I just picked up my '15 ABS last week. First ride was 120 miles back home. I am really impressed, previous bikes were sportster and sold my 11' CBR250 due to lack of passing power at highway speeds (I tour ) and lack of abs. Passing trucks on the highway was a breeze! The ergos on the handlebars are great and at 5' 6" the windscreen offers plenty of protection. The pegs are a bit on the sporty side and will take some getting used to. Nice finish as well, it looks really good in black.
An update: nearing 18k miles on the 650 and have had no problems. Replaced the chain at the same time as the anticipated costly 15k service. On my second set of Dunlop Roadsmart 2s (no complaints, great life out of them). This has been a very low maintenance bike, and as you can tell by the mileage has allowed me to get out and ride very often.
+Brandon Aubrey I've been using an Airhawk for about 12k miles now. IMHO the stock seat is pretty comfortable, I did a 500 mile single day ride on it with no real problems. A highly subjective opinion of course but with a custom seat being the only other option I would see how the seat works for you before investing in an Airhawk or the like.
+Brandon Aubrey I've gotten all of my LEDs (for cars) from superbrightleds.com . My understanding is that it's generally not wise to put LED bulbs into reflector type housings as the beam pattern put off is different and results in a unusual beam pattern, that is potentially unsafe, and glaring to oncoming drivers. I've tried some brighter incandescent bulbs in the past with pretty good results, albeit less longevity. My thought for extra lighting was to mount a set of the three LED bulb PIAAs low down. Until then I'll just keep riding with my brights on all the time 😎
I have the same bike in green; attracts alot of attention too. Only thing I'd say is that after trying different bikes is that the brakes aren't that great, but that is an easy fix cause I'm thinking of replacing the brake lines with stainless steel HH brake lines and better brake pads. I also noticed after you brake it in at about the 1500 miles that the feel of the bike changes. The muffler sounds louder and it felt a bit quicker. Finally, I'd like to add that this is my starter bike and it is amazing, not too fast and not too slow This is the best of both worlds without killing yourself if you accidentally hit the throttle too much when you're a noob.
I'd agree 100%. Generally you just feel like you have to grab a bit more lever than you were thinking you needed, by no means unsafe, however this also isn't a super sport. Another note: I have the ABS and when it has intervened it has been quite predictable.
Hey I have 2014 650r the same color that too xD Anyways I've been riding this bike daily for a good 1 month and feels great... Got an oil change done at 1k miles... When should I do the next oil change? And I'm also thinking of getting an aftermarket slip on exhaust... Danmoto, should I complete a certain amount of miles on the bike before I change it or is it a good idea to do it now? Currently I've just done 1.6k miles on it.
You've got good taste :) No need to wait to put on a slip on, if you're so inclined. "My first service and oil change was at 600 miles (remove the break in oil & make sure everything is still bolted on). As per the manual the service schedule is: 600 miles, 3,750 , 7,500 , 11,250 , 15,000. If you're not riding very often or in a harsh climate most of the parts and fluids should be inspected, replaced, or topped off every year. Personally I stuck with every 4,000 miles between services which has been just fine for me and a perfectly fine schedule according to the multiple dealers and mechanics I've been to along the way. "
+Mark Fletter Thanks! Most motorcycles of this kind are built for commuter and weekend warriors. I'm more of the latter, however, I have ridden it in quite a few scenarios where I was in first and second gear a lot. The clutch is light and easy to modulate for slow speed maneuvers (I've even done a slight bit of tightening up in the cable for a shorter pull). One particular ride where traffic was densely packed, stopping and going (a common occurrence here in California) I found myself lane splitting for quite a while in first gear so people would hear me and I would have enough revs to squirt wherever I needed to go (first gear will bring you pretty close to 60mph). At then end of about seven miles in 85 degree weather you could definitely feel the heat coming off of the right side of the bike (think hot from your knee down) , nothing alarming at all. I'll also have you know that this bike is very well balanced and is not a problem to come to those quickly changing red lights and not put your feet down (sorry officer!)
Im still deciding on what I want my starter bike to be. Ive been deciding on the zx6r because I like the sportier look and of course the performance.. But I just sat on the 650 today and man. Talk about comfortability & being less intimidating! How's the acceleration and speed on the 650?
Thanks for such a quick response! Alright I'll go ahead with the danmoto slip on since I just wanted to get the bike sounding more bolder and louder if you will... I guess a full system wouldn't be necessary since I'm not really going for hp gains and well it would probably require a pic aswell... And about the tank scratches... I was so relieved when you noticed them aswell since I've got a few of my own with no recollection of doing anything close to scratching the bike xD. I've got this problem though with the bike... I've noticed whenever I race it just till 4 or 5th gear with an average shifting at 6k rpms or more... Not often but sometimes the bike switches off and I need to hit the red button off and on and start the bike up again which can be done while moving so it's not a big issue but something I'd like to address sooner the better... Any idea what it could be?
+Brandon Aubrey thanks buddy... no it isn't a rebuild...it's a 2014 model and everything seems to be just fine in regard to fluids and oil... it's getting less frequent but it does go off when I try racing the bike... but I can easily restart it by using the spark switch and the accelerator... just puzzling why it goes off in the first place... would be great to hear for a solution buddy.... don't break your head on it though I'm trying to find the solution as well haha :)
+Brandon Aubrey thanks buddy... no it isn't a rebuild...it's a 2014 model and everything seems to be just fine in regard to fluids and oil... it's getting less frequent but it does go off when I try racing the bike... but I can easily restart it by using the spark switch and the accelerator... just puzzling why it goes off in the first place... would be great to hear for a solution buddy.... don't break your head on it though I'm trying to find the solution as well haha :)
+Brandon Aubrey thanks alot buddy... but I have no slip on yet... I think I'll change my spark plug soon to see if it's the culprit... just done over 2k miles on her :)
Thanks! Here is the Amazon link, the lettering on the site is red but it's actually white as shown. Progrip PG5008CARBON '5008 Series' Carbon Tank Pad www.amazon.com/dp/B004I9MD2M/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_D3CGwbBBFJP65
Picking up my 2014 650 tomorrow. I have never believed in extended warranties but was told by the dealer that Kawasaki's have electrical issues ??? I still declined the extended warranty but wondered what is your experience ? Also, what do you pay for your 4,000 mile services? Curious, because I get the feeling my dealer is trying to Nicole and dime me.
Keith Van de Gryp I actually bought the extended warranty once the factory one was up. Three years from the factory, DO NOT BUY ANY OTHER WARRANTY OUTSIDE WHAT IS OFFERED FROM KAWASAKI. With servicing you also must consider that Japanese brand dealers make their money on servicing which is why you generally get screaming deals on the purchase price of the bike. I myself have not heard of any electrical issues and if you look at the way the bike is designed (low compression engine, etc.) it should be pretty reliable. You'll generally be looking at $150-$220 for your services at the dealer. If you buy a shop manual and have the proper tool AND SKILLS you can cut that price way down as most of the servicing are fluid changes and tensioning. Be prepared to replace tires every 8k-12k miles, the rear went on me first.
It wasn't that big of a deal, but my left blinker bulb on the stock fender went out at around the 1500 mile mark on my 2013 Ninja 650. A replacement bulb was $5 at the dealer and all I had to do was unscrew the blinker light housing and twist the new bulb in. Took no more than 10 minutes. Since then I've removed the stock fender and replaced the stock taillight with the MotoDynamic taillight with build in sequential turn signals. Problem solved :)
Blake Garvey I'm 5' 9" and it is pretty much a perfect fit. I still feel sore in the knees after a 200 mile + day though. I would say that If you're 6 foot, you'll feel cramped.
I've heard that Two Brothers makes a good exhaust for this bike. Only downside is you can't get a slip on exhaust for the Ninja 650 they make it so you have to replace the full system which will run you anywhere from $500-600 dollars :/ I still have yet to do so on my 2013. Gonna do a few other mods before I look into a new exhaust
is white too femanine for this bike? I think it looks really nice with the green spring and white body, though i'm really stuck between kawasaki green on glossy white :/
+BigFluffyFrog White was my first choice, but it was very hard to find as it was only a 2013 color. My dealer had one left but no ABS :/ so it came down to "Team Green" or silver and black.
The Honda will have a little more potent powerplant, better brakes, a little better suspension. However, the out-the-door price will probably be 2-3K higher than a 650R. Insurance on the 650R tends to be a little lower as well, especially if your insurance company decides to classify the 650F along with the other CBRs.
opmike343 i like the twin on the ninja but im actually leaning toward the honda .im asian so wanna support my honda boys haha:).the honda seems to have a less vibraty engine to maybe a smoother ride.
John O Bought the Puig Windscreen (a lot better wind protection, about 4in taller), put on a taillight flasher from gearbrake, that's it...10,500 miles going strong.
Rick Smith Yes, if you are competent rider who is not a hot head with a twitchy wrist, it is excellent. With relaxed ergonomics and a linear power-band it is a confidence inspiring bike.
Connor Rocard You've taken the MSF course, spent your whole life on dirtbikes, bicycles, mountain bikes. Are well aware of the concepts of counter steering and trail braking. That sort of experience.
Just bought mine yesterday. Can't wait to post about it
KawaSexyNinja Congratualtions!
I just picked up my '15 ABS last week. First ride was 120 miles back home. I am really impressed, previous bikes were sportster and sold my 11' CBR250 due to lack of passing power at highway speeds (I tour ) and lack of abs. Passing trucks on the highway was a breeze! The ergos on the handlebars are great and at 5' 6" the windscreen offers plenty of protection. The pegs are a bit on the sporty side and will take some getting used to. Nice finish as well, it looks really good in black.
An update: nearing 18k miles on the 650 and have had no problems. Replaced the chain at the same time as the anticipated costly 15k service. On my second set of Dunlop Roadsmart 2s (no complaints, great life out of them). This has been a very low maintenance bike, and as you can tell by the mileage has allowed me to get out and ride very often.
+Brandon Aubrey I've been using an Airhawk for about 12k miles now. IMHO the stock seat is pretty comfortable, I did a 500 mile single day ride on it with no real problems. A highly subjective opinion of course but with a custom seat being the only other option I would see how the seat works for you before investing in an Airhawk or the like.
+Brandon Aubrey I've gotten all of my LEDs (for cars) from superbrightleds.com . My understanding is that it's generally not wise to put LED bulbs into reflector type housings as the beam pattern put off is different and results in a unusual beam pattern, that is potentially unsafe, and glaring to oncoming drivers. I've tried some brighter incandescent bulbs in the past with pretty good results, albeit less longevity.
My thought for extra lighting was to mount a set of the three LED bulb PIAAs low down.
Until then I'll just keep riding with my brights on all the time 😎
Great review, very in-depth and helpful! You really did a good job at covering all the aspects of the bike.
Appreciate the kind words!
I have the same bike in green; attracts alot of attention too. Only thing I'd say is that after trying different bikes is that the brakes aren't that great, but that is an easy fix cause I'm thinking of replacing the brake lines with stainless steel HH brake lines and better brake pads. I also noticed after you brake it in at about the 1500 miles that the feel of the bike changes. The muffler sounds louder and it felt a bit quicker. Finally, I'd like to add that this is my starter bike and it is amazing, not too fast and not too slow This is the best of both worlds without killing yourself if you accidentally hit the throttle too much when you're a noob.
I'd agree 100%. Generally you just feel like you have to grab a bit more lever than you were thinking you needed, by no means unsafe, however this also isn't a super sport. Another note: I have the ABS and when it has intervened it has been quite predictable.
Well to be fair shifting at 6K isn't quite "racing" the bike but I have had no issues of the sort and would definitely bring it in for service.
I just got my bike last week I picked up the black and orange one I love it
I like your review def. considering this bike this year
I just bought one today. LOVE this bike.
Jason Miller if you don't mind me asking how much did you pay I'm buying one in a month
$6k after taxes and plate.
Jason Miller Congrats on your purchase! Hope the 650 brings you many fun AND SAFE miles! My '14 w/ ABS was ~$7100.
Thanks for this man good review. Love the colour.
Thanks for the review. I'm picking up the exact same bike this weekend! :)
+CanecaProductions Thanks for the kind words, hope you're enjoying your bike!
I got the 2015 ABS as my first bike and I'm loving it! Be Safe! :D
Looks great!
Hey I have 2014 650r the same color that too xD Anyways I've been riding this bike daily for a good 1 month and feels great... Got an oil change done at 1k miles... When should I do the next oil change? And I'm also thinking of getting an aftermarket slip on exhaust... Danmoto, should I complete a certain amount of miles on the bike before I change it or is it a good idea to do it now? Currently I've just done 1.6k miles on it.
You've got good taste :) No need to wait to put on a slip on, if you're so inclined.
"My first service and oil change was at 600 miles (remove the break in oil & make sure everything is still bolted on). As per the manual the service schedule is: 600 miles, 3,750 , 7,500 , 11,250 , 15,000. If you're not riding very often or in a harsh climate most of the parts and fluids should be inspected, replaced, or topped off every year.
Personally I stuck with every 4,000 miles between services which has been just fine for me and a perfectly fine schedule according to the multiple dealers and mechanics I've been to along the way. "
Awesome vid. I got the same exact bike last year!
+John O Thanks, hope you're enjoying yours!
Great review, My question is. How is it in stop and go traffic? I live in the city.
+Mark Fletter Thanks! Most motorcycles of this kind are built for commuter and weekend warriors. I'm more of the latter, however, I have ridden it in quite a few scenarios where I was in first and second gear a lot. The clutch is light and easy to modulate for slow speed maneuvers (I've even done a slight bit of tightening up in the cable for a shorter pull). One particular ride where traffic was densely packed, stopping and going (a common occurrence here in California) I found myself lane splitting for quite a while in first gear so people would hear me and I would have enough revs to squirt wherever I needed to go (first gear will bring you pretty close to 60mph). At then end of about seven miles in 85 degree weather you could definitely feel the heat coming off of the right side of the bike (think hot from your knee down) , nothing alarming at all. I'll also have you know that this bike is very well balanced and is not a problem to come to those quickly changing red lights and not put your feet down (sorry officer!)
i feel footpegs a little bit moving back giving sport riding style , is that right ? any chance to move it fwd ?
Im still deciding on what I want my starter bike to be. Ive been deciding on the zx6r because I like the sportier look and of course the performance.. But I just sat on the 650 today and man. Talk about comfortability & being less intimidating! How's the acceleration and speed on the 650?
21javante 0-60 ~3.5 seconds
1st gear will get you to just about 60mph
2nd is around 75
3rd and on will be getting you in trouble.
Thanks for such a quick response! Alright I'll go ahead with the danmoto slip on since I just wanted to get the bike sounding more bolder and louder if you will... I guess a full system wouldn't be necessary since I'm not really going for hp gains and well it would probably require a pic aswell... And about the tank scratches... I was so relieved when you noticed them aswell since I've got a few of my own with no recollection of doing anything close to scratching the bike xD. I've got this problem though with the bike... I've noticed whenever I race it just till 4 or 5th gear with an average shifting at 6k rpms or more... Not often but sometimes the bike switches off and I need to hit the red button off and on and start the bike up again which can be done while moving so it's not a big issue but something I'd like to address sooner the better... Any idea what it could be?
+Brandon Aubrey the oil level is fine... That's what I don't get :p
+Brandon Aubrey thanks buddy... no it isn't a rebuild...it's a 2014 model and everything seems to be just fine in regard to fluids and oil... it's getting less frequent but it does go off when I try racing the bike... but I can easily restart it by using the spark switch and the accelerator... just puzzling why it goes off in the first place... would be great to hear for a solution buddy.... don't break your head on it though I'm trying to find the solution as well haha :)
+Brandon Aubrey thanks buddy... no it isn't a rebuild...it's a 2014 model and everything seems to be just fine in regard to fluids and oil... it's getting less frequent but it does go off when I try racing the bike... but I can easily restart it by using the spark switch and the accelerator... just puzzling why it goes off in the first place... would be great to hear for a solution buddy.... don't break your head on it though I'm trying to find the solution as well haha :)
+Brandon Aubrey thanks alot buddy... but I have no slip on yet... I think I'll change my spark plug soon to see if it's the culprit... just done over 2k miles on her :)
What type of tank protector is that? I like the contrast with the black tank.
Thanks! Here is the Amazon link, the lettering on the site is red but it's actually white as shown. Progrip PG5008CARBON '5008 Series' Carbon Tank Pad www.amazon.com/dp/B004I9MD2M/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_D3CGwbBBFJP65
Picking up my 2014 650 tomorrow. I have never believed in extended warranties but was told by the dealer that Kawasaki's have electrical issues ??? I still declined the extended warranty but wondered what is your experience ? Also, what do you pay for your 4,000 mile services? Curious, because I get the feeling my dealer is trying to Nicole and dime me.
Keith Van de Gryp I actually bought the extended warranty once the factory one was up. Three years from the factory, DO NOT BUY ANY OTHER WARRANTY OUTSIDE WHAT IS OFFERED FROM KAWASAKI.
With servicing you also must consider that Japanese brand dealers make their money on servicing which is why you generally get screaming deals on the purchase price of the bike.
I myself have not heard of any electrical issues and if you look at the way the bike is designed (low compression engine, etc.) it should be pretty reliable.
You'll generally be looking at $150-$220 for your services at the dealer. If you buy a shop manual and have the proper tool AND SKILLS you can cut that price way down as most of the servicing are fluid changes and tensioning.
Be prepared to replace tires every 8k-12k miles, the rear went on me first.
It wasn't that big of a deal, but my left blinker bulb on the stock fender went out at around the 1500 mile mark on my 2013 Ninja 650. A replacement bulb was $5 at the dealer and all I had to do was unscrew the blinker light housing and twist the new bulb in. Took no more than 10 minutes. Since then I've removed the stock fender and replaced the stock taillight with the MotoDynamic taillight with build in sequential turn signals. Problem solved :)
Great review I have one and concur
cordovastyle3 Thank you!
I have the same bike and it has grab rails. I think it's just the U.S. version that doesn't have any. and that BMW RT is nice.Yours?
+Gary Hamill Good to know, maybe they think American riders and passengers need to be more "initimate" .
Yup, 2014 R1200 RT. That thing is amazing.
does this bike cause knee pain tho .ive head alot of people have problems with the peg height .may i ask how tall you are ?.
Blake Garvey I'm 5' 9" and it is pretty much a perfect fit. I still feel sore in the knees after a 200 mile + day though. I would say that If you're 6 foot, you'll feel cramped.
Hey I just purchased this bike, looking to get a louder exhaust. Stock exhaust is a little to quiet for my taste. Any recommendations?
+Michael Ferrino Nothing in particular, the only slip on I've seen is the Two Brothers exhaust.
I've heard that Two Brothers makes a good exhaust for this bike. Only downside is you can't get a slip on exhaust for the Ninja 650 they make it so you have to replace the full system which will run you anywhere from $500-600 dollars :/ I still have yet to do so on my 2013. Gonna do a few other mods before I look into a new exhaust
I would put a coat of plasti dip on the tank....I think it would help
+dan shark (shark55) That's a good idea.
I want a slip on exhaust for this bike that would make it sound better.. suggestions? What slip ons will fit this bike?
+Derek Hebert I've only seen the Two Brothers slip on exhaust myself.
is white too femanine for this bike? I think it looks really nice with the green spring and white body, though i'm really stuck between kawasaki green on glossy white :/
or glossy white*
+BigFluffyFrog White was my first choice, but it was very hard to find as it was only a 2013 color. My dealer had one left but no ABS :/ so it came down to "Team Green" or silver and black.
im thinking about getting the 650 ninja or the honda cb650f what are you guys thoughts on the 2 bikes ?.
The Honda will have a little more potent powerplant, better brakes, a little better suspension. However, the out-the-door price will probably be 2-3K higher than a 650R. Insurance on the 650R tends to be a little lower as well, especially if your insurance company decides to classify the 650F along with the other CBRs.
opmike343 i like the twin on the ninja but im actually leaning toward the honda .im asian so wanna support my honda boys haha:).the honda seems to have a less vibraty engine to maybe a smoother ride.
opmike343 Having sat on the 650F I found the seating position to be too aggresive. That was a deal breaker for me.
how much did the bike cost you per a year
Any mods/maintenance update?
John O Bought the Puig Windscreen (a lot better wind protection, about 4in taller), put on a taillight flasher from gearbrake, that's it...10,500 miles going strong.
Would this be a good starter bike
Rick Smith Yes, if you are competent rider who is not a hot head with a twitchy wrist, it is excellent. With relaxed ergonomics and a linear power-band it is a confidence inspiring bike.
How can you be an experienced beginner?
Connor Rocard You've taken the MSF course, spent your whole life on dirtbikes, bicycles, mountain bikes. Are well aware of the concepts of counter steering and trail braking. That sort of experience.
if you but this bike in india it only cost about $1500 & i bought road bike which cost fucking $1800. sometime i feel like idiot. sometime proud lol
+Godzillaaz
Arrogance? Why, because he works hard to afford what he wants? Get off your ass India.
+Godzillaaz Biker I'm sorry but the world doesn't owe you anything
+Godzillaaz Biker I'm sorry but the world doesn't owe you anything