It’s official. After a year of camouflaged sneak peeks and forest-shredding teaser clips, Kawasaki has finally pulled the wraps off its all-new mid-size KLE500 adventure bike. Teased under the slogan “Life’s a Rally. Ride it,” the campaign hinted at a hardcore adventure machine built to tear through the wild. A few of the details announced however, point to a less aggressive dirt platform than some may have anticipated. Still, it brings a fresh option to the mid-size ADV segment at a very competitive price—let’s take a closer look.

Engine

Kawasaki’s new adventure bike will come in two model variants, the standard KLE500 ABS and the Special Edition KLE500 SE ABS, both of which are powered by the 451cc parallel-twin engine used in the current Ninja 500. Although we are still waiting to hear from Kawasaki if the KLE is tuned differently, the powerplant in the Ninja produces a claimed 51 horsepower and 32 ft-lbs of torque. According to Kawasaki, the engine offers “smooth power delivery on the road and provides plenty of low-end pull off-road.” 

The KLE is reported to also be equipped with a large 5.6 L airbox, with rigidity designed into its top structure which is said to enhance intake efficiency while filtering out unwanted noise. The left and right intake funnels feature different heights, a detail that smooths throttle response by tuning out torque valleys. Injectors placed close to the intake ports further improve combustion efficiency and are designed to deliver a natural, linear throttle feel.

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The new bike uses a 46/15 final drive ratio that Kawasaki says was selected to balance highway efficiency with manageable torque delivery in off-road conditions. Its transmission is paired with an Assist & Slipper Clutch, which reduces lever effort and broadens the engagement range—features that may benefit newer riders or those navigating technical terrain. The assist cam lowers spring tension for a lighter clutch feel, while the slipper function helps prevent rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts by easing pressure on the clutch plates. Together, these features aim to improve control, which Kawasaki says is consistent with their goal of making the bike more accessible.

Chassis & Suspension

The KLE500 ABS is built on a high-tensile steel trellis frame weighing 41.8 lbs. To further enhance stability, the engine is mounted as a stressed member with short, rigid brackets, and was rotated forward around the axis of its output shaft – a sportbike-derived technique that lowers the center of gravity. 

Up front, the KLE500 features a 43mm cartridge-style inverted fork with 8.3 inches (210 mm) of travel.  However, Kawasaki does not mention any adjustability offered. At the rear, a new Uni-Trak linkage system delivers 7.9 inches (200 mm) of travel, with preload adjustment noted as the only available setting. The manufacturer describes the rear suspension as offering a smooth initial stroke with firm resistance toward full compression.

Ground clearance is listed at 6.8 inches—similar to the street-focused Versys 650. The bike rides on a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel setup with steel spokes, shod in IRC GP-410 tires. The whole setup results in a seat height of 33.9”.

The 4.2-gallon fuel tank is reported to be slim and narrow to allow forward body movement for better control seated in dirt but shaped not to extend too far downward so as to preserve clearance. 

Additional chassis details include an aluminum lower triple clamp that contributes to weight savings, while the handlebar holder’s one-piece rubber-mounted design cuts vibration for added comfort. At the rear, an aluminum diecast swingarm mounting plate secures the swingarm pivot shaft directly to the engine, boosting stability and enhancing handling response. A rigid rear frame is able to support two panniers and a top case simultaneously, catering to touring riders who need cargo options. 

Weight specs have not been announced yet.

Brakes

Stopping power is delivered by a single 300mm steel front disc paired with a balanced actuation dual-piston caliper using 27mm pistons. At the rear, a 230mm disc works with a dual-piston caliper fitted with 27mm pistons. 

Riders can disable ABS front and rear via a switch on the left handlebar when off-road riding calls for maximum direct control. For safety, the system automatically resets to its default mode (front and rear ABS enabled) after the bike is switched off and restarted.

Ergonomics

An elevated, aluminum fat-type handlebar and slightly foot-forward footpeg placement are designed to provide a natural, comfortable position for both seated and standing off-road riding. Kawasaki further reports that the wide handlebar allows freedom of movement while minimizing vibration, and the slim fuel tank promotes smooth transitions from sitting to standing, helping riders maintain control and balance in challenging terrain. 

The KLE is also equipped with a more street-oriented scooped seat with a step up for the passenger. However, Kawasaki says the seat shape is designed to allow forward and rearward weight shifting during off-road maneuvers. It also appears Kawasaki will offer a non-stepped seat option. 

Adding versatility, the footpegs feature removable rubber inserts, enabling a choice between road-friendly cushioning or spiked, off-road grip without the need for tools.Rounding out the ergonomics package is a tall, adjustable windshield with three height positions – standard, 27mm higher, and 55mm higher. 

Instrumentation

The KLE500 ABS features a high-contrast full LCD instrument panel with a prominent bar-style tachometer that arcs over the speedometer and other displayed information, ensuring key data is immediately readable at a glance. The panel presents a comprehensive array of functions, including odometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, dual trip meters, remaining range, current and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, clock, service indicator, and connected device notifications such as mail and telephone alerts.

Another feature of the instrument panel is Kawasaki’s Economical Riding Indicator, which constantly provides feedback on favorable fuel consumption. By observing the conditions under which the indicator appears, riders can adjust their riding style to maximize efficiency and extend range. 

Connectivity

The KLE500 ABS integrates smartphone connectivity, allowing riders to interact seamlessly with their motorcycle via the RIDEOLOGY application. By linking their smartphone wirelessly to the instrument panel, riders can access a wide range of functions that enhance convenience, control, and overall riding experience. Essential vehicle information such as fuel gauge, odometer, and maintenance schedule can be monitored directly through the app, while GPS route and vehicle performance data can be logged and reviewed using the Riding Log function.

Incoming phone calls and emails are indicated directly on the instrument display, keeping riders informed without taking their eyes off the road. General instrument display settings, including preferred units, date, and format, can be easily adjusted through the app, providing a personalized riding experience. Navigation capabilities allow riders to plan and modify routes, add waypoints, and search for destinations, helping to make adventure or commuting rides more intuitive and organized.

For added convenience and safety, select markets support a voice command feature, enabling riders to control the app while keeping hands and feet on the controls. Voice command and advanced navigation functions require a separate purchased license within the app, and availability may vary by region. 

Styling

At the front, the KLE500 uses a compact triple LED headlight setup with two low beams positioned above a single high beam. The design prioritizes visibility while keeping the overall footprint minimal. Clear panels around the front cowling and a closed inner cowling near the instrument cluster contribute to a narrow front profile. The instrument panel is angled and elevated for better visibility whether seated or standing, and a utility bar above it offers space for mounting accessories like a GPS, phone or action camera.

From the side and rear, the bodywork features broad shrouds and side panels with minimal sculpting. The tail section includes an upward-slanting cowl and a slash-cut muffler cover, with styling cues borrowed from Kawasaki’s off-road lineup. Lighting is handled by clear-lens turn signals and a slim vertical LED taillight. 

Special Edition Model

The KLE500 SE ABS adds a handful of equipment upgrades over the standard model, aimed at improving rider protection and usability in a range of conditions. A taller 4.1-inch windscreen offers increased wind deflection for highway travel, while a larger skid plate extends coverage along the front and sides of the engine for added protection against rocks and debris. Metal-reinforced hand guards are also included.

The Special Edition also switches to a 4.3-inch full-color TFT display, replacing the base model’s LCD unit. The screen features auto-adjusting brightness and customizable background colors, and displays a wide range of ride data, including speed, gear position, fuel consumption, range, coolant temperature, and service reminders.

Other visual changes include LED turn signals and minor styling tweaks that distinguish the SE from the standard version, while maintaining the same core platform and performance specs.

Pricing and Availability

The standard KLE500 ABS enters the market at a competitive price point of $6,599 and is available now in Metallic Carbon Gray/Ebony. The upgraded KLE500 SE ABS, which adds features like a taller windscreen, reinforced hand guards, and a full-color TFT display, comes in Pearl Blizzard White or Metallic Bluish Green with an MSRP of $7,499.

KLE 500 Specs

Engine Type:	Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel-Twin
Displacement:	451cc
Bore x Stroke:	70 x 58.6 mm
Fuel System:	Fuel injection
Transmission:	6 speed
Clutch:	Assist & Slipper Clutch
Lubrication:	Forced lubrication, wet sump
Starting System:	Electric
Final Drive:	Chain
Braking System:	Switchable on/off ABS
Front Brakes:	Single 300mm disc. Dual piston caliper.
Rear Brakes:	Single 230 mm disc. Dual piston caliper
Front Suspension:	43mm USD fork, 8.3 in travel
Rear Suspension:	Uni-Trak linkage system, 7.9 in travel with adjustable preload
Ground Clearance:	6.8 in
Seat Height:	33.9 in
Frame type:	Backbone, high-tensile steel
Front Wheel:	21″ spoked tube-type
Rear Wheel:	17″ spoked tube-type
Fuel capacity:	4.2 gallons
Wet Weight:	TBD
Colors:	(Standard) Metallic Carbon Gray/Ebony; (SE) Pearl Blizzard White or Metallic Bluish Green
Price:	(Standard) $6,599; (SE) $7,499