The entry-level Kawasaki Ninja 500 has always been a great bike for beginners, but for 2026, it’s finally getting a look that we can take seriously. The brand has blacked everything out, creating an effortlessly cool and understated aesthetic that’s a world away from the flashy lime green of the past. The result is a beautifully contoured, monochromatic beast with just the right amount of silver pop from the brake discs and exhaust. It’s a small change, but it makes a huge difference.
Of course, the bike’s performance remains just as compelling. With a curb weight of 377 pounds and a low seat height, it’s particularly welcoming to beginners and smaller riders. But don’t let its size fool you—the 451cc parallel twin engine packs a serious punch with 51 hp, giving you a thrilling introduction to Kawasaki’s sport bikes. You can always work your way up to the Ninja H2R later, right?
The 2026 Ninja 500 has been announced on Kawasaki’s UK site, and we expect it to make its way to our shores later this year. While pricing hasn’t been officially announced, we expect it to settle in well under $6,000, making it an incredible value for a bike that’s now as cool as it is capable.
