Kawasaki KL650

With just a few days to go before the start of Eicma 2026, Kawasaki has unveiled the new Kle650, a twin-cylinder model that revives a historic nameplate with a design tailored for those seeking a versatile motorbike capable of handling road journeys, long-distance travel and off-road excursions. The aim is to enter the competitive mid-capacity segment featuring a 21-inch front wheel, taking on models such as the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and the Honda Transalp.

At the heart of the new KLE650 is the 649 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, derived from Kawasaki’s tried-and-tested engine family and updated for this application. Maximum power reaches 70 cv (the twin-cylinder KLE500 tops out at 45 cv), with power delivery designed to offer smooth response at low and medium revs and impressive progression at high revs. The most significant technical innovation is the electronic ride-by-wire throttle, which enables the integration of KTRC traction control and electronic cruise control.

The chassis features a compact trellis frame, inspired by that of the Kle500, combined with 21-inch spoked wheels at the front and 17-inch at the rear. The long-travel suspension, with 210 mm of travel at the front and 196 mm at the rear, is designed to absorb uneven terrain and maintain balanced handling even on tarmac. The seat, 870 mm above the ground, and the adjustable windscreen emphasise its touring credentials, whilst the option to deactivate the ABS allows braking to be adapted for off-road riding.

There are two trim levels available: the standard version, priced at 8,290 euros, and the SE version, priced at 9,790 euros, featuring a KQS bidirectional electronic gearbox, a colour TFT instrument panel, spoked wheels with tubeless tyres, a USB-C socket, reinforced hand guards, larger aluminium engine guards and a wider windscreen.