Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE Test 2024: Beginner-Friendly Sportbike

The Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE is equipped with a 451 cc DOHC engine that delivers 45.4 hp at 9000 rpm and 42.6 Nm of torque. Thanks to its light weight of 172 kg and a seat height of 785 mm, it offers nimble handling and good ergonomics for daily use. The SE variant's features include a TFT color display, connectivity, keyless system, and LED headlights. With its sporty look and reliable brakes, it is well suited for both urban traffic and spirited riding.

The HJC helmets in superhero design, worn by our editors for the Kawasaki Supersport motorcycle test, are not only real eye-catchers but also technically advanced. The RPHA 1 and RPHA 12 models offer a perfect combination of safety, comfort, and stylish design. The RPHA 1 is particularly designed for aerodynamics and stability at high speeds, providing excellent protection through its premium materials. The RPHA 12, on the other hand, impresses with its versatile range of use and excellent ventilation, ensuring pleasant freshness even on longer rides. Both helmets are adorned with striking superhero graphics, making them a special highlight for all comic fans and motorcycle enthusiasts.

For more information, visit: HJC Helmets.

Our editors not only wore the striking HJC helmets during this supersports motorcycle test but were also dressed in high-quality motorcycle gear from Segura. Segura is known for its combination of classic design and top-notch protective features. The tested outfits included sturdy leather jackets, which provide the highest level of safety due to their abrasion-resistant properties and integrated protectors on the shoulders, elbows, and back. Additionally, breathable and weatherproof pants, as well as gloves that offer optimal grip and protection, were part of the gear. Segura's motorcycle clothing combines stylish appearance with functional details, ensuring our editors were not only well-protected but also comfortable and fashionable on the go.

For more information, visit: Segura Motorcycle Clothing.

Martin Bauer describes the Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE as a versatile bike that stands out due to its blend of sportiness and everyday usability. The twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 450 cubic centimeters offers impressive performance, characterized by strong acceleration and high revs. Despite slightly higher vibrations, the engine conveys a lot of character and is one of the most powerful options for the A2 license.

With a weight of only 171 kilograms, the Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE offers an excellent power-to-weight ratio. The gear ratio is well-tuned, allowing the bike to be operated efficiently in various riding situations. The conventional front fork, despite the trend towards upside-down forks, provides a very good chassis setup and ensures stability and precise feedback.

The more upright seating position allows for a comfortable ride, although the distance between the pegs and the seat could be more comfortable for longer rides. The light clutch and the well-functioning single-disc brake at the front, supported by a well-tuned ABS, contribute to the positive riding characteristics. Although the bike lacks traction control, the engine is manageable, making additional electronic aids unnecessary. Bauer highlights the precise and neutral handling of the Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE, which inspires a lot of confidence, especially during spirited riding. Considering its price, the Ninja 500 SE is an economically attractive choice.

Horvath describes the Kawasaki Ninja 500 as the big surprise in the comparison test, as it offers a sporty yet harmonious and accessible riding experience despite its low price. He particularly highlights the fact that the engine handles the weight fueled up of 171 kg well and that the handling is very agile but not twitchy. The brakes work well and provide a solid pressure point. Overall, there is little to criticize, with the only negative points being the display and the outdated menu navigation.

Alessio praises the bike for its balance, as it neither has superfluous nor missing components. He particularly highlights that the lack of traction control, in his opinion, is unnecessary and would only lead to higher costs. Alessio emphasizes the excellent functionality of the brakes, clutch, and gearbox, as well as the good readability of the display. Although the display is not the most modern or largest TFT, it meets all necessary requirements. Overall, Alessio views the Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE as a very successful bike, especially enjoyable on tight twisties. For him, it is an excellent A2 bike that has fully met his expectations.

Amelie describes the Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE as her absolute favorite bike in the A2 test, emphasizing that she likes almost everything about this model. She highlights the excellent brakes and the adequate engine power, praising the gear ratio. She is particularly impressed by the seating position, which, despite being comfortable, does not compromise the sporty handling and precision of the bike. Amelie reports that she felt especially comfortable with the engine braking and hardly needed to use the regular brakes. The chassis, suspension, and gearbox worked smoothly, and she finds the gear shifting to be very soft. Her most important criterion was the secure riding feel, which allows her to ride more sportily and faster. In this aspect, the Ninja 500 SE performs best in her opinion.

Sporty and Harmonious Riding Performance: The Ninja 500 offers a sporty riding style while remaining very harmonious and accessible.

Good Handling: With a weight fueled up of 171 kg, the bike is very agile without feeling unstable.

Effective Brakes: The brakes provide a good pressure point and work reliably.

Good Interaction Between Engine and Weight: The engine harmonizes well with the bike's weight, contributing to a pleasant riding dynamic.

Little Room for Complaints: Overall, the bike leaves little room for negative criticism, indicating good overall quality.

Outdated Display: The display of the bike is considered not modern.

Outdated Menu Navigation: The menu navigation does not meet current standards and could be improved.