2024 Z500 SE

Smooth, powerful acceleration is available with a twist of the wrist from a new 451 cc engine. The acceleration feels brisk thanks to plenty of power in the low- to mid-rpm range, and, when the throttle stays on, enough power in the high-rpm range to hit higher speeds with ease. With well-balanced power output and strong acceleration throughout the rev range, the combination of this engine with a lightweight chassis makes the machine well-suited to a wide variety of riding situations including everyday riding.

Ample power from the 451 cc engine is available through the entire rpm range to make it easy for riders to use, no matter what kind of riding they are doing, from low-end power for accelerating off the line in the city to top-end revs for riding on the highway. The engine in the new Z500 is up the task, no matter what it may be.

Kawasaki's Assist & Slipper Clutch results in a light clutch pull for even more rider-friendly and manageable riding in everyday situations, and reduced skipping and hopping from the rear for better sport riding and added confidence.

Easy to use is the key, as the compact chassis has been designed to be as user-friendly as possible. Predictable handling thanks to a chassis conceived with light weight, manoeuvrability, and mass centralisation in mind provides excellent feel and inspiring confidence for a wide range of riders. The easy handling also facilitates manoeuvring when parking.

The Z500 features a trellis frame similar in design to that of the Ninja H2. Kawasaki's advanced dynamic rigidity analysis was used to ensure optimum rigidity with light weight. The engine is rigid-mounted and used as a stressed member. The frame design contributes significantly to the bike's low curb mass.

The chassis has a supersport-style short-wheelbase/long-swingarm design, complemented by an optimised trail setting that delivers light, natural handling. The bike's light weight also contributes to the easy handling and facilitates manoeuvring when off the bike, such as when parking.

Measuring ø310 mm (the same disc size used on the Z1000), the Z500's semi-floating front disc offers sure stopping power. ABS offers added reassurance when riding.

While seat height is 785 mm, the slim design of both the seat and the rear of the engine gives riders an unobstructed line for their feet to reach the ground. The seat's flat shape offers ample padding in the front portion without sacrificing the comfortable reach to the ground, which helps riders enjoy the bike with confidence.

Relaxed rider triangle accommodates a wide range of rider sizes and riding situations, contributing to its rider-friendly character. The relatively upright riding position and wide handlebar put the rider in the ideal position for active control, facilitating dynamic, sporty riding.

No matter from what angle the Z500 is seen, its triple headlight-centred front face and aggressive lines make it clear that this is a member of the Z family, with aggressive Supernaked looks and ample street presence.

The Z500's "face" is based around a newly designed triple headlight unit, enveloped by a sharp front cowl to give it an intense look. The triple LED headlight design (same as used on the Z7 Hybrid) features two upper headlights acting as the low beams, and a single lower headlight functioning as 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.

The new Z500 has a sharp, aggressive style and retains the large-volume design of other bikes in the Z series to create an aggressive, agile, street-oriented look. Its muscular, athletic bodywork reflects its performance while forming a flowing design that appears to float above the engine. 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.

The Z500 is equipped with a high-contrast full LCD instrument panel. The sophisticated instrument design features a well-thought-out display, with a bar-style tachometer that reaches over the speedometer and other displayed data. Smartphone connectivity enables riders to connect with their machines to enjoy display notifications, riding logs, and community features.

A Special Edition Z500 model offers original colour and graphics along with other exclusive features and accessories. In addition to TFT instrumentation, an under cowl, and a USB-C outlet, the Z500 SE is equipped with a smoked meter cover, pillion seat cover, LED turn signals, frame sliders, tank pad, knee grip pads, and a radiator screen.

A high-grade full colour display with TFT (thin-film transistor) technology delivers a high level of visibility. The screen's background colour is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light. Like the standard model, smartphone connectivity lets riders connect with their ride.

A two-piece under cowl allows the functional beauty of the engine, elegantly curved exhaust header pipes, and trellis frame to be highlighted.

A conveniently located and simple-to-use USB-C outlet provides a way to power additional accessories or recharge devices. It is located on the inside of the headlight cowling.

• Learner approved model (LAMS)
• Assist & Slipper Clutch
• Lightweight trellis frame
• Uni Trak rear suspension
• Seat designed for ride comfort
• Full-colour TFT instrumentation
• USB-C outlet
• Smoked meter cover
• Two-piece under cowl
• Pillion seat cover
• LED turn signals
• Hazard warning light switch
• Tank pad, knee pads, frame sliders & radiator screen