2026 Kawasaki KLE500 Debuts With Twin Cylinder Engine: Full Specs, Features, Variants

Kawasaki has revived an iconic nameplate with the unveiling of the 2026 KLE500. First introduced in 1991 and discontinued in 2007, the KLE badge returns as a modern middle weight adventure motorcycle. The new KLE500 was teased at last year’s EICMA and has been a topic of interest since then, aimed at riders who want a true dual purpose machine that is as comfortable threading city traffic as it is exploring gravel, forest tracks, and light trails. It fills the gap between the city friendly Versys X300 and the long haul oriented KLR650, combining approachable ergonomics with genuine off road intent.

Engine and Transmission

Powering the KLE500 is the familiar 451 cc parallel twin sourced from the current Ninja 500. While the base architecture is shared, Kawasaki says the KLE500’s tune focuses on smoothness and tractability across the rev range to suit mixed terrain riding. The engine is paired with a transmission that integrates an Assist and Slipper Clutch. The assist function lightens lever effort for long commutes and stop start scenarios, while the slipper function mitigates rear wheel hop on aggressive downshifts, a useful benefit on loose surfaces and steep descents.

This twin cylinder layout offers a sweet spot of manageable power, reduced vibration, and highway cruising ability, making it more versatile than small single cylinder adventure bikes while remaining lighter and more approachable than high displacement ADV machines.

Quick Summary

Frame, Suspension, and Geometry

The KLE500 uses a high tensile steel trellis frame chosen for rigidity, serviceability, and predictable feedback. Up front sits a 43 mm inverted fork with 210 mm of travel, giving the wheel ample stroke to absorb ruts, potholes, and rocky steps. At the rear, a new Uni Trak linkage provides 200 mm of travel with preload adjustment so riders can dial in sag for luggage or a passenger. The combination aims to deliver balanced support on the road and compliance off it.

With 172 mm of ground clearance, the KLE500 has enough belly room for most light to moderate trails. The setup favors stability and confidence without pushing seat height into extreme territory for shorter riders.

Wheels, Tyres, and Seat Height

Adventure credibility is backed by a wheel set that pairs a 21 inch front rim with a 17 inch rear rim. Both are steel spoked to handle repeated impacts and to offer easier field repair compared to many cast designs. Factory fitment is IRC GP 410 tyres, a pattern that balances on road manners with bite on dirt and gravel.

Seat height is listed at 861 mm, which is typical for an ADV that needs suspension travel and ground clearance. Riders transitioning from street bikes will appreciate the narrow tank shaping that helps reach the ground, and experienced off roaders will value the additional clearance and long stroke feel.

Brakes and Switchable ABS

Braking hardware includes a 300 mm front disc clamped by a balanced actuating dual piston caliper, and a 230 mm rear disc with a dual piston caliper. Crucially, ABS can be switched off at both ends via a left handlebar switch. That is a meaningful feature for riders who want full control while descending loose slopes, executing rear wheel pivots, or riding deep gravel where ABS intervention can lengthen stopping distances.

Ergonomics and Control Layout

Kawasaki has specified an elevated aluminum fat type handlebar to reduce flex and improve leverage. Footpegs are slightly forward set to create a neutral triangle for both seated cruising and standing attacks on rough sections. The wide bar allows more upper body movement, aids counter steering at low speeds, and reduces perceived vibration. A narrow fuel tank profile eases transitions from seated to standing positions, helping riders keep weight over the pegs and maintain balance over uneven terrain.

Instruments, Electronics, and Connectivity

Two instrument approaches differentiate the variants. The KLE500 ABS receives a high contrast full LCD panel that delivers clear readouts in bright light. The KLE500 SE upgrades to a full color TFT display. Both provide a comprehensive data set that includes gear position, fuel gauge, dual trip meters, remaining range, current and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, a clock, and maintenance alerts. Connectivity extends to notifications for phone calls and emails, and deeper device pairing and ride data features are available through Kawasaki’s Rideology app.

The information spread is curated for touring and training alike, giving riders the ability to monitor fuel usage on long runs or keep tabs on coolant temperatures during slow, technical climbs.

Variants and Equipment Overview

• KLE500 ABS
  Standard model with switchable ABS, steel spoked wheels, high contrast LCD instruments, and the full suite of adventure focused chassis parts.
• KLE500 SE ABS
  Special Edition mirrors the mechanicals of the base model but adds a full color TFT display. It is positioned for riders who prefer richer graphics and potentially additional convenience touches.

Both variants share the same engine, frame, suspension architecture, and rider centric ergonomics. The core ADV capability is identical, which means buyers can choose primarily on display preference and any color or accessory differences that may accompany local market packages.

Where the KLE500 Fits

By reviving the KLE name on a modern platform, Kawasaki is addressing riders who want a step up in highway composure from small displacement singles, without the size and weight of big twin adventure motorcycles. The KLE500’s balanced suspension travel, 21 inch front wheel, and switchable ABS indicate real dirt intent, while the twin cylinder engine and wind friendly ergonomics speak to daily use and weekend touring.

Key Takeaways

• The KLE500 revives a respected adventure badge with a 451 cc twin that favors smoothness and control.
• Long travel suspension, spoked wheels, and off road friendly ABS settings underline its trail readiness.
• Ergonomics and connectivity are designed for mixed use riders who log highway miles and dirt road detours in equal measure.
• Two variants keep the buying decision simple while preserving full capability across the range.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What engine does the 2026 Kawasaki KLE500 use

It uses a 451 cc parallel twin derived from the Ninja 500, tuned for smooth power delivery suitable for on and off road riding.

2. What are the main differences between KLE500 ABS and KLE500 SE ABS

Both share the same chassis and engine. The SE version features a full color TFT display while the standard model comes with a high contrast LCD panel.

3. Can ABS be turned off for off road riding

Yes. Riders can disable ABS on both front and rear wheels via a switch on the left handlebar to suit loose surfaces.

4. What suspension travel does the KLE500 offer

The front has a 43 mm inverted fork with 210 mm of travel. The rear uses a Uni Trak linkage with 200 mm of travel and preload adjustment.

5. What wheels and tyres are fitted from the factory

It comes with a 21 inch front and 17 inch rear spoked wheel set wearing IRC GP 410 tyres, a combination that supports mixed surface riding.

Official site

https://www.kawasaki.com

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