Fuel-Injected 451 cm3 Parallel Twin Engine

Increasing the displacement of the Z400’s engine with an added 52 cm3 results in a boost in performance. Along with newly designed crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons, the compression ratio was optimised to suit the larger displacement. The top land of the aluminium pistons receives a hard alumite treatment to achieve higher combustion pressure. The cylinder is sleeveless and features plated bores, just like on our Ninja ZX-10R and 6R supersport machines.

Max. power {52 PS} / 10,000 min^-1
Max. torque 42.6 N·m {4.3 kgƒ·m} / 7,500 min^-1

A lightweight frame is key to keeping overall weight down and in having a motorcycle that is light and easy to control. The Z500’s trellis frame offers just that, with considerations made throughout to reducing weight. The frame is 250cc-based in size, contributing to a light overall weight and a slim overall package complemented by the rigidity and durability expected from a Kawasaki frame. The chassis has a supersport-style short-wheelbase/long-swingarm design, complemented by an optimised trail that delivers light, natural handling.

Relaxed rider triangle accommodates a wide range of rider sizes and riding situations, contributing to the Z500’s rider-friendly character. Wide set of the handlebar enables dynamic control by the rider and contributes to the Z500’s easy manoeuvrability and facilitates control for low-speed manoeuvres.

Fuel tank is slim between the rider’s legs, promoting good contact with the bike. The 14 litre fuel capacity contributes to weight reduction, while still enabling a sufficient cruising range to accommodate daily riding or touring.

Being part of the Z series means street presence with supernaked style, and the new Z500 has these in abundance. An all-new front-end design centred around a new triple LED headlight design highlights the machine’s intense and high-class styling. Like other models in the Z Series, sugomi design elements (crouching stance, low-positioned head and upswept tail) give it a silhouette instantly recognisable as a Kawasaki Supernaked, while the excellent fit and finish and highquality overall design give owners something to be proud of.

At the front of the new Z500 is a triple LED headlight design (same as used on the Z7 Hybrid) with the two upper headlights being the low beams, and the single lower headlight being the high beam. The design was intended to keep focus on the two low beam headlights. Belying their compact size the new headlights deliver excellent lighting performance.

High-Grade Cockpit

The SE model features a high-grade full colour display with TFT (thin-film transistor) technology, delivering a high level of visibility. The screen’s background colour is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light. Bluetooth technology enables riders to connect to their bike wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP”, a number of functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.