The 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 base model is powered by a 451cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin engine that delivers 51 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 31.7 pound-feet of torque at 7,500 rpm. This power is managed by a six-speed transmission equipped with an assist and slipper clutch for smoother downshifts. Built on a high-tensile steel trellis frame, the motorcycle features a 41mm telescopic front fork with 4.7 inches of travel and a horizontal back-link rear suspension with adjustable preload providing 5.1 inches of travel. Stopping power comes from a single 310mm semi-floating front disc and a 220mm rear disc brake. Designed with a rider-friendly 30.9-inch seat height and a 54.1-inch wheelbase, the chassis provides accessible ergonomics and nimble handling. It holds 3.7 gallons of fuel and carries a lightweight curb weight of 370.4 pounds for the non-ABS configuration.