Which Ninja 500 fairings fit your style best?

NiceFairings.com

·July 23, 2025

·13 min read

When you choose ninja 500 fairings, your decision often reflects your riding goals and personal taste. Many riders select a fairing based on aerodynamic design, which helps your Kawasaki slice through the wind and boosts performance. Fairings also protect you from debris, rain, and insects. Some riders look for comfort, like reduced wind noise. Others want colors and shapes that show off their style. The right ninja 500 fairings can even improve fuel efficiency or add storage for long trips.

OEM Ninja 500 Fairings

Who Should Choose OEM Ninja 500 Fairings

You should choose OEM Ninja 500 fairings if you want your Kawasaki to look and feel just like it did when it left the factory. OEM fairings fit perfectly on your 500r or ex500, so you do not have to worry about gaps or misalignments. Many riders pick OEM because they want high quality and durability. These fairings come from the original manufacturer, so you get the same materials and design as the original bike. If you want to keep your Kawasaki ex500 in top condition or plan to sell it later, OEM parts help keep its value high. Riders who want a simple installation process also benefit from OEM fairings, since they match the bike’s original mounting points.

Pros and Cons of OEM Ninja 500 Fairings

Tip: OEM fairings offer a balance of style, fit, and reliability.

Pros:

You get a perfect fit with no extra work.
The fairings kit uses high-quality materials that last through tough weather and daily rides.
OEM fairings often come with a warranty, giving you peace of mind.
The design matches the Kawasaki 500r and ex500, keeping the bike’s original look.
Integrated features, like front turn signals and modern displays, add to the bike’s value.

Cons:

OEM fairings usually cost more than aftermarket options.
You have fewer choices for custom colors or styles.
Sometimes, you may need to wait for special editions or rare parts.

Style and Color Options for OEM

Kawasaki offers several style and color options for OEM ninja 500 fairings. You can find more than just matte black or gray. Some models come in silver, red-and-black, or even special KRT Edition racing colors. The 40th Anniversary Edition uses throwback colors for a classic look. The SE version adds a higher windscreen, frame sliders, LED rear turn signals, and a radiator screen. These features give your full fairing a modern and bold appearance. While standard OEM fairings come in default styles, you can sometimes find custom painted fairings kits if you want a unique touch. Kawasaki’s focus on integration means each fairing matches the bike’s design and function.

Ideal User Profiles for OEM

When you look for the best fit for your motorcycle, OEM fairings often stand out. You might choose OEM if you want your bike to look just like it did when it first left the showroom. These fairings work well for riders who value original design and factory quality. If you ride a kawasaki ex500 or a 500r, you will notice that OEM parts match your bike’s shape and color exactly. You do not have to worry about mismatched panels or odd gaps.

Note: OEM fairings help you keep your bike’s value high. If you plan to sell your ex500 in the future, buyers often prefer bikes with original parts.

You may fit the ideal user profile for OEM fairings if you:

Want a classic, factory-fresh look for your kawasaki.
Prefer easy installation with no need for extra tools or adjustments.
Value long-lasting materials and a strong warranty.
Plan to keep your bike in top condition for years.
Ride daily and need fairings that can handle all types of weather.

Some riders also choose OEM because they want to join bike shows or keep their motorcycle as a collector’s item. You might enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing every part fits perfectly. If you do not want to spend time searching for the right color or style, OEM fairings offer a simple solution.

You should consider OEM if you want reliability, easy maintenance, and a look that matches the original design. These fairings suit riders who care about quality and want their bike to stand out for its classic appearance.

Aftermarket Ninja 500 Fairings

Who Should Choose Aftermarket Ninja 500 Fairings

You should consider aftermarket Ninja 500 fairings if you want to save money and still get a fresh look for your bike. Aftermarket fairings work well for riders who want more choices in style and color. If you like to change the paint or add a unique touch, these fairings give you that freedom. Many riders pick aftermarket parts when they need to replace damaged panels or want to upgrade from the stock look. You can also find a fairings kit that fits your budget and matches your riding needs.

Pros and Cons of Aftermarket Ninja 500 Fairings

Tip: Aftermarket fairings offer a balance between cost and customization.

Here is a table that shows how aftermarket, OEM, and custom fairings compare:

Supplier	Material & Construction	Quality & Fit	Customization Options	Price & Notes
OEM Kawasaki	Factory-grade plastics, precise molding	Best fit and durability	Limited to factory colors and designs	Highest cost, genuine parts
Nicecycle	ABS injection molded, close to OEM	Very good fit, similar hardness to OEM	Limited customization, factory colors	Most expensive aftermarket, includes bolt kit
Auctmarts	ABS injection molded, good quality	Good fit, minor paint issues	High customization, custom paint jobs	Best price, includes heat shield and windscreen
Ninjafairing.com	ABS injection molded, good quality	Good fit, minor quirks	Moderate customization	Slightly more expensive than Auctmarts
Chinese Aftermarket	ABS injection molded, more brittle	Fit issues, less precise molding	Varies, often limited	Cheaper, quality can be inconsistent
Custom Fairings	Varies, often hand-made	Build quality varies	Highest design flexibility	Price and quality vary greatly

You get more style options and lower prices with aftermarket fairings. Many use ABS injection molding, which makes them strong and light. Some brands, like Auctmarts, let you request custom paint or decals. However, you might find small issues, such as bolt holes covered in paint or plastics that feel more brittle than OEM. Fitment can vary, so you may need to adjust some parts during installation.

Style Variety and Customization in Aftermarket

Aftermarket fairings give you many ways to show your style. You can pick from a wide range of colors, including bright reds, blues, or even a full fairing with an aftermarket carbon fiber look. Many brands let you join the design process, so you can choose your own paint or add special graphics. Some companies offer a "Customize Now" feature, making it easy to create a fairings kit that matches your vision. You can find options like:

Custom painted fairings with your favorite colors or logos
Carbon fiber styles for a modern, sporty look
Personalized paint jobs that stand out in a crowd
Factory-style fairings for a classic appearance

If you want your Ninja 500 fairings to reflect your personality, aftermarket options give you the most flexibility. You can mix and match parts, try new paint ideas, or even add extra features to your bike.

Best Use Cases for Aftermarket

Aftermarket Ninja 500 fairings work well in many situations. You can choose them when you want to save money or give your bike a new look. These fairings use strong ABS plastic, so they last a long time and handle daily rides. Many riders pick aftermarket fairings for these reasons:

Replacing Damaged Fairings: If your original fairings get scratched or cracked, aftermarket options offer a cost-effective fix. You do not have to spend as much as you would on OEM parts.
Personalizing Your Bike: You can pick from many colors and designs. Aftermarket fairings let you show off your style with custom paint or graphics.
Everyday Riding: The Ninja 500 is a lightweight and beginner-friendly bike. Aftermarket fairings fit well and hold up to daily use, even if you ride in busy city traffic or on long trips.
Minor Crash Repairs: If you drop your bike or have a small accident, aftermarket fairings make repairs easy and affordable. You can get back on the road quickly.
Track Days or Sport Use: Riders who take their Ninja 500 to the track often use aftermarket fairings. These parts protect your bike and are easy to replace if you slide out during a race.

Tip: Many aftermarket fairings come with heat shield protection and precise fitment. You get reliable parts that match your bike’s shape and mounting points.

You can trust aftermarket fairings for both function and style. They help you keep your Ninja 500 looking sharp and running strong, no matter how you ride.

Custom Ninja 500 Fairings

Who Should Choose Custom Ninja 500 Fairings

You should choose custom Ninja 500 fairings if you want your motorcycle to stand out and match your personal style. Custom fairings work best for riders who want more than just a factory look. You might want to change the color, add special graphics, or even adjust the shape for better comfort. Many riders pick custom fairings for these reasons:

You want improved aerodynamics that help your bike move faster and use less fuel.
You need better protection from wind, rain, and road debris.
You want to reduce wind noise and feel less vibration while riding.
You like to add your own touch with unique paint mods or special designs.
You want extra features, such as space for gadgets or better airflow for engine cooling.

Custom fairings let you create a bike that fits your body and your taste. You can make your Ninja 500 fairings look and feel exactly how you want.

Pros and Cons of Custom Ninja 500 Fairings

Tip: Custom fairings give you the most freedom, but you should know both the benefits and the challenges.

Pros:

Custom fairings improve aerodynamics, which helps you save fuel at high speeds.
You get more comfort because the fairings block wind, rain, and bugs.
Your bike looks unique and grabs attention wherever you go.

Cons:

Custom fairings can cost a lot, sometimes more than $500 if you need to replace them.
Cleaning and maintaining these fairings takes more time, since dirt can build up under the panels.
If you damage your fairings, repairs and insurance claims may cost extra.

Customization Possibilities with Custom Fairings

Custom fairings open up a world of options that you cannot get with OEM or regular aftermarket kits. You can:

Pick any color or paint scheme, including special effects or your favorite team colors.
Add or remove logos, change the look to match a different model year, or mix and match kit parts.
Choose from high-quality materials like OEM grade ABS plastic for a strong and lasting finish.
Enjoy a professional 7-stage paint process that keeps your fairings looking new for years.
Get extra features, such as a free heat shield, seat cowl, or windshield.
Select add-ons like tank covers, UV-protected clear coat, or even hardware in your favorite color.

Custom paint mods let you express your creativity and make your bike truly one of a kind. You get a tailored product that fits your needs and style, making your Ninja 500 fairings a reflection of who you are as a rider.

Ideal Users for Custom Fairings

You might wonder if custom Ninja 500 fairings fit your needs. Custom fairings work best for riders who want something special. You do not settle for the standard look. You want your bike to show your personality and stand out in a crowd.

You are an ideal user for custom fairings if:

You want a unique design that no one else has.
You enjoy picking your own colors, graphics, or logos.
You like to join motorcycle shows or group rides and want your bike to get noticed.
You care about matching your bike’s look to your gear or favorite themes.
You need fairings that fit your body size or riding style.
You want to add special features, like extra vents or storage.
You ride in different weather and want better wind or rain protection.
You value high-quality materials and a professional finish.

Tip: If you love creativity and want your Ninja 500 to reflect your style, custom fairings give you the most freedom.

Some riders choose custom fairings for practical reasons. You may need a fairing that fits your height or riding position. You might want better airflow or extra space for gadgets. Custom fairings let you solve these problems.

You also benefit from custom fairings if you want to restore an older bike or build a showpiece. You can match rare colors or create a retro look. Custom fairings help you turn your ideas into reality.

If you want your motorcycle to be one of a kind, custom fairings are the best choice. You get a bike that looks and feels exactly how you want.

Ninja 500 Fairings Comparison Table

OEM vs. Aftermarket vs. Custom Fairings

Choosing the right fairing for your Ninja 500 means looking at how each type compares in key areas. You want to know which option fits your needs for style, cost, and performance. The table below shows the main differences between OEM, aftermarket, and custom fairings.

Aspect	OEM Fairings	Aftermarket Fairings	Custom Fairings
Fitment	Perfect fit, easy to install	May need adjustments, fit can vary	Fit depends on maker and design
Appearance	Factory look, polished finish	Many colors and designs, unique styles	Highly customizable, one-of-a-kind looks
Quality	High-quality, durable ABS or fiberglass	Quality varies, some strong ABS, others less durable	Depends on materials, often strong but can vary
Cost	Highest price, above $900	$600-$700, more affordable	Similar to aftermarket, sometimes higher
Installation	Simple, less time needed	Can be tricky, may need extra work	Varies, depends on design and fit
Resale Value	Highest, buyers trust OEM parts	Lower, fit and quality concerns	Similar to aftermarket, depends on uniqueness
Material	Factory-standard ABS or fiberglass	Mostly ABS plastic, impact resistant	Often ABS, allows unique shapes and finishes
Durability	Built to last, resists cracking and fading	Can be durable, but quality varies	Varies, depends on maker and materials
Customization	Limited, factory styles only	Many styles, colors, and finishes	Unlimited, full personalization

🏍️ Tip: OEM fairings give you the best fit and durability. Aftermarket fairings offer more choices and better prices. Custom fairings let you create a unique look for your bike.

You can see that OEM fairings cost the most, but they give you a perfect fit and long-lasting quality. Aftermarket fairings save you money and let you pick from many styles. Custom fairings give you the most freedom to design your own look, but the price and fit can change based on what you choose.

Bar — Image Source: statics.mylandingpages.co

When you decide, think about what matters most to you. If you want a factory look and easy installation, OEM is best. If you want to save money and try new styles, aftermarket works well. If you want your bike to stand out, custom fairings are the way to go.

How to Choose Ninja 500 Fairings

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Fairings

Choosing the right fairings for your Ninja 500 can help you enjoy your ride and keep your bike looking sharp. Follow these steps to make sure you get the best fit and style:

Pick fairings made from high-quality materials like OEM grade ABS plastic. This helps your fairings last longer and fit better.
Check that the fairings have pre-drilled holes for a precise OEM fit. This makes installation easier and helps avoid gaps.
Look for suppliers who offer fitment guarantees and clear return policies. This protects you if the parts do not fit your 500r or ex500.
Inspect your new fairings as soon as they arrive. Make sure they meet your quality and fit expectations before you install them.
Think about customization. You can choose special colors, decals, or designs to match your style or other ninja 500 mods.
Review what hardware and tools you need for installation. Some fairings come with everything you need, while others do not.
Contact the supplier if you have any questions about fitment, especially if you ride a kawasaki ex500 or want to match other parts.

🛠️ Tip: Taking these steps helps you avoid common mistakes and ensures your kawasaki looks and feels just right.

Key Questions to Ask Before Deciding

Before you buy new fairings, ask yourself these questions to avoid problems:

Does this fairing fit my Ninja 500 model, such as the 500r or ex500?
Is the material strong enough for my riding needs, like daily commuting or long trips?
Will this fairing match my riding style? For example, do I need sport fairings or more coverage for comfort?
Does the supplier offer a guarantee or return policy if the fairings do not fit?
How easy is it to install these fairings with my current tools and parts?
Will these fairings work with my other ninja 500 mods?
Am I choosing a fairing that gives me the look and protection I want for my kawasaki?

❗ Note: Avoid picking fairings that do not fit well or do not match your riding style. This can cause discomfort and lower your bike’s performance.

Choosing the right Ninja 500 fairings depends on your needs. OEM fairings suit riders who want a factory look and easy installation. Aftermarket options work well if you want more style choices and a lower price. Custom fairings fit those who want a unique design.

Style lets you show your personality, but custom looks can cost more.
Budget matters; aftermarket fairings save money and still work well.
Installation skills help. Pre-drilled holes and the right tools make things easier.

Focus on value and durability, not just looks. Set a clear budget and pick fairings that match your skills and style. Start your upgrade and enjoy your ride!

FAQ

What tools do you need to install Ninja 500 fairings?

You need a basic socket set, screwdrivers, and Allen wrenches. Some fairing kits include extra bolts or clips. Always check your kit before you start. Keep your tools organized for a smooth installation.

Can you mix OEM and aftermarket fairings on your Ninja 500?

You can mix them, but fitment may not be perfect. OEM and aftermarket parts sometimes have small differences. Test each piece before final installation. If you want a seamless look, choose one type for the whole bike.

How do you clean and care for your fairings?

Use a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals. Dry your fairings after washing to prevent water spots. Waxing helps protect the paint. Check for loose bolts or cracks during cleaning.

Will new fairings affect your bike’s performance?

New fairings can change how wind moves around your bike. Lighter fairings may improve speed. Well-fitted fairings protect you from wind and debris. Poorly fitted fairings can cause noise or vibration.

How long does it take to install new fairings?

Most riders finish in two to four hours. If you have experience, you may finish faster. Take your time to avoid mistakes. Read the instructions before you start.