Kawasaki has been super-quiet this show season, with a new Z900, Versys 1100, Ninja 1100 and… that’s about it. But get this: They showed a new machine at EICMA that sure looks like a new adventure bike is coming. Kawasaki didn’t cancel the Ninja 500 so much as it updated it, into the modern 650 platform.

Understanding the Context

Now, more than 30 years after Kawi debuted the original 500 twin, the 650 engine remains a cornerstone of the company’s lineup. Kawasaki sent photos of the plain jane Versys 1100, odd when it's the S they sell in Oz and the SE LT available in the US. Nice clear shot, though. Beautiful plumage.

Key Insights

The Bear 3/24/2025 Featured, Kawasaki Versys 1100 S, Sports Tourer Kawasaki says that the engine delivers usable power across the rev range and that riders will appreciate its low end torque. Unfortunately, Kawi has yet to publish certain technical specs, including the numbers associated with horsepower and torque. Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA, is recalling certain 2024 Z500 and Ninja 500 motorcycles due to a potentially faulty welded clutch release shaft. Kawasaki has also issued a stop sale and delivery notice to its dealers. 4 Sale 1976 Kawasaki KM100: A short-lived model for short-legged riders "I can't drive 55" could have been written about this machine Kawasaki KLE 500 - 2026 Discussion in ' Japanese polycylindered adventure bikes ' started by eakins, .

Final Thoughts

Kawasaki doesn’t actually publish horsepower numbers, but most people figure the KLX300 makes about 29 horsepower at the crank. Whatever it makes, it is a noticeable improvement over most of the old Japanese 250 dual sports. Gravel roads through the back country of New Brunswick. The KLX is well-suited for this sort of exploration. Photo: Zac ...