Now that we have told you how the Kawasaki Z650RS performs, would you buy it over the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 or its lower-priced sibling - the #KawasakiZ650? Do let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Hey, thanks for video. Greetings from central Europe ! Interesting point about price. Over here RE 650 interceptor starts on 190 000 CZK and go up to 206 000 CZK (Chrome tank). Z 650 RS is for 210 000 CZK and Z650 RS 50th anniversary is for 230 000 CZK. So delta in price is about 10%. Looks like Kawa costs almost same in you country and here, but we are properly robbed with import of RE to Europe.
Currently Own a versys 650 , but love the retro look of Z650 RS ! If I was buying today I would go for z650RS eyes closed . I owned RE in past no offence to fans here ,it was pain in terms of reliability & maintenance. Once someone gets used to reliability of a Japanese bike its difficult to go back to so called bikes with character!
So effectively what bikewale is saying, buy a shitty bike for lot less money, spend an equal amount of money modifying and making it better, voiding all warranty and spending time and effort for doing it, but not buy a better bike right off the showroom…. In other words, they are saying that the int650 is a shitty bike, but you can buy it for a lot less money… ?
@@krishhvlogs5 the RE twins can't produce 68bhp with or without a smile 🙈 The twins provide us with a an affordable bike with more than enough power for Indian roads. They're certainly not the better bike. But they are what most of us can do with.
@@RajivSingha3 how much power you may between your legs, 70km/hr is the speed limit on most of Indian roads, so,RE can do almost what a z650 can do and the rider can have a smile for what RE does
Bluetooth Connectivity option imo is most gimmicky feature a bike can offer. I was excited about it before getting my new bike. After a month I haven't even used it once. I'm glad the retro bikes are sticking to the old school dial. It enhances the feel and is practical.
Very good test. Thank you! I like both bikes. Yes, the Interceptor cost less. But you get an lot of many back if you resell a used unmodified Z650RS in a couple of years. For example, Kawasaki's W650/800 holds its value over time very well. On the other hand, customised bikes are more difficult to resell. And you wouldn't get all the money back that you put into all modifications of an Interceptor. But improving a bike is a lot of fun anyway...
The biggest problem from the Kawasaki is the 125mm of ground clearance.... two up with luggage...all the best riding on our roads..... otherwise its a definitely better built machine at a price for sure.....cheers
Same thoughts. Surprised it was not mentioned in the video. Haven't had a chance to ride it but from specs No very practical. Also the range is low. But looks! A killer!
@@ksisneh Best looking bike but seriously if specs are to be believed, a 125mm ground clearance is something you see on top of the line sports bike which are definitely not ridable for across cities. This could have been nice touring bike if not for that exhaust that's lowering its ground clearance
@@rkr6237 The rebound of the Z650RS is a bit sluggish and unfortuntely, we can't alter the front suspension. Due to this, if we carefully ride it over the bump, it usually does not hurt the underpinnings of the motorcycle. I got used to this characteristics within 500 kms and it doesn't bother me much nowadays.
Certainly one of the best looking modern retro`s on the market, along with its big brother, the Z900RS. If you want a 70s style modern classic, this, along with the Moto Guzzi V7 are the ones to choose from. If you want a 60s one, then Royal Enfield and Triumph both have some great bikes to choose from, as well as Enfield 50s style "Classic". Me, i own a Triumph Speed Twin, a great bike, but quite a bit of tech which i could do without. The Royal Enfield 650 is a great bike, easy to ride, and no tech to go wrong, and being at the lower spec and budget end of the market, a great bike to customise.
The maintenance on the V7 is definitely a nice bonus of the guzzi. Easy to handle it at home. Shaft drive to boot. And the vibe on the guzzi is hard to beat.
The main issues with 180° Crank is it doesn't have that special character. 360° and 270° produce superb sound with aftermarket exhaust. But these 180° sounds like single cylinder and if someone buy an expensive motorcycle, the sound should be good. Otherwise, there shouldn't be any competition between both these 650s as both engines are different in terms of everything except the size. One who loves proper retro classic will anyday choose interceptor because it resembles that old motorcycling era. And feels mechanical. Specially the whining sound of the gearbox when shifted to 3rd.
Vikrant Singh, man you have been my favorite auto journalists since the better part of a decade. Really happy to see you at BikeWale now! Great review guys!
j'ai une interceptor et ne changerait aucunement pour une 650 Kawasaki...le magnifique moteur, sa sonorité envoûtante, le lÔok de la Royal Enfield me ravit et me transporte beaucoup plus loin dans le "temps"...que le Kawasaki ne saura jamais le faire puis, comparer ces deux motos n'est pas sérieux🍺
Royal enfield could have provided the interceptor with alloys (atleast as an option) I mean spokes do have their fan base but alloys are like bare necessity in todays day and age..😐😐
I brought a Z650RS one month ago which was a demo bike for less than a RE . At 72 years old last time ride before this bike was 1985. First ride on this one was 1 hour and was struggling on roundabouts and wondering if I made the right decision. Today rode for 2 hours and nailed it. I used to ride Honda 400s this bike a bit less refined but gave me everything I wished for in a bike. Its intant acceleration.........eveness through out the gears but a ruggedness that gave me smile factor. A great choice and if I want more later I can remove the cat and exhaust replace possibly with a scorpion and flash it that will de-restrict it
The interceptor with the big bore kit and better suspensions and brakes will be my pick over the kawasaki z650rs since i already have the interceptor. I can still save around 3 lakhs even after all that mod and utilize the saved amount into a different category of bike
@@aftabpathan3148 I have had my inty for over 2 years now. Ridden over 15k kms and i ride hard. I have had 0 wobble issues...only time it wobbles is when the bike goes over road markers and i dont know why. Then electronic failures have been nil as well🤞. The only problem is the inaccurate fuel meter which doesn't bother me much
@@aftabpathan3148 the guys complaining about wobble should change tires first.😂 I too experienced the wobble from interceptor issue was with my tyre.. it is solid now..
@@Dinara1up yep you can put a 150/70 R18 on rear., Iam personally using timsun 150/70 r18 and tire looks massive and it has good life i think it'll definitely get 20k kms with the timsun.. i have now ridden 12k kms on that rear tire it still has 50% of grooves.. i bought it for 8.8k... now i think the price is about 14.5k
I do not think anything more than 30 bhp is good for our roads and riders skills.... But, between these two,RE is my choice considering availability of service and spares... Buy an Int650,Change plunger and spring in front suspension,add supension risers for rear, install handlebar risers,get alloy wheels,Ralco tyres and it's still a great bike which costs less..... Kawasaki is good Unarguably.... Waiting for BSA Goldstar 650
What a bike! IMO this is the most beautiful bike in the Indian market today. The soundtrack is a top ten song of the last 10 years for any real music lover!
Nothing comes close to the sexy look of the interceptor. It’s a pure full metal classic, simple decent and absolutely gorgeous. Enough power to put a smile on the riders face and definitely looks straight from the 70s with the added refinement.
I have z650rs and it is everything i wanted. Z900 was out of the price range and i basically wished z650rs into existence. I have bought the first one in the Eastern Europe. My only problem is lack of storage space under the seat, for chain and disk Lock ( on z400 i didnt need do carry a backpack for my security, and i don't like add on language, for me it ruins the looks). In Europe RE interceptor is 7450€ and Kawasaki z650rs (black color) is 8172€. So Kawa is definitely a better option.
@@raviniranjan5707 Oh it was bad. With a pillion almost every unscientific speedbreaker I would touch. I finally installed an exhaust.Now it doesn't touch but I still have to be careful with a pillion.
Ah, those are Sari-guards; I always wondered what that BBQ-grill at the back was on bikes in India, but that makes sense! And yes, they are pig-ugly, but I guess they make good practical sense to many. Between the two bikes there is one thing you didn't mention and that is the sound of the Interceptor which is MUCH nicer than the Kawa. But damn,that Z650RS is nice.. I shall win the lottery tonight nad buy both!
@@saishivajampala1407 Interceptor's ground clearance is 174mm... that's more than most regular motorcycles that you see out on our roads....it's more than enough for almost every situation, unless you're going offroading which this isn't built for anyways
Certainly interceptor....bought in october 2022 and till date completed 15000 km....found only break pad, liner issue and puncture one time. Nothing else. Kawasaki is best but for indian roads..... interceptor 650 the beast
Agree on the R.E. 100%. I own both R.E. And Kawi and can be neutral. The 650 RS should be an In LIne 4 screamer, but the bean counters said no. The R.E. Is already killing the w800 by a wide margin. Expect the w800 to be discontinued shortly. Kawi needs to quit homogenizing platforms and develop new bikes or they will end up like Suzuki very soon
Excellent review of the Kawasaki. The final argument made a lot of sense given the very high premium Kawasaki is charging over the Interceptor's price.
interceptor is quite cheap compared to any other 650 and they can do it by providing totally bullshit quality parts. I own one for over a year that's why how I know.
Motoringscribe rightly said. The price is double but is the Kawi 650Rs double the bike? Addition of the S&S cams and big bore kit can dust away the kawi in terms of power. Still won't cost me 7 lakhs. Anyway glad to see your bike after a long time motoringscribe.
@@pratik.jaiswar Two lakhs*, sure ;) And remember to only use high octane fuel on the 900, the injectors clog up really quickly with the normal fuel we have here. The Z650 (non RS) does not exhibit this issue
You killed an otherwise good review by comparing with RE Interceptor towards the end. A pear can never become an apple by painting it red. Money is not everything at the end of the day. 🤷🏻♂️
Its simple. . If you have money go for kawasaki . . Dont have that much money, go for interceptor!! . . Buying a cheaper motorcycle and upgrading it is fine, but one cannot buy "refinement" as an aftermarket accessory...
i currently own a interceptor , and if i was given an opportunity to waste 7 lakhs , i would do it with honour by first installing TEC big bore kit , a powertronic piggy back , ohlins , maybe upside down forks , better wider tyres , and really 17 inches wheels cause tyres for 18 inchers are so hard to find😑 , MK DESIGN speedo relocation mount , performance full system tinatium exhausts and clip ons as well at last 🙌🏻 plus if i had any money left , i would go for a tune up too 🙌🏻 you know JDM things , then maybe you could spot me riding bike and having a laptop at back seat 😂
Vikrant, did you upgrade the brakes too? What setup is it now? And what's the cost to upgrade the brakes? Can we have the same brake setup for Int650 (Nissin ones) as the kwacker?
Money is for 1: brand name 2: looks 3: performance 4: reliability of engine 5: uniqueness and stand out look from the crowd These things you cant change or buy with extra money I have RE classic new model and know reliabilty issues and vibration issues so whatever they make 350,400,650 etc every thing is having issues
I like that u still have the Trident's onn. Man, what a sound "pure symphony". Plus it's good for the panniers as well and also angled slightly inwards compared to stock. So no Brushed finish on them XD
Awesome review, and sweet bike. I just feel they could have done something better with the exhaust system, it looks like an afterthought the way it is.
Not an afterthought. The bike is essentially a Z650 with retro clothes. And the Kawa Z650 has the same engine and exhausts. They didn't bother making the exhausts retro too, unfortunately!
600cc+ isn't usually for beginners coz it can be overwhelming and can be risky. If you are a beginner then start with the smaller displacement hypernaked bikes such as yamaha mt-03,kawasaki z400 etc. I recommend the naked bikes since u wanted an upright riding position.
Whatever feauter RS has, and we all knows the japanese refinement, but this time my bet is on Interceptor Only 650 cc and 270 degree firing sound u can buy under 4 lacs bracket, and buying a bike is not only one time spend, RE service cost is drastically cheaper than the another one, it's great value for money bike Interceptor is most selling mid segment bike(250cc - 700cc) in European market.
@@brendonfernandes2877 few of my neighbour's have kawasaki / suzuki / tvsbmw310gs / bajaj Dom / R E him and they want me to look else where at other brands. I suspect that I now have to choose between a Honda and T Tiger
The thing z650 is the design still feels a little too old school....unlike the other bikes like the interceptor Or even something like a honda hness which give the bikes a few highlights to the old design which gives that " Wow " Appeal
Also do look at things like kerb weight.. Int is just huge metal scrap.. they could have removed the dual silencer and designed something like Kawasaki .. instead they are competing with Jawa ??😂😂
RE hasnt fixed the footpeg positions for the interceptor which always hit your shins. the erratic fuel gauge and the common failure of charging unit are still overlooked by RE. If they fix these things, indeed the bike is unbeatable
Having owned a RE Interceptor, Himalayan and currently own Kawasaki Z650RS the Kawasaki is a better bike in every single aspect especially reliability. I’ll not be bitten again by RE. But what really put me off another RE was that in Australia you only get two tows with the Royal Enfield under warranty road side assist. No where could I find that in the T&C’s on the RE AU website.
Building a bike according to personal taste happens to b illegal in India..nd RE still has along way to go in terms of reliability I guess.. although a nice video
@@clydesequeira8813 Yes. He had a regular mobile holder with charger. He had aux lights as well but the cop caught him for the mobile saying connecting to the battery can cause an explosion and he was saving my friends life. However after he took money he just let my friend go without saving his life and making him remove the mobile holder
The 650s are reliable i guess. I'm using it and it's more reliable than my previous yamaha because I mostly get times to ride my bike after 20-25 days of resting and the interceptor cranks on the 1st shelf. So far, pretty reliable to me at least
@@rikusharma1 Your single case of the bike being reliable doesn't mean much. There are plenty of issues owners have complained about during their ownership. RE bikes are well known for being unreliable. That's why so many mechanics specialize in only RE bikes knowing how owners face issues.
Z650 vs interceptor 650 =z650 but it cost way more and if you dont need more performance than interceptor have than you can go with interceptor it also have 2 wheels breaks and engine 😜👌🏻
Holy batman!! You earned a subscription for JUST removing that horrible saree guard and grab rail and echoing my feelings : "3 and a half kgs of ugliness, get tf outta here!" Love you guys.
RE 650 provides you power, quality ride experience...in less than half the price ... Also it provide vast service network..easy parts availablity...low service cost...good mileage...and most important good resale value and 100 percent made in india bike........ If you have lots of money 💸 to spend go for Kawasaki... One more thing is sale figure..for ex if RE sales thousand units of 650 ... Kawasaki hardly solds even 10 unit's.
I'm sure the Z650RS is a fine bike, but one the largest selling points was the simplicity of an air-cooled engine over a water-cooled. In addition to that, the cost difference is nothing to sneeze at. You could buy 1.5 Interceptors for the price of the Z650RS. Or you could buy one Interceptor and every mod you would like to really make it your own, and probably still not pay as much. I don't think it warrants one and a half times the price for such a similar bike, with less of the retro curb appeal and less simplicity.
I purchase a Z650RS demo bike for less than an Interceptor with 4000 kilometres on it. To add to that I also purchased a high quality leather jacket and was still less than the RE
Simple answer is nooooo. Reasons 1)High price 2) Repair is difficult 3)Feel of RE is way better than kawasaki 4)Fan following of RE is way more than kwasaki.
I would choose the RE 650, as it has enough power and cost a lot less. I would use that money to get alloys, tubeless tyres and a whole lot of touring accessories 😁
Now that we have told you how the Kawasaki Z650RS performs, would you buy it over the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 or its lower-priced sibling - the #KawasakiZ650? Do let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
You need to give us the specs on the kastubh's interceptor
@@LOVEMAHAJAN1 Its Vikrant’s Interceptor 650. Here are the details.
th-cam.com/video/8Ur-uDeL-AU/w-d-xo.html
Thank you
I will buy the Kawasaki without a doubt but then again, IF I HAD THE MONEY LYING AROUND WAITING TO BE SPENT
Hey, thanks for video. Greetings from central Europe ! Interesting point about price. Over here RE 650 interceptor starts on 190 000 CZK and go up to 206 000 CZK (Chrome tank). Z 650 RS is for 210 000 CZK and Z650 RS 50th anniversary is for 230 000 CZK. So delta in price is about 10%. Looks like Kawa costs almost same in you country and here, but we are properly robbed with import of RE to Europe.
Currently Own a versys 650 , but love the retro look of Z650 RS ! If I was buying today I would go for z650RS eyes closed . I owned RE in past no offence to fans here ,it was pain in terms of reliability & maintenance. Once someone gets used to reliability of a Japanese bike its difficult to go back to so called bikes with character!
Just take a ride on gt or interceptor,you will know
@@hardcoregympatna still one would opt a kawa over any Enfield...enfiled is not a comparison for motorcycle giants like Kawasaki..
I second ur point wen it comes to Japanese reliability
I owned a cbr650r then took a interceptor again going to a Japanese and first time to kawasaki
One cannot modify his interceptor to be a same potent of z650RS. The fit n finish and built quality is far far faaar way better in Kawa.
So only you will pay more than 7 lacks for z650 rs and 3 lack for re 650 and even after modifying you will save 2 lacks
So effectively what bikewale is saying, buy a shitty bike for lot less money, spend an equal amount of money modifying and making it better, voiding all warranty and spending time and effort for doing it, but not buy a better bike right off the showroom….
In other words, they are saying that the int650 is a shitty bike, but you can buy it for a lot less money… ?
Yes, however, they can do everything what a Z650RS can do with a smile on their face
@@krishhvlogs5 the RE twins can't produce 68bhp with or without a smile 🙈
The twins provide us with a an affordable bike with more than enough power for Indian roads. They're certainly not the better bike. But they are what most of us can do with.
@@RajivSingha3 how much power you may between your legs, 70km/hr is the speed limit on most of Indian roads, so,RE can do almost what a z650 can do and the rider can have a smile for what RE does
Bluetooth Connectivity option imo is most gimmicky feature a bike can offer. I was excited about it before getting my new bike. After a month I haven't even used it once. I'm glad the retro bikes are sticking to the old school dial. It enhances the feel and is practical.
Agreed, get on a bike to escape all the tech :)
Don't buy a zx10r then. You need the damn app just to know how much fuels in it
Very good test. Thank you! I like both bikes. Yes, the Interceptor cost less. But you get an lot of many back if you resell a used unmodified Z650RS in a couple of years. For example, Kawasaki's W650/800 holds its value over time very well. On the other hand, customised bikes are more difficult to resell. And you wouldn't get all the money back that you put into all modifications of an Interceptor. But improving a bike is a lot of fun anyway...
9:54 that proud smile 😃
The biggest problem from the Kawasaki is the 125mm of ground clearance.... two up with luggage...all the best riding on our roads..... otherwise its a definitely better built machine at a price for sure.....cheers
Same thoughts. Surprised it was not mentioned in the video. Haven't had a chance to ride it but from specs No very practical. Also the range is low. But looks! A killer!
@@ksisneh Best looking bike but seriously if specs are to be believed, a 125mm ground clearance is something you see on top of the line sports bike which are definitely not ridable for across cities. This could have been nice touring bike if not for that exhaust that's lowering its ground clearance
Once we adjusted to the comp + rebound characteristics of the Z650RS, the ground clearance does not affect as much.
@@feat.everyday1113hi can you elaborate on this please? Thanks
@@rkr6237 The rebound of the Z650RS is a bit sluggish and unfortuntely, we can't alter the front suspension. Due to this, if we carefully ride it over the bump, it usually does not hurt the underpinnings of the motorcycle. I got used to this characteristics within 500 kms and it doesn't bother me much nowadays.
Certainly one of the best looking modern retro`s on the market, along with its big brother, the Z900RS. If you want a 70s style modern classic, this, along with the Moto Guzzi V7 are the ones to choose from. If you want a 60s one, then Royal Enfield and Triumph both have some great bikes to choose from, as well as Enfield 50s style "Classic". Me, i own a Triumph Speed Twin, a great bike, but quite a bit of tech which i could do without. The Royal Enfield 650 is a great bike, easy to ride, and no tech to go wrong, and being at the lower spec and budget end of the market, a great bike to customise.
The maintenance on the V7 is definitely a nice bonus of the guzzi. Easy to handle it at home. Shaft drive to boot. And the vibe on the guzzi is hard to beat.
Kawasaki India must seriously consider increasing its ground clearance. At least only for India market.
The main issues with 180° Crank is it doesn't have that special character. 360° and 270° produce superb sound with aftermarket exhaust. But these 180° sounds like single cylinder and if someone buy an expensive motorcycle, the sound should be good. Otherwise, there shouldn't be any competition between both these 650s as both engines are different in terms of everything except the size. One who loves proper retro classic will anyday choose interceptor because it resembles that old motorcycling era. And feels mechanical. Specially the whining sound of the gearbox when shifted to 3rd.
Vikrant Singh, man you have been my favorite auto journalists since the better part of a decade. Really happy to see you at BikeWale now! Great review guys!
The advantage of interceptor over this and everything else is the ground clearance, Interceptor is made for India, and good to travel with a pillion.
I will buy the interceptor too for sure, good conclusion on a honest and good review.
j'ai une interceptor et ne changerait aucunement pour une 650 Kawasaki...le magnifique moteur, sa sonorité envoûtante, le lÔok de la Royal Enfield me ravit et me transporte beaucoup plus loin dans le "temps"...que le Kawasaki ne saura jamais le faire puis, comparer ces deux motos n'est pas sérieux🍺
Royal enfield could have provided the interceptor with alloys (atleast as an option)
I mean spokes do have their fan base but alloys are like bare necessity in todays day and age..😐😐
We hope they launch it soon.
Or they could have made alloys that looks like spoke wheels just as on the z650rs
That design would completely change the retro and minimalist looks of the bike. I think they'll bring Alloys on the cruiser version.
It's better to have a spoke wheel with tubeless interceptor as Triumph tiger has...
That's an easy swap. Not a deal breaker for any bike in my opinion.
I brought a Z650RS one month ago which was a demo bike for less than a RE . At 72 years old last time ride before this bike was 1985. First ride on this one was 1 hour and was struggling on roundabouts and wondering if I made the right decision. Today rode for 2 hours and nailed it. I used to ride Honda 400s this bike a bit less refined but gave me everything I wished for in a bike. Its intant acceleration.........eveness through out the gears but a ruggedness that gave me smile factor. A great choice and if I want more later I can remove the cat and exhaust replace possibly with a scorpion and flash it that will de-restrict it
100% Kawasaki.....more performance, more build quality and reliability
The interceptor with the big bore kit and better suspensions and brakes will be my pick over the kawasaki z650rs since i already have the interceptor. I can still save around 3 lakhs even after all that mod and utilize the saved amount into a different category of bike
What about wobble and electronic failures ?
@@aftabpathan3148 I have had my inty for over 2 years now. Ridden over 15k kms and i ride hard.
I have had 0 wobble issues...only time it wobbles is when the bike goes over road markers and i dont know why.
Then electronic failures have been nil as well🤞. The only problem is the inaccurate fuel meter which doesn't bother me much
@@aftabpathan3148 the guys complaining about wobble should change tires first.😂 I too experienced the wobble from interceptor issue was with my tyre.. it is solid now..
@@ジヤンスニヨ hey! What tire have you changed to? And what size? Is putting a 140 or 150 on the rear possible?
@@Dinara1up yep you can put a 150/70 R18 on rear., Iam personally using timsun 150/70 r18 and tire looks massive and it has good life i think it'll definitely get 20k kms with the timsun.. i have now ridden 12k kms on that rear tire it still has 50% of grooves.. i bought it for 8.8k... now i think the price is about 14.5k
Exhaust note is one area which needs to be attended by kawasaki, the beneili twins sound good
I do not think anything more than 30 bhp is good for our roads and riders skills....
But, between these two,RE is my choice considering availability of service and spares...
Buy an Int650,Change plunger and spring in front suspension,add supension risers for rear, install handlebar risers,get alloy wheels,Ralco tyres and it's still a great bike which costs less.....
Kawasaki is good Unarguably....
Waiting for BSA Goldstar 650
What a bike! IMO this is the most beautiful bike in the Indian market today. The soundtrack is a top ten song of the last 10 years for any real music lover!
Cb650r still looks way better than this ...
Nothing comes close to the sexy look of the interceptor. It’s a pure full metal classic, simple decent and absolutely gorgeous. Enough power to put a smile on the riders face and definitely looks straight from the 70s with the added refinement.
I have z650rs and it is everything i wanted. Z900 was out of the price range and i basically wished z650rs into existence. I have bought the first one in the Eastern Europe. My only problem is lack of storage space under the seat, for chain and disk Lock ( on z400 i didnt need do carry a backpack for my security, and i don't like add on language, for me it ruins the looks). In Europe RE interceptor is 7450€ and Kawasaki z650rs (black color) is 8172€. So Kawa is definitely a better option.
Good choice! I have the vanilla Z650 and I loved the RS seat and instrument cluster.
How do you solve or increase ground clearance?
@@brendonfernandes2877 in India?
@@raviniranjan5707 Oh it was bad. With a pillion almost every unscientific speedbreaker I would touch. I finally installed an exhaust.Now it doesn't touch but I still have to be careful with a pillion.
Z650RS isn't twice the motorcycle than interceptor.
Great video guys, superb visuals and very informative 👍
Ah, those are Sari-guards; I always wondered what that BBQ-grill at the back was on bikes in India, but that makes sense! And yes, they are pig-ugly, but I guess they make good practical sense to many. Between the two bikes there is one thing you didn't mention and that is the sound of the Interceptor which is MUCH nicer than the Kawa. But damn,that Z650RS is nice.. I shall win the lottery tonight nad buy both!
Also RSs ground clearance would notbe practical for indian roads
In some situations, yes.
Interceptor’s GC is not that great to begin with 😅
@@saishivajampala1407 Interceptor's ground clearance is 174mm... that's more than most regular motorcycles that you see out on our roads....it's more than enough for almost every situation, unless you're going offroading which this isn't built for anyways
@@TheTwinPost I agree. I also have an interceptor. It’s practical for most uses.
Certainly interceptor....bought in october 2022 and till date completed 15000 km....found only break pad, liner issue and puncture one time.
Nothing else.
Kawasaki is best but for indian roads..... interceptor 650 the beast
Agree on the R.E. 100%. I own both R.E. And Kawi and can be neutral. The 650 RS should be an In LIne 4 screamer, but the bean counters said no. The R.E. Is already killing the w800 by a wide margin. Expect the w800 to be discontinued shortly. Kawi needs to quit homogenizing platforms and develop new bikes or they will end up like Suzuki very soon
A very good and well needed comparo. Thank you so much 😺🤙🏻
Thanks for the kind words.
3:27 ...easy for you might not be for others ..why dont reviewers tell their height as reference??
Excellent review of the Kawasaki.
The final argument made a lot of sense given the very high premium Kawasaki is charging over the Interceptor's price.
interceptor is quite cheap compared to any other 650 and they can do it by providing totally bullshit quality parts. I own one for over a year that's why how I know.
These two bikes are almost the same price in Australia.
Kawasaki everyday, purely for materials used and build quality 👍
At 2:04 front wheel 17" And rear 19"???
Is should have been vice versa
There is no matter of money
Choice ka maamla hai...
Depends own yourself 👍
What about vibrations at high reps and Engine heating?
Appreciate the honesty.
Is Suzuki GN 250 retro bike still available??
Do you hv any news about W 175.
What's the name of the helmate riding is wearing on this video
Oh mate ..that closing note from Vikrant was epic 😃
In my country the price of the R.E. Interceptor and Z650 RS is almost the same. I think Z650RS is going to sell more.
very good video for sure!
I will go with splendor.
I love the bike but I wouldn't call it retro. Still a beautiful machine.
At the end you solved my question 😂 in just few words! Thank a lot to get me out of the confusion.
Motoringscribe rightly said. The price is double but is the Kawi 650Rs double the bike? Addition of the S&S cams and big bore kit can dust away the kawi in terms of power. Still won't cost me 7 lakhs.
Anyway glad to see your bike after a long time motoringscribe.
Basically, built vs bought. People can choose according to their temperament (along with finances and time)
@@NalinKhurb Well said, Nalin.
@@NalinKhurb built vs bought. Only time will decide that.
But why buy a 650 when I can add another lakh to get a z900? Ridiculous pricing 🤣
@@pratik.jaiswar Two lakhs*, sure ;)
And remember to only use high octane fuel on the 900, the injectors clog up really quickly with the normal fuel we have here. The Z650 (non RS) does not exhibit this issue
@@NalinKhurb rich people problems 😂
You killed an otherwise good review by comparing with RE Interceptor towards the end. A pear can never become an apple by painting it red. Money is not everything at the end of the day. 🤷🏻♂️
At the end you have to think,
Are getting what you are paying for !
your explanation is too good
Its simple. . If you have money go for kawasaki . . Dont have that much money, go for interceptor!! . . Buying a cheaper motorcycle and upgrading it is fine, but one cannot buy "refinement" as an aftermarket accessory...
Well said! I liked the Interceptor but didn't care for the build quality. Felt too cheap. The engine was fantastic though
Can one fit the meteor suspensions and tyres to bring down the height of the motorcycle
i currently own a interceptor , and if i was given an opportunity to waste 7 lakhs , i would do it with honour by first installing TEC big bore kit , a powertronic piggy back , ohlins , maybe upside down forks , better wider tyres , and really 17 inches wheels cause tyres for 18 inchers are so hard to find😑 , MK DESIGN speedo relocation mount , performance full system tinatium exhausts and clip ons as well at last 🙌🏻 plus if i had any money left , i would go for a tune up too 🙌🏻 you know JDM things , then maybe you could spot me riding bike and having a laptop at back seat 😂
Vikrant, did you upgrade the brakes too?
What setup is it now? And what's the cost to upgrade the brakes?
Can we have the same brake setup for Int650 (Nissin ones) as the kwacker?
Money is for
1: brand name
2: looks
3: performance
4: reliability of engine
5: uniqueness and stand out look from the crowd
These things you cant change or buy with extra money
I have RE classic new model and know reliabilty issues and vibration issues so whatever they make 350,400,650 etc every thing is having issues
Neat to see those non-spoked wheels on the Interceptor 650. Are they from Enfield or are they aftermarket?
What about triumph trident 660, honda cb 650. Please compare this with them.
I like that u still have the Trident's onn. Man, what a sound "pure symphony". Plus it's good for the panniers as well and also angled slightly inwards compared to stock. So no Brushed finish on them XD
Liked the alloys of interceptor.. pls share the link of the alloys..
Pls suggest who does upgrades for interceptor 650 in Bangalore 🙏🏽
Keep it as it is , don't waste your money & don't invite troubles.🌹
Awesome review, and sweet bike. I just feel they could have done something better with the exhaust system, it looks like an afterthought the way it is.
Not an afterthought. The bike is essentially a Z650 with retro clothes. And the Kawa Z650 has the same engine and exhausts. They didn't bother making the exhausts retro too, unfortunately!
Forget these two... Waiting for SG650
Archiles heels..ground clearance...it would have been helpful if u have cleared the air on it...
How can you compare a 3 lac bike with a 8 lac bike?
In my country, both are at the same price. I think I'll go for Kawasaki.
Bro when will kawasaki w175 launched
Never, not a right product for indian audience according to price to performance ratio
excuse me, how tall are you in cms? thanks greetings from Mexico
170cms
Excellent vid, Im wondering the same thing here in Australia between the RE 650, Z650RS and XSR700 for a comfortable upright beginner motorcycle.
600cc+ isn't usually for beginners coz it can be overwhelming and can be risky. If you are a beginner then start with the smaller displacement hypernaked bikes such as yamaha mt-03,kawasaki z400 etc. I recommend the naked bikes since u wanted an upright riding position.
Where are these roads in Pune!!? They are great!
Z650 rs with short exhaust doesn't suit to retro look I think exhaust should like Z900 rs...
Kawasaki kitna kilometres dikhata hei?
Whatever feauter RS has, and we all knows the japanese refinement, but this time my bet is on Interceptor
Only 650 cc and 270 degree firing sound u can buy under 4 lacs bracket, and buying a bike is not only one time spend, RE service cost is drastically cheaper than the another one, it's great value for money bike
Interceptor is most selling mid segment bike(250cc - 700cc) in European market.
whixh bike has the best suspension ride to survive terrible Maharashtra roads
range between 6 to 10 laks
Versys 650. Even the BMW G 310 GS has incredibly good suspension
@@brendonfernandes2877
few of my neighbour's have
kawasaki / suzuki / tvsbmw310gs / bajaj Dom / R E him
and they want me to look else where at other brands.
I suspect that I now have to choose between
a Honda and T Tiger
@@vspatmx7458 tiger 800xcx
@@vspatmx7458 india
India mizoram
Less than 1000 pounds difference in the UK. So it looks like the Z650RS is a better buy
siderail is good for protection ,its not ugly
The thing z650 is the design still feels a little too old school....unlike the other bikes like the interceptor Or even something like a honda hness which give the bikes a few highlights to the old design which gives that " Wow " Appeal
Traction control?
Also do look at things like kerb weight.. Int is just huge metal scrap.. they could have removed the dual silencer and designed something like Kawasaki .. instead they are competing with Jawa ??😂😂
RE hasnt fixed the footpeg positions for the interceptor which always hit your shins. the erratic fuel gauge and the common failure of charging unit are still overlooked by RE. If they fix these things, indeed the bike is unbeatable
Footpeg relocation is actually an easy fix.. I moved both sets for under 20 bucks.. big improvement. No other issues so far.. cool bike!
@@sscbkr48 could you elaborate or link what you did or used?
Having owned a RE Interceptor, Himalayan and currently own Kawasaki Z650RS the Kawasaki is a better bike in every single aspect especially reliability. I’ll not be bitten again by RE.
But what really put me off another RE was that in Australia you only get two tows with the Royal Enfield under warranty road side assist. No where could I find that in the T&C’s on the RE AU website.
Building a bike according to personal taste happens to b illegal in India..nd RE still has along way to go in terms of reliability I guess.. although a nice video
So true. My friend got pulled over the other day for a mobile phone charger for all things.
@@brendonfernandes2877 wait seriously? Tomorrow they will stop people for after market visors and saddle stays .Was this in Bombay ?
@@clydesequeira8813 Yes. He had a regular mobile holder with charger. He had aux lights as well but the cop caught him for the mobile saying connecting to the battery can cause an explosion and he was saving my friends life. However after he took money he just let my friend go without saving his life and making him remove the mobile holder
The 650s are reliable i guess. I'm using it and it's more reliable than my previous yamaha because I mostly get times to ride my bike after 20-25 days of resting and the interceptor cranks on the 1st shelf. So far, pretty reliable to me at least
@@rikusharma1 Your single case of the bike being reliable doesn't mean much. There are plenty of issues owners have complained about during their ownership. RE bikes are well known for being unreliable. That's why so many mechanics specialize in only RE bikes knowing how owners face issues.
Is it possible to Install Kawasaki Z650RS Speedometer on Interceptor 650..??
Nope. I wanted it on my vanilla Z650 but it's not possible :(
RE has paid off all TH-camrs who recommend RE bikes over competition even if there are no flaws in them..
Z650 vs interceptor 650 =z650 but it cost way more and if you dont need more performance than interceptor have than you can go with interceptor it also have 2 wheels breaks and engine 😜👌🏻
Yes the current pricing of the Z650 is too much for what it offers.
Holy batman!! You earned a subscription for JUST removing that horrible saree guard and grab rail and echoing my feelings : "3 and a half kgs of ugliness, get tf outta here!" Love you guys.
RE's the only manufacturer to provide 270 degree crank even if the segment's stretched
RE 650 provides you power, quality ride experience...in less than half the price ...
Also it provide vast service network..easy parts availablity...low service cost...good mileage...and most important good resale value and 100 percent made in india bike........
If you have lots of money 💸 to spend go for Kawasaki...
One more thing is sale figure..for ex if RE sales thousand units of 650 ... Kawasaki hardly solds even 10 unit's.
I'm sure the Z650RS is a fine bike, but one the largest selling points was the simplicity of an air-cooled engine over a water-cooled. In addition to that, the cost difference is nothing to sneeze at. You could buy 1.5 Interceptors for the price of the Z650RS. Or you could buy one Interceptor and every mod you would like to really make it your own, and probably still not pay as much. I don't think it warrants one and a half times the price for such a similar bike, with less of the retro curb appeal and less simplicity.
instead of mods, I prefer company made better motorcycle.
I purchase a Z650RS demo bike for less than an Interceptor with 4000 kilometres on it. To add to that I also purchased a high quality leather jacket and was still less than the RE
Price k.w
I'm going to buy one of these bikes, I still can't make up my mind!
go for the int650 and mod it to your taste
We hope this video helps you make a decision.
Leave everything, just go for Honda CB500X there nothing better than that in the range ❤️
@@viankit1 Honda tatti se retro nehi ban payega
@@wolfmotorhead 😂😂
The only thing that stops people from buying the Kawasaki is its price... Otherwise people will buy it over the RE
similar to analogy that people buy maruti , hyundai and what not, over merc, volvo and bmw
people will buy HD Fatboy over any retro japanese pos
Simple answer is nooooo. Reasons 1)High price 2) Repair is difficult 3)Feel of RE is way better than kawasaki 4)Fan following of RE is way more than kwasaki.
Is it 68 bhp or 46?
68 for the Z650RS and 46 for the Interceptor
I agree with vikrant sir ❤️
even a blind person wouldnt call this a retrobike
Ok
in the eyes of the beholder
Udaipur tripura new palsar 125 split sit 3d logo 2022 price
I would choose the RE 650, as it has enough power and cost a lot less. I would use that money to get alloys, tubeless tyres and a whole lot of touring accessories 😁
Interceptor is the best 🔥
Why the alloy wheels on the interceptor 😱😱
That's one good looking bike.