The Kawasaki KLE500 ABS machines join the growing mid-sized adventure bike group with two new “Rally Inspired” ADV bikes powered by a 451cc parallel twin engine. The $6,599 standard version offers an affordable entry into adventure riding, while the $7,499 SE (Special Edition) model includes a full-color display and other amenities.
KLE500 Propulsion
Kawasaki boasts that the KLE’s compact twin-cylinder engine delivers a combination of low-end torque, and high-rev zip. A fully machined balancer shaft quells vibration in the compact powerplant, making it comfortable for long stretches in the saddle. Although power numbers are not yet available, the KLE’s displacement and 70.0 x 58.6mm bore/stroke match those of their Ninja 500 and Eliminator models. Kawasaki claims 51 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 31.7 pound-feet of torque at 7,500 rpm for those engines. A 5.6-liter airbox dims intake noise and improves efficiency, while the upswept silencer prevents rock damage and makes room for panniers. KLE riders will enjoy a cooler ride courtesy of fan ducting designed to move heat away from the rider.
Frame and Suspension
Kawasaki designed the KLE500’s lightweight, trellis-style, steel frame for “versatility and comfort across diverse conditions.” The rigid rear portion is ready to hold a full complement of luggage. The rear swingarm is a square-tube aluminum piece, said to save weight. Up front, an aluminum skid pan protects the KLE’s underbelly, a good addition considering ground clearance is only 6.8 inches.
The KLE500 models travel on a 44mm cartridge-type inverted fork—2mm larger than the standard KLR 650—with 8.3 inches of travel. The new Uni-Trak rear suspension has 7.9 inches with “strong resistance against bottoming.”
Rolling and Stopping
Kawasaki chose the same 21/17-inch front/rear wheel sizes used on the KLR, fitting the spoked aluminum rims with IRC GP-410 on/offroad tires. Brakes are single disc/two-piston caliper designs at both ends with a 300mm disc up front and a 230mm at the rear. Riders can select from three ABS modes—On, Rear Off, and All Off—via a switch on the left handlebar.
KLE500 Controls
Kawasaki made some thoughtful choices for their KLE500 riders, fitting a fat-type handlebar and setting the convertible pegs a bit forward to accommodate both sitting and standing. A tall, three-position windshield can be adjusted to three heights for the smoothest airflow. The narrow 4.2-gallon fuel tank should make it easy to move around on the bike as the road or trail requires. Intended for multi-surface travel, the seat has a step for back support on long pavement stretches, and a narrow front for technical riding. Seat height is 33.8 inches—not too tall, not too low.
The Special Edition
The main attraction of the KLE500 SE ABS model is a full-featured 4.3-inch TFT display, as opposed to the LCD panel on the standard KLE. Both bikes support Kawasaki’s Rideology app, which allows viewing information from the display on a smartphone. Conversely, phone calls and emails are shown on the display.
An SE rider will also enjoy a 4.1-inch taller windscreen while making tracks on the superslab, and a much larger skid plate when the backroads beckon. Ditto the metal-reinforced hand guards for protection from weather, tip-overs, and trail-side brush. It is available in Pearl Blizzard White and Metallic Bluish Green.
Specifications
Engine type: 451cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 4-valve, DOHC, twin-cylinder four-stroke
Engine performance: (claimed, from similar model) 51 horsepower at 10,000 rpm; 31.7 pound-feet of torque at 7,500 rpm
Fuel capacity: 4.2 gallons
Transmission: 6-speed with slipper/assist clutch
Suspension / Front: 44mm inverted front fork; 8.3-inch travel
Suspension / Rear: Single rear shock; 7.9-inch travel
Brakes / Front: Single 300mm disc, radial-mount 2-piston caliper, ABS
Brakes / Rear: Single 230mm rear disc, 2-piston caliper, ABS
Tire / Front: 90/90-21
Tire / Rear: 140/70-17
Seat height: 33.8 inches
Ground clearance: 6.8 inches
Weight: (claimed) TBS
Read more: Kawasaki KLX Sherpas
Images: Kawasaki
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