Hot off the back tyre of the brilliant KLE500 and KLE500 SE, Kawasaki have revealed a big sibling. Let's take a look at the new KLE650 and KLE650 SE adventure touring models...
Built around a next-generation 649cc parallel-twin engine, the new middleweight KLE650 and KLE650 SE models combine rally-inspired styling and genuine off-road capability with a clear focus on long-distance comfort, electronic rider assistance and everyday versatility.
Kawasaki say that the KLE650 and KLE650 SE are more road bias than the KLE500 and KLE500 SE.
Following the introduction of the KLE500, Kawasaki is expanding its adventure touring range for 2027 with the larger-capacity KLE650 and its more comprehensively equipped SE variant. The new models are aimed at riders wanting the visual appeal and versatility of a rally-inspired adventure motorcycle, but with greater emphasis on road comfort and touring ability than some of the more dirt-focused machines in the middleweight category.
Read about our own BikeReview KLE500 SE long termer here…
Kawasaki describes the KLE650 as a bridge between daily commuting, weekend rides and longer adventure touring, with its development centred on delivering a comfortable, composed ride across a wide range of conditions. The manufacturer is particularly targeting the 600–800cc adventure segment, where a 21-inch front wheel is a common feature, but says the KLE650 places greater priority on long-distance comfort without sacrificing the ability to explore unsealed roads.
Kawasaki KLE650 SE (left) and KLE650 will be here mid 2027.
The new model uses a developed version of Kawasaki’s established 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, now incorporating electronic throttle valves and revised intake and exhaust systems. It is housed in a compact high-tensile steel trellis frame, with 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels, long-travel suspension and rally-inspired bodywork.
Both versions receive Kawasaki Traction Control and electronic cruise control as standard, while the SE adds a number of touring-focused upgrades, including a TFT display, quick-shifter, tubeless spoke wheels, a larger windscreen, aluminium handlebar and additional protection.
KLE650 SE 2027.
Australian pricing and final specifications are yet to be confirmed, with Kawasaki indicating that the new models are expected to arrive in Australia and New Zealand by mid-2027.
Next-generation 649cc parallel-twin engine
At the heart of the KLE650 is a 649cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, eight-valve parallel-twin engine based on the powerplant already used across Kawasaki’s road-going range. For its new adventure application, Kawasaki has introduced electronic throttle valves and revised the intake and exhaust systems to provide a more suitable spread of performance.
New generation 650cc parallel twin engine.
The emphasis is on strong low-to-midrange torque, particularly below 4,000rpm, where the engine has been tuned to deliver smooth, controllable response. Kawasaki says the revised setup provides strong drive in everyday riding and when negotiating unsealed surfaces, while a flatter torque delivery continues through the midrange and into the upper rev range beyond 6,000rpm.
The emphasis is on strong low-to-midrange torque, particularly below 4,000rpm, where the engine has been tuned to deliver smooth, controllable response…
The engine is designed to provide enough flexibility for relaxed highway cruising while retaining the ability to deliver an engaging response when the road becomes more interesting. Kawasaki has also focused on smoothness and rider comfort, with a 180-degree crankshaft driving a balancer shaft to reduce vibration.
KLE650 SE 2027.
Electronic throttle valves allow the ECU to control both fuel delivery and intake air, helping provide natural throttle response and linear acceleration. The system also makes electronic cruise control and Kawasaki’s quick-shifter technology possible, with the latter fitted as standard to the SE and available as an accessory for the standard KLE650.
The intake system features a slim airbox designed to support low-to-midrange performance, with dual intake ducts helping reduce intake noise during cruising. Fine-atomising injectors and revised intake ports further contribute to the engine’s response, while the 630mm header pipe length has been selected to support the desired torque characteristics.
KLE650 SE 2027.
Kawasaki quotes a maximum output of 51.6kW (70PS) for the European specification. The six-speed gearbox is paired with an Assist & Slipper Clutch, reducing clutch lever effort during normal operation while helping manage rear-wheel behaviour under aggressive downshifting. The assist cam helps reduce the spring load required to operate the clutch, while the slipper mechanism relieves pressure on the clutch plates when excessive engine braking occurs.
Tuned for strong mid range from 4000rpm.
The exhaust system has also been packaged with adventure touring in mind. Its upswept position helps provide ground clearance for unsealed-road riding while leaving room for symmetrical pannier fitment on either side of the motorcycle.
Trellis frame and long-travel suspension
Kawasaki has based the KLE650’s chassis on the compact trellis concept introduced with the KLE500, but has revised the design to place greater emphasis on stability and comfort on paved roads.
The high-tensile steel frame weighs a claimed 16.9kg and uses strategically positioned cross-members, gussets and weight-saving machining to achieve the required balance between rigidity and lightness. The engine also acts as a stressed member, with rigid mounting points helping optimise chassis stiffness and front-to-rear balance.
Suspension consists of a 43mm cartridge-type inverted KYB front fork offering 210mm of wheel travel, matched to a New Uni-Trak rear suspension system providing 196mm of travel…
The wheelbase is 1555mm, while rake is 28º and trail is 106mm. Kawasaki says the geometry has been selected with greater emphasis on on-road composure than the KLE500, while retaining the agility and versatility expected of an adventure motorcycle.
A tall seat height but there are four seat height options available to suit many rider sizes.
The rear sub-frame is designed to accommodate two panniers and a top case simultaneously, giving the KLE650 genuine touring potential. Kawasaki’s accessory range includes panniers, a top case, rear carrier and associated mounting hardware.
Suspension consists of a 43mm cartridge-type inverted KYB front fork offering 210mm of wheel travel, matched to a New Uni-Trak rear suspension system providing 196mm of travel. Both ends have been tuned with a greater emphasis on road comfort and tyre contact over paved surfaces, while retaining the bump absorption required when travelling on rougher roads.
The rear shock features stepless spring preload adjustment, allowing riders to alter the setup to suit their weight or when carrying a passenger and luggage. Kawasaki has also selected revised spring rates compared with the KLE500, with the front spring rated at 10N/mm and the rear at 75N/mm, prioritising comfort and road-following performance.
Revised suspension and chassis to make the KLE more stable on the road.
Braking is handled by twin 300mm front discs with dual-piston calipers, and a 230mm rear disc with a dual-piston caliper. Selectable ABS allows riders to disable the system according to preference, although local road regulations may require ABS to remain active. The system automatically returns to its default front-and-rear-on setting after the motorcycle is switched off and restarted.
Both models use a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheel combination, retaining a traditional KLE characteristic dating back to the original KLE500 introduced in 1991. Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tyres are fitted, selected for their on-road grip, comfort and handling characteristics.
D.I.D fat alloy handlebar on SE.
The standard KLE650 uses conventional tube-type wheels, while the SE receives tubeless spoke wheels. The latter retain the appearance and shock-absorbing characteristics of a spoked wheel but allow a puncture to be repaired without removing and replacing an inner tube, a useful advantage for touring.
Designed around touring comfort
Long-distance comfort is one of the KLE650’s main development priorities. Kawasaki has adopted a relaxed, upright riding position with a wide, forward-positioned handlebar, comfortable seat and slightly forward-set footpegs. The arrangement is intended to suit both seated road riding and standing when travelling over unsealed surfaces.
Together with the available Low Front Seat, Kawasaki says four different seat configurations can be achieved…
The slim fuel tank is shaped to allow riders to move forward and rearward easily, while the bodywork around the engine and seat has been designed to minimise interference when shifting weight. Kawasaki has drawn on its KX motocross experience when shaping the side covers, engine covers and rider contact areas, creating a relatively smooth interface for standing and moving around the motorcycle. The standard seat height is 870mm, with the stepped seat arrangement providing lumbar support for the rider and a raised, well-cushioned passenger seat. Kawasaki has also designed the rider’s seat to make it easier to move forward and backwards when adjusting weight distribution.
KLE650 SE 2027.
An optional Low Seat reduces seat height by 30mm, while an optional ERGO-FIT Pillion Seat can be combined with the standard rider seat to create a flatter profile more suitable for off-road riding and carrying luggage. Together with the available Low Front Seat, Kawasaki says four different seat configurations can be achieved.
The footpegs also cater for both road and dirt use, with removable rubber inserts revealing spiked surfaces for improved boot grip when standing. Wind protection comes from a tall, rally-inspired screen with three adjustment positions. The screen can be set at standard height, 27mm higher or 55mm higher, allowing riders to choose between improved forward visibility when riding off-road and greater wind protection during highway travel.
16L fuel tank.
The fuel tank holds 16 litres, with its narrow profile designed to assist rider movement and avoid compromising ground clearance. Kawasaki has also developed the radiator fan cover to direct hot air out to the sides and away from the rider, helping reduce discomfort in slow-moving traffic and when stopped.
Rally-inspired styling
The KLE650 carries a distinctive rally-raid appearance, combining a tall front cowl and windscreen with the familiar 21-inch front wheel, stepped seat and compact triple-LED headlight. Kawasaki has blended authentic rally styling with elements from its road motorcycle range and design cues from its KX motocross machines. The result is a larger visual presence than the KLE500, with more substantial painted side panels and shrouds giving the front end a fuller appearance.
KLE650 SE 2027.
The front lighting arrangement uses two upper low-beam headlights and a single lower high-beam light, while clear panels surrounding the cowl provide additional wind protection and maintain a compact appearance. The elevated instrument position is designed to remain easy to read whether the rider is seated or standing. The slim fuel tank, smooth side covers and upward-sloping tail section contribute to the motorcycle’s adventure character, while the upswept exhaust and slash-cut muffler end cap reinforce its off-road appearance. The standard KLE650 will be offered in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray, while the KLE650 SE is finished in Pearl Storm Gray.
Electronics and rider assistance
Both KLE650 models receive Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), with two selectable modes designed to suit different riding conditions.
Mode 1 is the least intrusive setting, intended for sportier riding and helping manage rear-wheel traction when accelerating out of corners. Mode 2 provides a greater level of intervention, reducing engine output when excessive wheelspin is detected. Kawasaki says this setting is particularly useful on slippery surfaces such as wet roads, gravel, cobblestones and metal road covers.
Cruise control.
Electronic cruise control is also standard, allowing riders to maintain a selected speed without continually operating the throttle. The system uses the electronic throttle valves to adjust engine output when travelling uphill or downhill, with speed adjustments made using the handlebar controls. Applying the brakes or clutch, changing gear or closing the throttle beyond the zero-throttle position disengages the system.
Kawasaki KLE650 2027.
The standard model receives a 5-inch LCD instrument display, with a high-contrast layout incorporating a digital speedometer, bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, trip meters, remaining range, fuel consumption, coolant temperature and clock. It also displays connected-device notifications and service information.
TFT dash on SE
The SE upgrades to a 5-inch full-colour TFT display, offering two selectable layouts. One provides a more conventional sporty presentation, while the second uses a rally-inspired arrangement with a larger speedometer, gear indicator and navigation display.
Both models support smartphone connectivity through Kawasaki’s RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE application. Functions include vehicle information, maintenance schedules, GPS riding logs and telephone notifications. On the SE, turn-by-turn navigation can also be displayed on the instrument panel, subject to feature availability and the required licence in individual markets.
KLE650 SE 2027.
KLE650 SE adds touring equipment
The KLE650 SE builds on the standard model with a package of equipment aimed at riders planning longer journeys and wanting additional convenience straight from the showroom.
Its most obvious upgrades include the 5-inch TFT instrumentation, standard Kawasaki Quick Shifter, tubeless spoke wheels and a larger windscreen. The SE screen is 106mm taller than the standard version, providing additional wind protection for extended highway travel.
Adjustable screen.
The quick-shifter allows clutchless upshifts and downshifts, with the system operating from as low as 2,000rpm. It uses a contactless sensor to detect gear-lever movement and coordinate ignition or engine-speed control, providing smoother gear changes during acceleration and deceleration. The system is also available as an accessory for the standard KLE650.
The SE receives a lightweight D.I.D aluminium fat-type handlebar in place of the steel unit fitted to the standard model. It also gains a USB-C outlet integrated into the cockpit, metal-reinforced hand guards and a larger aluminium skid plate that extends further around the sides and underside of the engine. The hand guards provide protection from wind and debris, while the skid plate offers additional coverage for the engine area when riding off-road.
Brush guards.
Kawasaki will also offer a comprehensive genuine accessory range for both models. Options include panniers, a top case, rear carrier, larger windscreen, hand guards, heated grips, USB-C outlet, LED fog lamps, engine guard, centre stand, radiator screen, GPS bracket and alternative seat arrangements.
Kawasaki Australia has indicated that both models are expected to arrive locally by mid-2027, with pricing, final Australian specifications and availability to be announced closer to launch.
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