2024 Kawasaki Z650RS ABS

Retro styling meets modern tech and performance with Kawasaki’s Z650RS ABS.

The 2024 Kawasaki Z650RS ABS ($9,599).Kawasaki

Overview

After creating a hit with its homage to the original 1973 Z1 in the retro-styled Z900RS, Kawasaki wisely looked at recreating that same theme in its middleweight Z series naked bike, the Z650. The resulting Z650RS has the same sleek lines (and much better looks than the standard Z650, say many) as its larger sibling, with the teardrop-shaped fuel tank, upright conventional tubular handlebar, round headlight, dual analog speedometer/tachometer, round gauges, and spoke-style cast aluminum wheels. The long and mostly flat one-piece seat has much more room to move around on than the standard Z650′s shorter rider perch, and even though Z650RS’ seat height is listed slightly higher at 31.5 inches (versus the standard Z650′s 31.1 inches), the area near the tank is narrower to allow the rider’s legs a straighter shot at the ground. The ergonomics are much more upright and relaxed than the sportier Z650, with the RS’ handlebar putting the grips 2 inches higher and 1.2 inches closer to the rider, with slightly lower footpeg positioning as well.

A side benefit of the retro styling is a more relaxed riding position. Compared to the standard Z650, the Z650RS ABS has a wider and flatter seat that will accommodate passengers better, along with a taller and more backswept handlebar and lower footpegs.Kawasaki

The rest of the mechanical portions of the Z650 carry over to the RS model, including the smooth and midrange-strong 649cc parallel-twin engine also getting the benefit of KTRC traction control for 2024. Two modes are available, plus off, accessed via a switch on the left handlebar controls. The same trellis steel tubular frame with fairly sharp steering geometry (24 degrees of rake, 3.9 inches of trail) provide nimble steering, although the nonadjustable 41mm KYB fork and single spring-preload-adjustable-only shock have spring/damping rates tuned specifically for the RS (read: slightly softer for comfort). Dual 300mm rotors clamped by two-piston slider brake calipers up front make the transition as well, providing very good stopping power, with an ABS system that isn’t overly intrusive.

The same chassis from the standard Z650 carries over to the Z650RS ABS, including the steel trellis frame, suspension (although spring and damping rates are softened up slightly), and the dual 300mm discs/two-piston calipers front brake setup.Kawasaki

The Z650RS ABS demonstrates that cool retro styling doesn’t have to impede a platform’s performance. Kawasaki’s spunky middleweight now has a model with the side benefit of a more relaxed riding position that simply accentuates its balance of fun and practicality.

Pricing and Variants

The 2024 Kawasaki Z650RS ABS is available in Ebony/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray for $9,599.

Competition

News and Reviews

2024 Kawasaki Z650RS ABS Claimed Specs

MSRP: $9,599
Engine: DOHC, liquid-cooled, four-stroke parallel twin; 8 valves
Displacement: 649cc
Bore x Stroke: 83.0 x 60.0mm
Compression Ratio: 10.8:1
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/chain
Fuel System: EFI w/ 36mm throttle bodies
Clutch: Wet, multiplate slipper/assist; cable actuation
Frame: Tubular steel trellis
Front Suspension: 41mm KYB conventional fork, nonadjustable; 4.9 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Single KYB shock, spring preload adjustable; 5.1 in. travel
Front Brake: 2-piston slider calipers, dual 300mm discs w/ ABS
Rear Brake: 1-piston slide caliper, 220mm disc w/ ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear: Cast aluminum; 17 x 3.50 in. / 17 x 3.50 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: Tubeless; 120/70-17 / 160/60-17
Rake/Trail: 24.0°/3.9 in.
Wheelbase: 55.3 in.
Ground Clearance: 4.9 in.
Seat Height: 31.5 in.
Fuel Capacity: 3.2 gal.
Wet Weight: 412 lb.
Contact: kawasaki.com