2026 Kawasaki KLE500

Reviving the KLE name instead of using the Versys designation is no coincidence. The model is intended to be more off-road focused than the road-oriented Versys 650. In the European market, it is classified as an Adventure rather than an Adventure Touring motorcycle. Its off-road character is reflected in the design, featuring a 21-inch spoked front wheel, raised fuel tank, tall windscreen, and slim bodywork with a distinct rally profile.

The KLE500 will be available in two variants:

• The standard model, equipped with essential adventure features.
• The KLE500 SE, which adds a taller windscreen, reinforced handguards, a larger skid plate, LED lighting, and a 4.3-inch TFT display.

Comfort and ergonomics inspired by the KX series

Kawasaki drew inspiration from its KX motocross range when developing the KLE’s ergonomics. The handlebar and footpeg positions are designed to make it easy to switch between seated and standing riding.
The wide aluminium handlebar is rubber-mounted to reduce vibration and offers excellent freedom of movement, while the slim midsection allows quick changes in body position.

The seat height is 860 mm, and the seat design makes it easy for the rider to shift their weight forward or backward as needed. It also features hollow cushioning for improved comfort on long rides.

Engine from the Kawasaki 500 Series

The KLE500 is powered by a 451 cc parallel-twin engine shared with models such as the Eliminator 500, Z500, and Ninja 500, as well as the hybrid Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z 7 Hybrid.
Exact performance figures have not yet been confirmed, but they are expected to be similar to its siblings – around 51 hp at 10,000 rpm and 43 Nm at 7,500 rpm.

Frame and chassis

The bike uses a high-tensile steel trellis frame developed specifically for adventure riding. Weighing around 19 kg, the frame features a robust lower section, strategically positioned cross members and lightweight gussets to deliver both rigidity and low overall weight.
The subframe is reinforced to support two panniers and a top case, while the engine serves as a stressed member of the chassis, mounted slightly forward to lower the centre of gravity.

The 16-litre fuel tank is slim and designed to fit neatly within the narrow frame.

Suspension and brakes

At the front, a 43 mm inverted cartridge fork provides 210 mm of travel, while the rear uses a Uni-Trak linkage suspension with a continuously adjustable spring preload and 200 mm of travel.

Braking is handled by a 300 mm front disc with dual 27 mm pistons and a 230 mm rear disc with a twin-piston caliper. The bike comes equipped with Nissin ABS as standard, which can be deactivated for off-road use.

Equipment and features

The KLE500 comes with LED lighting, an adjustable windscreen, IRC GP-410 dual-sport tyres, and a mounting bar above the instrument panel for accessories such as a GPS, camera or phone holder.

Availability and price

The Kawasaki KLE500 is expected to arrive at dealerships in early 2026.
The base model will be available in Metallic Carbon Grey/Ebony with an estimated price of around SEK 78,000, while the SE version will cost around SEK 88,000 and be offered in Pearl Blizzard White or Metallic Bluish Green.