Like its predecessor, the superbly balanced Z650 offers sugomi performance and styling in a slim, compact middleweight package that features a 650cc Parallel Twin engine with strong low-mid range torque in a lightweight chassis. Engine refinements† contribute to cleaner emissions and increased mid-range torque, new tyres offer lighter handling, and a redesigned tandem seat offers increased passenger comfort. As before, nimble handling and superb feedback are complemented by easy-to-manage power delivery and rider-friendly maneuverability, offering an ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility designed to accommodate a wide range of riders. Sharp new styling, highlighted by a new LED headlight and TFT instrumentation, gives this 2nd generation Z650 an even stronger sugomi presence. 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 Z 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 optimize performance for everyday riding, care was taken to maximize 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 chassis comprised of lightweight components, the Z650 weighs in at 188 kg. Designed using Kawasaki’s new in-house analysis technology, the lightweight trellis frame and swingarm were the key to the Z650’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.
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 optimize performance for everyday riding, care was taken to maximize 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 chassis comprised of lightweight components, the Z650 weighs in at 188 kg. Designed using Kawasaki’s new in-house analysis technology, the lightweight trellis frame and swingarm were the key to the Z650’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.
| DIMENSIONS | |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 2,115 mm |
| Overall width | 765 mm |
| Overall height | 1,065 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,410 mm |
| Road clearance | 130 mm |
| Seat height | 790 mm |
| Curb mass | 187 kg |
| Dry mass | - |
| Fuel tank capacity | 15 litres |
| PERFORMANCE | |
|---|---|
| Max. power | 50.2 kW {68 PS} / 8,000 min-1 |
| Max. Power with Ram Air | - |
| Max. torque | 65.7 N·m {6.7 kgƒ·m} / 6,500 min-1 |
| ENGINE | |
|---|---|
| Type / Valve system | 4-stroke Parallel Twin |
| Coolant System | Liquid-cooled, |
| Bore x Stroke | 83.0 x 60.0 mm |
| Displacement | 649 cc |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel supply | Fuel injection: ø36 mm 2 with dual throttle valves |
| Lubrication system | Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump |
| Starting system | EL. Starter |
| Ignition system | Digital |
| DRIVETRAIN | |
|---|---|
| Driving system | Chain |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return |
| Primary reduction ratio | 2.095 (88/42) |
| 1st Gear ratios | 2.438 (39/16) |
| 2st Gear ratios | 1.714 (36/21) |
| 3st Gear ratios | 1.333 (32/24) |
| 4st Gear ratios | 1.111 (30/27) |
| 5st Gear ratios | 0.966 (28/29) |
| 6st Gear ratios | 0.852 (23/27) |
| Final reduction ratio | 3.067 (46/15) |
| Clutch type (Primary) | Wet multi-disc, manual |
| FRAME | |
|---|---|
| Type | Trellis, high-tensile steel |
| Front Suspension | ø41 mm telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Horizontal Back-link with adjustable preload |
| Front Wheel travel | 125 mm |
| Rear Wheel travel | 130 mm |
| Caster (Rake angle) | 24.0° |
| Trail | 100 mm |
| Steering angle (left/right) | 35° / 35° |
| Front Tyre | 120/70ZR17M/C (58W) |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60ZR17M/C (69W) |
| Front Type Brake | Dual semi-floating ø300 mm petal discs |
| Caliper (Front) | Dual piston |
| Rear Type Brake | Single ø220 mm petal disc |
| Caliper (Rear) | Single-piston |
