Kawasaki has revived a famous name for a market that finally wants it. The new-for-2026 KLE500 is a rally-inspired A2 / LAMS adventure bike built around the proven 451cc parallel twin from the Z500 and Ninja 500, in a new tubular steel frame with long-travel suspension and 21/17" spoked wheels.
There are two trims in Australia: the base KLE500 at $11,544 ride away ex-Sydney, and the SE at $12,780 ride away, which adds a 4.3" colour TFT, a taller screen, handguards, an alloy bash plate and LED indicators. Dealer advertised prices sit at $11,420-$11,464 for the base and $12,626-$12,660 for the SE. Both prices include all on-road costs.
The engine is the star. Reviewers praise the 44bhp @ 9,000rpm, 42.6Nm @ 6,000rpm twin as "pleasingly smooth yet characterful". Gearing is taller than on its road-going siblings at 46/15, making for relaxed highway cruising.
On the road and on easy gravel, the consensus is glowing. One review summed it up this way: "Kawasaki's most anticipated new bike of 2026 may have no standout features but it's a decent to excellent all-rounder with plenty of refinement". The SE's plush suspension, neutral riding position and 195kg weight make it "unintimidating, making casual off-roading easier" for riders new to adventure.
The catch is ground clearance. At just 185mm, it's a "travel bike for rough roads, not a 194 kg enduro", which is fine for forestry roads but means it will hit on ruts. Suspension is basic, with KYB 43mm forks offering 210mm of travel and a preload-only rear. Both ends are non-adjustable and feel vague when pushed. There's no traction control, no ride modes and no rear ABS off-switch.
Ergonomics are clever. The standard seat height is 860mm, and Kawasaki's ERGO-FIT system offers "four combinations... from the comfortable standard setup for long highway rides to a completely flat saddle for optimal freedom of movement in off-road conditions". With the optional low seat, height drops to around 830mm.
Overall, the KLE500 "offers class-competitive performance, spec and versatility with Japanese quality and reassurance but for not much more than Chinese prices". At $11.4k-$12.7k ride away, it's the most expensive in its class on paper. The CFMOTO 450MT is $9,990 ride away and the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 starts from $9,190. But buyers are paying for Japanese build quality, resale value and the 600+ dealer network.
Read the comprehensive review at Australian Motorcycle News
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