More than three decades have passed since Kawasaki first launched the acronym on the market. KLE500. 34 years after that, the Akashi brand returns with a totally new model, although maintaining that adventurous spirit of yesteryear. To do this, it uses a technical configuration similar to the original, although full of new technologies and top-level equipment.
Kawasaki KLE500 2026 in detail
Exactly 12 months have passed since Kawasaki gave us the first clues of what we could expect from its new generation KLE500 on the occasion of EICMA 2024. Now, just a few days before the well-known Milanese event, the brand officially launches the model, under two different finish versions, letting us know that “is ready to discover new horizons.”
To achieve this, the Japanese firm has left nothing in the pipeline. Starting with its mechanics, equipping the same 451 cc parallel twin that the brand’s current 500 models have: Z, Ninja and Eliminator. Therefore, we are talking about a DOHC engine with 8 overhead valves, water-cooled and internal dimensions of 70.0 mm x 58.6 mm. This is associated with a six-speed transmission equipped with an assisted and slipper clutch.
On the cycle side, the KLE500 comes with a combination of 21” front and 17” rear wheels, equipped with IRC GP-410 tires. The suspension includes a KYB inverted front fork, specially developed for this model, and a Uni-Trak rear system. The disc brakes on both trains are assisted by an ABS with a disconnectable function.
In terms of design, elements such as the three-position adjustable screen stand out, which, together with the high and short 16-liter tank, gives the motorcycle a functional appearance inspired by Offroad motorcycles, complemented by front and rear LED lighting.
Off-road riding comes naturally thanks to a riding position that is equally comfortable standing on the footpegs or sitting. Design touches inspired by KX motocross bikes are evident in the long, smooth side covers and compact fuel tank shapes, which create a seamless interface with the rider and facilitate mobility.
The new KLE500 has a seat whose design is inspired by the KX family. Additionally, four unique configurations can be created with the addition of the Ergo-Fit rear seat (low) and the front low seat, available as original accessories. For a premium feel and added comfort both on and off the asphalt, the SE model offers LED turn signals, TFT instrumentation and a complete package that includes a larger screen, hand guards and a skid plate.
Both the TFT instrumentation of the SE and the LCD screen of the standard model allow connectivity with smartphones to access the Rideology The App Motorcycle application, exclusive to Kawasaki. Various instrumentation functions can be accessed such as driving log, navigation and even voice commands.
Kawasaki also offers numerous original accessories for this KLE500, including rear trunk, side cases, rear luggage rack, grip warmers, USB type C socket, engine guard, LED fog lights, center stand, radiator guard and GPS mount. Additionally, an Akrapovic exhaust with titanium body and carbon heat shield is available for the European market.
We still do not know its initial price nor the exact moment in which the new KLE500 will arrive at the brand’s official dealers in our country. In any case, it is already decided that the standard version will be available in only one color scheme: Metallic Carbon Gray / Ebony. For its part, the new KLE500 SE can be configured in up to three different aesthetic versions:
- Pearl Blizzard White
- Pearl Storm Gray
- Metallic Bluish Green
For more information and details you can consult directly on the brand’s official website or visit any of the authorized distributors with which it actively collaborates in our country.
