2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 Specs & Review

Kawasaki’s Ninja 500 slots into the sweet spot of approachable middleweight performance with real-world usability. It’s a sporty, modern twin that welcomes new riders while still giving experienced enthusiasts a punchy, lightweight machine for daily rides and backroad fun. If you’re comparing bikes by the numbers, the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 specs make a compelling value case.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 451 cc
• Engine: 4-stroke, parallel twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled
• Power (USA): 51.0 hp @ 10,000 rpm (ISO 4106)
• Power (EU): 33.4 kW (45.4 PS) @ 9,000 rpm
• Torque (USA): 31.7 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm
• Torque (EU): 42.6 N·m @ 6,000 rpm
• Weight (curb): 372.6 lb / 169.0 kg (non-ABS); 377.1 lb / 171 kg (ABS)
• Seat Height: 30.9 in / 785 mm

Engine & Performance

At the heart of this bike is a 451 cc parallel twin that balances smoothness and tractability. In the USA, it delivers 51.0 hp at 10,000 rpm (ISO 4106) and 31.7 lb-ft at 7,500 rpm, giving the Ninja 500 lively midrange and enough top-end to keep highway merges and passes stress-free. In Europe, output is 33.4 kW (45.4 PS) at 9,000 rpm and 42.6 N·m at 6,000 rpm, with figures reflecting A2-compliant tuning—ideal for newer riders within licensing limits.

Fueling is handled by DFI with dual 32 mm throttle bodies, backed by TCBI ignition with digital advance. The 6-speed return-shift gearbox pairs cleanly with the engine’s flexible power curve, making it easy to short-shift in the city or hold gears longer for spirited riding. Kawasaki quotes an EU WMTC fuel consumption of 3.8 L/100 km, and EU CO2 emissions of 89 g/km, which underscores its commuter-friendly efficiency without dulling the fun factor. Final drive is a sealed chain for dependable, low-fuss ownership.

Handling, Comfort & Kawasaki Ninja 500 Seat Height

The trellis, high-tensile steel frame and compact 54.1 in (1,375 mm) wheelbase aim for neutral, confidence-inspiring steering with stability at speed. Geometry is sporty yet approachable at 24.5° rake and 92 mm trail, and the 5.7 in (145 mm) ground clearance provides everyday practicality for imperfect roads and urban obstacles.

The Kawasaki Ninja 500 seat height is 30.9 in (785 mm), and that low perch works well with the Kawasaki Ninja 500 weight figures—372.6 lb (non-ABS) or 377.1 lb (ABS)—to make low-speed maneuvers feel easy. Shorter riders will appreciate the ability to get boots down quickly, while taller riders still have enough room to settle into a slightly forward, sport-oriented stance without excessive wrist pressure.

Suspension consists of a 41 mm telescopic fork up front with 120 mm (4.7 in) travel and a horizontal back-link (Uni-Trak) shock at the rear with preload adjustability and 130 mm (5.1 in) travel. Tire sizing—110/70-17 front and 150/60-17 rear—strikes a great balance between agility and planted cornering. For overall dimensions-conscious riders, the bike measures 78.5 x 28.7 x 44.1 in (L x W x H).

Equipment & Features

Braking is handled by a single 310 mm semi-floating front disc with a 2-piston caliper and a 220 mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper. ABS is available on ABS models, and if you want extra reassurance in variable weather or commuting conditions, it’s worth the minimal weight bump.

Electronics are intentionally simple: ABS (on ABS versions) and an Economical Riding Indicator to help you ride efficiently. The LCD instrument panel includes smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP, bringing modern convenience for trip data and ride logging without overcomplicating the cockpit.

Additional hardware highlights include:

• Fuel capacity: 3.7 gal (14.0 L)
• Fuel system: DFI with dual 32 mm throttle bodies
• Ignition: TCBI with Digital Advance
• Final drive: Sealed chain
• Frame: Trellis, high-tensile steel

USA MSRP (MY2026) is positioned aggressively: Non-ABS $5,399–$5,599; ABS $5,799–$5,999; SE ABS $6,499. Color choices for the USA include Lime Green (non-ABS); Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black (ABS & non-ABS); Metallic Matte Twilight Blue/Candy Persimmon Red (ABS); and Metallic Yellowish Green/Ebony (ABS).

Who Is the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 For?

This model suits a wide audience. Newer riders will appreciate the manageable seat height and weight, approachable power delivery, and available ABS. Experienced riders will find the parallel twin’s punch and the chassis’ agility ideal for a lively commute or a backroad blast. With its 3.7-gallon tank and efficient EU consumption rating, it also makes sense as a daily all-rounder.

Torquepedia Verdict

In this Kawasaki Ninja 500 review, the standout takeaways are balance and value. The engine’s usable torque, light curb mass, and friendly seat height combine to deliver a bike that’s easy to ride fast or slow. The trellis frame, sensible geometry, and competent suspension and brake package provide confidence without intimidation.

If you’re shopping by numbers, the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 specs are strong for the price—especially considering the smartphone-connected dash and optional ABS. Riders chasing the most advanced rider aids or multi-disc front brakes may look elsewhere, but for many, the Ninja 500 hits the sweet spot: modern, efficient, and genuinely fun to ride.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 good for beginners?
  Yes. Its 451 cc parallel twin delivers approachable power, available ABS adds safety, and the low 30.9 in (785 mm) seat height builds confidence.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500?
  The Kawasaki Ninja 500 seat height is 30.9 in / 785 mm.

• How heavy is the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500?
  The Kawasaki Ninja 500 weight is 372.6 lb (169.0 kg) for the non-ABS model and 377.1 lb (171 kg) for the ABS model (curb).

• What are the power and torque figures?
  USA: 51.0 hp @ 10,000 rpm (ISO 4106) and 31.7 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm. EU: 33.4 kW (45.4 PS) @ 9,000 rpm and 42.6 N·m @ 6,000 rpm.

• What’s included in the electronics and features?
  ABS on ABS models, an Economical Riding Indicator, and an LCD cluster with smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP.