Motorcycle specifications KawasakiER-6f 650 2006 L'Envie de Rouler will be 6 Forte

We suspected that theER-6 n would soon introduce us to a sibling. A roadster like that, with such a cool mill, was bound to bring in a little family. And the new arrival is called the ER-6 F. With this single letter, the little Kawasaki dons a most elegant dress, transforming it into a veritable little tourer. Its soft lines are reminiscent of the latest ZX-636R, its optics of the Z 1000 and its hindquarters of the Z 750 S; it has also stolen its dashboard. There's no doubt about it: it's part of the Kawa family.
With its enthusiastic engine, its natural playfulness, its excellent balance and now this fairing, a protection system that seems to be just right, as well as the ABS option, the ER-6 is ready to push all its rivals to the limit. Its arrival will take place in the faded zone: the N version will already have prepared the ground.

what ground? Oh, just the bikers who want a bike that's playful but not vicious, cheap without being a riff-raff, easy without being boring, charming and a little bit naughty; in short, a whole lot of interested parties. Some might think that with this new look, the ER-6 has changed in other ways too. They're not entirely wrong. The little Kawa's wheelbase, spine angle and ride attitude have all changed significantly, thanks to the slightly shortened rear shock absorber. What's the impact, you might ask? Not much, except even more moderate forearm pressure and greater rider comfort. just the thing for a bike that's dressed like a tourer. The bike's slimmer silhouette is more aesthetic than protective. Don't expect the fairing sides to be much help in the fight against the cold that mercilessly settles on your legs and chest. You'll get more support on the bubble side, which is effective enough as long as your height conforms to the national average.

a slightly firmer fork, a shorter rear shock absorber. These are just a few adjustments, but they don't change the very pleasant handling of the young, bold ER-6. It twirls with the flick of a wrist, reassures and enthuses the youngsters, surprises with its spontaneity and efficiency, and convinces with its excellent little twin, both supple and spirited.
Given its more-than-correct price, it would be a shame not to consider the ABS option, available for €500. A little braking help that can often save the day on greasy, wet or playful terrain. The ER-6's ABS doesn't prevent you from playing with the brakes, only activating when the going gets really tough.
It's a shame Kawa didn't make its rear damping a little smoother. You could already feel it on the N, and it's more annoying on this more road-oriented machine. And if you're tall, you're likely to be annoyed by the limited space on board. Yes, the ER-6 F does have its faults, as it offers so much for such a bargain price.

M.B
( Test text inspired by V. Vallon's article - Moto-Journal n° 1 697
manufacturer's photos)