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There’s no hotter segment right now than mid-sized adventure bikes.
Royal Enfield’s Himalayan and KTM’s 390 Adventure range underwent ground-up reworks in recent years. Newcomers like CFMOTO’s Ibex 450 are reshaping the market. Lest we forget the F 450 GS that BMW has waiting in the wings.
Given the category’s rising popularity, it’s no surprise Kawasaki is joining the lightweight ADV ranks with the 2026 KLE500 and KLE500 SE.
Long time coming
Originally teased at Kawasaki’s EICMA 2024 exhibit, the newest KLE has been a topic of interest for nearly a year now. The model isn’t just the latest entry in the crowded class, though. It’s also the latest entry in the KLE line. Looking back at the original KLE500, which Team Green produced between 1991 and 2007, it’s clear that the present-day version followed a similar blueprint.
The old KLE shared its 498 cc parallel twin with the Ninja 500R. The new one pinches its 451 cc p-twin from the Ninja 500. Both benefit from six-speed gearboxes. Both roll on wire-spoke 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels. Still, the 2026 KLE500 brings the model into the modern era. It does so with a combination of componentry and technology.
By the numbers
Spec charts don’t define a motorcycle, but they do provide an idea of its capabilities. By the numbers, the KLE500 is a veritable adventure bike. If its cartridge-type inverted fork and linkage-style Uni-Trak shock aren’t convincing enough, its 8.3 inches of front wheel travel and 7.9 inches of rear wheel travel should be. Other trail-seeking features include “KX-inspired ergonomics” and IRC GP-410 tires, but the KLE’s ambitions extend beyond the dirt, too.
A 4.2-gallon gas tank improves the ADV’s travel worthiness, as does a three-position windscreen, which provides 2.2 inches of adjustability. The model’s 33.8-inch seat height isn’t low by most standards, but it isn't the tallest in the category, either. Plus, Kawasaki’s hollow seat cushioning reportedly unlocks “long-ride comfort” for the mid-size model.
A large 300 mm front disc, 230 mm rear rotor, and selectable ABS presumably provide appropriate braking performance whether the path is paved or unpaved. Versatility isn’t lost on the LCD display, either, which boasts Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with Kawasaki’s RIDEOLOGY app.
In a move that surprises nearly no one, the KLE500’s SE trim builds on that base package with metal-reinforced handguards, a larger skid plate, a taller windscreen, a 4.3-inch TFT display, and LED turn signals.
Starting at $6,599, the 2026 KLE500 is available in Metallic Carbon Gray/Ebony, while the $7,499 KLE500 SE tacks $900 onto that base price and comes in Pearl Blizzard White and Metallic Bluish. Both variants are shipping to dealers now — even as Kawasaki continues to update the model’s specs.
To be announced
After a yearlong lead-up, you’d think that Kawasaki would have the KLE’s specs in order. You, my friend, would be wrong. While wheel travel and seat height are key measurements for mid-size ADVs (all of which Kawi announced), curb weight is just as critical. Yet, the KLE500’s poundage remains shrouded in mystery. The same goes for its performance figures.
The KLE’s parallel twin is a known entity. After all, it already powers the Ninja 500, Z500, and Eliminator. Considering that all three models share very similar output numbers, I wouldn’t be surprised if the KLE500 followed suit, producing nearly 50 peak horsepower. With that said, I’d love for Kawasaki to prove me wrong and retune the well-used p-twin for more adventurous pursuits.
Omitting details like horsepower and wet weight only makes me assume the worst, but I’m hoping for the best. That’s because the KLE500 will need to put its best wheel forward to stand a chance in what’s the hottest segment in motorcycling right now.
| 2026 Kawasaki KLE500 & KLE500 SE | |
|---|---|
| Price (MSRP) | $6,599 (base model); $7,499 (SE) |
| Engine | 451 cc, liquid-cooled, eight-valve, parallel twin |
|
Transmission, final drive |
Six-speed, chain |
| Claimed horsepower | N/A |
| Claimed torque | N/A |
| Frame | Steel trellis |
| Front suspension | KYB 41 mm fork; 8.3 inches of travel |
| Rear suspension | KYB single shock, adjustable for preload; 7.9 inches of travel |
| Front brake | Nissin single two-piston caliper, 300 mm disc, with ABS |
| Rear brake | Nissin single-piston caliper, 245 mm disc, with switchable ABS |
| Rake, trail | N/A |
| Wheelbase | N/A |
| Seat height | 33.8 inches |
| Fuel capacity | 4.2 gallons |
| Tires | IRC GP-410, 90/90-21 front, 140/70-17 rear |
| Claimed weight | N/A |
| Available | Now |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| More info | kawasaki.com |
