Kawasaki India has launched the new 2026 Ninja 500 motorcycle at Rs 5.76 lakh (ex-showroom), marking an increase of Rs 10,000 over the previous model. The change brings the compatibility of E20 fuel with the new Lime Green color, while the motorcycle remains unchanged. At Rs 5.76 lakh, the Ninja 500 is significantly more expensive than its closest competitor, the Aprilia RS 457, which is priced between Rs 4.22 lakh and Rs 4.37 lakh (ex-showroom). The higher price is due to the motorcycle being exported as a Complete Unit (CBU). Import duties, as well as the tax regime applicable to motorcycles above 350cc, contribute to its superior position in the market. The installation also puts the latest thinking on the suspension of the Ninja 500 due to the lack of E20 compliance. Interested customers can book a bike online or visit their nearest location. Shipments are expected to begin soon. Powering the Ninja 500 is the same 451cc, liquid-cooled, identical-twin engine producing 45hp at 10,000rpm and 42.6Nm at 7,500rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox and an assist-and-slipper clutch. The motorcycle continues to use a steel trellis frame, telescopic forks at the front and monoshock at the rear. Suspension travel is rated at 120mm at the front and 130mm at the rear. Braking duties are handled by a 310mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc, supported by two-way ABS.Highlights include an LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and full LED lighting. Dual-channel ABS is still the only support offered, with no additional electronic equipment. The Ninja 500 rides on 17-inch wheels with Dunlop Sportmax tires, size 110/70-R17 at the front and 150/60-R17 at the rear. It has a seat length of 785mm and a weight of 171kg when its 14-litre fuel tank is full.
