Kawasaki has unveiled the new KLE650 adventure bike for 2027, combining rally-inspired styling, a 649cc parallel-twin engine, and a host of touring-friendly features, including cruise control.
And with prices starting at £7,499, it looks set to be a contender in the fiercely competitive middleweight adventure bike market.
If the bike looks familiar, you’re not alone. The arrival of the KLE650 follows the launch of the smaller KLE500 for 2026, giving Kawasaki two new adventure bikes in the UK where, only a year ago, it had none.
While the new motorcycle certainly looks the part, with its tall stance, spoked wheels, and rally-style bodywork, Kawasaki has put just as much emphasis on making it comfortable and enjoyable to ride over long distances.
So, what do you get for your money?
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OK, back to the Kawasaki KLE650.
A proven 649cc parallel-twin engine
At the heart of the KLE650 is a 649cc liquid-cooled parallel twin based on the engine that’s been powering Kawasaki motorcycles such as the Versys 650 and Ninja 650 for years.
It’s a familiar motor, and one that’s earned a reputation for being dependable, economical, and easy to live with. Kawasaki has revised the intake and exhaust systems and introduced electronic throttle valves, which it says deliver strong low-to-mid-range torque and a smooth, linear throttle response.
It’s a sensible choice for an adventure bike, particularly one designed for carrying luggage, taking a pillion, and covering thousands of miles.
Cruise control is fitted as standard, along with Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC).
Interestingly, Kawasaki hasn’t yet confirmed the engine’s power and torque figures for the UK, although the 649cc twin used in the Versys 650 produces around 66bhp. And reports are that the KLE650 will make 70bhp at 9,600rpm.
Is the Kawasaki KLE650 capable off road?
There’s more to the KLE650 than its touring credentials. Kawasaki has given the new bike a compact trellis frame, long-travel suspension, and a 21″ front wheel, all of which should make it a capable companion when the tarmac runs out.
The suspension comprises KYB upside-down cartridge forks and a New Uni-Trak rear shock, providing 210mm of travel at the front and 196mm at the rear.
A 17″ rear wheel completes the spoked wheel set-up, which may disappoint some who’d like to have seen a more trail-friendly 18″ rear.
There’s also switchable ABS, allowing riders to disable the system when heading off road, although Kawasaki hasn’t specified how much adjustment is available.
But it’s worth noting that Kawasaki describes the KLE650 as a rally-inspired adventure tourer rather than an out-and-out off-road machine. And that distinction matters.
The 21″ front wheel and long-travel suspension should work well on gravel roads and easier trails, but whether the KLE650 has the weight distribution, ground clearance, and suspension performance to cope with more challenging terrain is something we’ll only discover when we ride it.
More comfort
The bike also gets larger body panels than the KLE500 and a road-oriented seat, with Kawasaki aiming to provide more comfort and wind protection on longer journeys.
Seat height is a reasonably accessible 870mm, although a lower rider’s seat is available as an accessory. Kawasaki also offers different rider and pillion seat combinations, including a flatter arrangement that allows riders to move around more freely when standing on the pegs.
The riding position has been developed using knowledge gained from Kawasaki’s KX motocross bikes, with wide handlebars and carefully positioned footpegs intended to work whether you’re sitting or standing.
There’s even a three-position adjustable windscreen, allowing you to prioritise either a clearer view of the trail or better wind protection on faster roads.
Kawasaki KLE650 SE: what’s included?
The standard Kawasaki KLE650 is priced at £7,499, while the better-equipped SE version costs £8,899.
For the extra £1,400, the SE adds an up-and-down quickshifter, TFT dash, tubeless tyres, USB-C charging socket, handguards, an aluminium bash plate, and a larger windscreen.
The tubeless tyres are a particularly welcome addition. If you’ve ever suffered a puncture in the middle of a tour, you’ll appreciate the convenience of being able to plug a tyre without removing the wheel and wrestling with an inner tube. That’s assuming you’ve remembered to pack tyre levers and spare tube.
The new KLE650 is expected to arrive in UK dealerships in April 2027.
And remember, if you’re thinking about buying a new adventure bike, there’s no better way to decide which best suits you than getting out and riding a few.
You’ll have the opportunity to test ride all the latest adventure, touring, and trail bikes at the ABR Festival 2027, included in the price of your festival ticket.
Book your ABR Festival 2027 tickets here.
