Kawasaki KLE 500 SE SmartRide
The KLE500 SE Gets the Smartride Appeal
Why the KLE 500 SE SmartRide
12 highlights
Smartride: Self-Engaging Clutch
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.
Best Package for Off-Pavement Exploration
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.
Spoke Wheels with Tubeless Tyres
Spoke wheels with tubeless tyres maintain the KLE500’s adventure-ready looks while adding convenience for touring and everyday use.
Rally-Inspired Style
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.
Touring Capacity and Comfort Features
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.
16-Litre Fuel Tank with Good Fuel Economy
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.
Premium Suspension
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”/17” Spoke Wheels
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.
Multi-Purpose Trellis Frame
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.
Adjustable Windshield
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.
Selectable ABS
Front and rear disc brakes offer sure stopping power. Selectable ABS allows riders to disable the ABS function according to their preference.*
451 cm³ Parallel Twin Engine Enjoyable from Highway to Dirt
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.
Images
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Colours
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About the KLE 500 SE SmartRide
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