Meet the new KLE500 adventure motorcycle designed to help you discover new horizons. Its purposeful rally-style design is a prime example of functional beauty that not only looks the part but delivers versatile performance both on and off pavement.
A smooth-accelerating engine provides power on-demand to explore dirt roads or comfortably travel down the highway. The responsive engine and rider-friendly character facilitate control and add to confidence in a wide range of riding situations.
Kawasaki’s Assist & Slipper Clutch results in a light clutch pull for even more rider-friendly and manageable riding in everyday situations, and reduced skipping and hopping from the rear for better sport riding and added confidence.
Distinctive rally-inspired styling sets Kawasaki’s new adventure machine apart. The KLE500 looks just as ready to get dirty on the trails as it is to cover a long highway journey in comfort. A blend of three stylistic aspects—an authentic rally-raid image, familiar street bike elements, and KX motocrosser-inspired design touches—creates Kawasaki’s new adventure style.
Key to the KLE500’s rally-inspired styling, the tall front cowl rises prominently at the front. The instrument panel’s angle presents a clear view to the rider even when standing, in the style of rally machines. Clear plastic panels surround the front cowl to enhance wind protection and give the front end a highly compact and functional appearance.
The KLE500’s original high-tensile steel trellis frame is the foundation for this high-performance adventure machine. Engineers focused on real-world versatility and enjoyment over a range of conditions—from unpaved roads to forest trails—positioning the KLE500 as a true bridge between day-to-day and adventure riding.
Know-how from Kawasaki’s KX series was used to determine the handlebar and footpeg positions to offer excellent controllability when standing. KX influence also shaped the KLE500’s bodywork and engine covers, which were designed to be smooth and unobtrusive as the rider shifts their weight on the bike.
The KLE500’s riding position offers the best balance of comfort and control in a wide range of riding situations. A wide, forward-positioned handlebar, comfortable seat, and ideally placed footpegs work together to enable ample freedom of movement to control the bike, whether seated or standing.
Exploring dirt roads requires a suspension capable of predictable handling, balancing ride comfort with excellent absorption performance on rough surfaces. A specially designed front fork offering a balance of on- and off-road prowess, paired with New Uni Trak rear suspension, gives the rider ample wheel travel, inspiring confidence no matter what road you choose to explore.
The KLE500 is equipped with a high-contrast full LCD instrument panel. The sophisticated instrument design features a well-thought-out display, with a bar-style tachometer that reaches over the speedometer and other displayed data. Smartphone connectivity enables riders to connect with their machines to enjoy display notifications, riding logs, and community features.
The rally-style fuel tank was designed to sit high in consideration of ground clearance. It holds 16 litres, which paired with good fuel economy, delivers ample single-tank range.
The rally-style, tall windshield is adjustable into three positions: standard height, 27 mm higher, and finally 55 mm higher at its highest point. The lowest setting allows maximum view, helpful for seated off-road riding, while the highest setting blocks the most wind to keep the rider comfortable at higher speeds.
Four unique seating setups are possible with the addition of the ERGO-FIT Pillion Seat (Low) and Low Front Seat available as genuine accessories. Riders can find their ideal seating arrangement, whether it is the standard combination (High/High) aimed at on-road comfort and day-to-day use, complete with specially designed cushioning for long-ride comfort, or a fully flat setup (High/Low) facilitating rider mobility during off-road riding.
