The Kawasaki KLE500 SE Urban pairs the higher specification SE version of Kawasaki’s lightweight adventure bike with the practical fittings that make everyday riding straightforward. The SE already brings the equipment upgrades that separate it from the standard KLE500, and this edition adds the carrying capacity and charging that commuters and short trip riders reach for first.
The heart of it is the 451cc liquid cooled parallel twin shared across Kawasaki’s lightweight range. It is an engine defined by how accessible it is, with clean response from low revs and enough in reserve for confident overtakes, mated to a six speed gearbox. That combination is why the KLE500 has become such a natural first adventure bike and such an easy second one.
The suspension does most of the work in making this bike feel bigger than its capacity. A 43mm KYB inverted cartridge fork delivers 210mm of travel with 200mm at the rear from the preload adjustable Uni Trak monoshock, soaking up the kind of surfaces that make other bikes hard work. A 21 inch front wheel on IRC GP-410 tyres steers with reassuring stability, and the 300mm front disc with switchable ABS gives predictable stopping in traffic and on loose ground alike. Kerb weight is 194kg, the wheelbase 1,555mm and the seat height 860mm, tall enough to see well down the road without feeling remote.
Braking is by a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear, both with ABS, and the assist and slipper clutch keeps lever effort light in stop start traffic while steadying the back wheel when you change down quickly. This edition’s fitted kit is aimed at daily use. A rear carrier with top case means a helmet or a bag can be locked away, and the USB-C socket with relay kit keeps a phone or navigation unit charged from the moment you set off. With a 16 litre tank, refuelling stops stay rare. It is a considered, practical way to own the SE, and it suits the rider whose motorcycle earns its keep during the week as well as at weekends. Find it at GT Motorcycles in Plymouth, looking after Kawasaki riders throughout Devon and Cornwall, with finance available and test rides arranged to suit you.
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