Kawasaki Z650RS

The 2024 Kawasaki Z650RS has been launched at Rs 6,99,000 (ex-showroom), Rs 7,000 more than the earlier model.  

The Kawasaki Z650RS is the fifth motorcycle in the bikemaker’s 650cc portfolio. It pays homage to the 1977 Z650-B1, featuring an old-school design. The Z650RS looks properly retro, thanks to its circular headlight, classic tank shape, and flat “ducktail” seat.  

Kawasaki Z650RS Price:

The 2024 Kawasaki Z650RS is available in a single variant, and a single Ebony/ Metallic Matte Carbon Gray colour, priced at Rs 6,99,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Kawasaki Z650RS Engine:

The Z650RS is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin cylinder engine putting out 68PS and 64Nm, paired with a six-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch.

Kawasaki Z650RS Features:

The 650cc retro bike gets an all-LED lighting with a round LED headlight. The retro design is rounded off by the equally retro-looking twin-pod analogue speedometer and tachometer dials. However, keeping practicality in check, the Z650RS gets an LCD screen between the dials, which shows gear position, fuel level, time and trip meters. It also gets smartphone connectivity via the Rideology app. The 2024 Z650RS also features traction control with 2 modes (Mode 1 for least intervention, Mode 2 for maximum intervention, ideal for wet roads and slippery riding conditions)

Kawasaki Z650RS Suspension, Brakes & Other Detals

The Z650RS is housed in a tubular trellis frame sprung on a 41mm telescopic fork and link-type monoshock. For added retro appeal, the bike gets 16-inch spoke-style cast alloy wheels, which are made to resemble wire-spoke wheels. Braking is via twin 300mm discs with axial calipers up front and a 220mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper, with dual-channel ABS.  

While most of its mechanicals are borrowed from the Z650, the Z650RS weighs 192kg kerb (1kg more than the Z650) and has a fuel tank capacity of 12 litres (three litres less than the Z650). Its seat height is also 10mm taller than the Z650’s 790mm, which makes it slightly less accessible for shorter riders.  

Kawasaki Z650RS Rivals:

The motorcycle rivals the Moto Morini Seiemmezzo 6 ½ and Honda CB650R. Another more affordable alternative, though not as a performance-packed 650cc segment rival is the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650.