All-New for 2027
Kawasaki KLE650
A new 649cc parallel-twin adventure motorcycle designed to combine confident road performance, touring comfort and genuine off-pavement potential.
Explore the 2027 KLE6502027 Kawasaki KLE650 & KLE500: The Next Generation of Adventure Riding
Published on: Oct 26, 2026
THE NEXT CHAPTER OF ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Meet the all-new 2027 Kawasaki KLE650 and the expanded KLE500 adventure motorcycle lineup. With rally-inspired styling, versatile performance and new technology designed to make every ride more rewarding, Kawasaki is giving adventure riders even more reasons to explore.
Whether you're planning weekend escapes, exploring gravel backroads or building a motorcycle touring setup, the new KLE family brings together road-going comfort and the confidence to venture beyond the pavement.
Adventure Without Boundaries
Two Adventure Platforms. More Ways to Explore.
The 2027 Kawasaki adventure motorcycle lineup offers riders two distinct approaches to getting out and exploring. The all-new KLE650 introduces a larger displacement platform with touring-focused technology and equipment, while the KLE500 continues to deliver an accessible, rally-inspired package with an exciting new addition to the range.
For 2027, riders can look toward the KLE650 and premium KLE650 SE, or choose from the KLE500, KLE500 SE and new KLE500 SE SmartRide. Each model offers its own combination of equipment, technology and adventure-ready character.
Expanded 2027 Lineup
Kawasaki KLE500
A lightweight-feeling, rally-inspired adventure platform powered by a 451cc parallel-twin engine, now available with the new SE SmartRide option.
Explore the KLE500 lineupMore Power. More Technology. More Adventure.
The all-new 2027 Kawasaki KLE650 brings a fresh approach to middleweight adventure touring. Its 649cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-twin engine is designed to deliver versatile performance for open-road riding, longer journeys and the changing conditions that come with exploring beyond the city.
Rally-inspired bodywork, an upright riding position and a purpose-built trellis frame give the KLE650 its distinctive adventure character. A 21-inch front wheel, 17-inch rear wheel and long-travel suspension help support its on-road and off-road versatility.
Kawasaki also equips the KLE650 with technology intended to support everyday usability and longer rides, including Kawasaki Traction Control, electronic cruise control, smartphone connectivity and selectable ABS.
649cc Parallel Twin
Liquid-cooled, fuel-injected power designed for versatile adventure touring.
Adventure Suspension
KYB inverted front forks and Uni-Trak rear suspension with substantial wheel travel.
Rider Technology
Kawasaki Traction Control, electronic cruise control and smartphone connectivity.
2027 Kawasaki KLE650 SE
Looking for additional equipment straight from the factory? The 2027 Kawasaki KLE650 SE builds on the KLE650 platform with a selection of upgrades intended to enhance comfort, protection and convenience on longer adventures.
The SE adds a 5-inch full-colour TFT instrument display, Kawasaki Quick Shifter, a taller adjustable windscreen, reinforced handguards and a larger aluminium skid plate. Its upgraded spoke wheels use tubeless tires, adding practical convenience for adventure riders travelling farther from home.
Smartphone connectivity through RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE is also included, with voice command and turn-by-turn navigation available through the applicable features and services.
Technology That Goes Further
The colour TFT display provides a modern, easy-to-read interface, while the Kawasaki Quick Shifter allows clutchless upshifts under suitable riding conditions.
A USB Type-C outlet is included on the SE, providing a convenient way to power compatible devices on the go.
Adventure-Ready Protection
A larger aluminium skid plate and reinforced handguards add practical protection for riding on gravel roads and rougher surfaces.
The taller adjustable windscreen and tubeless spoke wheels round out a package designed for riders who want more touring-focused equipment.
Which KLE650 is right for you? The standard KLE650 delivers the core adventure platform, while the KLE650 SE adds premium equipment for riders who want more technology, protection and convenience included from the factory.
The 2027 Kawasaki KLE500 Returns
The Kawasaki KLE500 continues into 2027 as a versatile option for riders looking for a middleweight adventure motorcycle with accessible performance and an adventure-focused design.
Its 451cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine delivers approachable power for everyday riding, while its upright ergonomics, adjustable windscreen and adventure-oriented chassis make it well suited to exploring paved roads and unpaved routes.
A 21-inch front wheel, 17-inch rear wheel, inverted front fork and Uni-Trak rear suspension help the KLE500 maintain its versatile character. An aluminium skid plate and selectable ABS further support its adventure-focused design.
451cc Parallel Twin
Fuel-injected, liquid-cooled performance for everyday riding and adventure exploring.
Rally-Inspired Design
A tall windscreen, upright riding position and distinctive adventure styling.
Versatile Chassis
A 21-inch front wheel, long-travel suspension and equipment designed for mixed terrain.
The 2027 KLE500 lineup gives riders several ways to tailor their motorcycle choice, from the standard model to the more extensively equipped SE and the new SE SmartRide.
Explore the Kawasaki KLE500 lineup2027 Kawasaki KLE500 SE
For riders who want additional equipment, the KLE500 SE builds on the standard KLE500 with upgrades designed to enhance its adventure-ready appearance and usability.
The SE package is aimed at riders who appreciate a more fully equipped motorcycle, whether their plans involve commuting during the week, taking a weekend trip or heading out to explore a network of gravel roads.
The KLE500 SE also serves as the foundation for the new SE SmartRide version, which adds a self-engaging clutch system to the adventure platform.
Adventure your way. Choose the KLE500 SE for its additional equipment, or explore the new SE SmartRide if reducing clutch-lever operation during starts and stops is a priority.
Meet the 2027 Kawasaki KLE500 SE SmartRide
One of the biggest additions to the 2027 KLE500 lineup is the new KLE500 SE SmartRide. This version introduces Kawasaki's self-engaging clutch system, offering a different approach to managing the clutch during everyday riding.
The SmartRide system is designed to reduce the need to operate the clutch lever when pulling away from a stop or coming to a halt. That can be particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic, at intersections and during frequent low-speed manoeuvres.
Importantly, SmartRide is not a fully automatic transmission. The motorcycle retains its conventional manual gear-shifting operation, allowing riders to change gears using the shift pedal and clutch lever as they normally would while riding.
How Does SmartRide Work?
The system integrates a compact mechanical centrifugal clutch into the conventional clutch assembly. It manages engagement when starting from a standstill and disengagement when coming to a stop, reducing the need for clutch-lever operation in those situations.
The system is mechanical rather than electronically controlled. Riders still select gears themselves, preserving the familiar involvement of a manual motorcycle while simplifying some low-speed situations.
Less Clutch Work
Reduces the need to operate the clutch lever when starting and stopping.
Manual Gear Selection
Riders continue to select gears using the shift pedal and conventional controls.
Adventure Versatility
Combines SmartRide convenience with the KLE500's rally-inspired adventure platform.
Who should consider the KLE500 SE SmartRide? Riders who regularly encounter urban traffic, frequent stops or situations where managing the clutch becomes tiring may appreciate the additional convenience. It also offers an interesting alternative for riders who want the familiar experience of a manual motorcycle with less clutch-lever work at a standstill.
2027 Kawasaki KLE650 vs. KLE500
Both KLE platforms are designed around adventure versatility, but they approach the experience differently. The KLE650 offers a larger engine and additional touring-oriented technology, while the KLE500 provides a smaller-displacement alternative with a choice of standard, SE and SmartRide versions.
| Feature | KLE650 / KLE650 SE | KLE500 / KLE500 SE |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 649cc liquid-cooled parallel twin | 451cc liquid-cooled parallel twin |
| Riding Focus | Adventure touring with additional power and long-distance features | Versatile middleweight adventure riding and everyday usability |
| Front Wheel | 21-inch | 21-inch |
| Standard Technology | Includes Kawasaki Traction Control and electronic cruise control | Includes smartphone connectivity and selectable ABS |
| Premium Version | KLE650 SE | KLE500 SE |
| SmartRide Version | Not listed in the 2027 lineup | KLE500 SE SmartRide |
Equipment and feature availability vary by model. Refer to the official Canadian specifications for the exact equipment offered on each motorcycle.
Make Your KLE Ready for the Journey
The right accessories can help transform an adventure motorcycle to suit your riding plans. Whether you're setting up for day trips, weekend getaways or longer touring routes, Kawasaki offers model-specific accessories designed to complement the KLE platform.
Depending on the model and available fitment, riders can explore options such as luggage, top cases, additional wind protection, fog lamps, engine protection and convenience accessories.
Before selecting accessories, confirm compatibility with your exact model and trim. Accessory availability can vary between the KLE650, KLE650 SE, KLE500, KLE500 SE and KLE500 SE SmartRide.
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
The 2027 Kawasaki KLE650 and expanded KLE500 lineup bring exciting new options to adventure riders. Whether you're interested in the all-new KLE650, the premium KLE650 SE or the new KLE500 SE SmartRide, Grand River Power Sports can help you explore the lineup and find the right motorcycle for your plans.
Contact our team to ask about model availability, upcoming inventory and ordering options for the 2027 Kawasaki KLE adventure motorcycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2027 Kawasaki KLE650 a new model?
Yes. Kawasaki introduces the KLE650 for the 2027 model year, alongside the premium KLE650 SE. The platform features a 649cc parallel-twin engine, rally-inspired styling, adventure-oriented suspension and modern rider technology.
What is the difference between the KLE650 and KLE650 SE?
The KLE650 SE adds equipment including a 5-inch colour TFT display, Kawasaki Quick Shifter, taller adjustable windscreen, reinforced handguards, a larger aluminium skid plate, tubeless spoke wheels and a USB Type-C outlet.
What is new in the 2027 Kawasaki KLE500 lineup?
The 2027 KLE500 range continues with standard and SE versions and expands with the new KLE500 SE SmartRide. The SmartRide model introduces a self-engaging clutch system designed to reduce clutch-lever operation when starting and stopping.
Is the Kawasaki KLE500 SE SmartRide an automatic motorcycle?
No. SmartRide is a self-engaging clutch system, not a fully automatic transmission. Riders continue to select gears using the shift pedal and retain conventional manual gear shifting while riding.
What engine sizes are offered in the 2027 KLE lineup?
The KLE650 uses a 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, while the KLE500 uses a 451cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine.
Where can I inquire about the 2027 Kawasaki KLE650 and KLE500 in Ontario?
Contact Grand River Power Sports in Brantford, Ontario, to inquire about the 2027 Kawasaki KLE650, KLE650 SE, KLE500, KLE500 SE and KLE500 SE SmartRide. Our team can help you explore the models and discuss availability and ordering options.
Model features, specifications, colours, equipment and availability are subject to change and may vary by market and trim. Images may depict optional accessories or equipment. Contact Grand River Power Sports for current Canadian model information, availability and ordering details.