With the arrival of the Z650 S, Kawasaki heralds a new chapter for its immensely popular mid-range naked. The new S version combines recognizable Z DNA with a fresh design, modern electronics and improved comfort.
Underneath the skin, the well-known 649cc 180° parallel twin remains the beating heart, with its characteristic smooth power delivery and strong torque in the low and mid revs. Thanks to the slip/assist clutch and – if we say so ourselves – damn nice throttle response, the Z650 S will not only be accessible to less experienced riders, but will also not disappoint seasoned motorcyclists.
The above applied to the Z650 and, given the fact that no adjustments have been made to the engine, will also apply to the new Z650 S. What is new is that the traction control is now adjustable in three positions (although we remain of the opinion that traction control with this kind of power is just as useful as air conditioning at the South Pole), while an optional up/down quickshifter further underlines the sporty character.
The driving characteristics are as you would expect from a Kawasaki: sharp, agile and predictable. The short wheelbase, the sharp head angle and the light tubular frame weighing only 15 kilos ensure razor-sharp steering. Suspension and brakes are basically identical to the Z650, with the difference that Kawasaki has now switched from wave discs to round discs for the brakes (same diameter of 300 mm) and has switched to Continental as far as the ABS is concerned.
Compared to the standard Z650, Kawasaki has made the riding position just that little bit sportier by using a wider ‘fat-bar’ handlebar that is placed 10 mm higher, 30 mm wider and 40 mm further forward. In addition, the Z650 S has a new saddle that is 15 mm higher and flatter, which should improve seating comfort and ensure a relaxed knee angle – ideal for daily use and longer rides.
In terms of appearance, the Z650 S has undergone a major transformation, bringing it back into line with the Z900, with the eye-catching three-piece headlight in the nose. Kawasaki also says that it has widened the bodywork (as far as you can speak of cutting work on a naked) to give the Z a more muscular appearance. The side panels with multi-layer design, the compact upward-facing butt and details such as a honeycomb motif on the side covers, black gusset plates and full LED lighting should enhance the high-quality appearance.
Everything is equally modern inside. The new 4.3″ TFT color display offers two display modes – digital and analogue – with automatic brightness adjustment. Via Rideology The App, the rider can pair the Z650 S with their smartphone for vehicle data, ride recording or voice control.
The new Kawasaki Z650 S will be available at official dealers from mid-February and is available in three color schemes:
Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Metallic Flat Spark Black
Candy Lime Green / Metallic Carbon Gray
Ebony / Metallic Carbon Gray
Kawasaki also supplies a 35 kW kit for holders of an A2 license (Code 80).
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.