Kawasaki KLE500 adventure tourer headed to Australia
The new Kawasaki KLE500 has been confirmed for Australia and is ready to take on Royal Enfield's Himalayan and CFMOTO's 450MTThe all-new Kawasaki KLE500 looks to be headed for Australian shores in 2026, with the lightweight adventure model now passing ADR (Australian Design Rules) approval.
First revealed in October 2025, the new-generation KLE500 revives an older nameplate but arrives equipped to take on rivals such as the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, CFMOTO 450MT, and KTM 390 Adventure R.
Australian availability and pricing are yet to be formally announced, but the ADR approval documents confirm that both the standard KLE500 and the up-spec SE variant are slated to reach local dealers sometime in 2026.
Related: Kawasaki KLE500 revived as modern rally-inspired adventure bike
The new KLE500 is powered by a LAMS-approved 451cc parallel-twin producing 33kW (44hp) at 9000rpm, and it comes standard with switchable ABS, smartphone connectivity, and a colour LCD display (with a TFT fitted to the SE model). The bike can also be optioned with accessories such as USB ports, heated grips, and LED fog lights.
Riding on a purpose-built steel trellis frame, the KLE500 also benefits from a 21/17-inch wheel setup and KYB suspension offering 210mm and 200mm of travel, respectively.
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