As a 52 years old beginner, i considere to buy this beauty as my first bike!! A real retro motorcycle!! Thanx for your excellent video, regards from far away Serbia 🇷🇸 ✌️
I'm also 52 and only been riding 2 years. RE interceptor was my 1st bike and now this one. It really does feel very light, I would recommend a remap to smooth out the rpm's as it is a bitch twitchy. Other than that I'm thoroughly enjoying this machine.
Kawasaki did such a great job on the looks of the bike. The green with the gold is fabulous. I rode the old z650 and that is a real classic bike. You can't imitate a parallel 4 cylinder bike with a, quite old and not at all exciting parallel twin. Still, green is my fav colour and the shade of it on the bike is mesmerising. Forget logic and just congratulate the make-up artistes.
I own a Versys 650 ABS with this exact same engine but has longer travel suspension and modern styling..Honestly it's the best machine I've had for decades and with the mods I've done its more than capable on those rough rocky and rutted roads I experience now and then.
I just bought a new 2020 Versys (been sitting in a warehouse somewhere due to the pandemic), and I absolutely agree with this. In fact, I sold my 2013 Triumph 675R and my 2015 Vulcan 900 LT to make room for this bike, as it is just such a pleasurable bike to ride. Having owned the 675R, and ridden both the Z900RS and Versys 1000, I do wish the 650 engine put out another 15hp or so. With that (and a stock seat that doesn't drive you into the tank), the Versys would be just about perfect!
I traded "down" from a VFR1200X to the Versys 650GT 3 years and 26,000 miles ago. Either you get used to the seat or it flattens out after a while as I don't notice it anymore. I think it has enough BHP if you use the rev range, but it did take a bit getting used compared to the more powerful and slower revving 1200. When I wear this one out my next bike will be a Versys 650. 😁
Yup! That intake sound is deep-throated and not raspy like so many other bikes. Love it! I, personally, would like more fender covering the rear wheel, though.
Very good review with plenty of detail and insight yet enjoyable to watch👍. Started my riding in the early 70s and was a Kawasaki fan-boy in those years. They have done an outstanding job bringing back that heritage in a modern form.
Great review, why do I say that, well I got one in Black! 1000 miles miles on all types of road and I love it. Very different from my previous bike a Triumph Bonneville T120 however at 132 lbs less weight the ride is exceptional!
The z900rs has the illusion of air cooling with the contrasted aluminium fins on the blacked out engine. The 650 would really stand out with the same treatment.
This is the best looking of all the bikes in its class ! Thank god this wasn’t launched in 2018.. I’d have lost my sleep in choosing between this one and more affordable Vulcan S which I bought !
You guys have all the fun. In Australia, all the Kawasaki 650 class are restricted to A2. Such a pity. I've riden a full powered version and it is more enjoyable.
Wonderful review! Can't believe Kawasaki went *so* retro looking on this one, it's great that they did though, even if I'm not really a fan of Kawi's 180° twin. The CP2 is just - in my opinion, and I recognize this is personal - a much more fun engine. If full retro is your bag AND performance matters, this certainly wins and that gold and green is pure money. The Royal Enfield is beautiful and also very much a pure retro look but far down on the performance stack. Really, though, this whole class is amazing and pretty much full of perfect bikes for the average rider. There are no bad choices, no matter what criteria you choose - performance, looks, sound, price, brand loyalty, doesn't matter, they're all great, great bikes. I'm glad Kawasaki didn't use the retro looks as an excuse to cheap out with a bad suspension or other such things, and made a *good* retro bike.
Excellent motorcycle. I love the exhaust note as well. I don't want this bike to sound like a V-Twin. I like the fast inline sound better on this type of motorcycle.
The 180-degree crank is the true classic Japanese small/mid-size layout, going back to the Honda Dream and Super Hawk of the 1960s. It has a distinctive beat, lumpy like a single at lows revs and develops a banshee wail at high revs. A 360 crank would sound like a classic British twin; the 270-degree sounds like a V-twin - nice but not a classic parallel twin sound. I think they chose the right motor for this model.
Cool bike just wish it was more retro..also how does one get to have a Kawasaki for one week?also other models to drive?I need a job riding motorcycles 😃
@@lovelessissimo more like a Royal enfield..or the Kawasaki w800..could have used spoke wheels..lots of ways to make it retro..even triumph and moto guzzi have retro motorcycles with modern fuel injection and the new electronics..
@@DifferentSpokesTV that would be a start..I was thinking more of a triumph style motorcycle spoke wheels kind of what moto guzzi have with the V7 line of motorcycles but with modern technology
Would you buy this with your own money or get something else? I am in Houston where it is flat…what to get? No off road, minimal touring. Just want to ride around on a bike that handles well and is nimble? Not a beginner rider. I like that you mentioned the other bikes in the class. So you would get this bike instead? What about the Triumph Street Twin…is it in this price class or more expensive?
I like the 2023 gray'and black Z650RS. I would change the rear spocket to lower the revs a bit at highway speeds. I would also add a flyscreen. I wouldn't want to ruin the bike's good looks with a full size windshield. And finally I's add a luggage rack with a top truck which would sevre two purposes. One give my wife a nice back rest. Two eliminate me bending over searching through saddlebags to find something. My last two motorcycle have had top trunks and I'll tell you they will spoil you. Of course I'm 70 years old and don't care if a top trunk might look dorky, it's easier to find what you're looking for, whether it be your rain suit, or some tylenol.
i agree with you. I never had a bad sounding Kawasaki. I have a 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 600, W800 and Z900 RS Cafe. All great sounding bikes. If it wasn't a Kawasaki, this 650 cc engine would have sounded a lot worse.
The next bike I'm looking at is currently between a TT700 or the Royal Enfield 650 interceptor, but that Kawasaki Z650 looking really good. Really going to have to figure this one out.
Hello, I am new to motorcycling. I liked your review, but unfortunately, I don't know what you mean by 270 degree crankshaft sounding better than 180: is this a rule? Also, what bike is it @3:24? Thank you.
My wife has one of these while I own the Z9000RS. In both cases we love the bikes and the power they produce but the seats are modern day bricks! Hard to rid over around 75miles or so before you start to become very uncomfortable. Wish there was a good aftermarket seat for these bikes! Very few add-ons at all for them. Makes me wonder how well they are selling.
Kawasaki is on a tight budget. That bike should have a 270⁰ crank. Not just for the sound but for the lower rpm torque, lugging and responsiveness. Kawasaki managed to make an XSR that looks like what Yamaha was aiming at. Yamaha's XSRs only look like a MTs with a seat mod, except for the XSR 155 which looks nice probably due to the tiny engine
Of the retro bikes out there I really like the Kawasaki W800 for its looks. To me this one is the best. I saw one at the motorcycle show a couple years ago. My understanding is the performance is quite retro too so there’s a trade off to make. But it’s style is hard to resist.
Good review 👍I had an 83 z650f2. Loved that bike and first I restored. Always hankered after the B1 in green though. This is an acceptable compromise. Although, I love my interceptor 650🤔
Glad you gave your hight , im 5ft 11 also so it really helps for comparison, with that being said , ill take the 900 my gf can get the 650 , shes 5ft 2. Thanks for this video it is such a pretty bike.
Picking between the Yamaha XSR700 and the Z650RS would be agonizing.😬 The Yamaha takes the lead in performance while the Kawasaki wins the beauty contest. But in each case only by a fraction.🧐 Reminds me of my delima of choosing in 2019 between my sweet looking Bonneville T120 and the slightly more potent Thruxton.😟 By the time I dithered and decided on the Thruxton, it was gone; but I got a killer deal on the more comfortable T120. So indecision can be put to good use. Since Yamaha seems to keep selling out its 700 and 900 line-up, the Z650 may often be the default choice that will keep you off a long Yamaha wait-list.😎
Yeah but a 3 yr warranty with roadside assistance! Interceptor's a bit of a novelty until you consider that AND - ABS, six speed gearbox, tubeless rims, no coolant to check or change, centre stand and a lovely sound to boot. But the Kawasaki is a drop-dead gorgeous machine!
It's the same Klim but that colour way is not in production anymore. I think that it is a 2019 and they changed the colours since then. Unfortunately the new ones aren't as nice.
You might have sold me - on the 900RS. I just can't see myself enjoying that 650 longterm, having ridden Yamaha's MT series. What's your view on the cafe styling? I prefer the looks without the faring, so does that windscreen add enough protection (and does it need to) to be worth the compromise?
I haven't ridden it with a screen but they tend to deflect some air off your chest which makes a difference on the highway. Still get the air blast on the helmet though. If you get the non-cafe and decide to add the fly screen later it will amount to the same thing.
You did an awesome review,for me.everything you mention,and the way you shoοt the bike,is what i d like to see and hear..and i watch maaany moto youtubers.i like this bike.i want a naked,with a parraler two,and better with a classic look.i didnt have the opportunity to sit on it,and i m about the same height as you,5.10 85 kilos,so as i saw, i m afraid it ll be a little small for me.i ride 25 years,more on/off bikes.my last street was a fazer600 2002,good machine.i had it from 2007 since 2012.now i like to go back to a street bike.i dont care about much horsepower,but ,also i want something to drive fast in country roads and have fun,when i want.maybe i will wait for honda,for a more retro cb750.and kawasaki is behind,they must upgrade this motor,and give it 10 horses more.i sub dude
I actually prefer the new V7 stone in terms of design. A real retro bike too. But if I had to take a mid size retro from Japan that would be the 650rs indeed
That Kawa is a winner, I also value good looks highly so ugly bikes are not for me. Sorry, Yamaha but I like old school. So this one for me, with The Enfield as a runner up.
The price of the Z650RS over the price of the Z650 in North America cannot be justified. I hear they are the same price in the UK. If I want to save some money, I'll go with the Royal Enfield 650 INT, as speed / power is not that important to me. If I can cruise at 75 mph, I am happy. And the Baker Express version is gorgeous. If I want to spend a little more, the Triumph Street Twin (in 2023, the Triumph Speed Twin 900) looks better, especially in blue. Love the upswept Vance & Hines pipes. My dream bike would be a used one or two year old blue Street Twin with a tail tidy, bar end mirrors, a fly screen and black leather saddle bags.
I did demo ride on it couple of weeks ago. It was ok but, lil small for me at 5'10". It would probably be better fit for people up to 5'6-5'7". Engine is very nice though and it is very comfy. I guess for shorter commuter guys who are into retro style and don't mind spending few extra bucks, it is good choice. Just like cruisers, it is not very versatile bike. Now, I absolutely loved everything about Versys with the same engine, other than considering all bikes being overpriced at MSRP. Talking to other riders, most were drooling over z900rs which I really didn't care about and it made little sense to me. KLR was bust for me but, I'll post my opinion when its turn come :-)
It is a superlative bike, don’t get me wrong. But it’s literally a parts bin bike, and that engine was never meant to be seen. It’s gorgeous if you don’t look at the engine. Most of the other retro bikes look good all around.
Interesting review. I find this bike one of my least favorites in the retro category for a number of reasons. Even the dual analog displays look bad due to the spacing between them for the crappy screen, at least in my humble opinion. I can't even look up most specs right now because Kawasaki's website seems to not function correctly. And the 180-degree crank? No thank you. For that price I'll keep my Triumph Street Twin all day long.
You seem to be in love with the Triump brand so nothing could bring you around to buying a Kaw. I`m a Kawasaki guy myself. In your case though, love is blind. 😉
The cherry on top would have been to have made it an in line four, but I'm guessing that wasn't economically viable for Kawasaki. P.S. Tell Brooke that the Z650RS suits her well. She NEEDS one! ;)
I couldn't agree more about the proportions! The first thing I said when I saw this is that the proportions are superior to the Z900rs, where something is just a little off.
If it wasn't for the S shaped exhaust in front, it would be a perfect 10. Anybody know of a full exhaust to resolve that? Even a less s like the MT07 would do. It's an eye sore for me and would eliminate it instantly.
I got in touch with a company in Australia who make a crome 4 into 4 classic exhaust system for the z900rs to see if they are going to produce one for the z650 rs.. buy sadly they replied no!!!
I wish the speedo/tach needles in this retro bikes be freakin' RED, instead of that white on white numbers. It'd be so much easier to see with barely a glance. I got a '21 Ninja 650, should I trade? Hmmmm...
On of the most effective ways for Kawasaki to increase sales with the.... Versys 650 Ninja 650 Z650 Z650RS Vulcan S .....is to make that engine a 270° crank. The Z650RS is more of a competitor to the XSR700 rather than the MT-07.
@@DifferentSpokesTV This engine has been around in one form or another since 2006. Back then it was Kawasaki's answer for the hot-selling SV650S and came on the 2006 Ninja 650R, but renamed without the 'R' in 2012. They probably went with the 180° crank due to the similar 500R going away. Kawasaki has paid off the tooling a long long time ago. They're just a little lazy with it. In my mind it's the worst 650 twin in the 650-700 class, not because it's reliable (it is), not because it's fuel efficient (it is), not because it is durable (it is), but because it's buzzy and sounds terrible and doesn't produce the same shaped torque curve you might expect after being spoiled on Yamaha's CP2, Suzuki's SV650, or Aprilia's RS 660. Kawasaki really needs to produce liquid cooled sports V-twins. Only Vtwins I know of late Kawasaki has ever made are in their cruisers or ATVs.
@@DifferentSpokesTV I've owned a couple Kawasaki's over time. I just don't get the rumbly, barky, grunty mindset when thinking of the brand in general. I think with their near unlimited finances and engineering prowess, they could make a cracker of a sports Vtwin. Could even supercharge one.
Keep the Good Vids coming, I watch them all.! I bough a motorcycle of a Gentleman who then bought that same RS model in that Green & Gold. Are you watching "SHHH Moto Travels".? His Wife & He will eventually pass though or around Toronto this summer. Wink wink
Thanks, will do! Down the line I'd love to pick up an income property in your neck of the woods. It's gotten so expensive though it's tough to swing it.
Why in Calgary.? Will I be your Tenant or the Manager of it.? hee hee Please consider meeting Lucinda & Craig from "SHHH Moto Travels" when they get out your way this summer.
I really really love the looks of the bike! But still amazes me how it is only producing around 67hp compared to Aprilia who are able to achieve 100 hp on their 660 models
Its not that hard to achieve high hp for a sacrifice in reliability and power curve. If you want a track machine that will be in repair shops trough the week.. than yea, Aprilia is good for that. But if you want reliable, no-fuse machine that you will ride day after day, for weeks and months… You got my point!
@@stormtrooper9404 I think there is low power to reduce the price, since the Z650 is a budget bike. Suzuki Hayabusa engine has the same power per liter (as Aprilia) and it is considered one of the most reliable and durable. By the way, Suzuki and Kawasaki have removable cylinders, but Aprilia (and most modern motorcycles) do not, which makes them almost unrepairable - it is scum from manufacturers.
As a 52 years old beginner, i considere to buy this beauty as my first bike!! A real retro motorcycle!! Thanx for your excellent video, regards from far away Serbia 🇷🇸 ✌️
I'm also 52 and only been riding 2 years. RE interceptor was my 1st bike and now this one. It really does feel very light, I would recommend a remap to smooth out the rpm's as it is a bitch twitchy. Other than that I'm thoroughly enjoying this machine.
Jeste li kupili motor? Iskustva? Hvala!
@@flomaster7998 cao, ipak nisam taj motor kupio. Uzeo sam kineza Kove 510x kao prvi motor za pocetak pa ce od Boga zdravlja sledeci biti Tiger 660 👌
@@svaralen Hvala na odgovoru. Zelim ti puno lepih kilometara uzivanja! Sve najbolje!
@@flomaster7998 Hvalaaa puno i srecno vama koji god kupite 👌💪✌️
Absolutely one of the best looking bike I've seen for years.
Kawasaki did such a great job on the looks of the bike. The green with the gold is fabulous. I rode the old z650 and that is a real classic bike. You can't imitate a parallel 4 cylinder bike with a, quite old and not at all exciting parallel twin. Still, green is my fav colour and the shade of it on the bike is mesmerising. Forget logic and just congratulate the make-up artistes.
Couldn't agree more!
The Z900 RS is the one to get instead of this.
The twin just can't provide the smoothness.
I own a Versys 650 ABS with this exact same engine but has longer travel suspension and modern styling..Honestly it's the best machine I've had for decades and with the mods I've done its more than capable on those rough rocky and rutted roads I experience now and then.
Great bike and severely underrated.
I just bought a new 2020 Versys (been sitting in a warehouse somewhere due to the pandemic), and I absolutely agree with this. In fact, I sold my 2013 Triumph 675R and my 2015 Vulcan 900 LT to make room for this bike, as it is just such a pleasurable bike to ride.
Having owned the 675R, and ridden both the Z900RS and Versys 1000, I do wish the 650 engine put out another 15hp or so. With that (and a stock seat that doesn't drive you into the tank), the Versys would be just about perfect!
I traded "down" from a VFR1200X to the Versys 650GT 3 years and 26,000 miles ago. Either you get used to the seat or it flattens out after a while as I don't notice it anymore. I think it has enough BHP if you use the rev range, but it did take a bit getting used compared to the more powerful and slower revving 1200. When I wear this one out my next bike will be a Versys 650. 😁
Yup! That intake sound is deep-throated and not raspy like so many other bikes. Love it!
I, personally, would like more fender covering the rear wheel, though.
Very good review with plenty of detail and insight yet enjoyable to watch👍. Started my riding in the early 70s and was a Kawasaki fan-boy in those years. They have done an outstanding job bringing back that heritage in a modern form.
I like this! I'm normally a Yamaha/Triumph guy. This is the first Kawi i can honestly say i'd love to own.
Great review, why do I say that, well I got one in Black! 1000 miles miles on all types of road and I love it. Very different from my previous bike a Triumph Bonneville T120 however at 132 lbs less weight the ride is exceptional!
I just brought one and love the thing. That intake noise is intoxicating.
motorcycling is a passion driven hobby.
Yep, that's why they have to look the part.
Retro cool for me had the KZ 650 back in the day sure miss that bike had Kirker pipes and sounded so good was stolen while at work
Sorry to hear that. That was an awesome bike.
Got a 650RS in green. Love the bike and no matter where I stop it turns heads.
The z900rs has the illusion of air cooling with the contrasted aluminium fins on the blacked out engine. The 650 would really stand out with the same treatment.
Great vid as usual. Love the bike, I own the Z900rs but also have an Interceptor 650 which I love.
Keep up the great work both of you 💘🏴🇨🇦
This is the best looking of all the bikes in its class !
Thank god this wasn’t launched in 2018.. I’d have lost my sleep in choosing between this one and more affordable Vulcan S which I bought !
You guys have all the fun. In Australia, all the Kawasaki 650 class are restricted to A2. Such a pity. I've riden a full powered version and it is more enjoyable.
Wonderful review! Can't believe Kawasaki went *so* retro looking on this one, it's great that they did though, even if I'm not really a fan of Kawi's 180° twin. The CP2 is just - in my opinion, and I recognize this is personal - a much more fun engine. If full retro is your bag AND performance matters, this certainly wins and that gold and green is pure money. The Royal Enfield is beautiful and also very much a pure retro look but far down on the performance stack.
Really, though, this whole class is amazing and pretty much full of perfect bikes for the average rider. There are no bad choices, no matter what criteria you choose - performance, looks, sound, price, brand loyalty, doesn't matter, they're all great, great bikes.
I'm glad Kawasaki didn't use the retro looks as an excuse to cheap out with a bad suspension or other such things, and made a *good* retro bike.
Totally agree. The 650 class has some great choices at pretty decent prices. I've got the T& and it's all the power I need.
Excellent motorcycle. I love the exhaust note as well. I don't want this bike to sound like a V-Twin. I like the fast inline sound better on this type of motorcycle.
I just bought the bike! Will arrive in a few weeks!
Nice review as always.
Drop dead gorgeous bike in this colour. Kawa nails it with its classic line up.
Excellent comprehensive review! 👍
Thanks! 👍 Glad you enjoyed the video.
Liked your review I thought it was a very honest review thankyou I really enjoyed it
The 180-degree crank is the true classic Japanese small/mid-size layout, going back to the Honda Dream and Super Hawk of the 1960s. It has a distinctive beat, lumpy like a single at lows revs and develops a banshee wail at high revs. A 360 crank would sound like a classic British twin; the 270-degree sounds like a V-twin - nice but not a classic parallel twin sound. I think they chose the right motor for this model.
Great video dude. Hoping I could get one of these by next year.
Cool bike just wish it was more retro..also how does one get to have a Kawasaki for one week?also other models to drive?I need a job riding motorcycles 😃
How could it possibly be more retro? Drum brakes?
Air cooled engine :)
@@lovelessissimo more like a Royal enfield..or the Kawasaki w800..could have used spoke wheels..lots of ways to make it retro..even triumph and moto guzzi have retro motorcycles with modern fuel injection and the new electronics..
@@DifferentSpokesTV that would be a start..I was thinking more of a triumph style motorcycle spoke wheels kind of what moto guzzi have with the V7 line of motorcycles but with modern technology
Would you buy this with your own money or get something else? I am in Houston where it is flat…what to get? No off road, minimal touring. Just want to ride around on a bike that handles well and is nimble? Not a beginner rider. I like that you mentioned the other bikes in the class. So you would get this bike instead? What about the Triumph Street Twin…is it in this price class or more expensive?
Torn between the Kawasaki's and the Hondas in this class. Great bikes
I own such a bike in the Philippines 🇵🇭. I got the 50th anniversary version, dedicated to the Z1. 🏍️
I like the 2023 gray'and black Z650RS. I would change the rear spocket to lower the revs a bit at highway speeds. I would also add a flyscreen. I wouldn't want to ruin the bike's good looks with a full size windshield. And finally I's add a luggage rack with a top truck which would sevre two purposes. One give my wife a nice back rest. Two eliminate me bending over searching through saddlebags to find something. My last two motorcycle have had top trunks and I'll tell you they will spoil you. Of course I'm 70 years old and don't care if a top trunk might look dorky, it's easier to find what you're looking for, whether it be your rain suit, or some tylenol.
i agree with you. I never had a bad sounding Kawasaki. I have a 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 600, W800 and Z900 RS Cafe. All great sounding bikes. If it wasn't a Kawasaki, this 650 cc engine would have sounded a lot worse.
Gorgeous bike, beautiful video, fantastic presentation 👍
The next bike I'm looking at is currently between a TT700 or the Royal Enfield 650 interceptor, but that Kawasaki Z650 looking really good. Really going to have to figure this one out.
Yep, lots of choice in this class. That's definitely a good thing.
Soooo good looking bike!!!! Excellent :) Did you tried duo with a passenger? And do you thin it is beginner friendly ? Thanx :)
Gonna get me one for sure, great bike and great review👍
Have you ridden the Ninja 650…wonder if it is very similar?
Good review. What about the Suzuki SV650 V-twin?
just got my bike saturday, havent had time to ride yet cuz its still really cold for riding where i live.
Beautiful bike. Many thanks.
Great looking modern retro! Hopefully Kawasaki will offer a cafe version like the 900.
Great review! Another review indicated a great deal of vibration, is that something you found after considerable time on the bike?
A friend of mine is going to buy it next week!
Damn it’s a beautiful machine
This Z650RS and the Interceptor are my 2 favorite looks wise in the 650 segment
Excellent review. Well done.
This bike looks amazing. I'd like something like this but a scrambler to be able to ride some gravel roads and light off road.
A couple of videos ago I talked about a new Honda scrambler that will look very similar. It will have a smaller, less powerful engine though.
@@DifferentSpokesTV indeed it is. I remember this video and looking forward to it.
Hello, I am new to motorcycling. I liked your review, but unfortunately, I don't know what you mean by 270 degree crankshaft sounding better than 180: is this a rule? Also, what bike is it @3:24? Thank you.
My wife has one of these while I own the Z9000RS. In both cases we love the bikes and the power they produce but the seats are modern day bricks! Hard to rid over around 75miles or so before you start to become very uncomfortable. Wish there was a good aftermarket seat for these bikes! Very few add-ons at all for them. Makes me wonder how well they are selling.
Really good looking bike. Can't wait to see your thoughts on the Kawasaki z900.
Coming up soon :)
Kawasaki is on a tight budget. That bike should have a 270⁰ crank. Not just for the sound but for the lower rpm torque, lugging and responsiveness.
Kawasaki managed to make an XSR that looks like what Yamaha was aiming at. Yamaha's XSRs only look like a MTs with a seat mod, except for the XSR 155 which looks nice probably due to the tiny engine
This bike would be perfect with the Yam engine in it.
Of the retro bikes out there I really like the Kawasaki W800 for its looks. To me this one is the best. I saw one at the motorcycle show a couple years ago. My understanding is the performance is quite retro too so there’s a trade off to make. But it’s style is hard to resist.
Yes, it's a beautiful bike. Definitely slower than the Z650RS though.
Love my W800.
Good on Brooke for taking on those crazy Toronto highways and also for bringing back that nifty Z900. She’s definitely more than a noob. 😎
Yep. Up until two years ago we used to live there so we still have the nerve to venture onto those crowded streets. I don't know for how much longer.
Reminds me of my old KZ 400. Give me a small screen and some storage. You gear for a long ride.
Well done. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
This and the Svartpilen are on my watchlist
Both beautiful bikes.
Thanks for sharing the height, helps alot👍🏻
Good review 👍I had an 83 z650f2. Loved that bike and first I restored. Always hankered after the B1 in green though. This is an acceptable compromise. Although, I love my interceptor 650🤔
Yep, the Interceptor doesn't just look classic, it is classic.
Does "surges a bit at low revs" include "snatchiness in 1st gear"?
Nice motobike and great video, thank you.
Glad you gave your hight , im 5ft 11 also so it really helps for comparison, with that being said , ill take the 900 my gf can get the 650 , shes 5ft 2. Thanks for this video it is such a pretty bike.
Thanks for the comment and I'm glad you enjoyed the vid.
Picking between the Yamaha XSR700 and the Z650RS would be agonizing.😬 The Yamaha takes the lead in performance while the Kawasaki wins the beauty contest. But in each case only by a fraction.🧐 Reminds me of my delima of choosing in 2019 between my sweet looking Bonneville T120 and the slightly more potent Thruxton.😟 By the time I dithered and decided on the Thruxton, it was gone; but I got a killer deal on the more comfortable T120. So indecision can be put to good use.
Since Yamaha seems to keep selling out its 700 and 900 line-up, the Z650 may often be the default choice that will keep you off a long Yamaha wait-list.😎
Yep. I love the Thruxton but those clip-ons are a bit on the extreme side. I'd take the T120 as well.
Great review.
Seems like a nice bike and with 50% more hp than my Interceptor i'm sure a sporting ride.
Had an Interceptor before the RS. Its not night and day in performance but you can feel it. Handling and build quality is the big difference.
Yeah but a 3 yr warranty with roadside assistance! Interceptor's a bit of a novelty until you consider that AND - ABS, six speed gearbox, tubeless rims, no coolant to check or change, centre stand and a lovely sound to boot. But the Kawasaki is a drop-dead gorgeous machine!
nice video - more please
What jacket is Brooke wearing? You say it is listed in the description, but that is a different one.
It's the same Klim but that colour way is not in production anymore. I think that it is a 2019 and they changed the colours since then. Unfortunately the new ones aren't as nice.
You might have sold me - on the 900RS. I just can't see myself enjoying that 650 longterm, having ridden Yamaha's MT series.
What's your view on the cafe styling? I prefer the looks without the faring, so does that windscreen add enough protection (and does it need to) to be worth the compromise?
I haven't ridden it with a screen but they tend to deflect some air off your chest which makes a difference on the highway. Still get the air blast on the helmet though. If you get the non-cafe and decide to add the fly screen later it will amount to the same thing.
You did an awesome review,for me.everything you mention,and the way you shoοt the bike,is what i d like to see and hear..and i watch maaany moto youtubers.i like this bike.i want a naked,with a parraler two,and better with a classic look.i didnt have the opportunity to sit on it,and i m about the same height as you,5.10 85 kilos,so as i saw, i m afraid it ll be a little small for me.i ride 25 years,more on/off bikes.my last street was a fazer600 2002,good machine.i had it from 2007 since 2012.now i like to go back to a street bike.i dont care about much horsepower,but ,also i want something to drive fast in country roads and have fun,when i want.maybe i will wait for honda,for a more retro cb750.and kawasaki is behind,they must upgrade this motor,and give it 10 horses more.i sub dude
How does it ride on dirt roads and off road?
I love naked bikes so this bike got my attention as well. I'd love to see your review on the new Yamaha XSR.
I'll try to snag the new XSR900 later this summer.
Please, what was/is your 2nd/ last comment regarding dash, especially speedometer. I had trouble hearing your critique.
Thanks.
I actually prefer the new V7 stone in terms of design. A real retro bike too. But if I had to take a mid size retro from Japan that would be the 650rs indeed
I wonder how many 50th Anniversary Edition Z650RS’s will be available in Canada? I heard that there will only be 29 going to Australia.
There are only 50 Z900s so maybe the same for the Z650RS. Not sure.
That Kawa is a winner, I also value good looks highly so ugly bikes are not for me. Sorry, Yamaha but I like old school. So this one for me, with The Enfield as a runner up.
Yamaha has the XSR700 which is also sort of retro but this one looks better to me.
CORRECT SIR I LOVE THE LOOKS🎉👏
The price of the Z650RS over the price of the Z650 in North America cannot be justified. I hear they are the same price in the UK. If I want to save some money, I'll go with the Royal Enfield 650 INT, as speed / power is not that important to me. If I can cruise at 75 mph, I am happy. And the Baker Express version is gorgeous. If I want to spend a little more, the Triumph Street Twin (in 2023, the Triumph Speed Twin 900) looks better, especially in blue. Love the upswept Vance & Hines pipes. My dream bike would be a used one or two year old blue Street Twin with a tail tidy, bar end mirrors, a fly screen and black leather saddle bags.
I did demo ride on it couple of weeks ago. It was ok but, lil small for me at 5'10". It would probably be better fit for people up to 5'6-5'7". Engine is very nice though and it is very comfy. I guess for shorter commuter guys who are into retro style and don't mind spending few extra bucks, it is good choice. Just like cruisers, it is not very versatile bike. Now, I absolutely loved everything about Versys with the same engine, other than considering all bikes being overpriced at MSRP. Talking to other riders, most were drooling over z900rs which I really didn't care about and it made little sense to me. KLR was bust for me but, I'll post my opinion when its turn come :-)
Yep, the Versys definitely has an edge in practicality over any other bike with this engine.
the green eddy lawson colors
for me I'll save up for 900RS. Love more power
You can't just stick a can on it, you have to replace the full exhaust system.
Why do so many people want every damn motorcycle to ride like a sport bike just go buy a damn sport bike if that's what you like.
It is a superlative bike, don’t get me wrong. But it’s literally a parts bin bike, and that engine was never meant to be seen. It’s gorgeous if you don’t look at the engine. Most of the other retro bikes look good all around.
So where is the factory "Cafe" version?
Nice. But lack of a centre stand is a deal breaker for me. I'm not sure how an aftermarket firm could get a stand around that exhaust.
Interesting review. I find this bike one of my least favorites in the retro category for a number of reasons. Even the dual analog displays look bad due to the spacing between them for the crappy screen, at least in my humble opinion. I can't even look up most specs right now because Kawasaki's website seems to not function correctly. And the 180-degree crank? No thank you. For that price I'll keep my Triumph Street Twin all day long.
You seem to be in love with the Triump brand so nothing could bring you around to buying a Kaw. I`m a Kawasaki guy myself. In your case though, love is blind. 😉
Did you had any issues with this motorcycle ?
The cherry on top would have been to have made it an in line four, but I'm guessing that wasn't economically viable for Kawasaki.
P.S. Tell Brooke that the Z650RS suits her well. She NEEDS one! ;)
Yeah, those fours are expensive to build. I'll tell her but unfortunately our garage is full :)
I couldn't agree more about the proportions! The first thing I said when I saw this is that the proportions are superior to the Z900rs, where something is just a little off.
Nice , as usual.
Thanks a lot!
thhanks. best vlog!;))
Glad you liked it!
If it wasn't for the S shaped exhaust in front, it would be a perfect 10. Anybody know of a full exhaust to resolve that? Even a less s like the MT07 would do.
It's an eye sore for me and would eliminate it instantly.
I got in touch with a company in Australia who make a crome 4 into 4 classic exhaust system for the z900rs to see if they are going to produce one for the z650 rs.. buy sadly they replied no!!!
Miss that inline 4 sound.
Not personally as I have an inline 4 Honda CBF600 but yeah I don't like the 2 cylinder craze.
Stay tuned for the Z900 review coming up in a week. That's a pretty serious motor.
Did anyone attempt to adjust rear shock ---- what does one have to do to get it ??? Thanks.
yes, it's gorgeous. the green is awesome, but def needs a more retro pipe. just for esthetics, and isn't that the point of the bike?
I wish the speedo/tach needles in this retro bikes be freakin' RED, instead of that white on white numbers. It'd be so much easier to see with barely a glance. I got a '21 Ninja 650, should I trade? Hmmmm...
Retro cool thank you
I like it. However, I love the W800! :)
Good choice! I've liked those bikes ever since Kawasaki brought them back as the W650 a couple of decades back.
On of the most effective ways for Kawasaki to increase sales with the....
Versys 650
Ninja 650
Z650
Z650RS
Vulcan S
.....is to make that engine a 270° crank.
The Z650RS is more of a competitor to the XSR700 rather than the MT-07.
Yep, I agree. But that's a lot of R&D costs to design a new engine. I'm sure they're working on new stuff though.
@@DifferentSpokesTV This engine has been around in one form or another since 2006. Back then it was Kawasaki's answer for the hot-selling SV650S and came on the 2006 Ninja 650R, but renamed without the 'R' in 2012. They probably went with the 180° crank due to the similar 500R going away.
Kawasaki has paid off the tooling a long long time ago. They're just a little lazy with it. In my mind it's the worst 650 twin in the 650-700 class, not because it's reliable (it is), not because it's fuel efficient (it is), not because it is durable (it is), but because it's buzzy and sounds terrible and doesn't produce the same shaped torque curve you might expect after being spoiled on Yamaha's CP2, Suzuki's SV650, or Aprilia's RS 660.
Kawasaki really needs to produce liquid cooled sports V-twins. Only Vtwins I know of late Kawasaki has ever made are in their cruisers or ATVs.
Yep, and they could build a sweet ADV bike around it too.
@@DifferentSpokesTV I've owned a couple Kawasaki's over time. I just don't get the rumbly, barky, grunty mindset when thinking of the brand in general. I think with their near unlimited finances and engineering prowess, they could make a cracker of a sports Vtwin. Could even supercharge one.
Perfect
Keep the Good Vids coming, I watch them all.! I bough a motorcycle of a Gentleman who then bought that same RS model in that Green & Gold.
Are you watching "SHHH Moto Travels".? His Wife & He will eventually pass though or around Toronto this summer. Wink wink
Thanks, will do! Down the line I'd love to pick up an income property in your neck of the woods. It's gotten so expensive though it's tough to swing it.
Why in Calgary.? Will I be your Tenant or the Manager of it.? hee hee Please consider meeting Lucinda & Craig from "SHHH Moto Travels" when they get out your way this summer.
I really really love the looks of the bike!
But still amazes me how it is only producing around 67hp compared to Aprilia who are able to achieve 100 hp on their 660 models
Its not that hard to achieve high hp for a sacrifice in reliability and power curve.
If you want a track machine that will be in repair shops trough the week.. than yea, Aprilia is good for that.
But if you want reliable, no-fuse machine that you will ride day after day, for weeks and months… You got my point!
@@stormtrooper9404 I think there is low power to reduce the price, since the Z650 is a budget bike. Suzuki Hayabusa engine has the same power per liter (as Aprilia) and it is considered one of the most reliable and durable. By the way, Suzuki and Kawasaki have removable cylinders, but Aprilia (and most modern motorcycles) do not, which makes them almost unrepairable - it is scum from manufacturers.
The z650 rs looks better than the 900. I thought that too.
I'd prefer the bikes you like to call "retro cool", I suppose. For me, however, it's less "retro", and more "like back when I was younger". LOL!
Hey everyone! can anyone tell me how is this beauty vibrations and heat-wise on a medium/long ride? thanks a lot!