Kawasaki is gearing up to revive the KLE nameplate, a motorcycle that first appeared back in 1991 with a 498cc parallel-twin engine. The company has dropped a fresh teaser video, hinting that the new KLE 500 will be unveiled very soon—likely at EICMA 2025.
Modern KLE with Ninja 500 DNA
From what has been revealed so far, the upcoming KLE is expected to share its heart with the recently launched Ninja 500. That means a 451cc parallel-twin engine, delivering performance figures in the ballpark of 45.4hp and 42.6Nm. This puts it close in spirit to the original KLE, though with thoroughly modern engineering.
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A 21-inch front wheel confirms its off-road adventure focus.
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Upside-down forks paired with a single Nissin front disc for braking duties.
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A box-section steel swingarm—simple yet robust.
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Spoked wheels with tube-type tyres, keeping it rugged and practical.
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A low-slung exhaust placed on the right-hand side, not too different from the Ninja 500.
Overall, Kawasaki seems to be keeping the KLE 500 purposeful, aimed at riders who want an affordable and capable mid-size adventure machine.
India Launch Plans
The teaser confirms a “coming soon” timeline, with the official debut expected in November at EICMA. For India, the bike could arrive in 2026.
Pricing, however, will be crucial. The Ninja 500 is already on sale here as a CKD import at ₹5.66 lakh (ex-showroom). If the KLE follows the same route, expect it to be priced in a similar range, potentially going head-to-head with the Honda NX500 (₹6.33 lakh).
That said, if Kawasaki India decides to localise assembly, as it has with the new KLX230, the KLE 500 could turn into an attractive option in India’s growing mid-size ADV segment.
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