Sportbikes

2026Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE Performance

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The 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE Performance is an accessible sport bike designed for novice to intermediate riders seeking thrilling performance in a manageable package. Its 451cc liquid-cooled twin engine delivers 51 horsepower with responsive handling, making it ideal for both daily commuting and spirited weekend riding. Known for combining affordable entry-level pricing with genuine sportbike credentials, it excels as a learner-friendly platform that doesn't compromise on character.

Capacity: 451.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 159.0 kg
Seat height: 785 mm
Power: 51.0 HP (37.2 kW) @ 10000 RPM

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Other years 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering78%

City riding82%

Daily riding80%

Touring45%

Two-up40%

Track55%

Best for: Best suited as a nimble everyday sportbike for commuting and weekend twisty-road fun rather than outright track weaponry.
Built for: Playful, approachable, and eager to be revved, with a slipper clutch and modern electronics that add a touch of sporty sophistication.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders wanting high-speed touring comfort, serious passenger accommodation, or any off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 785mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE Performance, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 451.0 ccm
Power: 51.0 HP (37.2 kW) @ 10000 RPM
Torque: 43.0 Nm (4.4 kgf-m) @ 7500 RPM
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3208 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 70.0 x 58.6 mm
Compression: 11.3:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, wet sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-disc, manual. Assist and Slipper.

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1374 mm
Overall length: 1994 mm
Overall width: 729 mm
Overall height: 1181 mm
Seat height: 785 mm
Dry weight: 159.0 kg
Wet weight: 173.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 14.00 litres
Ground clearance: 145 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Trellis, high-tensile steel
Front suspension: 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Bottom-Link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock with adjustable preload
Front wheel travel: 119 mm
Rear wheel travel: 130 mm
Rake (fork angle): 24.7°
Trail: 91 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Optional ABS
Front brakes diameter: 310 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Optional ABS
Rear brakes diameter: 220 mm
ABS: Optional
Front tyre: 110/70-17
Rear tyre: 150/60-17

Other

Color options: Lime Green/Ebony/Pearl Blizzard White Passion Red/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Matte Dark Gray Passion Red/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Matte Dark Gray
Comments: Large windshield. Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System. Smartphone Connectivity. USB-C.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.