The engine’s performance is a bit muted due to the KLE’s weight, so acceleration is modest in the lower revs, but power picks up above 7,000 rpm and roll-on performance is impressive once the motor is spinning. Sixth gear at 70 mph puts the engine at 6,100 rpm, but the high-revving twin can easily cruise at 80 or above. In fact, the higher you rev the motor, the smoother it spins.
Because the KLE’s engine is a 180-degree parallel twin, you’ll experience some degree of buzziness throughout the usable rev range, more so here than in other models with this motor. The vibes first appear in the handgrips at about 4,500 rpm before visiting the tank sides and footpegs. The engine is counterbalanced and Kawasaki put dampers on the handlebar risers and footpeg brackets, but the rocking couple remains. It’s not uncomfortable, just annoying, and certainly something to consider since it’s the engine’s dominant characteristic. Second is the nasally howl from the airbox. Combined, they make the engine seem a little exasperated.
A surprising characteristic of the KLE is its suspension calibration. It’s quite firm, and it seems to transmit as much as it absorbs. That’s not ideal for comfort, especially on potholed city streets or bumpy back roads, but it is good for handling since the fork doesn’t dive while braking and the chassis remains planted and stable while changing direction and fully leaned over. If you like a firmer ride, or perhaps weigh more than 210 pounds geared up as I do, it may suit you. If not, your only available adjustment is rear spring preload.
A great thing about lightweight ADVs are the ergonomics — they skew towards full-size bike comfort. I'm five feet, 11 inches tall and the KLE has a relaxed rider triangle.
I’d argue this might be the best small adventure-touring bike on the market — if you’ll actually be mixing some dirt or gravel into your outings.