Kawasaki's KLE500 Finally Returns for 2026 | First Look

With the incredible popularity of small-capacity multi-cylinder adventure bikes, Kawasaki has pulled one from the archives and brought back the KLE500 from the grave in an all-new form for 2026.

It's been over a decade since we last saw a new KLE500 in dealerships in New Zealand, but come mid-2026, that'll change, according to Kawasaki Australia, with the distributor for NZ confirming that the all-new KLE500 is heading our way.

Now, personally, I think Kawasaki was ahead of their time with the original KLE500, so it is pleasing to see Team Green finally refocus on the model instead of the KLR650.

According to Kawasaki's release, the new KLE is "designed for riders of all experience levels, the LAMS-compliant KLE500 offers an ideal balance of comfort and control. Its KX-inspired ergonomics, adjustable three-position screen, and natural riding position ensure confidence both on and off the pavement."

It's based around the proven 500cc parallel-twin from the Ninja 500 just like the KLE500 of old based itself upon the same for its era - the GPZ500.

The new bike, however, gets all the modern goodies you'd expect from a motorcycle in this class. From the obligatory EFI to modern LED lighting systems, to a full TFT dash with optional connectivity if you download Kawasaki’s Rideology The App which enables access to navigation, riding logs, and voice commands.

While full specification and pricing are yet to be confirmed for the New Zealand market, here are the facts we know about the new 2026 KLE500 so far:

• 21-inch front wheel matched to a 17-inch rear wheel wrapped in IRC GP-410 tyres

• 16-litre fuel tank mounted above the engine

• Full trellis frame with the engine as a stressed member

• 451cc parallel-twin engine meeting LAMS legislation

• Switchable ABS

• 175mm of ground clearance

• 43mm cartridge-type inverted fork with 210mm wheel travel

• Uni Trak rear suspension (mono shock) with 200mm wheel travel

• 300mm front brake disc with dual-piston brake caliper

• 230mm rear brake disc with dual-piston brake caliper

• Adjustable windscreen as standard

Time will tell once the final specification and pricing are revealed as to just how competitive the Kawasaki KLE500 will be in the New Zealand market. It faces incredibly tough competition in the segment against the established CFMOTO 450MT, Royal Enfield Himalayan and the freshly arrived Moto Morini AllTrHike 450 - the latter being loosely based on the CFMOTO 450.

Here's hoping Team Green got the recipe right for their 2026 KLE500.