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Naked bike · 2025

Z500 SE Performance

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MotoLibrary Score
48 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.29 hp/kg
Top Speed
180 km/h
Torque
43 Nm
Engine
451 ccm

2025 Kawasaki Z500 SE Performance Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around Kawasaki's naked motorcycle platform, the 2025 Kawasaki Z500 SE Performance features a 451 cc (27.5 cu in) air-cooled twin, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 44.3 HP (32.3 kW) at 9,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 42.6 Nm (31.4 lb-ft) at 7,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 98.2 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (7,500 rpm) and peak power (9,000 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the Z500 SE Performance measures 168 kg (370 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.26 HP/kg (3.79 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 785 mm (30.9 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,375 mm (54.1 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 180 km/h (112 mph).

Specific Output
98.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.26 HP/kg (3.79 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,500–9,000 rpm
Standover Height
785 mm (30.9 in)
Engine
Displacement 451.0 ccm (27.52 cubic inches)
Engine Type Twin, four-stroke
Power 44.3 HP (32.3 kW)) @ 9000 RPM
Torque 42.6 Nm (4.3 kgf-m or 31.4 ft.lbs) @ 7500 RPM
Compression 11.3:1
Bore x Stroke 70.0 x 58.6 mm (2.8 x 2.3 inches)
Fuel System Injection. DFI® with 32mm throttle bodies
Fuel Control Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Ignition TCBI with digital advance
Lubrication Forced lubrication, wet sump
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 6-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Clutch Assist and slipper Clutch
Driveline Sealed chain
Performance
Top Speed 180.3 km/h (112.0 mph)
0-100 km/h 4.34 seconds
Chassis
Frame Type Trellis, high-tensile steel
Rake 24.5°
Trail 92 mm (3.6 inches)
Front Suspension Hydraulic Telescopic fork 41mm
Front Travel 120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear Suspension Bottom-Link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock with adjustable preload
Rear Travel 130 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheelbase 1375 mm (54.1 inches)
Ground Clearance 145 mm (5.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 110/70-17M
Rear Tyre 150/60-17M
Front Brakes Single disc. Single semi-floating disc with 2-piston calipers and ABS
Front Brake Ø 310 mm (12.2 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc. Single mm disc with single-piston caliper and ABS
Rear Brake Ø 220 mm (8.7 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 154.0 kg (339.5 pounds)
Weight incl. 168.0 kg (370.4 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.2877 HP/kg
Seat Height 785 mm (30.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height 1050 mm (41.3 inches)
Overall Length 1995 mm (78.5 inches)
Overall Width 800 mm (31.5 inches)
Fuel Capacity 14.00 litres (3.70 US gallons)
Other
Starter Electric
Color Options Candy Persimmon Red/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray Metallic Moondust Gray/Metallic Spark Black Metallic Moondust Gray/Metallic Spark Black
Warranty 12 Month Limited Warranty
Notes

ERGO-FIT®, LCD Instrumentation with Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP

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Power
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Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
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Weight
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Fuel Capacity
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Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🏍️
Best For
City & Weekend Rides
📏
Seat Height
78.5 cm / 30.9 in
⚖️
Handling
Manageable weight for most riders
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