KLE500 SE Smartride

Smartride is a self-engaging clutch system that integrates a compact mechanical centrifugal clutch within a conventional clutch assembly. With Smartride, clutch lever operation is no longer required when starting and stopping. This significantly reduces the need for clutch use in stop-and-go urban riding and removes the need for delicate half-clutch (feathering) control when pulling away from a stop.

Spoke wheels with tubeless tyres maintain the KLE500’s adventure-ready looks while adding convenience for touring and everyday use.

Exploring the next dirt road is an opportunity for riding enjoyment thanks to a well-balanced chassis and light, straightforward handling. The well-thought-out riding position lends the KLE500 SE a natural feel whether standing or sitting, while seamless bodywork lets the rider move around freely. A rider-focused and highly controllable character makes the KLE500 SE the ideal choice for any long adventure ride.

Distinctive rally-inspired styling sets Kawasaki’s new adventure machine apart. The KLE500 looks just as ready to get dirty on the trails as it is to cover a long highway journey in comfort. A blend of three stylistic aspects—an authentic rally-raid image, familiar street bike elements, and KX Motocross-inspired design touches—creates Kawasaki’s new adventure style.

On the way to the next adventure, the KLE500 glides along the pavement, carrying the rider in comfort. Wind is kept at bay via a 3-position adjustable windshield, a well-cushioned seat contributes to superb ride comfort, and excellent fuel economy minimises fuel stops on long journeys.

The rally-style fuel tank was designed to sit high in consideration of ground clearance. It holds 16 litres, which paired with good fuel economy, delivers ample single-tank range.

Specially designed for excellent performance across a wide range of riding situations, a KYB cartridge-type inverted front fork works with the New Uni-Trak rear suspension to deliver top-in-class wheel travel (210 mm front, 196 mm rear) and damping settings for good manners on the pavement and superb absorption off-road.

21” front and 17” rear spoke wheels deliver true rally looks and tough off-road performance. They carry on the lineage of the original KLE series that has featured a 21”/17” combination since the beginning.

The KLE500’s original high-tensile steel trellis frame is the foundation for this high-performance adventure machine. Engineers focused on real-world versatility and enjoyment over a range of conditions—from unpaved roads to forest trails—positioning the KLE500 as a true bridge between day-to-day and adventure riding. Repeated tests in the actual offroad environments riders are likely to encounter helped optimise the chassis’ rigidity balance and weight.

Riders can select windshield height from three positions. The lowest setting allows maximum view, helpful for seated off-road riding, while the highest setting blocks the most wind to keep the rider comfortable at higher speeds.

Front and rear disc brakes offer sure stopping power. Selectable ABS allows riders to disable the ABS function according to their preference.*

*Local laws may require ABS to remain active when riding on public roads.

A smooth-accelerating engine provides power ondemand to explore dirt roads or comfortably travel down the highway. The responsive engine and rider-friendly character facilitate control and add to confidence in a wide range of riding situations.

The SE model adds off-road-oriented features for exploring unpaved roads, while enhancing comfort on the street. A large windshield and hand guards improve comfort in a wide range of riding conditions. A large skid plate contributes to engine protection, adding to confidence off-road.

The ability to carry two panniers and a top case (available as Kawasaki genuine accessories) at the same time gives riders many options for touring setups. This is made possible by a well-reinforced rear frame able to carry high loads, providing a composed ride at higher speeds.

Four unique seating setups are possible with the addition of the ERGO-FIT Pillion Seat (Low) and Low Front Seat available as genuine accessories. Riders can find their ideal seating arrangement, whether it is the standard combination (High/High) aimed at on-road comfort and day-to-day use, complete with specially-designed cushioning for long-ride comfort, or a fully flat setup (High/Low) facilitating rider mobility during offroad riding.

Both the full LCD instrument panel on the standard model and the TFT display on the SE model offer smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE, which lets riders connect to their machine wirelessly for an enhanced motorcycling experience.

The KLE500’s riding position offers the best balance of comfort and control in a wide range of riding situations. A wide, forward-positioned handlebar, comfortable seat, and ideally-placed footpegs work together to enable ample freedom of movement to control the bike, whether seated or standing.

Key to the KLE500’s rally-inspired styling, the tall front cowl rises prominently at the front. The instrument panel’s angle presents a clear view to the rider even when standing, in the style of rally machines. Clear plastic panels surround the front cowl to enhance wind protection and give the front end a highly compact and functional appearance.

Know-how from Kawasaki’s KX series was used to determine the handlebar and footpeg positions to offer excellent controllability when standing. KX influence also shaped the KLE500’s bodywork and engine covers, which were designed to be smooth and unobtrusive as the rider shifts their weight on the bike.