Kawasaki are launching a new KLE650 range for 2027 powered by their existing eager 649cc parallel-twin.
The Japanese brand have had a busy October, having launched both a four-cylinder Versys 900 range , and a new KLE500 SE Smartride variant that gives riders the option of whether or not to use the clutch lever. This followed a refreshed Ninja 650 with new forks and radial brakes that arrived in late September.
The new KLE650 continues this run of new metal, with early details confirming there will be both a standard and SE model – with the latter featuring an up/down quickshifter, TFT dash, tubeless tyres, a USB-C power socket, aluminium bash plate and a bigger front screen.
On top of this will be the option to spec three Edition models using parts from the optional extras catalogue, which consist of the ‘Top Case’, ‘Rally’, and ‘Adventurer Tourer’ versions.
Available in ‘Metallic Matte Graphensteel Gray’ as standard and a choice of ‘Pearl Storm Gray’ and ‘Pearl Blizzard White’ as an SE model, both feature styling reminiscent of the existing KLE500 range , as well as frowning front LED headlights reminiscent of the current Z900 naked and incoming Versys 900.
The KLEs will make their UK debut at the upcoming Motorcycle Live (MCL) show at the NEC in Birmingham from November 21-29, with Kawasaki confirming they are aiming the bike at long-distance touring comfort rather than outright off-road capability.
Although equipped with a 21in front, and 17in rear spoked wheel, it’s unlikely to be a rival for the likes of the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and Aprilia Tuareg 660 – acting as more of a rugged travel bike to compete against models including the long-anticipated Royal Enfield Himalayan 750 that we recently spied in testing and anticipate to be revealed in the coming weeks.
MCN can also confirm that the engine in the KLE will be Kawasaki’s existing 649cc parallel-twin, which is held in a trellis chassis and goes against rivals in this class with its 180-degree crank configuration.
Other models, including the Yamaha and Aprilia, run a 270-degree design – giving more of that V-twin-like grumble we’ve come to expect from modern middleweight motor design.
Featuring a bore and stroke of 83x60mm, electronic throttle valves, and a new intake and exhaust system, Kawasaki are promising strong low- to mid-range torque and ‘powerful high-rpm performance’, suggesting the engine will continue to be as eager to rev as it has been in the Z650 , Ninja 650 , Vulcan S , and Z650RS already using the platform.
Power and torque figures could not be confirmed at the time of writing, however we would expect around 67bhp and 47lb.ft of torque to match that of the latest Ninja 650. Keeping this modest power in check is traction control, with the bike also equipped with cruise control for long journeys in the saddle.
Not everyone wants a focused rally replica, and Kawasaki’s gentle KLE could be just the ticket for riders wanting a dependable travel companion, capable of hauling a weekend’s worth of luggage, with enough power without being intimidating.
Dan is a fully-trained journalist, with a Gold Standard Level 3 Diploma from the National Council for the Training of Journalists. He has a passion for motorcycles of all capacities, but feels at home aboard a sportsbike. He's been working for MCN in print and digital for the best part of 10 years, with regular contributions to RiDE Magazine on the side.
News Editor, trackday fan, lover of 90s sportsbikes