2025 Kawasaki Z500 Specs & Review

Kawasaki’s Z500 is a lightweight, street-focused naked that blends approachable performance with everyday usability. It’s aimed at riders who want a lively parallel twin for the city, a capable commuter, and a weekend twisty companion without the heft or complexity of bigger bikes. In this Kawasaki Z500 review, we break down the numbers that matter and how they translate on the road.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 451 cm³ / 27.52 in³
• Engine type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, parallel twin; DOHC, 8 valves
• Maximum power: 33.4 kW (45.4 PS) @ 9,000 rpm
• Maximum torque: 42.6 N•m (31.4 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm
• Weight (curb): 167 kg / 368.17 lbs
• Seat height: 785 mm / 30.91 in

These are the 2025 Kawasaki Z500 specs that define its character: a compact twin with usable torque, friendly dimensions, and real-world efficiency.

Engine & Performance

The 451 cm³ liquid-cooled parallel twin uses DOHC with 8 valves, an 11.3:1 compression ratio, and 70.0 x 58.6 mm bore and stroke. Fuel injection (32 mm x 2) and digital ignition keep response clean and predictable, while the electric starting system and wet, multi-disc clutch make everyday operation seamless.

Power peaks at 33.4 kW (45.4 PS) at 9,000 rpm, with a stout 42.6 N•m (31.4 lb-ft) arriving at 6,000 rpm. That torque figure is the story around town: it pulls cleanly from low to mid revs, making short work of city gaps and on-ramps without demanding constant downshifts. On the open road, the 6-speed, return-shift gearbox provides well-spaced ratios—1st is a tractable 2.929 for easy launches, while 6th sits at 1.037 for relaxed cruising. Primary reduction is 2.029, with a final reduction of 3.071 via a sealed chain.

Efficiency is a highlight: 3.8 l/100km (61.9 mpg) and a CO2 emission figure of 89 g/km point to low running costs. Paired with a 14.0-litre (3.70 gal) tank, the Z500 is set up for long commutes and weekend loops with fewer fuel stops.

Handling, Comfort & Kawasaki Z500 Seat Height

A trellis, high-tensile steel frame underpins the bike’s neutral handling. Geometry is balanced: a 1,375 mm (54.13 in) wheelbase and 92 mm (3.62 in) trail deliver agility for lane changes with the stability you want in sweepers. A generous steering angle—35° left and right—helps tight U-turns and filtering in dense traffic.

The Kawasaki Z500 seat height is 785 mm (30.91 in). Combined with the 167 kg (368.17 lbs) curb mass, the bike inspires confidence at low speeds and when backing into parking spots. Shorter riders will appreciate the manageable reach to the ground, while taller riders still get enough room for daily comfort thanks to the naked-bike ergonomics that typically lean upright and neutral.

Suspension is straightforward and effective for the class: a 41 mm telescopic fork up front with 120 mm (4.72 in) of travel, and a bottom-link Uni-Trak rear with a gas-charged shock and spring preload adjustability delivering 130 mm (5.12 in) of travel. Tyres are confidence-inspiring street sizes—110/70R17 (M/C 54H) front and 150/60R17 (M/C 66H) rear—providing quick turn-in and good stability. Ground clearance is 145 mm (5.71 in), suitable for urban obstacles and spirited backroad riding.

Equipment & Features

• Brakes: Single semi-floating 310 mm (12.20 in) front disc with balanced actuation dual-piston caliper; single 220 mm (8.66 in) rear disc with dual-piston caliper.
• Suspension: 41 mm telescopic fork; rear bottom-link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock with spring preload adjustability.
• Drivetrain: 6-speed, return shift; wet, multi-disc clutch; sealed chain final drive.
• Wheels/Tyres: 110/70R17 front, 150/60R17 rear.
• Fuel & Emissions: 14.0 litres (3.70 gal) tank; 3.8 l/100km (61.9 mpg); 89 g/km CO2.
• Dimensions: L/W/H 1,995/800/1,055 mm; wheelbase 1,375 mm; trail 92 mm; steering angle 35° L/R.

Who Is the 2025 Kawasaki Z500 For?

The Z500 suits newer riders stepping into the midsize class and experienced riders wanting a light, efficient naked for daily use. Its accessible output—33.4 kW (45.4 PS) and 42.6 N•m—keeps it friendly in traffic, while the chassis and tyre combo keep it engaging on twisty roads. Commuters will like the economy and 14.0-litre tank, and weekend riders will enjoy the tractable twin and predictable handling. If you’re cross-shopping for manageable power, the Kawasaki Z500 weight and seat height numbers are a big draw.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2025 Kawasaki Z500 lands a sweet spot: usable torque at 6,000 rpm, a genuinely manageable 167 kg curb mass, and a comfortable 785 mm seat height. The trellis frame, well-judged geometry, and sensible tyre sizes create a nimble, confidence-inspiring platform for urban riding and backroad fun. Fuel economy at 3.8 l/100km (61.9 mpg) further bolsters its everyday appeal.

On the flip side, the braking setup is a single 310 mm front disc—adequate for the class and weight, but riders coming from larger machines might prefer dual front discs. Still, judged on its mission, the Z500’s blend of performance, efficiency, and approachability makes it a compelling pick among middleweight nakeds. If your priority is real-world usability backed by solid numbers, the 2025 Kawasaki Z500 specs deliver.

FAQ

• Is the 2025 Kawasaki Z500 good for beginners?
  Yes. With 33.4 kW (45.4 PS), 42.6 N•m at 6,000 rpm, the Kawasaki Z500 weight of 167 kg (368.17 lbs), and a 785 mm (30.91 in) seat height, it’s approachable and confidence-inspiring.

• What is the seat height of the 2025 Kawasaki Z500?
  The Kawasaki Z500 seat height is 785 mm (30.91 in).

• How heavy is the 2025 Kawasaki Z500?
  Curb mass is 167 kg (368.17 lbs).

• What engine does it use and how much power does it make?
  A liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, parallel twin with DOHC and 8 valves. It produces 33.4 kW (45.4 PS) at 9,000 rpm and 42.6 N•m (31.4 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm.

• What is the fuel consumption and tank size?
  Fuel consumption is 3.8 l/100km (61.9 mpg), and the tank holds 14.0 litres (3.70 gal).