2026 Kawasaki Ninja 500 launched: E20 compliance, price & more

Kawasaki India has launched the new 2026 Ninja 500 motorcycle at Rs 5.76 lakh (ex-showroom), marking a Rs 10,000 increase over the previous model. The update brings E20 fuel compatibility and a new Lime Green colour option, while the motorcycle remains mechanically unchanged. At Rs 5.76 lakh, the Ninja 500 is significantly more expensive than its closest rival, the Aprilia RS 457, which is priced between Rs 4.22 lakh and Rs 4.37 lakh (ex-showroom). The higher price is largely due to the motorcycle being imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU). Import duties, along with the tax structure applicable to motorcycles above 350cc, contribute to its premium positioning in the market. The launch also puts to rest recent speculation about the Ninja 500’s discontinuation due to the lack of E20 compliance. Interested customers can book the bike online or by visiting their nearest dealership. Deliveries are expected to begin soon.Powering the Ninja 500 is the same 451cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine producing 45hp at 10,000rpm and 42.6Nm at 7,500rpm. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox and an assist-and-slipper clutch. The motorcycle continues to use a steel trellis frame, telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock. 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 dual-channel ABS.Feature highlights include a Bluetooth-enabled LCD instrument cluster and full-LED lighting. Dual-channel ABS remains the only rider aid on offer, with no additional electronic assistance systems. The Ninja 500 rides on 17-inch wheels fitted with Dunlop Sportmax tyres, sized 110/70-R17 at the front and 150/60-R17 at the rear. It has a seat height of 785mm and a kerb weight of 171kg when its 14-litre fuel tank is full.