Kawasaki announces 2027 KLE500 SE Smartride motorcycle

Kawasaki has unveiled the 2027 KLE500 SE Smartride, a new variant of its medium-displacement adventure motorcycle lineup. The standout feature is the Smartride system, which utilizes a mechanical centrifugal clutch integrated into a conventional assembly. This allows riders to start and stop without using the clutch lever, reducing fatigue in urban traffic and during low-speed maneuvers.

Unlike electronic automatic systems, the Smartride mechanism is purely mechanical and does not change the motorcycle's manual nature. Riders can still use the clutch lever and gear shifter to change through the six speeds while in motion.

The SE Smartride model also introduces tubeless tires on 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels. Other premium features include a TFT display, a high windscreen, hand protectors, and enhanced engine protection. The motorcycle retains its 451cc parallel-twin engine producing 45 PS and 43 Nm of torque. The top-tier version is expected to be priced around 8,200 euros.