing hubs.you cant go bigger than a 4.25 width rear, and 150 or 160 (maybe) rubber.if you want to keep your off road capability, get some used hubs off fleabay and re lace these.I think some topics are only available after you have posted a certain number of times.Welcome aboard, K.