Bi-Weekly News Updates: Kawasaki Z900, KLE500 & More

Here’s a quick story of what happened in the world of two-wheelers last week. However, there were no major new launches this week. In addition, several interesting updates and reveals surfaced around the globe. If you missed the action, here’s a round-up of what to keep an eye on.

2026 Kawasaki Z900

 
The 2026 Kawasaki Z900 has been launched in India at an ex-showroom price of Rs 9.99 lakh, which is Rs 19,000 cheaper than the 2025 model. The design and mechanics remain largely the same as last year’s big overhaul. However, Kawasaki has added two new colour options: Candy Lime Green with Metallic Carbon Gray and Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Gray with Metallic Flat Spark Black.

The engine remains the familiar 948 cc inline-four that is known for its smooth and refined performance. Interestingly, the kerb weight has been reduced by one kilogram, now standing at 212 kg. In addition, the Kawasaki Z900 continues to offer premium features like ride-by-wire throttle, cruise control, bi-directional quick-shifter, cornering traction control, and cornering ABS.

2026 Kawasaki KLE500

 
Kawasaki has revived the KLE500 name for 2026 in a completely new adventure-tourer avatar. The new KLE500 is expected to make its way to India soon. It gets a 500 cc parallel-twin engine with a 180-degree crank layout, promising smooth and linear power delivery.

The bike uses a new steel trellis frame designed for strength and stability on both highways and trails. It rides on a 21-inch front wheel with dual-purpose tyres, supported by long-travel KYB suspension. The SE variant adds more premium touring equipment, including a TFT display with smartphone connectivity, a larger windscreen, reinforced handguards, a strong skid plate, and LED indicators.

2026 Kawasaki Z650 S

 
Kawasaki also pulled the wraps off the 2026 Z650 S, a refreshed version of its popular middleweight streetfighter. The Z650 S comes with sharper styling inspired by its bigger sibling, the Z900. The ergonomics have been reworked for improved comfort, there’s a wider handlebar, repositioned foot-pegs, and a better seat design.

It now features a 4.3-inch TFT colour display with smartphone connectivity, giving riders access to ride data and notifications. While the engine remains the same 649 cc parallel-twin, the focus this time is on everyday comfort and smooth usability rather than outright performance gains.

TVS M1-S Electric Maxi-Scooter

TVS Motor Company has teased its upcoming electric maxi-scooter, the M1-S. This futuristic scooter has been jointly developed with Singapore-based ION Mobility, a company that specializes in electric vehicle technology.

The M1-S packs a 4.3 kWh battery, producing around 16.7 bhp and 45 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0–50 km/h in just 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of about 105 km/h. TVS claims the M1-S can cover up to 150 km on a single charge. In addition, it will feature a large TFT display, generous under-seat storage, and a sporty design that gives it a maxi-scooter stance.

Before you go, don’t forget to check out the Norton Reveals Four New Motorcycles Ahead of EICMA 2025.