Just a few days ago Kawasaki left us clues about what seemed to be a new KLE650 SE. As we reported at the time, these acronyms appeared in homologation documents presented by the brand to the Australian authorities. The information identified the model with the internal designation LE650Lopening the door to the possibility of launching a future country-oriented trail, a mixed-use traveler or an intermediate proposal between the two.
The 2027 KLE650: a completely new motorcycle
First of all: let no one confuse the new KLE650 with the recently launched KLR650, a model intended for the North American market and with a clearly different approach from our protagonist. The latter enjoys “the long-range capability and all-day comfort riders expect from the dual-purpose adventure motorcycle”they explain from the brand itself.
For its part, the KLE650 “stands out for its touring approach, combining high comfort over long distances with an exceptional driving experience”. But without a doubt the biggest difference lies in the engine that both models are equipped with: while The KLR650 has a 652 cc single-cylinder engineKawasaki’s latest novelty debuts a new generation of parallel twin cylinder engine of medium displacement, based on the proven 649 cm³ liquid-cooled engine that already equips other models of the brand.
The technical part of the model
Kawasaki explains that to shape the mechanical section of this KLE650, the intake and exhaust systems have been optimized, along with the electronic throttle valves. This translates into strong torque at low and medium revolutions, a powerful response in the upper range of the rev counter and a smooth and progressive delivery, without power gaps.
“The result is a motorcycle that is stable and comfortable on long trips, but also agile and reactive when corners come.”they explain from the brand. And as it could not be otherwise in a motorcycle of this type, the KLE650 incorporates as standard technologies such as KTRC traction control and electronic cruise control, two allies that improve the riding experience both alone and with a passenger.
In the chassis part, a compact multi-tubular chassis stands out, inspired by that of the KLE500 and combined with 21-inch spoked wheels at the front and 17 at the rear; Long-travel suspensions, a rally-inspired body and a seat aimed at road comfort complete the equipment. This configuration allows you to transition naturally from daily commutes to sporty asphalt driving and great adventure routes.
Personal and unmistakable design
As is usual in any of the models that make up the current Kawasaki range, this KLE650 also has a distinctive design and aesthetics that visually differentiates it from its younger sister, the KLE500, and of course the rest of the competitors with which it will have to be measured commercially. In this regard, Akashi’s signature clarifies: “The new KLE650 reinforces its personality with an unmistakable rally aesthetic.”
They conclude: “Its body panels, larger than those of the KLE500, give it a more imposing presence without losing the characteristic identity of the growing KLE family”. In addition, the SE version raises the equipment level even further with KQS quick shift up and down, TFT instrumentation, tubeless tires, USB-C power socket, hand protectors, aluminum skid plate and a larger windscreen.
Finally, it is worth noting that official Kawasaki dealers in Europe will offer three versions of the KLE650, configured with original brand accessories to adapt to different styles of adventure:
- Top Case
- Rally
- Adventure Tourer
There will also be three color schemes with which we can color our motorcycle:
- KLE650: Metallic Matte Graphensteel Gray
- KLE650 SE: Pearl Storm Gray/ Pearl Blizzard White
For now, the brand has not made official the official price of its new KLE650, nor the exact moment in which its marketing will begin in our country. In any case, you can go directly to its website or visit any of the authorized distributors with which the Japanese company actively collaborates within our borders.
