The Ninja 500, Ninja 650, Ninja ZX-4R and Ninja ZX-6R Return for 2026.
This is a press release from Kawasaki…
For two-wheel adrenaline seekers, Kawasaki’s 2026 sport and supersport motorcycle lineup welcomes the return of the Ninja 500, Ninja 650, Ninja ZX-4R and Ninja ZX-6R.
These 2026 model-year motorcycles are set to arrive in Kawasaki dealerships during the fall months so that riders can continue to “Let the Good Times Roll.”
2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 / Ninja 500 ABS / Ninja 500 SE ABS
The Ninja 500 was designed to turn heads in the dynamic lightweight sport segment. It boasts a powerful and rider friendly 451cc parallel-twin engine, assist & slipper clutch, lightweight chassis that strikes the perfect balance between agility and stability, large-diameter 310mm front brake disc, and an array of ridercentric features such as a relaxed riding position, LED headlights, and seamless smartphone connectivity via Rideology The App Motorcycle.
The special edition Ninja 500 SE ABS comes equipped with everything found on the Ninja 500 as well as several exclusive features, including a high-grade full-color display with TFT technology, KIPASS (Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System), USB-C outlet, large windshield, radiator screen, frame sliders, pillion seat cover, tank pad, knee grip pads, and LED turns signals for riders seeking a distinctive and enhanced riding experience.
The 2026 Ninja 500 is available in two colorways, including Lime Green and Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black, with MSRP starting at $5399. The Ninja 500 ABS is available in three colorways that includes Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black, Metallic Matte Twilight Blue/Candy Persimmon Red and Metallic Yellowish Green/Ebony, with MSRP starting at $5,799.
The Ninja 500 SE ABS comes in Metallic Matte Twilight Blue/Candy Persimmon Red, Metallic Yellowish Green/Ebony and Lime Green and MSRP starts at $6,499.
2026 Kawasaki Ninja 650 / Ninja 650 ABS
The Ninja 650 features the beloved 649cc parallel-twin engine that is perfect for a daily commute or an afternoon on tight, winding back roads. Its lightweight chassis delivers smooth and agile handling that is both sporty and versatile. The sharp styling found on the Ninja 650 gives it a sporty appearance that is sure to catch the attention of new and seasoned riders alike.
Its 4.3” all-digital TFT color instrumentation provides a premium feel and offers full color for great visibility. Twin LED headlights feature low and high beams as well as a position lamp. Utilizing its Smartphone Connectivity through Rideology The App Motorcycle, a number of functions can be accessed, logged, and reviewed contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience. KTRC, Kawasaki’s advanced traction 2 control system provides both superior sport riding performance and peace of mind under certain conditions to negotiate low-traction surfaces with confidence. The system allows riders to select between two modes to suit their riding situation and preference.
For 2026, the Ninja 650 is available in Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Carbon Gray with a MSRP of $7,599. The Ninja 650 ABS is offered in three colorways with Lime Green, Metallic Matte Whitish Silver/Metallic Flat Spark Black and Metallic Yellowish Green/Metallic Spark Black, with an MSRP of $8,199.
2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R ABS / Ninja ZX-4RR ABS
Kawasaki redefined the 400cc supersport category with the arrival of the Ninja ZX-4R ABS and Ninja ZX-4RR ABS motorcycles. This circuit-focused motorcycle combines real-world road enjoyment and track riding potential and provides the rider the satisfaction of being able to ride with confidence.
The Ninja ZX-4R ABS boasts a powerful 399cc in-line four-cylinder engine that produces music to the ears with its high-performance audible signal – helping it stand out from the competition. Its lightweight trellis frame is compact and nimble for exciting cornering performance, while 290mm dual front disc brakes and a high-performance 37mm Showa SFF-BP front fork as well as horizontal backlink rear suspension have been fitted to ensure that the Ninja ZX-4R ABS breeds performance from the ground up.
Other premium features include a 4.3” TFT color instrumentation with smartphone connectivity, integrated riding modes that link Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) and Power Modes, and aggressive Ninja ZX family styling that make it clear this is a high-performance supersport model. The Ninja ZX-4RR ABS takes performance even further with the addition of dual-direction Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), a higher-grade Showa front fork with adjustable spring preload, and a Showa BFRC Lite rear shock.
The Ninja ZX-4R ABS is painted in a Metallic Spark Black color scheme with an MSRP of $9299. The 2026 Ninja ZX-4RR ABS is offered in three color schemes, including Lime Green, Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Spark Black, and Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black starting with an MSRP of $9,999.
2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R / Ninja ZX-6R ABS
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R “636” remains a staple in the Ninja ZX supersport lineup and pushes the boundaries with track-ready performance that prioritizes confident handling during high-performance sport riding. The Ninja ZX-6R offers superior performance across the rev range with its potent 636cc liquid-cooled in-line four-cylinder engine and Assist & Slipper Clutch.
It also boasts an eye-catching list of technology features that includes KQS, Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) with three performance settings, Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS), Power Modes, 4.3” TFT color instrumentation, Smartphone Connectivity via Rideology The App Motorcycle, and Integrated Riding Modes. Nimble handling is achieved on the Ninja ZX-6R thanks to its race-derived chassis, allowing the rider to become one with the machine whether on the racetrack, navigating canyon roads, or cruising city streets.
A Showa SFF-BP (Separate Function Fork – Big Piston) and fully adjustable Showa rear shock offer a high level of performance for the racetrack and the plush feeling desired when riding in town. Dual 310mm front discs ensure excellent stopping power, while Pirelli Diablo Rosso™ IV tires offer excellent grip in a variety of riding conditions. The styling is inspired by the Ninja ZX-10R, yet retains its own distinct supersport identity. Its smooth, flowing styling was designed to turn heads and capture hearts. Compact LED headlights, an intricately layered front cowl, and a sporty windshield bring a face to one of the most feared models in Kawasaki’s supersport lineup.
The 2026 Ninja ZX-6R and Ninja ZX-6R ABS are available in four colorways, Lime Green, Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Spark Black, Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black/Pearl Storm Gray and Metallic Matte Dark Gray/Ebony. The non-ABS model has a MSRP of $11,599, while the ABS-equipped model is $12,599.
2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 Specifications
| MSRP | $5399-$5599 (Non-ABS), $5799-$5999 (w/ ABS) |
| Engine | 4-stroke, parallel-twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 451cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 70.0 x 58.6mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Maximum Horsepower (claimed) | 51.0 hp @ 10,000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque (claimed) | 31.7 lb-ft @ 7500 rpm |
| Fuel System | DFI with dual 32mm throttle bodies |
| Ignition | TCBI with Digital Advance |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Final Drive | Sealed chain |
| Electronic Rider Aids | Economical Riding Indicator, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS only) |
| Front Suspension | 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork/4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension | Horizontal back-link with adjustable spring preload/5.1 in. travel |
| Front Tire | 110/70-17 |
| Rear Tire | 150/60-17 |
| Front Brakes | Single 310mm semi-floating disc with 2-piston calipers (and ABS) |
| Rear Brakes | Single 220mm disc with single-piston caliper (and ABS) |
| Frame Type | Trellis, high-tensile steel |
| Rake/Trail | 24.5°/3.6 in. |
| Seat Height | 30.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | 54.1 in. |
| Curb Weight (claimed) | 377.1 lbs. (ABS), 372.6 lbs. (non-ABS) 50-State Model; 374.9 lbs. (ABS), 370.4 lbs. (non-ABS) 49-State Model |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.7 gal. |
| Special Features | Ergo-Fit, LCD Instrumentation with Smartphone Connectivity via Rideology The App |
| Color Choices | Lime Green; Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black; Metallic Matte Twilight Blue/Candy Persimmon Red; Metallic Yellowish Green/Ebony |
2026 Kawasaki Ninja 650 Specifications
| MSRP | $7599 (Non-ABS), $8199 (w/ ABS) |
| Engine | 4-stroke, parallel-twin, DOHC, 8-valve, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 649cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 83.0 x 60.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Maximum Horsepower (claimed) | 67.0 hp¹ @ 8000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque (claimed) | 48.5 lb-ft @ 6700 rpm |
| Fuel System | DFI with dual 36mm Keihin throttle bodies |
| Ignition | TCBI with Electronic Advance |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Final Drive | Sealed chain |
| Electronic Rider Aids | Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS only) |
| Front Suspension | 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork/4.9 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension | Horizontal back-link with adjustable spring preload/5.1 in. travel |
| Front Tire | 120/70 x 17 |
| Rear Tire | 160/60 x 17 |
| Front Brakes | Dual 300mm petal-type discs and 2-piston calipers (and ABS) |
| Rear Brakes | Single 220mm petal-type disc and single-piston caliper (and ABS) |
| Frame Type | Trellis, high-tensile steel |
| Rake/Trail | 24.0°/3.9 in. |
| Seat Height | 31.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 55.5 in. |
| Curb Weight (claimed) | 425.6 lbs. (ABS), 423.4 lbs. (non-ABS) 50-State Model; 423.4 lbs. (ABS), 421.2 lbs. (non-ABS) 49-State Model |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.0 gal. |
| Color Choices | Lime Green; Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Carbon Gray; Metallic Matte Whitish Silver/Metallic Flat Spark Black; Metallic Yellowish Green/Metallic Spark Black |
2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R/ZX-4RR Specifications
| MSRP | $9299/$9999 |
| Engine | 4-stroke, inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 399cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 57.0 x 39.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.3:1 |
| Maximum Horsepower (claimed) | 56.0 hp @ 11,500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque (claimed) | 26.5 lb-ft @ 11,000 rpm |
| Fuel System | DFI with 34mm throttle valves (4) |
| Ignition | TCBI with Digital Advance |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return shift |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Electronic Rider Aids | Economical Riding Indicator, Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) (3-mode), Power Modes, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) |
| Front Suspension ZX-4R | 37mm inverted Showa fork with SFF-BP internals/4.7 in. travel |
| Front Suspension ZX-4RR | 37mm inverted Showa fork with SFF-BP internals and spring preload adjustability/4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension ZX-4R | Horizontal back-link, Showa shock w/ adjustable spring preload/4.4 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension ZX-4RR | Horizontal back-link, Showa BFRC lite gas-charged shock w/ piggyback reservoir, adjustable compression, rebound and spring preload/4.9 in. travel |
| Front Tire | 110/70-17 |
| Rear Tire | 160/60-17 |
| Front Brakes | Dual 290mm semi-floating discs with radial-mount 4-piston monobloc caliper and ABS |
| Rear Brakes | Single 220mm disc with single-piston caliper and ABS |
| Frame Type | Trellis, high-tensile steel |
| Rake/Trail | 23.5°/3.8 in. |
| Seat Height | 31.5 in. |
| Wheelbase | 54.3 in. |
| Curb Weight (claimed) | 414.5 lbs. |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.0 gal. |
| Special Features | 4.3-in. Full-color TFT Instrumentation, Smartphone Connectivity via Rideology The App |
| Color Choices ZX-4R | Metallic Spark Black |
| Color Choices ZX-4RR | Lime Green, Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black, Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Spark Black |
2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Specifications
| MSRP | $11,599 (Non-ABS), $12,599 (w/ ABS) |
| Engine | 4-stroke, inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 636cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 67.0 x 45.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.9:1 |
| Maximum Horsepower (claimed) | 127.0 hp @ 13,000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque (claimed) | 52.1 lb-ft @ 10,800 rpm |
| Fuel System | DFI with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies (4) and oval sub-throttles |
| Ignition | TCBI with electronic advance |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return shift |
| Final Drive | Sealed chain |
| Electronic Rider Aids | Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), Power Modes (Full/ Low), Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS) (ABS only), Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) (upshift only) |
| Front Suspension | 41mm inverted fork Showa Separate Function Big Piston Fork (SFF-BP) with rebound and compression damping and spring preload adjustability, and top-out springs/4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension | Bottom-link Uni-Trak with single shock, stepless compression damping adjustment, stepless adjustable rebound damping, fully adjustable spring preload/5.9 in. travel |
| Front Tire | 120/70 ZR17 |
| Rear Tire | 180/55 ZR17 |
| Front Brakes | Dual semi-floating 310mm discs with dual radial-mounted, monobloc, opposed 4-piston caliper, Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS) (ABS only) |
| Rear Brakes | Single 220mm petal discs with single-piston caliper, Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS) (ABS only) |
| Frame Type | Aluminum perimeter |
| Rake/Trail | 23.5°/4.0 in. |
| Seat Height | 32.7 in. |
| Wheelbase | 55.1 in. |
| Curb Weight (claimed) | 436.6 lbs. (ABS), 432.2 lbs. (non-ABS) 50-State Model; 434.4 lbs. (ABS), 430.0 lbs. (non-ABS) 49-State Model |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.5 gal. |
| Special Features | 4.3-in. Full-Color TFT Instrumentation, Smartphone Connectivity via Rideology The App |
| Color Choices | Lime Green; Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Spark Black; Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black/ Pearl Storm Gray; Metallic Matte Dark Gray/Ebony |
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