Nine new colours across five 2026 Ninja models

As a core brand family in the Kawasaki motorcycle portfolio, the announcement of new colourways for Ninja range models is always a sign that the new season is coming closer… and for 2026 across the five models just announced there are set to be an impressive ten new colour options.

Ninja 500

Ninja 500 SE

Ninja 650

Ninja ZX-4RR

Ninja ZX-6R

As the base model for Kawasaki’s WorldSSP racing team in the hands of rider, Jeremy Alcoba, the 636cc Ninja ZX-6R gains two nine colours for a fresh sales season comprising Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Metallic Spark Black/Lime Green as a new livery plus an updated variation on the fan favourite Lime Green livery.

Sharing a similar engine capacity but configured as a parallel twin engine rather than the four cylinder ZX machine, the highly praised Ninja 650 will be offered in three new colour options in the upcoming range. Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Flat Spark Black and a Lime Green version will be available for the European A2 licence friendly machine that is also a “go to” for experienced riders looking for performance, maneuverability and compact dimensions.

Proudly featuring Kawasaki’s recently developed mid-capacity, water-cooled, twin-cylinder engine, the Ninja 500 and its special edition, SE sibling have been essential parts of the Kawasaki range of late (along with their Z equivalents) offering an easy plus fun-to-ride package that are just as simple to precisely place in the cut and thrust of city traffic as it they are when weekend riding on twisty roads. The Ninja 500 has one new colour in Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black, while the SE model will be available in  Lime Green and Metallic Matte Twilight Blue/Candy Persimmon Red.

In this pre-release of livery options for 2026 that leaves the high-revving and visceral Ninja ZX-4RR as the final part of the initial pack. The diminutive ZX-4RR will be in dealer showrooms in two brand new colorways for the 2026 model year, these being Lime Green and Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black.

For such evocative machines as Ninja models are, the release of information relating to some fresh colour ways will be welcomed by fans eager to be part of Kawasaki’s constantly evolving Ninja story.

Availability as below:

  • Ninja ZX-6R: Late October
  • Ninja 650: October
  • Ninja 500: November
  • Ninja 500 SE: November 
  • Ninja ZX-4RR: October
  • Ninja 650: October

2026 Versys 650 ready to go the distance

A stand out machine in the Kawasaki range, the latest iteration of the ever-popular Versys 650 is ready to take the 2026 sales season head on. Fully Euro-5 compliant, the agile Versys boasts a maximum of 67 PS in terms of peak power plus a useful 61Nm of peak torque.

Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray

Metallic Deep Blue/Metallic Spark Black

Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Spark Black

Equipped with 17 inch wheels for manoeuvrability and agility, the highly durable and equally highly praised, twin-cylinder, water-cooled 649cm3  engine remains in place while the styling echoes that of the Versys 1100 (which is the official motorcycle of the Tour de France) offering a similar level of rider aids plus distinctive contemporary looks. 

From a riding perspective, the easy to read 4.3” TFT meter relays all essential information while offering the possibility to link to the riders’ Smartphone using Kawasaki’s unique Rideology App that also includes a voice command function. 

Offered as standard with KTRC traction control, plus the convenience of all LED lighting, the best way to truly understand the Versys 650 is to ride one and appreciate the all-day comfort seat, ergonomic riding position and generous weather-beating adjustable screen. Add such accessories as “one-key system” panniers and a voluminous top case and the Versys is ready to satisfy any riders dreams of distance. 

Available for 2026 in three colourways, or as part of Kawasaki’s highly appreciated “Editions” range – which encompasses Tourer and Grand-Tourer editions built using only Kawasaki Genuine Accessories – the latest Versys 650 is ready to go the distance. Priced at £8049 for the standard model.

Available from middle of August 2026 Versys 650 Colour Options:

METALLIC SPARK BLACK/METALLIC MATTE CARBON GRAY
METALLIC DEEP BLUE/METALLIC SPARK BLACK
METALLIC GRAPHITE GRAY/METALLIC SPARK BLACK

New liveries for five 2026 Kawasaki Z models released

Z500

Z500 SE

Z650

Z900

Z900 SE

Forming part of the very essence of Kawasaki’s naked segment motorcycle heritage, the Z family of machines is as popular as ever, achieving a global following thanks to its adherence to a fun to ride ethos coupled with Kawasaki’s landmark engineering and unique contemporary Sugomi styling. 

Stretching an enviable lineage way back to the Z1 Super Four of the early 1970’s, Z speaks to riders on many levels and Kawasaki’s Z offering for 2026 is as impressive as ever. Five machines with new liveries are now ready to be unveiled and among these are refreshed liveries on entry level A2 compliant models, a mid-capacity stalwart plus hard edged yet rider friendly models in the upper capacity classes. 

From launch, the A2 licence friendly Z500 quickly garnered a reputation for lively and controllable performance thanks to an all new twin-cylinder, water-cooled engine platform combined with an assist and slipper clutch and Smartphone connectivity mated to a forgiving chassis well suited to newbies and experienced riders alike. Infused with Kawasaki’s unique Sugomi spirit, the Z500 and sibling Z500 SE will be available in the 2026 motorcycle range in a combined total of five new colour ways; Ebony/Metallic Carbon Gray, Candy Lime Green/Metallic Carbon Gray and Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black for the Z500 and Ebony/Metallic Carbon Gray plus Pearl blizzard White/Ebony for the SE version. 

The Z500’s larger stable mate, the Z650 enjoys a new colour option for 2026 while keeping to its tried and trusted combination of 649cc engine, full LED lighting, KTRC traction control and colour TFT plus trellis type chassis sporting a distinctive headlight cowl evoking the 2003 rebirth of the Z family. With a well-earned reputation for performance and durability, the compact twin cylinder engine – complete with cassette type gearbox – is equally at home on city streets as mountain passes and comes in Pearl Blizzard White. 

For many the ideal combination of engine size, willing performance and classic Sugomi style, two Z900 machines for 2026 share four new colour options between them. The Z900 which boasts electronic cruise control, an inertia measurement unit (IMU) and Rideology voice command functionality will appear in Kawasaki dealerships in three colour options, those being Ebony/Metallic Carbon Gray, Candy Lime Green/Metallic Carbon Gray and Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black for the Z900. 

The Special Edition or SE model of Z900 boasts upgraded brakes and suspension plus a headlamp cowl USB-C socket. It now comes in a new colour option for the coming season of Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Metallic Matte Carbon Gray. 

Coming into stock at Kawasaki dealers across Europe soon – along with other incoming 2026 model year machines – the vast array of Z options shows just how seriously Kawasaki takes the category and how determined the company is to offer the widest possible choice to keep the Good Times rolling.

Pricing and availability as follows:

  • Z500 – Available from November, price TBC
  • Z500 SE – Available from November, price TBC
  • Z650 – Available from October, price TBC
  • Z900 – Available from October, price TBC
  • Z900 SE – Available from late October, price TBC

Kawasaki Z650RS boasts three new 2026 colours

Ebony

Metallic Ocean Blue

Candy Emerald Green

Harking back to the game-changing Z650-B1 of 1976, the Z650RS has been a Kawasaki fan favourite since its introduction for the 2022 model year.

Echoing the mantra of its forebear, the Z650RS offers not simply great all round performance in terms of engine response, handling and braking, but a seemingly timeless approach to styling initiated by the famous Z1 model Super Four then amplified by the Z650-B1. That kind of style never goes out of fashion, a fact underpinned by the legions of riders who have already invested in the Z650RS. 

Whilst looking like a classic from the 1970’s, the specification of the Z650RS is fiercely contemporary with ABS, dual throttle valves, 2-Mode traction control plus an assist and slipper clutch all as standard while retaining needle style meters and an evocative round headlamp albeit LED which puts traditional lights in the shade. 

For many riders, the deciding factor, the “icing on the cake”, is the colour of their much anticipated new machine. And for 2026 no less than three colour options for the Z650RS will be available; these being Ebony, Metallic Ocean Blue and Candy Emerald Green. 

Whatever the choice, being part of the Z650RS family imbues riders with a sense of belonging to a Z650 dynasty that will stretch way back exactly 50 years in 2026. A unique feeling and a super special bike. 

The 2026 Z650RS will be available from November, costing £7,899.

2025 Tour de France: Kawasaki Versys 1100 “along for the ride”

Centre piece of world cycling and recognised as one of the most viewed sports events globally, the Tour de France is an enthralling spectacle that relies on a huge and efficient infrastructure. 

An intrinsic component of what keeps the wheels spinning are the myriad of team and organiser support vehicles, among them this year a fleet of Kawasaki Versys 1100 machines as Official Motorcycles of the 2025 event and for the following two years.

Thanks to their generous luggage capacity, smooth engine response at all speeds and any road, all day comfort, the Versys 1100 support machines add to the efficiency of the race by ensuring road closures are maintained, the crowds are kept safe and that the whole travelling entourage of competitors, team support vehicles and attendant media pack are able to negotiate each stage unhindered.

With twenty one stages and 3338kms for competitors to cover in racing conditions, the  Tour de France offers a mixture or road surfaces, vast elevation changes from mountains to sea level plains plus countless  twists and turns creating the ultimate test for the cyclists – and equally demanding of the support personnel and machinery.

The Versys 1100 excels in its role thanks to its fuel efficiency, any-speed engine flexibility and all road surface agility; plus an ergonomic riding position and luggage capacity that ensure rider and passenger can enjoy their ride and the scenery in ultimate comfort.  Kawasaki wishes all 2025 Tour de France competitors good fortune and the reassurance that the Versys 1100 will be “along for the ride”.   

AJN Steelstock Kawasaki unveils one-off livery for Snetterton

As the Bennetts British Superbike Championship roars back into action, the AJN Steelstock Kawasaki race team has unveiled a unique yellow livery scheme for this weekend, in recognition of the iconic Kawasaki Z1. 

With Snetterton being AJN Steelstock’s ‘home’ round, the team has created a unique one-off livery to celebrate. The iconic Kawasaki green has been replaced with a vibrant yellow, a nod to the Candy Yellow Z1 that ignited a life-long love of motorcycles and motorcycle racing for AJN Steelstock’s Joint Managing Director, Alan Boyden. 

Both Christian Iddon’s and Max Cook’s Ninja ZX-10RRs will be adorned in the new colourways, while both riders will have matching leathers and the team garage will also have a new look for the weekend.  

In addition to the special livery, Alan will also be bringing along some of his own stunning collection of Kawasakis to display outside the team’s hospitality unit, including an original 1973 Z1, a 1974 Z1A, a 1975 Z1B, a 1976 Z900-A4, a 1979 six-cylinder Z1300, a 1984 Eddie Lawson Replica, a Z900RS and even a Ninja H2 Carbon!  

Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki Motors UK:
“What can I say? This design is absolutely stunning! The AJN Steelstock Kawasaki ZX-10RR’s always stand out on track, but this has taken it to another level. I can’t wait to see the bikes in action this weekend and look forward to customers having the chance to see Alan’s display of both modern and heritage Kawasakis trackside.” 

Alan Boyden, AJN Steelstock’s Joint Managing Director: 
“The Kawasaki Z1 is a classic and a true motorcycling icon. Launched in 1972, it set the bar for high-performance motorcycling and kick-started the concept of the Superbike.” 

“What better way to celebrate the Z1’s iconic status than a special livery for the current ZX-10RR Superbikes and watching them compete for top honours at our home round at Snetterton. We can’t wait to see Max and Christian out on the track.”

Le Mans demonstration of Kawasaki HySE hydrogen motorcycle

The 60th running of the famousLe Mans 24 hour Endurance motorcycle race on the weekend of 19 and 20 April notonly witnessed a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR on the podium – and leading the racefor several hours – but also a demonstration of Kawasaki cutting edge hydrogenvehicle technology.

At the invitation of the race organisers ASO (who also oversee the world famous Tour de France cycle race), Kawasaki sent their research prototype HySE motorcycle to Le Mans along with test rider, Matthias Hoeppner.

As one of the motorcycle manufacturer members of HySE (the Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology Association), Kawasaki has developed a machine based on its Ninja supercharged motorcycle platform powered exclusively by hydrogen stored in special tanks at either side of the rear of the machine. With virtually no emissions to speak of (including some harmless water vapour), the HySE machine is a physical sign that the “future fuel” hydrogen can be applied to two wheeled vehicles as well as four. 

Witnessed by the huge Le Mans crowd plus Gilles Huttepain, Vice president of ASO and Mathieu Kassovitz, the official starter of the 2025 race, test pilot, Matthias Hoeppner, left the pit lane just 15 minutes before the race itself began and completed a demonstration lap of the 4.13Km track in damp conditions.

For ASO this invitation forms part of a longer H24 strategy focussing on an eventual 24 hour endurance race for electric and hydrogen powered cars. Equally significant for Kawasaki – who now have a retail range that includes gasoline, electric and even hybrid motorcycles – Kawasaki Motors France created a display in the public area of the race track that encouraged visitors across the four days of the event to see a product display and ask staff questions about current and new technologies.

With other hydrogen focused displays including a kids “railroad” and a hydrogen powered generator, the green focus of the event matched perfectly with the HySE group mission to explore the obvious environmental benefits of hydrogen vehicles.

Speaking about his demonstration lap, Matthias Hoeppner said:  

“Our research into hydrogen power illustrates well the Kawasaki principles of not only embracing new technologies but also applying practical applications to them. Being one of the test riders I am well used to the HySE machine by now but it still gives me a thrill each time I ride it knowing it is powered exclusively by hydrogen. The demonstration lap was shown live on worldwide television and the huge crowd really appreciated the chance to see an actual working example of hydrogen motive power applied to a motorcycle.”

Bournemouth Kawasaki and James Hillier Reunite for Isle of Man TT!

After a last-minute change of plans, Kawasaki UK is delighted to announce that James Hillier will once again be lining up in green for the two Isle of Man TT Supersport races. Partnering once more with Bournemouth Kawasaki, a team he has had lots of success with throughout his career,  he’ll be riding the Ninja ZX-6R he took to fourth and sixth last year.

Despite planning to sit 2025 out, the Bournemouth Kawasaki team will be making a surprise return to the Isle of Man TT next month, running James Hillier in both Supersport races. Campaigning on the proven Ninja ZX-6R, James and the team will be looking to build on their results last year and are setting their sights firmly on a podium finish. 

The Bournemouth Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R will be backed by Kawasaki Insurance, which offers specialist and bespoke insurance policies to all riders of any Kawasaki machinery in the UK. 

Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki Motors UK:
“It was a shame to see what happened to James earlier this month; however, it has presented us with a great opportunity to have another go at getting on that Supersport podium at the Isle of Man TT. James and the team have a huge amount of experience with the bike and attacking the event in general, so we are confident it will be a great two weeks. I would like to thank Kawasaki Insurance for getting on board at this late stage and helping put the team in a position to go full throttle into the two races at the end of this month.” 

Pete Extance, Team Owner, Bournemouth Kawasaki:
“2025 started with the idea of having a year out of the TT, but when that changed, we were only too happy to speak with James and put a deal together for him to ride the Bournemouth Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. It didn’t take long for us to agree on a deal with James to return, and we set to work preparing the bike for the TT starting in the last week of May. We firmly believe James and the team have podium potential, and hopefully, that second TT career win that James richly deserves.” 

James Hillier:
“After a difficult few days, it was great to secure a ride back with Pete and Bournemouth Kawasaki, especially as it was back with my Kawasaki ZX-6R from last year. We both know what we need to do, and I am sure we will hit the ‘25 TT running. Massive thanks to the team and everyone who has helped get this sorted at such short notice.”

Danny Buchan becomes AJN Steelstock Kawasaki British Superteen Ambassador

Kawasaki UK is delighted to announce that former British Superbike star and Team Green rider Danny Buchan will remain in the paddock for 2025, becoming an ambassador for the thrilling AJN Steelstock Kawasaki British Superteen series.

Having had a very successful career with Kawasaki, including being crowned National Superstock Champion twice and winning FS-3 Racing team’s first ever Superbike race, Danny has a wealth of knowledge on racing the tricky UK circuits. He will be using all of that experience in 2025 when he works alongside the stars of tomorrow as the official ambassador for the AJN Steelstock Kawasaki British Superteen series. 

The Essex based rider will be at all eight rounds of the 2025 Championship, helping every rider in the class to not only hone their race craft on track but also how to approach racing and their motorsports careers off track. 

The Superteen class is the perfect representation of the Team Green ethos of giving young riders the best possible platform to springboard their racing careers. As a former Team Green rider, Danny has seen first-hand how it can help, while many of the stars of last year’s Championship have already moved on to bigger classes, including the British Supersport and Sportbike classes as well as the FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship. 

Ross Burridge, Head of Marketing & Racing Department at Kawasaki Motors UK:
“We are excited to welcome Danny back to Kawasaki and Team Green this year! We have had a successful and enjoyable relationship with Danny for over a decade and we are pleased that he has agreed to work with us and our Superteen Championship in 2025. We want to give the youngsters in this series the best possible platform to shine, and we believe that alongside the awesome ZX-4RR, having Danny bring his knowledge and experience to these young racers will be the perfect combination. We hope that every rider takes full advantage of this opportunity throughout the season.” 

Danny Buchan, Kawasaki Superteen Ambassador:
“Obviously I was excited to get the call up from Kawasaki with this opportunity. I was one of the first Team Green riders back in 2010 and my roots run deep with Kawasaki so helping out today’s young riders with the experience I have gained in all my years of racing was a no brainer. It takes so much effort by everyone involved and I was lucky enough to have some real important figures around me when coming through the ranks, such as Nick Morgan from MSS Performance who helped catapult my career with his knowledge of the sport so I hope I can do the same with these youngsters. Help kickstart their careers and help steer them in the right direction for their years ahead in the sport. I’m looking forward to meeting them all at round one in May.”

‘Spring Spark Offer’ on EV and Hybrid ranges launched!

Kawasaki are excited to announce a new offer on both the EV and Hybrid range of machines, available now through participating Kawasaki dealers.

As Spring kicks into gear, the all-electric machines are now on offer at the heavily reduced price of £3999 for the Z e-1 and £4299 for the Ninja e-1. Also featuring price reductions are the world’s first Strong Hybrid machines, the Z 7 and Ninja 7 Hybrids both ready to be ridden away at just £6999.

Get ready to spark your passion and contact your local dealer today whilst stocks last.