Kawasaki's KLE650 puts the 649cc twin on a 21-inch front wheel

The KLE650 takes Kawasaki's familiar 649cc parallel-twin architecture into a new rally-shaped adventure bike. A compact steel trellis frame, 21-inch front wheel and long-travel suspension distinguish it from the brand's road-focused twins. Kawasaki has also made cruise control standard, a useful part of the package for a bike intended to cover distance between trails.

Electronic throttles and standard cruise

The engine gains electronic throttles and revised intake and exhaust systems. Kawasaki has concentrated on the way it pulls through the low and middle rev range while retaining top-end performance. The equipment change matters beyond engine tuning: electronic throttle control makes cruise possible, while KTRC traction control is included on the base model too.

A chassis with more trail clearance

Wire-spoked wheels measure 21 inches at the front and 17 at the rear. A 43mm KYB upside-down fork provides 210mm of travel, with 196mm at the rear. A 300mm front disc and 230mm rear disc handle braking, and the ABS can be switched off for unpaved riding. The tall front wheel and suspension travel are the clearest indications of the KLE's intended terrain.

Kawasaki has kept a stepped, road-oriented seat rather than fitting a narrow enduro perch. The US standard seat height is 34.3 inches. Different seat combinations, including accessory low and ERGO-FIT options, let riders change the reach to the ground and the room available to move. Actual fit will depend on the chosen arrangement.

What the SE adds

The SE adds an up/down quickshifter, TFT display, tubeless tyres, USB-C, handguards, an aluminium bash plate and a larger screen. Those are useful differences to price together, especially if the base bike would soon acquire protection and charging accessories anyway. European dealers will also offer Top Case, Rally and Adventure Tourer accessory editions.

US and German prices

US MSRP starts at $8,799, rising to $9,999 for the SE, before destination, tax and other local charges. Germany lists the base KLE650 at €8,495 ex works, or €8,920 with delivery. Local availability still needs confirmation.