Kawasaki KLE650: It’s really coming – and just in time for the start of the 2027 season

Kawasaki is thus using its tried-and-tested 650cc engine – which powers the Ninja 650 supersport bike, the modern Z650 roadster, the classic Z650RS roadster and the Versys 650 touring supermoto – to build an off-road-capable touring enduro. Kawasaki quotes a power output of 70 PS (Versys: 67 PS) for the KLE650 and promises significantly more torque below 4000 rpm.

Bewährter, alter Bekannter: Kawasakis Reihenzweizylinder mit 650 ccm

Foto: Kawasaki

The chassis consists of a compact trellis frame, the design of which is based on that of the KLE500. The combination of 21-inch and 17-inch spoked wheels, suspension travel of 210 and 196 mm, USD forks with cartridge dampers and a newly developed swingarm with a linkage system, plus rally-inspired fairing: This motorbike is also designed to perform well off-road, although Kawasaki emphasises the versatility of the overall package, which is said to handle the daily commute, sporty rides on tarmac and extended adventure tours with motorway sections with equal ease. The fuel tank holds 16 litres. The standard seat height of 870 mm can be optionally lowered by 30 mm. Kawasaki has not yet provided any details regarding the weight.

Aufwändig gebautes Gitterrohr-Chassis mit robustem Rahmenheck

Foto: Kawasaki

The electronic rider aids on the KLE650 include a two-stage traction control system, cruise control and a switchable ABS. The KLE650SE comes with a more comprehensive range of features. It also features a quickshifter for upshifting and downshifting, a TFT colour display, tubeless tyres, a USB-C port, hand guards, an aluminium engine guard and a taller windscreen. In addition, two further edition variants of the KLE650 are available: a rally version and an adventure tourer version.

Topic of the week

Soon-to-be world champion Kimi Antonelli: The inevitable will then follow in Mexico

The 20-year-old Italian Kimi Antonelli had the chance to secure the 2026 World Championship title at the US Grand Prix. He did everything right: victory in Texas. The title celebrations have nevertheless been postponed. Until Mexico.

Mathias Brunner

Read More

Keine verkokelten Satteltaschen dank praxisgerecht tiefem Auspuff

Foto: Kawasaki

The Kawasaki KLE650 will be available from March 2027 and costs €8,495, whilst the KLE650SE will be available from February 2027 at a price of €9,995; prices in Switzerland and Austria have not yet been finalised.

Kawasaki KLE650SE: Wo soll es morgen hingehen?

Foto: Kawasaki