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Rumors about the upcoming Kawasaki Z650 RS have been around since 2020. Now the middle class retro bike was presented.
Like the Z900 RS, the smaller sister is trimmed to retro. Round headlights and analog round instruments can be found on the bike. Retro is not the technology, however. The lighting uses LEDs all around and the round instruments have been supplemented with a small LCD display in the center.
Performance data
Performance figures remain unchanged compared to the Z650. The 649cc inline two-cylinder produces 68 PS at 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 64 Nm at 6,700 rpm. A throttled A2 version will also be offered, which will then produce 48 PS and 58 Nm. As for top speeds, Kawa quotes 191 and 176 km/h, respectively.
More upright seating position
The seat is one-piece and slightly graduated between rider and pillion. Compared to the Z650, the seat height increases by 30 mm to then 820 mm. Another seat is offered as an option, providing a seat height of 800 mm.
The handlebars, which have been moved 30 mm closer to the rider and positioned 50 mm higher, ensure a more upright seating position.
The suspension elements and brakes remain unchanged. New 17-inch cast wheels reinforce the retro look with their multi-spoke design. The wheel / tire dimensions remain identical. The wheelbase has been shortened by 5 mm to 1,405 mm.
Availability and colors
Kawasaki quotes a weight of 187 (fully fueled), which is 1 kg below the Z650. There will be three color options to choose from, Metallic Spark Black, Candy Emerald Green and Metallic Moondust Gray/Ebony. It will be available at dealerships from February 2022.
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