The scene reacted promptly and speculated about possible technical innovations. There was talk of a completely new generation of engines with fuel injection, perhaps even with turbocharging or other revolutionary concepts. Realistically, however, it should be noted that modern two-stroke engines tend to be niche products and are difficult to market economically. For this reason, many observers consider it more likely that Kawasaki is planning a two-stroke offshoot of the proven KX250 motocross bike. This model was last offered with a two-stroke engine in 2008 and is currently only available as a four-stroke.
Kawasaki remains tight-lipped
Requests to Kawasaki for further information were unsuccessful. The company did not comment on the subject and merely stated that the announced model has not yet been launched on the market. It therefore remains unclear when and in what form a new two-stroke motorcycle from Kawasaki will appear.
News about the KLE500: Return of a classic
The situation surrounding the next generation of the KLE500 remains no less speculative. It was first teased at EICMA in Milan last November and later presented at Motorcycle Live in Birmingham. However, Kawasaki UK was also unable to give an official release date for the adventure bike. Insiders suspect that a presentation is likely during the upcoming fall trade show season.
Kawasaki is also keeping quiet about the technical concept. The prototype of the new KLE was largely hidden in a black wooden box at the trade fairs. Images on the outside of the box hinted at use on country roads, in city traffic, and off-road. This could indicate different model variants or the versatility of the new machine. The container also bore the slogan “Life’s a rally. Ride it. KLE, est 1991” – a clear confirmation of the return of the well-known model name.
Technical speculations about the new KLE
In terms of drive, all signs point to Kawasaki’s current 451 cc parallel twin. In the Ninja 500, Z500, and Eliminator 500 models, this engine delivers around 45 hp (33 kW) at 9,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 42.6 Nm. This engine is also used in Kawasaki’s hybrid series. The reference to the first KLE500 from 1991 is also clear, as the engine was also taken from the GPZ500S back then. However, official information on the market launch is still pending.
