The Beast Returns: 2026 Kawasaki KX500 Two-Stroke Officially Unleashed at $11,999
After years of anticipation and rumors, Kawasaki has officially revived the legendary KX500 for 2026 — and it’s every bit the beast riders hoped for. Priced at $11,999, the all-new KX500 combines raw two-stroke power with modern technology, honoring its heritage while pushing the limits of performance.
The 2026 KX500 returns with an updated 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine, refined with modern porting, electronic power valve control, and advanced fuel-injection. Kawasaki has retained the heart-pounding aggression that made the original KX500 a desert-racing icon, but with smoother power delivery and more precise throttle response. A newly designed expansion chamber and lightweight exhaust system help the big-bore two-stroke breathe freely, while also meeting updated emissions standards.
Chassis and suspension have seen major improvements. The new KX500 is built on a reinforced aluminum perimeter frame derived from Kawasaki’s championship-winning KX450 platform. Fully adjustable Showa suspension components offer race-ready performance across whoops, sand, and technical terrain. At 238 pounds wet, it’s remarkably agile for a bike of its size.
Aesthetically, the KX500 carries iconic lime green plastics with modern bodywork and aggressive styling. A digital instrument cluster, launch control, and switchable ride modes bring the KX500 into the 21st century.
Kawasaki’s decision to bring back the KX500 is a bold move in a four-stroke dominated market, but one that caters to purists and adrenaline junkies craving that unmistakable two-stroke punch. Whether you’re carving dunes, dominating hare scrambles, or chasing glory in open-class races, the 2026 KX500 is built to conquer.
The beast is back — louder, faster, and meaner than ever.
