Kawasaki KLE650 Revealed With 649cc Engine; India Launch Details Awaited

As Kawasaki claims, some improvements have been done to the electronic throttle valve, intake and exhaust systems that should increase torque below 4,000 rpm.

The engine of the Kawasaki KLE650 generates 70 hp and 64 Nm of torque. Thus, the power of this bike is superior to that of the Versys 650 (the latter has 60 hp) and even the Ninja 650/Z650 (67 hp).

The motorcycle features 43mm non-adjustable inward forks at the front, providing 210mm of travel. At the rear, it features a Uni-Trak setup with 195mm of travel and adjustable preload. Braking duties are handled by two 300mm discs at the front and a single 230mm disc at the rear. It rides on 21-inch front and 17-inch rear aluminum spoke wheels shod with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires. The SE version features tubeless wheels, which are useful for riders who prefer long and demanding trips.

Kawasaki has equipped the KLE 650 with two-mode traction control, cruise control, and ABS that can be disabled for off-road use. Its 6-speed gearbox works with an assist and slipper clutch, while the SE version features a bi-directional quickshifter. However, customers of the base model can opt for this as an accessory.

The standard bike features an LCD display, while the SE model features a TFT screen. Additionally, it features a tall windscreen, metal handguards, a USB-C charging port, and an aluminum skid plate.

Kawasaki has kept the fuel tank and gearbox slim to make it easier for riders to maneuver the bike on difficult terrain. The seat height is 868mm, and it features rubber footpeg inserts and a multi-purpose accessory bar above the instruments. The windscreen can be adjusted to three different positions with four bolts.

Internationally, the bike's ex-showroom price in the US starts at US$8,799 (approximately ₹8.37 lakh) for the KLE650 ABS. The KLE650 SE ABS starts at US$9,999 (approximately ₹9.51 lakh). The bike is also expected to be launched in India. However, the company has not yet announced a launch date.