Kawasaki unveils new KLE650 adventure twin for 2027.
Kawasaki is expanding its adventure range with the new KLE650, combining a 649cc parallel-twin engine, a 21-inch front wheel and standard cruise control with a clear focus on long-distance touring comfort.
Joining the recently introduced KLE500, the new model will be offered in standard and higher-spec SE versions. Both feature rally-inspired styling, long-travel suspension and spoked wheels, with the SE adding a quickshifter, tubeless tyres and extra touring equipment.
The KLE650’s engine is a new development of Kawasaki’s familiar liquid-cooled 649cc parallel twin, now equipped with electronic throttle valves. Kawasaki lists an output of 51.6kW, or 70PS, for the European-specification engine.
Revised intake and exhaust systems target stronger low-to-midrange torque, particularly below 4000rpm, while retaining the twin’s ability to rev. Kawasaki says the aim is smooth, predictable response for traffic, unsealed roads and highway touring.
The engine retains a 180-degree crankshaft and uses a balancer shaft, while an assist-and-slipper clutch reduces lever effort and helps manage rear-wheel hop during downshifts.
Electronic cruise control and two-mode Kawasaki Traction Control are standard. The SE also gets Kawasaki’s up-and-down quickshifter, which operates from 2000rpm. It will be available as an accessory for the standard model.
The chassis is built around a compact steel trellis frame, with a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combination. Suspension comprises a 43mm KYB inverted cartridge fork with 210mm of travel and a Uni-Trak rear end offering 196mm, with adjustable rear spring preload.
Despite the rally styling and large front wheel, Kawasaki has placed considerable emphasis on road comfort. Suspension settings, chassis geometry and the riding position have been developed to suit daily riding and long highway stretches as well as unsealed-road exploring.
Both versions wear Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tyres, with tubes on the standard bike and tubeless construction on the SE.
Braking is handled by twin 300mm front discs and a 230mm rear disc. ABS can be disabled using a handlebar switch and returns to its default setting when the bike is restarted.
Seat height is 870mm, with an accessory low rider’s seat reducing that by 30mm. A separate low pillion seat can be paired with the standard rider’s seat to create a flatter surface for moving around off-road.
The standard stepped seating arrangement prioritises road comfort, with generous cushioning and a raised pillion position. The rear frame is designed to accommodate accessory panniers and a top box simultaneously.
Wind protection comes from a screen with three height positions, offering up to 55mm of adjustment. The SE gets a screen 106mm taller than the standard version, along with metal-reinforced handguards, a larger aluminium skid plate, a D.I.D aluminium handlebar and a USB-C outlet.
Instrumentation also separates the two models. The standard KLE650 uses a five-inch LCD display, while the SE gets a five-inch colour TFT. Both offer smartphone connectivity through Kawasaki’s Rideology app, with the SE supporting turn-by-turn navigation where the licensed feature is available.
The KLE650 will be offered in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray, while the SE comes in Pearl Storm Gray.
Full specifications are still to be confirmed, including final Australian-market details.
