Motorcycle specifications KawasakiZ 650 2023 Handlebar pop-rock

The Z 650 comes in a few new colors - like every year, let's not dwell on that. Let's mention the arrival of KTRC traction control. Still surprising at this level of range (and power), but it will soon be everywhere at this rate. Three setting levels are available: mode 1 is the least intrusive, for gamers but not too intrusive - mode 2 is more considerate - the 3rd option was to deactivate the bazaar.

Special feature: in its 35k kW version, the Z 650 loses a KTRC mode. So, it's either active or forgotten.
2023 also sees an evolution in lighting, which is now entirely LED. That's all it takes to make a stronger case on the day of choice.

Which choice? That of the pilot, when he decides to prepare the checkbook. You grope, you wonder, you hesitate, you gauge, and when you've just got your licence, you often come back to a final hesitation: Z 650 or MT-07? And not necessarily when you're a new biker. If these two roadsters spend their years in the top 5 of the sales charts, it's because they manage to appeal to a broad spectrum. The Yam is well ahead of the Kawa in terms of sales figures, yet the Z has nothing to envy its best enemy. Except for its major relifiting in 2021, when the green one will be based on its latest evocation.

In 2020, the mid-range Z was given a few tweaks to keep up with Yamaha. Sometimes, it's all about the engine character or the fun of the chassis; at other times, it's just a little something extra that tips the scales. Well, the Z 650 comes with some nice little extras to keep the potential mate.

We're taking it easy on the alterations. They mainly concern the face, still guided by the Sugomi ideology, with the impregnation of the new Kawa roadster identity. A move initiated by the Z 400, giving the 650 a more venomous approach. That's where the seduction comes in, because after that, it's all about the details. Reworked side panels, redesigned radiator scoops, a few black-painted housings and trim parts and a new windscreen subtly characterize the redesigns.

As for the chassis, nothing has changed. The tubular steel frame, suspension, wheels and brakes are all the same, carried over from the previous model. Kawasaki has worked in other areas. Firstly, to improve ground contact by fitting Dunlop Roadsport 2 tires. Secondly, passenger comfort has been improved by giving the seat more consistency. The second-level seat is 5 mm thicker in the center, and 10 mm thicker on the sides.
Thirdly, the engine needs a little overhaul. A few tweaks to the intake and exhaust make for a cleaner, Euro 5-compliant exhaust note, without affecting power and with more mid-range torque. On the other hand, the maxi loses a little 0.2 mkg.

where the Z 650 really comes into its own is on the high-tech side. Everybody.... a lot of people are connected now. There's the LCD pad and welcome to 4.3-inch TFT instrumentation. It's the same 10.9 cm color window installed on the Ninja 650. The display is frankly nicer than on the old Z and offers more possibilities. Including Bluetooth connectivity for the Rideology app. With it installed on your smartphone, you can adjust certain instrument settings, get maintenance information, track your itinerary by GPS, be alerted to a call, SMS or e-mail directly on the dashboard, and more... If the black background doesn't suit you, you can reverse it with a more expressive white.

It's time to let the twin go. Its 68 hp are ideal for mid-range relaunchers, while the featherweight of 188 kilos will let itself be exhilarated by the joy of this fun and easy machine. The chassis relies on simple yet homogeneous components, calibrated just for the machine. The tubular steel frame holds a standard 41 mm fork and a preload-adjustable shock absorber. Two 300 mm brake discs and double-piston calipers are used for braking. The face-off with the Yamaha MT-07 promises to be even hotter. In Z's opinion, being an entry-level roadster is not a bottom-of-the-range affair. Even more so now that the 660 Trident has brought the 3-cylinder bronx to the category.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos