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RIDE REVIEW I 2026 KAWASAKI KLE500
The rally-styled KLE is not
a new model for Kawasaki. It
debuted in 1991 but was dis-
continued in 1997. It returned
in 2005, only to be discontinued
again in 2007. It was never
offered in the U.S. The original
KLE from the 1990s and mid-
2000s featured a 498cc parallel-
twin engine, 21- and 17-inch
wheels, handguards, a front
cowl, and a small windscreen.
Had there been an Adventure
category back then, like we have
today, it would have qualified.
Kawasaki says the 2026 Ka-
wasaki KLE500 is positioned as
a lightweight, versatile, comfort-
able, and affordable adventure
motorcycle, designed to attract
new riders to the category while
meeting the basic needs of
more experienced riders. The
KLE500 has a very attractive
$6599 MSRP. Kawasaki also
offers the KLE500 SE, which
features several noteworthy up-
grades and a $900 price bump
to $7499.
The heart of the KLE500 is
its 451cc parallel-twin engine,
the same engine that powers
Kawasaki's Ninja 500, Z500 and
Eliminator street models, with
very few changes for its new
adventure application. Most of
the engine modifications from
the street side to its new adven-
ture role involve mostly how it
breathes, via a larger airbox and
an updated downdraft intake
system. The KLE also uses an up-
dated 46T/15T final drive ratio.
The engine serves as a
stressed member of the steel-
trellis frame. Kawasaki is quick
to point out that the frame
weighs 41.8 pounds, which I
assume is exceptionally light.
Kawasaki says it designed the
rear section of the frame to sup-
port two fully loaded aftermar-
ket panniers and a top case.
The frame also accommodates
a relatively large 4.2-gallon fuel
tank. Wheelbase is 61.2 inches,
and ground clearance is a stin-
gy 7.3 inches. Luckily, it comes
with a skid plate. Seat height is
a reasonable 34.3 inches.
The KLE500 SE editions are available in two
color options. Both look great.
