Kawasaki Z500 SE Test 2024 - successful 500cc entry!

When you think of Kawasaki, you typically envision bold sportiness, sharp, aggressive styling, and Japanese precision - and probably the iconic green color as well. However, Kawasaki is now aiming to also be known for a well-balanced entry-level mid-range naked bike with a highly modern design tailored for A2 license holders and new riders who prioritize both form and function. To ensure this, the displacement of the predecessor Z400's inline twin-cylinder engine has been swiftly increased from 399cc to 451cc in the Z500, keeping the bore at 70 millimeters but extending the stroke from 51.8 to 58.6 millimeters.

At first glance, and especially when looking at the sterile data sheet, the benefits of this do not appear to be particularly great - the predecessor Z400 already had 45 hp, but with the Z500 it is now already available at 9000 instead of 10,000 rpm, but this is not yet a really noticeable added value. Instead, the increased stroke of the engine helps the torque enormously, instead of 37 Newton meters at 8000 rpm on the Z400, you can now rely on 42.6 Nm at 6000 rpm. In other words, over 5 Nm more even 2000 rpm earlier - and that is actually enough to make the new Z500 and Z500 SE more confident, more suitable for everyday use and more mature. Winding the engine up to the limiter at just under 12,000 rpm makes no sense in terms of performance, as there is no more power to be had high up, but it is fun because the engine then increases acoustically and roars loudly.

The increase in engine size of a whole moped means that, as a motorcycle enthusiast looking beyond the green horizon, you can't help but draw comparisons with an old friend in this category: The almost venerable Honda CB500F, more recently known as the CB500 Hornet, immediately comes to mind with just 20 cubic centimeters more using the same engine concept. A direct comparison is inevitable, but for now Kawasaki deserves praise for getting closer to the standard engine size in the A2 segment and staying within reach of the maximum allowable output of 48 hp. As mentioned before, Kawasaki may not be pushing the limits in terms of horsepower, but in terms of the subjective perception of agility, the Z500/SE is definitely in the top tier of A2-compliant Naked bikes.

There are no complaints about the handling of the new Kawasaki Naked Bike Z500 SE; the frame, geometry, and ergonomics have been meticulously designed. If the Z400 was already a spirited naked bike, the Z500 performs just as well. Even at a standstill, the relatively low seat height of 785 millimeters (a 30 millimeter higher seat is also available as an option) and the light weight of 167 kilograms (the SE version, which is better equipped, weighs 168 kilograms) ensure safe maneuvering, even for smaller and lighter riders. While riding, the low weight combined with the narrower Dunlop GPR300 tires in 110/70-17 at the front and 150/60-17 at the rear ensures truly agile handling - after all, the standard size for most mid-range Nakeds is already 120/70-17 at the front and a 160 or even a 180 at the rear.

When it comes to ergonomics, there are no experiments with the Kawasaki Naked Bike, the knee angle is basically okay, but the focus was on satisfying smaller riders rather than very tall riders - two-meter giants will probably not be happy on the new Z500 and Z500 SE. However, riders shorter than that will appreciate the well-positioned, sufficiently wide handlebars, which are excellent for transmitting impulses. The suspension was a pleasant surprise, perfectly tuned for a balanced compromise between sportiness and comfort. Despite limited adjustment options (the spring preload can only be varied five times on the rear spring strut), the chassis is designed to handle all conditions. The suspension elements were firm enough to prevent unpleasant bouncing, yet comfortable enough to handle rough roads. It was impressive to see the suspension perform well for both lighter and heavier riders. Respect.

The Kawasaki Naked Bike comes equipped with brakes that provide a logical compromise - ensuring good braking performance without being overly aggressive. The front brake consists of a single 310 millimeter disc, offering adequate stopping power without being too harsh. This design choice is aimed at providing a comfortable riding experience for beginners, with hand force requirements being manageable even with a firm grip. The smooth-running clutch further enhances the bike's beginner-friendly appeal, making it easy to operate even with minimal effort. This user-friendly approach is intended to attract new riders, whether they are beginners, transitioning from smaller bikes, or upgrading from lower license classes. Riders coming from an A1 license with limited power or those new to the A2 league will appreciate the approachable nature of this naked bike. Kawasaki aims to appeal not only to loyal customers looking to upgrade from the Z400 to the more advanced Z500/SE models, but also to riders of other brands such as the Honda CB500F who seek a more agile and maneuverable naked bike option.

When it comes to electronics, the new Kawasaki Z500 sticks to the basics for cost reasons, but pleasantly upgrades in key areas - especially the slightly pricier SE version. This model features intelligent LED turn signals, a modern color TFT display that is easy to read, and a front spoiler. The SE variants also offer a pop of red or green, while the primary color remains black. However, the front cowl, rear section, and notably the wheels in appealing metallic hues leave a lasting impression. On the other hand, if you prefer an all-black look, are content with traditional LCD instrument panels, and don't mind bulkier turn signal indicators, the standard Z500 will surely meet your expectations.

The additional cost for color and modern features is so minimal that I would opt for the SE version right away; in Austria it's only 350 euros more, in Switzerland 500 francs. And in Germany? Well, only the new Z500 will be available there and it's completely black! This is puzzling to me, especially since the German market is large and affluent enough for a good number of Z500 SEs to be sold. However, Kawasaki Germany seems to have the notion that the Z500 would mainly be purchased by riding schools that are not concerned with the color and modernity of the bike. The price of the Z500 is a reasonable offer across the DACH region, even though it is pricier than its predecessor, the Z400. For 6345 euros in Germany (including transfer costs), 6390 euros in Austria (Z500 SE 6749 euros), and 6490 francs in Switzerland (Z500 SE 6990 francs), you can get a modern, user-friendly naked bike that also looks great. As we all know, design is subjective, but the new Z500 no longer mimics its larger siblings with its sharp-edged appearance, giving it a more unique and distinctive look. And the two Z500 SE models in green or red look even more appealing!