The 2026 Kawasaki KLE500 SE ABS marks the return of a classic nameplate, reimagined for today’s lightweight adventure bike market. Powered by a 451cc parallel-twin shared with the Ninja 500, the KLE delivers 51 horsepower in a versatile, approachable package priced at $7,499. We put it to the test across pavement, gravel, and technical terrain in Utah to see if its rally-inspired design lives up to the hype. While the KLE500 impresses with comfort, midrange performance, and all-around usability, its soft suspension and limited ground clearance reveal its true purpose as a practical everyday ADV rather than a hardcore off-road machine. So where does it fit in the growing small-bore adventure segment? Watch to find out.<br /><br />Check out the full story at https://www.cycleworld.com/motorcycle-reviews/kawasaki-kle500-se-abs-first-ride/<br /><br />Find us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/cw/CycleWorldPodcast<br />Become a Channel Partner: https://octanemedia.co/home/become-an-advertiser/<br />Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6CLI74xvMBFLDOC1tQaCOQ<br />Read more from Cycle World: https://www.cycleworld.com/<br />Buy Cycle World Merch: https://teespring.com/stores/cycleworld
