2026 Kawasaki KLE500 breaks cover: 5 things you should know about it
- Kawasaki revives the KLE nameplate with the 2026 KLE500 adventure bike, featuring a 451 cc twin engine, rally-inspired design, and off-road-ready hardware.
Check Offers The 2026 Kawasaki KLE500 has been unveiled as the new off-road-focused ADV from the Japanese company, reviving an iconic nameplate for the middleweight segment. The KLE500 repositions Kawasaki in the 500 cc adventure segment after a long hiatus, offering a compact twin-cylinder platform aimed at riders seeking a balanced, everyday-capable rally machine for both trail rides and touring. Designed as an all-rounder, the new KLE comes underpinned by a robust powertrain with rally-inspired ergonomics and a healthy catalogue of tech to tackle all sorts of challenges.
Kawasaki KLE500: At a glance
| Category | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Engine | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin |
| Displacement | 451 cm³ |
| Frame type | Trellis |
| Fuel capacity | 16 litres |
| Seat height | 860 mm |
| Brakes | Disc |
| Suspension | KYB inverted cartridge-type front fork and a Uni-Trak rear monoshock |
1. Design
The 2026 Kawasaki KLE500 revives a familiar name for the middleweight adventure category with its rally-derived styling for both function and flair. The motorcycle adopts a tall front cowl, short raised fuel tank, and extended side panels designed to aid rider mobility. A 21-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel define its dual-purpose nature, while a skid plate, spoked rims, and upright stance add to its off-road credentials. The bike features a narrow midsection and compact tail section, alongside a stepped seat layout for the rider and pillion. The SE version brings minor enhancements, including a taller windscreen, metal-reinforced hand guards, and a larger skid plate for improved protection in off-road conditions.
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2. Tech Suite
The KLE500 features a clear LCD display with basic data such as fuel level, gear position, and trip information. Smartphone connectivity is supported through Kawasaki’s Rideology The App, enabling access to vehicle statistics, maintenance reminders, and route logs, as well as call/SMS notifications.
The SE variant replaces this unit with a TFT colour display that provides more detailed information, adjustable brightness, and dark or light themes.
3. Engine and Performance
The motorcycle is powered by a 451 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that is tuned for a linear torque band catering to both road and trail use. This unit employs a downdraft intake system and lightweight piston design to improve efficiency and throttle response, while a balancer shaft reduces vibration during sustained highway cruising. Power is sent to the ground through a 6-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch. The cooling system includes a fan shroud to divert heat away from the rider, a design detail borrowed from Kawasaki’s larger adventure bikes.
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4. Chassis and Hardware
The KLE500’s steel trellis frame uses the engine as a stressed member to enhance structural integrity while maintaining a low centre of gravity. Suspension hardware comprises 43 mm KYB inverted forks with 210 mm of travel and a Uni-Trak preload-adjustable rear monoshock offering 200 mm of travel. Braking is managed by a single 300 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, both paired with dual-piston calipers and a selectable ABS system that can be disengaged at the rear for controlled slides. The wheel and tyre setup uses aluminium rims with steel spokes wrapped in IRC GP-410 dual-purpose tyres.
5. Options and Availability
Kawasaki will sell the KLE500 globally in two variants: the standard ABS model and the SE variant. The SE distinguishes itself through its TFT instrumentation, LED indicators, taller screen, and additional protective components. The company is also selling a broad catalogue of accessories, including panniers, a top box, heated grips, engine guards, fog lamps, and a USB-C charging outlet, while the EU-spec models get access to an optional Akrapovič titanium silencer. Both models will enter global markets in early 2026 and are expected to make it to Indian shores sometime later in the year.
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