Popular from the get-go, Kawasaki’s Ninja 500 and Z500 hit the ground running and have not looked back since their introduction. Boasting a completely new engine platform and styling focused on the iconic Ninja and Z families respectively, the two A2 compliant middleweights have been among the most popular models at Kawasaki dealerships over the past year.
The engine in the new Ninja 500 and Z500 is up the task, no matter what it may be. Ample power from the 451 cm3 power unit 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 urge for accelerating off the line in the city to top-end revs for riding on the highway. Kawasaki’s Assist & Slipper Clutch on both machines results in a light clutch pull for even more rider-friendly and manageable riding in everyday situations plus predictable handling is delivered 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 Ninja 500 and Z500 feature 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. And 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.
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 Ninja alternative offers a distinctive front face and sleek, flowing lines make it clear that this is a member of the Ninja family, with race-inspired, big-bike looks. The shape of the full-fairing bodywork fosters a sense of unity with the rider, helping them feel at one with the bike.
Both machines boast a full LCD instrument panel on the standard models and the TFT display on the SE models offer smartphone connectivity, enabling riders to connect with their machines to enjoy display notifications, riding logs, and community features. SE models also feature original colour and graphics along with other exclusive features and accessories.
And for 2025 a new colour option is offered for the Ninja 500 mirroring the accents seen on the KRT Ninja ZX-10RR in many superbike races with the lime green base colour augmented by black, and white graphics with yellow striped highlights. Whatever the colour and whether Ninja 500 or Z500 in standard or SE spec, the choice in 2025 is going to be the right one!
