2026 Kawasaki Z500 Specs & Review

Kawasaki’s latest small-to-midsize naked brings a punchy parallel twin, approachable ergonomics, and modern connectivity to daily riders and weekend scratchers alike. This Kawasaki Z500 review focuses on real-world riding impressions drawn straight from the data. If you’re cross-shopping light naked bikes, the 2026 Kawasaki Z500 specs deliver a compelling blend of power, agility, and practicality.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: 4-stroke parallel twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled
• Displacement: 451 cc
• Power: 51.0 hp @ 10,000 rpm (ISO 4106)
• Torque: 31.7 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm (42.6 N·m)
• Curb weight: 366.0–368.2 lb (49-state–50-state) / 166 kg
• Seat height: 30.9 in (785 mm)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the Z500 is a 451 cc parallel twin that makes 51.0 hp at 10,000 rpm and 31.7 lb-ft at 7,500 rpm. With a 70.0 x 58.6 mm bore and stroke and an 11.3:1 compression ratio, it’s a rev-happy setup that still delivers useful midrange torque. City riding benefits from the flexible pull in the middle of the revs, while the willingness to spin gives you plenty of top-end for freeway ramps and spirited blasts between corners.

Fueling comes via DFI with dual 32 mm throttle bodies, keeping throttle response clean and predictable. The 6-speed, return-shift transmission and sealed chain final drive are straightforward and robust, and the TCBI digital ignition contributes to smooth, consistent power delivery. A 3.7 gal (14.0 L) fuel capacity pairs with an Economical Riding Indicator to help you stretch your fill-ups when you’re commuting or touring light.

Handling, Comfort & Kawasaki Z500 Seat Height

A trellis, high-tensile steel frame and a compact 54.1 in (1,375 mm) wheelbase set the tone: quick turn-in with reassuring stability. Geometry reads 24.5° rake and 3.6 in (92 mm) trail, giving the bike neutral steering that flatters newer riders and lets experienced pilots carry corner speed with confidence. The 41 mm telescopic fork offers 4.7 in (120 mm) of travel up front, while the bottom-link Uni-Trak rear (horizontal back-link) provides 5.1 in (130 mm) of travel and adjustable spring preload so you can dial in sag for your weight and luggage.

The Kawasaki Z500 seat height is 30.9 in (785 mm), which will be welcoming to many riders. Shorter riders can get more boot on the ground, and taller riders still have room to move thanks to the upright naked-bike stance. Ground clearance is 5.7 in (145 mm), enough to keep you from clouting curbs or speed humps when navigating city shortcuts.

Kawasaki Z500 weight is quoted at 366.0–368.2 lb (49-state–50-state) or 166 kg, keeping low-speed maneuvers drama-free and making the bike easy to park, pivot, and thread through traffic. Tire sizes—110/70-17 front and 150/60-17 rear—strike a nice balance between agility and footprint, contributing to quick transitions without sacrificing rear grip on corner exits.

Equipment & Features

• Brakes: Single 310 mm semi-floating front disc with a 2-piston caliper and ABS; single 220 mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper and ABS. The feel and power are well matched to the chassis and weight, and ABS provides a safety net on questionable surfaces.
• Electronics: ABS and an Economical Riding Indicator. It’s a simple, ride-focused package that still aids efficiency and confidence.
• Suspension: 41 mm telescopic fork (4.7 in travel) and a horizontal back-link Uni-Trak rear with adjustable spring preload (5.1 in travel).
• Chassis: Trellis, high-tensile steel frame for a light, connected feel.
• Tires: 110/70-17 front, 150/60-17 rear.
• Instrumentation: LCD display with smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP.
• Fuel system & ignition: DFI with dual 32 mm throttle bodies; TCBI with Electronic Advance (digital).
• Fuel capacity: 3.7 gal (14.0 L).
• Transmission & final drive: 6-speed, return shift; sealed chain.
• Colors: Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Metallic Flat Spark Black.

Who Is the 2026 Kawasaki Z500 For?

Newer riders will appreciate the approachable seat height, moderate curb weight, predictable power curve, and standard ABS. Daily commuters get an easygoing chassis, simple maintenance from the sealed chain and DFI system, and a dash that pairs with your phone. Experienced riders looking for a light, affordable naked will find enough performance in the 51.0 hp twin to make backroad rides engaging without overwhelming running costs.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2026 Kawasaki Z500 hits a sweet spot with its rev-happy 451 cc twin, friendly ergonomics, and well-judged chassis geometry. It’s light, communicative, and equipped with the essentials—ABS, useful LCD dash with app connectivity, and adjustable rear preload—without piling on cost or complexity. As a result, it’s a strong value with MSRP (US) 5,699 and MSRP (EU) 7,000.

It isn’t pretending to be a track weapon, and the single front disc underscores its everyday mission. But as an all-rounder for commuting, learning, and weekend fun, it’s hard to argue with the balance of the 2026 Kawasaki Z500 specs, the approachable 30.9 in (785 mm) seat height, and the lightweight feel.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Kawasaki Z500 good for beginners? Yes. It offers standard ABS, a manageable 451 cc parallel twin, and a curb weight of 366.0–368.2 lb (49-state–50-state) / 166 kg, making it approachable without sacrificing performance.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Kawasaki Z500? The Kawasaki Z500 seat height is 30.9 in (785 mm).

• How heavy is the 2026 Kawasaki Z500? The Kawasaki Z500 weight is 366.0–368.2 lb (49-state–50-state) / 166 kg.

• How much power does the 2026 Kawasaki Z500 make? It produces 51.0 hp at 10,000 rpm (ISO 4106) and 31.7 lb-ft of torque at 7,500 rpm (42.6 N·m).

• Does the 2026 Kawasaki Z500 have ABS and smartphone connectivity? Yes. ABS is standard, and the LCD instrumentation offers smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP.