Kawasaki just revealed the new KLE model for 2026, and it's a 500 just like the original. The actual engine size is 451cc. A complete specification sheet hasn't been released yet. What surprised me the most about the new bike is the base price is $400 less than a KLR 650 at $6599. I really thought the new KLE would be at least 600cc in size and priced closer to $8k, but you never know.
Kawasaki is marketing the KLE as an "adventure" motorcycle, just like they've done with the KLR in recent years. The new motorcycle is placed in the same adventure/dual sport category as a KLR on Kawasaki's website. Although the new KLE differs in that it is a rally motorcycle, I think it's insignificant to most buyers looking for a mid size dual sport motorcycle. Meaning, I don't think the fact that it's a rally motorcycle is going to discourage buyers looking for a dual sport or adventure motorcycle. This new KLE model is competing directly with the KLR for the same buyers who walk into a Kawasaki dealership, and it's priced $400 less.
Also, I was surprised to see Kawasaki using the same black plastic accessory trunk and pannier cases with the silver accent pieces for the KLE 500 as they use for the KLR 650. Argh! The new KLE is fitted with a large TFT display, which is really nice with a tachometer at the top of the display. Remember the older generation KLR's were fitted with a simple and reliable analog speedometer and tachometer, then in 2022, on the third and latest generation KLR, Kawasaki replaced the nice analog displays with a digital one without a tachometer. I just don't know why they did that. It's obviously an important feature for riders if they put a tachometer on the new KLE.
Can the KLR 650 hold it's own, and survive it's new KLE sibling? I have my doubts, but here is a list of reasons I can think of off the top of my head making the KLR a better choice. And remember this is before a complete list of KLE specifications have been released:
- Almost a 2 gallon larger fuel tank
- Comes stock with a rear rack
- Close to a 3 inch higher seat height for taller riders on the non S models
- Comes stock with a skid plate, although it is plastic
- It probably has more torque than the smaller KLE
- Everything is more basic and less complicated, which in this day and age is attractive in my opinion
- More aftermarket accessories are available for the KLR
- Has proven reliability
- The muffler is up high making it less vulnerable to damage during off road riding
- It looks like the stock KLR has bigger and better hand guards to block cold air from hitting your hands
Is that enough to win people over to the KLR? I doubt it, but you decide. Was it Kawasaki's intention all along is to axe the KLR? Are there enough fans of traditional dual sport motorcycles to keep the KLR around? If not, there might be some big discounts from Kawasaki for the last model year 2026 KLR 650.
I would like to think Kawasaki is planning a 4th generation KLR that will improve on the older design, and I'm not necessarily talking about higher tech. They can start with bringing back the analog speedometer and tachometer, then more power and a taller top gear for better highway traveling.
