NEW KAWASAKI Z650RS: 3 THINGS I LIKE & 3 THINGS I DON'T
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ก.ย. 2024
- Kawasaki are releasing their new Z650RS. As a current owner of a Z900RS, I run my critical eye over the Z650RS with a view to asking if Kawasaki have done enough to warrant calling this an RS. Will the Z650RS compete favourably with Yamaha's XSR700, Triumph's Trident 660 or the Vitpilen 701? Will the Z650RS offer enough extra to justify the increase in price over the Z650?
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An in-line 4 would add weight and cost. I really appreciate modernizing somewhat the bike in a few key places and keeping the retro feel with the seat, headlights and gauges. It's 100% a hit for me.
You might be right, but had they made this bike with a 4cyl 750 I'd own one by now. I have no interest in a 2cyl 650 and the 900 is just a tad more than I want. A 750 4cyl would have been perfect, and I'd pay a few more dollars and accept a few more pounds for it.
I wish these companies would realize that a lot of us don’t want a big displacement engine and would appreciate a smaller displacement bike with higher performance components.
Yes, it's a shame that we have to look at higher end bikes to get desirable parts.
One mid size bike that did spec out with some nice parts, is the Honda CB650 R. Showa big piston SFF forks, Nissin calipers. Am not pushing for that bike - just saying. It feels nice all round, bar the bony seat.
I have bought one last week and it’s already in hands! Awesome toy!!
Congrats!
I totally agree with Chris B, I would have liked an inline four cylinder like the original.
My biggest complaint (and I ended up buying it, dont regret it) is the size of the fuel tank. 160 mi is easily the lowest in its field.
Agreed! I wonder if fitting a larger tank is a possibility?
I found that you would be on the bike for several hours before running out of gas. I have done a 1 hour trip and a 2 hour trip and I still have three quarters of a tank left. Its nice to hop off and have a break.....................like filling up I am averaging 64 .6 mile to the gallon
I think the main objective was low weight and in that aspect they did great with it's 187kg which would never be an option if they went for 4 cylinder engine. I just got it and having Ducati Monster S2R1000 in the past I can say that Kawa is a perfect tool in the city. It's nimble like a scooter with quite a lot of power and what's more important torque. I'm about 95 kg and yes the front shocks could be a bit stiffer but all needs to be done is changing oil for thicker. I wouldn't bother as those standard shocks are perfect in the city filtering all road imperfections. The exhaust is not the best looking and what's worse it is so close to the front peg that on longer rides it's a bit too loud. I would very much prefer to have it way back but again that would throw a few extra kilos onto the bike which I wouldn't like as well. In general, the bike is excellent and looks fantastic. I recommend it to new and old bikers. After a 1000cc Ducati this little one is refreshing.
Great feedback, thanks.
Got sick of the cha! ching! every service & tune hay!
I'm fine with the engine. Would've definitely appreciated a new exhaust that fits the aesthetic. I think the other parts are fairly typical for the price and a full exhaust like the 900rs would help hold it all together. However, one can also say the exhaust is the most likely part to be changed anyway, so I can see why Kawasaki didn't bother.
by the way, the correct full exhaust already exists, it's is from Yoshimura, and that's what I would get.
Thing is, those old air cooled UJMs were HEAVY. I think they realized that the weight saving was worth it to newer riders.
yes , those old 650 were VERY heavy and not that great ;;
I love that green with the gold colored wheels
I love the look.
Competes with RE int, Moto Guzzi V7, Triumph T100.
All great bikes.
But the Z650RS is lighter and better for me as I'm an old codger.
Good review, the ergonomics is more important than just the retro look, I think people are buying these retro mainly for the comfortable ergonomics than just the looks. This new 650 has upright seating position, the handlebar are up high and moved back, much comfortable ergonomics. The naked version of these bike are more sporty and uncomfortable ergonomics, lean forward on the handlebar which make them very uncomfortable after 45 minutes riding.
Yes you raise a good point - if ridden reasonably, this will be a comfortable bike. Thanks for your input. Cheers.
@@BlueMarbleRider the ergonomics on these retro bikes are very close to adventure touring bikes but with out the fairings, extra weight and the windshield which I would add to the retro bike. Old days they made things simple and practical!!! You had one bike and it did everything for you, now we have a a bike for different ridings( street, track, touring,….)
Considering that this bike is essentially, as you point out just a styling exercise change of the Z650, the just announced $8999 msrp is a whopping $1450 USD over the Z650. This seems rather excessive especially when compared to the Trident which is a good $800 less. Seems you get much more bike with the Trident for the money. Still, I love the look of this bike in the green with the gold wheels and frankly I don't want all the tech that comes with the Trident. Slipper assist clutch and ABS on this bike good enough for me. I like the analog double clocks too. I think I might want this Z650rs except for the price.
Nicely put. Kawasaki are banking on the looks to tip the scales on this one. Cheers.
I agree, but there are no perfect bikes out there. While the Z650 has enough power for me and the Trident has more power than I need, Triumph offers better fit and finish for less money. In the end, I'll take the Trident over the Z650RS and spend the savings on custom options.
@@jamesdarnell8568 Totally sound reasoning. I may end up going in a totally different direction than either the Z650RS or Trident. At this point I'm just dreaming. Riding season is almost over here so I'm not ready to do anything.
In the US, Triumph sells for MRSP, but Kawasaki gives big discounts. At the end, the Trident will be 25% more, and I find the Kawa better looking and more practical. Admittedly the Triumph is more quality and fun.
Agree. Also don't like the radiator cap sticking so far out. It looks a good bike. But the z900RS is a great bike.
As others have noted, an inline 4 would have separated it from all the others in the class. Looks like a good starter bike if the price is right. Cheers!
Agree - should be a great entry or mid range bike for someone wanting the rideability of a proven engine with a little more style. Cheers back at you!
@@BlueMarbleRider Im about to get my motorcycle license. Im 37 years old. Responsible and not interested in top speeds and sport bikes. The 900RS looks like a dream to me, sexy as hell, ticks all the right boxes for me, but I suspect might be *too much bike for me as a first bike. This 650RS looks great as well, although theyre much newer and harder to find in the used market. It looks like I can find a used 900RS for the price of a new 650RS, or maybe even less(in Texas). What you guys think? 900RS too much for a new rider my age?
If you arent riding like a maniac probably not
@@LaminarSound Too late now I guess. It depends what you have been riding. If you have come from a 125cc bike, winding back the Z900 RS will leave you shaking in the seat. The Z650 RS would too. However if you are no fool whatsoever, or have come from maybe a 400cc, then the choice is completely yours. Either would be fine.
However if someone were contemplating the Z900 RS seriously, when coming form a smaller bike. Then why not rent a mid sized bike for a few weeks, before buying the Z900 RS. Get experience of the weight, feel, and power, of a bigger bike.
Not only would an Inline Four add weight and cost, but I also believe that riders are moving away from top end speed for more low-down grunt and affordability! I certainly have gone backwards with my Bikes! I started with a GSXR750, had Blades and Ninjas too! High speed accident in 2008 taught me a lot! So, I just ride for fun on a Vespa with my wife on hers! However, I do plan on getting a bike to take my son on tour with! Possibly a Z650RS, but I do like the Triumph T120!
The exhaust is a real deal breaker. Other than that, it is a very nice and stylish bike for the price. Forgot to add, as a retro enthusiast, some fake cylinder fins would add to this model….the Yamaha 700, needs a close look to identify an engine in there somewhere !
The exhaust is the only, single deal breaker for me. Holy crap man hard to keep up with all your comparisons in speed talk. It is called a 650, to me an old guy, that is the twin….what is the inline four cylinder ? And in the dame class ? With four cylinders ? Maybe I am too old going back to 650s of the sixties ?? Thanks for the vid,
Agree with your assessment albeit if this is a second bike, a gem to enjoy. I'm under 5'8" and when I sat on both the Z900RS and the Z650RS, the 650 just fit me better. I felt the seat on the 900 was not as comfortable. Wish local dealers had demos. My local dealer does have a used Z900RS that I may get a chance to tryout.
i admit I was expecting an inline four.. even if in looks only.. am sure kawasaki could have tried harder, after all, they've already done a great job styling the 900...
Really beautiful bike, honestly...there is something to be said about the torque that a twin can deliver, right? Perfect first road bike.
You know, this is a very attractive bike. If Kawasaki were to rearrange the exhaust headers, I believe that sales would be even better. As a ride, the bike is lovely.
On the last question…
I pull up a middle finger on all!
And bough an SV650!
Insta-classic design that never gets old, superior engine, sound of a real v2, superior suspension, usability… etc etc.
And that all for a grand or two lower than any of the shown bikes.
Does I like the looks of this kawa? Yes I do! But would never-ever trade it for my SV as an only bike.
Agree, the SV is a lovely bit of kit and very tunable/customizable. Great racing bikes too.
Spot on! If only the 3 dislike were non existent, I will buy this bike in a heartbeat..
Yes, it should be a 4 cylinder, assuming its intention is to pay homage to the late 70s KZ650. The exhaust appearance should have had a similar look to the big brother 900. With that exhaust, you might benefit from having a centre stand for easier maintenance like the 900 has with availability of one.
agree. It shouldn't be labeled RS. Putting a 650, 4 cylinder would be very cool.
@@gtrs4ever I third that. I would have liked it to be four cylinder. When I first saw it, the first thing I noticed was the two cylinder engine, and felt momentarily deflated.
I am in full agreement with you.
The exhaust is something I would not compromise on. Much prefer the upswept exhaust. Need to get rid of my RE Interceptor and the RS 650 seems a good option.
Hi, I want to buy my first bike and just deciding between an interceptor and a kawasaki. Why do you want to change to a kawasaki ? Thx for answer.
@@UPOLTommy Quality, over all fit & finish of the bike, performance, reliability, the kawasaki RS is stunningly beautiful & arguably the best retro designed, components - suspension, tyres, seat, mirrors. lights, brakes...the list goes on and on..
It's a no contest!
100 percent agree with you. Kawasaki should have stuck with an inline 4 and a 'normal' exhaust pipe to capture the prospective retro owner. It looks great but I wouldn't buy it because of its parallel twin and an under slung exhaust. I'm a child of the 60's and surely that is the target market. None of this LAMS stuff in a retro bike for the Australian market PLEASE !!! Surely learners are not your target market for this style of bike Mr Kawasaki. Not on my shopping list.
100% agree with your views.
Really true to the Z650 that I knew, except from the engine - and that’s crucial 🤔
I appreciate that Kawasaki is in the game with this, and I most certainly agree that a small inline 4 would have been closer to the mark. I think this bike is a miss...
Ooooh, 636RS 4 cylinder would be more exciting;. Until the aftermarket tries EVERYTHING. ONLY Time will tell. [First blush, shyte]
Your not kidding man the market for this motorcycle is vicious yet I am very happy to see manufacturers enter this arena.
This is a hit.
this is a miss for you but sales are already proving it is a hit
So you want people believe in you? LOL! KAWASAKI IS AN INSTITUTION. While YOU are just a RANDOM youtube COMMENTOR.
It's a bike that I plan to buy. My only real complaint is the trashcan exhaust, a carryover from the Z 50 it is derived from.
Honda has built the CB650 R model with a four cylinder engine. It cost 9,500 U.S. Dollars. The Kawasaki Z650 RS cost 7,000 U.S. dollars. BOTH are GREAT BIKES ! The question is : HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO SPEND ??? I personally would be HAPPY to find either of these FINE MACHINES in my garage !
Great point!
very nice review. I like what I see and would love to make this my big bike! I have a scooter, and have had small bikes for a while now, and I remember how the Kawasaki KLR650 with less power and less everything (than this Z650RS) took me from Mexico to Canada and back and many many (over 50K miles) in over a decade.... so I think this new bike is enough for me and my style...of course now I am a middle age man with less need for speed or performance than before! just add the grabhandle and strap them bags!
Go for it!
Having owned both the Interceptor and currently own the Z650RS the Kawasaki is a so much better bike in every single way.
Interesting comparison. What were your takeaways about the differences?
@@BlueMarbleRider comfort for one on a long ride. The build quality and reliability. I also much prefer the look of the green and gold Z650RS. My shorty wife can also flat foot the Kawasaki where she couldn’t the Interceptor even with it being lowered.
Yeh Kawasaki also has much more power and mine is the LAMS version which is nobbled somewhat.
The RE is top heavy and struggled with it. Purchased a demo Z650RS less than a RE650 and purchased a top quality leather jacket......so all up $300 extra than the RE
While the lack of an inline 4 cylinder motor is a disappointment to me, Kawasaki continues IMHO, to invoke the classic UJM sport standard vibe/styling of the 70's and 80's better than anyone else. I'm a boomer so I was around then. Younger riders probably don't, in large part, really care if it's a twin or 4 cylinder. Agree on the budget suspension and exhaust observations.
Nicely put, - I think you summed it up in a nutshell. Thanks for the feedback.
@@BlueMarbleRider Thank you, and you are welcome.
Well it's a bit hard judgement on an intro model & all the retro models are released with personal mods in mind so to keep prices down that many will use the extra cash to do that is smart thinking, personally I like the exhaust low down like that, they may bring out a 4 but I would prefer a bigger twin or better yet more power from what they have, I had a Gpz 500 twin & know they could get way more power out of that right the way through the rev range than what it has.
I don't think it's a patch on the original 650 inline 4.
I agree with your pros and cons. This bike is far away from her elder sister of 900 cc. It has an inline twin (boring engine), they did not modify the looks of the engine and exhaust is not retro. Moreover that box that covers part of the engine is disgusting... see how they do not show that side of the bike. The problem here is that we compare the 650 with the awesome and stunning 900. The 900 is, even though its price in Spain is pretty high, a winner, and Kawasaki made a great investment in it. Despite all its weak points, they will sell it a lot.
Agree, Jose: I think this bike is targeted at younger riders who will be wowed by the hint of retro. I see Kawasaki's reasoning; would have been unitque to see a mid range four cylinder retro though. Cheers.
In NZ this bike is $3k more than the Z650. That's a total rip off. $500 would have been fair. But for $3k more it needed to be an inline four.
Agree, William - that's silly money. Cheers.
Thanks for this.
The Z900rs is too much bike for my needs, but I am disappointed with the Z650 in comparison to Yamaha XSR 700.
Fair enough!
Manufacturers still put profits at the top of the priority list, but we all like more for less in their defence. However; Honda's CB650 has a four cylinder and roughly 25 ponies more, which does make a big difference on bikes in this cat. The pipes look way better too
The bike is fast enough,in my opinion, I ride a Benelli Imperiale 21 HP and it is fast enough for me. Compared with the Benelli the Kawasaki is a rocket. How fast will you ride in traffic? I am a big Kawasaki fan and I find this bike quite amazing, very beautifull and very nimble. In traffic of nowadays fast moto's are over the top, this bike is a big friend I think!
Maybe the W800 would be a better/cooler choice for a retro in that range from Kawasaki
Yes, a true retro (with the silver motor:-)
indeed, the Japanese bonneville
i believe your torque figure for this bike is incorrect. Per Kawasaki, it makes a claimed 48.5 ft/lb of torque
I quite agree with your analysis! I bought a 1977 KZ650 Custom (US spec) and drove it 10,000 miles in the 10 months that I owned it. A great machine. Although I'm sure the new model is far better in many ways, it does seem to be a cheaper retro to those who never experienced the original. It should have a four cylinder engine as the baseline to being a retro!
Good review - Interceptor looks sexier, but for a shorter rider like myself, it could be a winner...
If you take a look at the very humorous/cringeworthy promo vid by Kawasaki, the European CEO sits on the bike: he looks to have a shorter inside leg measurement and manages to get both feet to the floor. The seat doesn't look too wide either. Cheers.
Thanks mate - still as you're alluding to, it seams like a slightly contrived bike, especially with that exhaust :)
That radiator tho'... Couldn't they have flipped it to the vertical? Triumphs Street twin managed it! Otherwise, the styling is spot on.
I think they went with the "good enough" philosophy, which, as you say, is a shame. Cheers.
RS label is a good conception of making a basic model , with minimal manufacturing changes to all new bike, like a RS900 but i think in case of RS650 ,Kawasaki was not honest with as ,as they was with their Marketing Division, cause this time they skip the manufacturing phase completely and left only the assembly part, which not really justify the 30% of extra cost. In my view, at least one sided classic stainless pipe was enough.
I own a z900 like you.... not going to be trading that anytime soon. I will be sending my eco to Ivan this winter. If I didn't owe it, I might look at this bike, if the price was right. But my candy green and yellow speaks to me.... :>
Will hope to test ride one next year in spring, but I have similar feelings as yourself in regards to the engine
A revised bhp / torque to the 636 engine would have been preferable to myself
You are absolutely right with the things you don‘t like about the Z 650. Especially the suspension is really basic. In combination with the missing „air cooled look“ of the engine I would rather go for a Z 900 right away…
Hi All, In Hungary the price tag is thesame on Trident and Z650RS. The Trident is more sofisticated, the performance is higher for this price. Even so I would rather buy the RS as I'm a new rider, and the look is much more better than the Trident in my opinion. The finish is mostly thesame. As I see a "new rider bike" should be relativly cheap (both buying it and maintenance it), need to be reliable (there is a "?" in me by the Triumph), and should not surprize me in any riding situation. As I saw in the tests the Trident is designed for more experienced riders. The other good thing that RS's simlicity makes the maintenance easier and the Kawasaki reliability makes it cheaper in longer term.
Thanks for your thoughts, Gergo. They're both great bikes; think I prefer the looks of the Z650RS over the Trident though. Good luck.
@@BlueMarbleRider you are right: both are great. I think this is the first really "retrovolutioner" bike in the mid segment (~70 HP) with its 70's design. Hopefully car manufactures will also follow this trend. The review is great. Thx for it. 🙂
Correction @ 1:45 that tank is 15L or 4.0 gallon.
Correction @ 2:07 the torque is 47 ft-lb, not 67.
Kawasaki has had this 649cc engine around in one form or another since 2006. To say they couldn't have redesigned this engine or retuned it with a much more charismatic sounding/feeling 270º by now, or gave us a 90° V-twin by now, is just lazy on Kawasaki's side. They are a massive corporation and can afford to do things (given the H2 series, Z900 engine, 300 dual sport dirtbike, new ZX-10R, one of the last 600 supersports still being made). They could easily upgrade the 650 engine for the Versys, Vulcan, Z, ZRS, and Ninja. They don't because they have phoned it in.
Even Suzuki who doesn't put out any new engines in a very long time have created an all-new GSX-8S with a 270° 776cc engine.
Tank is 12L, not 15L. Torque is 64N.M. www.kawasaki.co.uk/en/products/Z900RS/2023/Z650RS/specifications?Uid=0893CllZCQtRXFtbUFEOXA1eWwpfCVBYWlpcWg4LWQ4NUF4
@@BlueMarbleRider Amazing, they reduced fuel capacity from the Z650, I stand corrected in that. Makes me want one even less than not wanting one.
However, the narration clearly said "sixty-seven pounts-foot of torque" I marked the time.
Hi blue marble rider , yes you are all right I don't like it I prefer your bike and the trident it looks a lot better
In an ideal world I would loved to had seen two versions of this iconic bike, even if it ment a 2k price hike for a 80hp 4 pot motor with twin upswept exhaust pipes & quality shocks, I suppose in couple of years it will receive its update but in the meantime I'm going for the candy green & have some fun
I've no doubt you'll enjoy it immensley. It is still going to be a great ride. Cheers.
I love the colour of the green/ gold wheels but totally agree about the exhaust,great video.
Thanks 👍
True facts revealed 👍
I like it but it's not close enough to the original z650 for me and I won't be buying it, people love heritage and they have messed it up with the engine and exhaust, I may look at one in a few years if they change those bits or the price comes down in the 2nd hand market, I would rather get a z900 and paint it that gorgeous green
No i don't believe you were to critical with the suspension but for me especially with the engines Horse power , like unto Honda's 650. I've had Kawasaki's before the Blue H2 triple in the seventies out the crate doing 130mph and later the Kaw 1100.
Afraid it will not be a winner, though I really like the looks. Even with a small premium it will probably be more expensive than XSR700 and Honda CB650R (inline 4 the video mentioned), which are more powerful and more characterful than Z650. It will even be more expensive than the Triumph, which is more exotic with only downside its practicality. On the other hand, the retro (and neo-retro) bike market is based heavily on looks and the first 2 bikes, though better, are not as good looking. In my opinion they are its immediate competitors.
It's a tough call to predict whether they have done enough to make this successful. It will be interesting to see if the looks are enough. Kawasaki are banking on it, but as far as tech and performance go, I agree: it is fairly run-of-the-mill.
Couldn't agree more, growing up in the early 80s, the original Z650 gave us a growing four cylinder bike to blast around on as we couldn't afford GPZ or GSX1100s etc. I believe Kawasaki have missed a trick here by not using the ZX6 engine as you say.
Woud Yamaha dare to introduce a new FJ1200 styled option to the sport/tourer genre. Not everyone likes adventure styled versions?
Keep up the good work!!👍🇬🇧
That's a good call regarding the FJ1200. They removed it here recently, and I wonder if they are realising the sport-touring segment is starting to take off again. It would be nice to see. Cheers.
Great presentation and another beautiful Kawasaki !
Not to critical at all. Actually quite reasonable. I'd but this if it was 15% cheaper than the trident and xsr700.
I had the KZ650 4 cly in 77 in green....yes bad mistake making it a twin....and the exhaust is enought to keep me from buying it....I was 20 when it came out in 77 and I rode it all over AZ,UT,CA and N.M ....I was hit with 26k miles on it an it was a write off......I bought a 79 KZ650 to replace it....thats how much I liked it....it was the perfect bike to me.
If they just coul replace those headers with some chrome ones.....maybe....but im not that big on twins for long rides.
Love KZ650s. Often admired them. Lots of lovely older used KZ650s out there - have you checked out Johnnysvintagemotorcycles who specializes in Z1s, but he gets the odd KZ650...th-cam.com/video/pvj2wJHzBNc/w-d-xo.html
I think I'd rather have one than the Z650RS. Cheers.
Yep... the exhaust system is an ugly looking affair IMO. The engine too looks plain.
Personally... I like the more balanced look of exhaust pipes on both sides of a street bike.
totalmente de acuerdo, muy pintona si, pero le faltan 2 cilindros y 2000 rpms. más para ser lo que dice que quiere ser.
Pero no la he cambiado por mi hornet 600 2007 😅
The 600 Hornet is a great bike. Cheers.
Personally, I think the styling on this bike is better than the 900. I feel the 900 misses the mark. The original 650 wasn't a great bike. I feel that this bike would be far better to ride, despite basic components. The engine could be a 4 but the styling, the wheels, instruments and the green paint make it look pretty smart. The green is a very pleasant, eye catching colour scheme, I think. When I got my licence, it was on a 900 Ducati and I once owned a Yamaha 650. After that, a few GSX 1100 variants, so mostly big bikes. I know someone with a near new Z650rs in green, so, I am waiting till he is ready to upgrade, so I can buy it from him😁
That sounds like a master plan! :-)
Yes, you have been too critical. I am going to buy one........Sal : )
Great bike, and yes, much nit picking. Cheers and have fun!
Aesthetically, the whole design exercise looks so wrong from a "classic" standpoint. Although the view from the top looks classic, the angle of the exhaust headers leading to the hideous muffler looks awkward and the engine bay looks cluttered.
I love the looks of the Z650RS. True, the swing arm looks out of place but I probably won't notice it when I'm riding. The gauges are spot on, though. I would definitely buy it over the others, especially over the Yamaha; they butchered the looks on every model (disappointing) and I used to own a SX650! My opinion.
Nicely put: agree on Yamaha - I used to love the XSR900, but the new one just looks odd to me: a cross between a transformer and lego. It's a pity. Looks are subjective, but like you, despite its shortcomings, I think the Z650RS is the best looking of the bunch. Cheers.
Ay year later and the Z650 RS is looking better. I think it's grown on me.
I think the z650 is too expensive. It's not a big enough step to get to the z900rs. If it were 2k cheaper, it would sell like mad. As it is, as a z shopper, I see the 650 and think for just 1500 more, I could get the full zoot 900.
Not so much too critical, just plain wrong in places ;-) This bike is aimed at those of us who realise that our litre bikes are mostly pointless on UK roads and that the RS reflects the bike we longed for when kids. Add to that that the XSR, like most Yamahas are as ugly as they are poorly built. Additionally, I doubt whether 5% of most riders ever tune their suspension so paying for something that is not required. The only criticism I agree with is the downpipes, it's such a pity and could prove a distraction for those who are not blown away by the rest of the aesthetic beauty of this bike. TBH, it's best competitor is the SV650 in terms of classic bike style and rudimentary
Thanks for the feedback, Bob. All good points. Cheers.
How could you not mention the CLASSIC and highly popular Suzuki SV650...?!
You are of course, correct. It's a great bike but perhaps not seen as a retro as it is really an original vintage ('99) from before most retros were conceived (except for the w650 and GB500)...if that makes sense. Great bike though. Cheers.
@@BlueMarbleRider Oh my bad. I didnt know the Trident and the 701Husky were bikes born from earlier bikes.
As an owner of an original late 70's Z650 I looked at this with great expectation, but the second I learned it wasn't a 4cyl that ended it for me personally. Definitely not interested now. Shame, Saki have completely missed the boat on this one imo.
Agree, for us older riders it's a miss; but I think the younger crowd won't care too much.
@@BlueMarbleRider Agree. In another 50yrs they will introduce a "new" version of the twin, but with 4 cylinders that these owners won't entertain probably for the same reason. Thats life.
That bike was great for it's time. It was a four with only 60 hp and 465 lb. I wouldn't complain about the new twin, much better in all departments.
They should've taken the zx6r engine instead of the z650 🤦🏼♂️
I love everything about this bike except the engine. I love twins and I'm glad Kawi chose to put a twin in this bike, but the 180 degree firing order not only gives away power, it sounds sad. Like an inline 4 missing on two cylinders. If this was a 270 degree twin there would be a Z650RS in my garage right now.
Seems like Yamaha are the only Japanese using a cross plane 270. Certainly would be nice; the 180 twin is a little vanilla.
@@BlueMarbleRider My buddy bought a Z650RS and immediately put an exhaust on it. As he was riding toward my house I swear I thought somebody had just fired up a lawn mower. The SV650/SV650X and the MT07 both sound better and make more power. I'm a die-hard Kaw-boy, but they really dropped a deuce on this one.
LIsten to the bike on Mark Pulling's review ride. I think it sounds great.
The Z 650 RS has only three less Nm of torque over the MT-07.
I'm 55, was hoping for a loud B1 blaster like we had back in the day, no spoked wheels either, damp squid sorry.
Unfortunately I see this flopping. That parallel twin may be bulletproof, it's just too dull in the competition of cross plane twins or now triples for less money.
The style is amazing but I don't think that will be enough to lead sales
Hard to say. I get your point though: this is targeted at newer riders or those boomers jumping off bigger bikes/wanting a second or smaller bike. Youngsters are not necessarily into nostalgia - it's all about performance for most, but the boomers may be attracted to its simplicity. Cheers.
Just seen the price £7549,now that’s a lot of bike for the cash.
Wish it really did have 67lbs/ft of torque ⚡ and a 270° crank.
I don't think I would buy this motorcycle. I would like there to be a little more in the way of of better suspension, brakes and an inline 4 motor. I realize that I am describing the Z900RS but a Z750RS with the inline 4 cylinder and the other upgrades might be what I'm talking about. Not to the same high level as the 900 but more than the 650 to make a nice in between model. I think the Z650RS would make a great second bike. If I ever get the chance to ride one I might change my mind but there is nothing like a Japanese inline 4 cylinder motorcycle.
Great review! I forgot to say that in my initial message.
Agree: there's nothing like that old formula one sound as you scream up through the gears...Cheers.
Very informative review. Nice bike but could be better as always. Agreed!
Contrary to others I think the parallel twin is a better choice. Less parts, lighter. Larger bore means more torque for city riding and good for learners.
Good point, Andrew - it will make a more flexible bike for round town and commuting.
I’ll just buy this for the looks. Lol
Time will tell if it sells well. Here is my 2 cents opinion.... The displacement is becoming popular again but the target demographic does not seem to be the rider interested in a true "retro" styled bike. It is clearly not as retro as a RE650 or the 900RS big brother which I both love. Rather it seems to be the bastard child of an original Kawi 650 four and a modern styled machine and sits in neither camp. I think they missed the mark from an aesthetics perspective. Imagine an in-line 4 with a 4 into two exhaust with tradtional reverse megaphone cans on each side. Now that would have looked sharp, been unigue and wonderfully customizable. Euro tuning demands maybe killed that layout as much as tooling costs? For me, if you are going with a hybrid of old and new styling, I think the new Triumph Trident comes across better.
Nicely put, Lyle. I do think the aftermarket will get on this quickly with some header and exhaust options for those who want to farkle. Mostly, though, I think this will be a quick stepping stone to something more retro and of larger displacement for many. I can't wait to see the first person to shoe-horn a ZX6 4 cylinder into it...you know it's going to happen :-)
no thanks. i have an RE650 and one of the worse things about it are the giant, heavy 2-2 cans that i cant wait to get rid of.
best review till now and I agree.
Still considering, 650 is enough
for Japanese roads. Sus could
be better !!!
Btw, is it using unleaded Gasoline
(Regular or Extra) ???
Thank you 🙏
Not sure on the grade of gasoline, but as a rule, I always try to find non E5/E10 91-94 for my bikes. A 650 twin will likely run fine on 89, but ethanol, if left in the tank, will tend to attract water and rust...
He's right about the 650 twin, it sounds sloppy for a 650,. If you hear it in the dark , chances are you'd mistake it for a single cyl 150 cc bike
Basically it's a bit stupid to have to pay a premium for the standard basic UJM look of 45 years ago .
Well there's always the z900rs with the four cylinder
Looks good except it doesn’t have the same exhaust as the Z900RS which looks much nicer.
Good enough but could be better. RE sounds better
I wouldn't want an inline four. Power comes at high rpm, I prefer the twin's torque down low, at each stop light. In the 80s there were no twins nearly this powerful or torquey.
For power at high rpm, Honda 650 or Trident, (or the z900 at a higher cost).
Four cylinder: weight, maintenance, fuel consumption. Keep it simple. By the time the four gets to the power rpm, the twin is gone.
Definitely some virtues in a twin. And perhaps on a smaller 4 cylinder bike that may be true, but they have come such a long way. It used to be that 4 cylinder bikes were like two strokes with power bands above 7K rpm, but that's gone in the case of the Z900RS at least - its got plenty of low down grunt and smooth all the way up. The sound is epic. I'm pretty sure with modern fuelling, cam tuning/timing they are able to make a decent midsized four cylinder. But as you say, cost, maintenance etc would put a lot of younger riders off. Cheers.
Can the exhaust pipes be changed to a more conventional style like in the interceptor?
You could certainly change the headers and the exhaust, removing the bread box too, although you may need an ecu reflash. Likely there will be many header and slip on choices offered by the aftermarket segment within weeks of the bike being in the showrooms. Cheers.
@@BlueMarbleRider we should hope so
Now way in hell. No inline 4, no sale for me!
Good and spot on review.
Pretty but should have been a 4..
That exhaust is awful..
Why on earth did they change the Kawasaki tank badge for a sticker on the moon dust version??
Perhaps to look more Scrambleresque? I think they're trying to win a broad sweep of riders with this one. Agree though, it diminishes the bike a little.
i think 650 motor has enough power see how long you cam hold it wide open had 2 650 ninjas the pipes need changing had a 74 z1a 900 this new rs will put older riders on a bike
This models MSRP would rival the 900’s if Kawi released it with a 4 cylinder. Sure it would be nice, but the size of 4 holes doesn’t determine the price. The purists will continue to buy the 900, and the commuters will enjoy thrashing the 650 🤷♂️
Great point!
There's enough power to weight ratio, to not need to thrash the Z650 RS.
A parts bin bike missing 2 cylinders.
At least it hasn't got the pig ugly front brake reservoir that's been fitted on the Z900RS.
Yes, that's something a lot of riders change.
for 9k its way overpriced and agree boring and agree should of had I4 and adjustable suspension.Why bother with this when XR700 SV650 offer better performance and even cheaper.This bike obviously was designed by office marketers pencil pushers since no real designer with any blood flowing in veins would design such heedlessly uninspiring machine.
I bought this bike because the price point was so much better compared to the overpriced RE int, XSR and Trident. I don't understand why these other bikes were overpriced in my country.
The other real option was the Honda CB650 and might actually be a better option given the availability of parts for that bike
I'm surprised that the Z650 is cheaper than the RE Int650. Where are you located? Cheers.
7:08 Although I agree with you, this bike is already set apart from the XSR, the Vitpilen and the Trident; it's gorgeous and they are decidedly not. The Trident looks boring and the XSR and Vitpilen are just plain ugly; this, on the other hand, with the teardrop tank and ducktail is lovely. I agree about the cringeworthy video.. The only thing Kawasaki got wrong, IMO, is the expected price; I agree that if they're going to sell this on looks alone, the price needs to be very close to the standard Z650, because I'm certain; someone will very quickly offer a cool, classic exhaust which sounds better and looks right, and lots of other aftermarket parts. I want this, but then I'd already decided the standard Z650 was wild enough for my middle-aged ass and this looks miles better.
It will be interesting to see how the bike performs with the younger riders too. Cheers.