Since the legendary Mach III of 1969, the model name “Kawasaki 500” has energised and excited riders globally. For 2024, Kawasaki is set to unleash both a Ninja 500 and Z500 to join the battle for sales in the hard-fought mid-capacity sector. Limited information is out now. We expect this to replace the 400 series. This engine will displace 451cc. A Versys 500 is on the cards very likely. The Elminator 451cc is already out. Given the current outlook, the 600cc models will be bumped to 700/750cc in the future.
The aggressively styled Z500 is powered by a new twin-cylinder, water-cooled engine equipped with an Assist and Slipper clutch. The responsive power unit is housed in a lightweight trellis type chassis delivering reassuring handling and easy reach to the ground for A2 licence holders. More experienced riders will be keen to take advantage of the lithe cornering and instant urge during sporting weekend rides.
Engine Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, parallel twin
Compression ratio 11.3:1
Valve system DOHC, 8 valves
Bore x stroke 70.0 x 58.6 mm
Displacement 451 cm³
Fuel injection: 32 mm x 2
Lubrication Forced lubrication, wet sump
Starting system Electric Ignition Digital
Performance & Transmission
Maximum power 45.4 PS / 9,000 rpm
Maximum torque 42.6 N•m / 6,000 rpm
CO2 emission 89 g/km
Fuel consumption 3.8 l/100km
Transmission 6-speed, return shift
Clutch Wet, multi disc
Wheel base 1375 mm
Ground clearance 145 mm
Fuel capacity 14.0 litres
Seat height 785 mm
Curb mass 172 kg
Primary reduction ratio
2.029 (69/34)
Gear ratios 1st
2.929 (41/14)
Gear ratios 2nd
2.056 (37/18)
Gear ratios 3rd
1.619 (34/21)
Gear ratios 4th
1.333 (32/24)
Gear ratios 5th
1.154 (30/26)
Gear ratios 6th
1.037 (28/27)
Final drive
Sealed chain
Final reduction ratio
3.071 (43/14)
Equipped with a LCD meter, the 2024 Z500 will also be available as a Special Edition model with its own unique livery plus the addition of an under-cowl. A colour TFT meter providing the ability to access information via the latest version of the Kawasaki Rideology App on the rider’s Smartphone and USB-C outlet.
According to the market where it is sold, the SE version might also include smoke style instrument panel cover, radiator screen, crash sliders, pillion seat cover, tank pad plus knee grip pads. In terms of genuine accessories, the Z500 owner enjoys a plethora of choice including large windshield (in clear or smoke), an ERGO-FIT high seat (+30 mm), tank bag and wheel rim tape.
Enjoying the same core trellis type chassis and invigorating twin-cylinder, water-cooled engine as the Z, the 2024 Kawasaki range also features a new Ninja 500. Presented in the new more aggressive Ninja family look with angular upper cowl and a comprehensive performance styling package, the Ninja 500 meets European A2 licence regulations. A narrow chassis and easy reach to the ground plus reassuring low speed manoeuvrability matched to genuine sporting performance should make it a good to ride daily.
Boasting the possibility to increase the seat height by 30mm via the fitment of an ERGO-FIT high seat, the range of other genuine accessories is comprehensive allowing riders to create a truly personalised mount. And for those that want to start their Ninja 500 ownership experience with an increased specification straight out of the box, the Ninja 500 Special Edition is a bike made for them. Equipped with its own unique colour graphic treatment, the SE includes KIPASS keyless ignition as standard plus a TFT meter and USB-C outlet. Like the Z500 SE, it may also feature a variety of other parts in its specification according to market including, radiator screen or pillion seat cover among other items.
Colours for the 2024 Z500 models are:
Z500
Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray (BK1)
Z500 SE
Candy Persimmon Red/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray (RD1)
Candy Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray (GN2)
Colours for the 2024 Ninja 500 models are:
Ninja 500
Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Raw Graystone (BK1)
Ninja 500 SE
Lime Green/Ebony (GN1)
Metallic Matte Dark Gray/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Moondust Gray (GY2)
