Motorcycles
Kawasaki KLE500 Returns After 18 Years With Big Adventure Aspirations: India Launch Expected in 2026
Kawasaki has officially announced the return of the iconic KLE500 after a long hiatus of nearly two decades. Last discontinued in 2007, the nameplate now makes a bold comeback as a new-generation middleweight adventure motorcycle, first launched in the United States. This global debut signals Kawasaki’s growing intent to strengthen its presence in the competitive ADV segment.
Available in two variants—Standard and SE—the new Kawasaki KLE500 promises to bridge the gap between urban practicality and true off-road capability for riders who crave exploration without sacrificing everyday usability.
Engine: Ninja 500 Power Meets ADV Upgrades
The new Kawasaki KLE500 borrows its powertrain from Kawasaki’s latest 500cc lineup, including the popular Ninja 500 and Eliminator 500.
Key expected engine specs – 451cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine, estimated output: 45.4hp and 42.6Nm and modified gearing with larger front and rear sprockets, echoing the setup seen on the Versys 650
Though Kawasaki has not confirmed official power figures yet, the familiar engine configuration hints at a refined yet spirited performance suited for highway touring and adventure trails alike. With emissions and efficiency improvements baked in, the KLE500 enters a sweet spot for riders moving up from 300–400cc machines.
TVS Enters Adventure Territory with the All-New Apache RTX 300 ADV
Design & Chassis: Rally Inspiration With Real-World Focus
Visually, the KLE500 brings back the rugged-but-accessible spirit the original model was known for. Its rally-inspired styling features include a compact, adventure-style headlamp, a tall windscreen for enhanced wind protection, and a slim, manoeuvrable fuel tank for easy off-road riding. The bike uses a lightweight steel trellis frame, weighing under 19kg, designed to balance handling agility with long-distance stability.
With the suspension setup of a 43mm KYB USD front fork with 210mm travel and a preload-adjustable monoshock with 200mm travel. The 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels emphasize genuine trail capability, although the ground clearance sits at 172mm—lower than rivals like the Himalayan 450 (230mm).
View this post on Instagram
Tall riders will appreciate the 860mm seat height, which contributes to commanding visibility but might challenge shorter riders. The pricing is expected to be USD 6,599 (₹5.80 lakh approx.) for Standard and USD 7,499 (₹6.58 lakh approx.) for SE
Positioning places the KLE500 below the Versys 650, making it an attractive mid-tier ADV upgrade.
Reports suggest Kawasaki could bring the bike to India as a CKD import, similar to the Ninja 500 strategy. Riders who want bigger displacement than a 450cc ADV without the premium cost of a 650cc class machine will likely find strong appeal here.
Kawasaki’s revival of the KLE nameplate signals its renewed focus on the midsize adventure market. The KLE500’s combination of trusted engine tech, rally DNA, and competitive pricing positions it as a compelling contender for both new explorers and weekend tourers.
If Kawasaki delivers on localization and timely availability, the KLE500 could become one of 2026’s most anticipated ADV arrivals in India, giving riders a fresh alternative in a rapidly expanding segment.
