Maintaining the “Fun, Style, Easy” concept of its predecessor, the superbly balanced and extremely exciting new Ninja 650 features a 650cc Parallel Twin engine with a strong low-mid range focus and a lightweight chassis in a slim, middleweight package. Engine refinements contribute to cleaner emissions and increased mid-range torque, and new tyres offer lighter handling. As before, nimble handling and direct feel are complemented by easy-to-manage power delivery and rider-friendly manoeuvrability, offering an ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility designed to accommodate both new and more experienced riders alike. Sharp new styling, highlighted by new LED headlights and 4.3” TFT colour instrumentation, delivers a sportier appearance and even stronger Ninja family looks. The thorough attention given to ensure a high-quality fit & finish results in a machine that riders can be proud to own – an ideal ambassador for the Ninja brand.
Tuning of the 649 cm3 Parallel Twin engine focused on achieving a throttle response that balanced a powerful feeling and a quick-revving character. To optimise performance for everyday riding, care was taken to maximise low-mid range torque. When opening the throttle, riders will notice an extremely smooth and powerful engine character that offers both a high level of control when making minute throttle adjustments and a gratifying rush of acceleration in the lower rpm ranges. This tuning also benefits fuel economy.
Assist & Slipper Clutch was developed based on feedback from racing activities. The clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam), offering two new functions not available on a standard clutch.
Benefitting from a thoroughly redesigned chassis, the new Ninja 650 weighs in at 193 kg. Designed using Kawasaki’s new in-house analysis technology, the lightweight trellis frame and swingarm were the key to the Ninja 650’s ultra-light handling.
New Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tyres contribute to lighter handling.
Rear seat with thicker urethane (approximately 5 mm thicker at the centre, 10 mm thicker at the sides) and sides that extend more widely offers increased passenger comfort.
The new 4.3” all-digital TFT colour instrumentation – a Kawasaki first in the 650cc class – gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance. The new meter also offers additional features unavailable on the previous model.