The Kawasaki Z900RS remains true to its legendary heritage in the 2026 model year, but features numerous revised details. The further development includes innovations to the engine, chassis, and electronics to further optimize both the classic look and the riding experience. In addition to the standard model, Kawasaki continues to offer the Z900RS SE and two other special editions.
The KLE500 and KLE500 SE mark the return of a classic to the adventure segment. The new generation for the 2026 model year features modern technology, extensive equipment, and a striking rally look. Both models are aimed at riders who are looking for a versatile motorcycle for both on-road and off-road use.
Kawasaki is introducing the new Z 650 S for the 2026 model year, positioning the naked bike as the modern successor to the long-running, successful Z 650. With an advanced design, optimized ergonomics, and technical updates, the model is set to maintain its place in the top 5 best-selling motorcycles.
With the introduction of the new Kawasaki Z1100 and Z1100 SE for the 2026 model year, a familiar flagship is returning to the supernaked segment. After the Z1000 disappeared from the range in 2020 due to the Euro 5 emissions standard, the Z1100 is now the top-of-the-range model in Kawasaki's Z universe. The new edition is visually similar to its predecessor, but has been specifically redesigned and equipped with modern electronics and optimized mechanics.)
Kawasaki has unveiled its new Ninja model range for 2026, presenting various sports and supersports models with new color options. These include the ZX-4R, ZX-6R, Ninja 650, and Ninja 500. However, the absence of the well-known Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR, which have been a fixture in the range since 2004, is striking.
With the upcoming market launch of the Kawasaki Z1100 in model year 2026, a familiar concept is back in the spotlight – but with targeted technical and visual innovations. The first hints of the new model appeared in official documents back in May 2024. Now, European design applications are providing concrete insights into the Japanese brand's upcoming naked bike.
A recent post by Kawasaki Europe on LinkedIn has sparked speculation about a new model. In it, the manufacturer looks back more than 20 years to the launch of the Kawasaki Z1000 in 2003. At that time, the machine was presented with the so-called Sugomi design, which appeared as a radical streetfighter. According to Kawasaki, this created a new motorcycle genre: the supernaked. With this reminder of an iconic model, suspicions are now mounting that Kawasaki is deliberately setting the stage for the introduction of a new Z1100.
In January of this year, Kawasaki caused a stir with a short and mysterious video message on social media and YouTube. In it, the company announced that it would be reviving two-stroke technology. However, apart from a 20-second clip featuring the characteristic sound of a two-stroke engine, no further details were provided. It remained unclear whether this would be a new road motorcycle, an off-road machine, or an entirely different model category.
With the KLX230 Sherpa, Kawasaki is launching a new, small adventure enduro in 2026 that stands out above all for its lightness, robustness, and affordable price. It is positioned as an uncomplicated off-road bike for beginners and experienced riders alike – and could soon be available in Germany.
In June 2025, Kawasaki Motors USA issued an immediate sales ban and a driving ban for the 2023, 2024 and 2025 models of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. This affects vehicles that are still in dealer stock as well as machines that have already been delivered to customers.
The clues have been gathering for months - now it's official: Kawasaki is launching a new Z1100. Fresh certification documents from the Netherlands confirm what was previously only speculation. The large naked bike is not only a reinterpretation of the familiar Z design, but also uses tried and tested components. This positions the Z1100 as a powerful four-cylinder road warrior below the Z H2 - with a clear focus on riding fun instead of electronic overkill.
With the “Concept 01 Corleo”, Kawasaki presents a futuristic project that is equally reminiscent of a sci-fi fantasy creature and modern robotics. The four-legged robot named “Corleo” was presented at an event for the upcoming Expo 2025 in Osaka and is intended to represent nothing less than a new form of personal mobility - somewhere between a motorcycle, quad bike and mechanical mount.
Kawasaki is currently causing quite a stir in the motorcycle world. The Japanese manufacturer has announced a new two-stroke engine with revolutionary technologies such as turbocharging, direct injection and intake valves. The teaser on social media, accompanied by the typical two-stroke sound, made the hearts of many fans beat faster. But what exactly is behind this return of the two-stroke?
In 2024, Kawasaki has launched two recalls with the hybrid models Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS and Z7 Hybrid ABS. The first recall in September related to a problem with the ECU (engine control unit), while the second recall in November concerns a completely different problem. The recall originated in the US. However, as motorcycles are usually manufactured in one factory for worldwide sale, other markets could also be affected.
Kawasaki is expanding its model range for 2025 with the new Ninja 1100SX, a versatile supersport tourer designed to tackle both long distances and city traffic with ease. Shortly after the announcement of the Versys 1100, the Ninja 1100SX is presented as a modern motorcycle with a range of upgrades.
Kawasaki is expanding its model range for 2025 with the popular mid-range Ninja 500 and Z500 models. Since their introduction, these A2-compliant motorcycles have gained a large fan base thanks to their combination of new engine technology and the characteristic design of the Ninja and Z series. Over the past year, they have been among the best-selling models at Kawasaki dealerships.
Kawasaki has identified a serious problem with its new hybrid models Ninja 7 and Z7 for model year 2024 and has halted sales and initiated a recall. The reason for this is a faulty control unit (ECU), which can lead to dangerous shifting behavior in certain situations. The recall affects around 1,150 motorcycles, which is around one percent of the total production volume.
With the Z500 Sugomi Edition, Kawasaki is launching a limited version of the popular Z500. This edition, which is only available in France, has been visually upgraded and is aimed at riders who are not only looking for a powerful entry-level machine, but also value an eye-catching and sporty design. Although the mechanical characteristics of the Z500 remain unchanged, the Sugomi Edition impresses with its special look and exclusive details.
Kawasaki is planning to launch a new electric dirt bike on the market. The Japanese motorcycle manufacturer, which already offers models such as the Ninja and the Z e-1 in the electric segment, now appears to be developing another model. A recently leaked patent shows some details of the upcoming bike.
Kawasaki Motors Corporation USA has issued a major recall for certain 2023 and 2024 Ninja ZX-4R and ZX-4RR models on March 27, 2024. The reason for the recall is a potential risk that the spark plugs on these motorcycles may have suffered damage during the manufacturing process.