NEW KAWASAKI Z650RS: 3 THINGS I LIKE & 3 THINGS I DON'T

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Kawasaki are releasing their new Z650RS. As a current owner of a Z900RS, I run my critical eye over the Z650RS with a view to asking if Kawasaki have done enough to warrant calling this an RS. Will the Z650RS compete favourably with Yamaha's XSR700, Triumph's Trident 660 or the Vitpilen 701? Will the Z650RS offer enough extra to justify the increase in price over the Z650?
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29 сен 2024

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Комментарии : 317

@genxlibertarian9656 Год назад

My biggest complaint (and I ended up buying it, dont regret it) is the size of the fuel tank. 160 mi is easily the lowest in its field.

@MrDorsetD 5 месяцев назад

Agreed! I wonder if fitting a larger tank is a possibility?

@ben9l351 3 месяца назад

I found that you would be on the bike for several hours before running out of gas. I have done a 1 hour trip and a 2 hour trip and I still have three quarters of a tank left. Its nice to hop off and have a break.....................like filling up I am averaging 64 .6 mile to the gallon

@machineabart Год назад

I think the main objective was low weight and in that aspect they did great with it's 187kg which would never be an option if they went for 4 cylinder engine. I just got it and having Ducati Monster S2R1000 in the past I can say that Kawa is a perfect tool in the city. It's nimble like a scooter with quite a lot of power and what's more important torque. I'm about 95 kg and yes the front shocks could be a bit stiffer but all needs to be done is changing oil for thicker. I wouldn't bother as those standard shocks are perfect in the city filtering all road imperfections. The exhaust is not the best looking and what's worse it is so close to the front peg that on longer rides it's a bit too loud. I would very much prefer to have it way back but again that would throw a few extra kilos onto the bike which I wouldn't like as well. In general, the bike is excellent and looks fantastic. I recommend it to new and old bikers. After a 1000cc Ducati this little one is refreshing.

@BlueMarbleRider Год назад

Great feedback, thanks.

@waitpu4817 Год назад

Got sick of the cha! ching! every service & tune hay!

@michaelwhite5834 3 года назад

I'm fine with the engine. Would've definitely appreciated a new exhaust that fits the aesthetic. I think the other parts are fairly typical for the price and a full exhaust like the 900rs would help hold it all together. However, one can also say the exhaust is the most likely part to be changed anyway, so I can see why Kawasaki didn't bother.

@michaelwhite5834 3 года назад

by the way, the correct full exhaust already exists, it's is from Yoshimura, and that's what I would get.

@notyourpapa 2 года назад

An in-line 4 would add weight and cost. I really appreciate modernizing somewhat the bike in a few key places and keeping the retro feel with the seat, headlights and gauges. It's 100% a hit for me.

@need100k 2 года назад

You might be right, but had they made this bike with a 4cyl 750 I'd own one by now. I have no interest in a 2cyl 650 and the 900 is just a tad more than I want. A 750 4cyl would have been perfect, and I'd pay a few more dollars and accept a few more pounds for it.

@stormtrooper9404 2 года назад

On the last question… I pull up a middle finger on all! And bough an SV650! Insta-classic design that never gets old, superior engine, sound of a real v2, superior suspension, usability… etc etc. And that all for a grand or two lower than any of the shown bikes. Does I like the looks of this kawa? Yes I do! But would never-ever trade it for my SV as an only bike.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Agree, the SV is a lovely bit of kit and very tunable/customizable. Great racing bikes too.

@dustytriumph 3 года назад

Considering that this bike is essentially, as you point out just a styling exercise change of the Z650, the just announced $8999 msrp is a whopping $1450 USD over the Z650. This seems rather excessive especially when compared to the Trident which is a good $800 less. Seems you get much more bike with the Trident for the money. Still, I love the look of this bike in the green with the gold wheels and frankly I don't want all the tech that comes with the Trident. Slipper assist clutch and ABS on this bike good enough for me. I like the analog double clocks too. I think I might want this Z650rs except for the price.

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Nicely put. Kawasaki are banking on the looks to tip the scales on this one. Cheers.

@jamesdarnell8568 2 года назад

I agree, but there are no perfect bikes out there. While the Z650 has enough power for me and the Trident has more power than I need, Triumph offers better fit and finish for less money. In the end, I'll take the Trident over the Z650RS and spend the savings on custom options.

@dustytriumph 2 года назад

@@jamesdarnell8568 Totally sound reasoning. I may end up going in a totally different direction than either the Z650RS or Trident. At this point I'm just dreaming. Riding season is almost over here so I'm not ready to do anything.

@2Gales 2 года назад

In the US, Triumph sells for MRSP, but Kawasaki gives big discounts. At the end, the Trident will be 25% more, and I find the Kawa better looking and more practical. Admittedly the Triumph is more quality and fun.

@vernonspady555 2 года назад

Really beautiful bike, honestly...there is something to be said about the torque that a twin can deliver, right? Perfect first road bike.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

You know, this is a very attractive bike. If Kawasaki were to rearrange the exhaust headers, I believe that sales would be even better. As a ride, the bike is lovely.

@juliojames5986 2 года назад

The exhaust is a real deal breaker. Other than that, it is a very nice and stylish bike for the price. Forgot to add, as a retro enthusiast, some fake cylinder fins would add to this model….the Yamaha 700, needs a close look to identify an engine in there somewhere !

@chrisgraham9203 2 года назад

It's a bike that I plan to buy. My only real complaint is the trashcan exhaust, a carryover from the Z 50 it is derived from.

@simonlangmead7 3 года назад

Yes, it should be a 4 cylinder, assuming its intention is to pay homage to the late 70s KZ650. The exhaust appearance should have had a similar look to the big brother 900. With that exhaust, you might benefit from having a centre stand for easier maintenance like the 900 has with availability of one.

@gtrs4ever 2 года назад

agree. It shouldn't be labeled RS. Putting a 650, 4 cylinder would be very cool.

@threecats8219 2 года назад

@@gtrs4ever I third that. I would have liked it to be four cylinder. When I first saw it, the first thing I noticed was the two cylinder engine, and felt momentarily deflated.

@josevi5835 3 года назад

I agree with your pros and cons. This bike is far away from her elder sister of 900 cc. It has an inline twin (boring engine), they did not modify the looks of the engine and exhaust is not retro. Moreover that box that covers part of the engine is disgusting... see how they do not show that side of the bike. The problem here is that we compare the 650 with the awesome and stunning 900. The 900 is, even though its price in Spain is pretty high, a winner, and Kawasaki made a great investment in it. Despite all its weak points, they will sell it a lot.

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Agree, Jose: I think this bike is targeted at younger riders who will be wowed by the hint of retro. I see Kawasaki's reasoning; would have been unitque to see a mid range four cylinder retro though. Cheers.

@bikefreak5787 2 года назад

Really true to the Z650 that I knew, except from the engine - and that’s crucial 🤔

@rbattson7171 2 года назад

That radiator tho'... Couldn't they have flipped it to the vertical? Triumphs Street twin managed it! Otherwise, the styling is spot on.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

I think they went with the "good enough" philosophy, which, as you say, is a shame. Cheers.

@boodog4023 3 года назад

Maybe the W800 would be a better/cooler choice for a retro in that range from Kawasaki

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Yes, a true retro (with the silver motor:-)

@danymaes252 Год назад

indeed, the Japanese bonneville

@gmh101358 2 года назад

I had the KZ650 4 cly in 77 in green....yes bad mistake making it a twin....and the exhaust is enought to keep me from buying it....I was 20 when it came out in 77 and I rode it all over AZ,UT,CA and N.M ....I was hit with 26k miles on it an it was a write off......I bought a 79 KZ650 to replace it....thats how much I liked it....it was the perfect bike to me. If they just coul replace those headers with some chrome ones.....maybe....but im not that big on twins for long rides.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Love KZ650s. Often admired them. Lots of lovely older used KZ650s out there - have you checked out Johnnysvintagemotorcycles who specializes in Z1s, but he gets the odd KZ650...ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-pvj2wJHzBNc.html I think I'd rather have one than the Z650RS. Cheers.

@tomstockell9481 3 года назад

Good review - Interceptor looks sexier, but for a shorter rider like myself, it could be a winner...

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

If you take a look at the very humorous/cringeworthy promo vid by Kawasaki, the European CEO sits on the bike: he looks to have a shorter inside leg measurement and manages to get both feet to the floor. The seat doesn't look too wide either. Cheers.

@tomstockell9481 3 года назад

Thanks mate - still as you're alluding to, it seams like a slightly contrived bike, especially with that exhaust :)

@raydean9330 2 года назад

Will hope to test ride one next year in spring, but I have similar feelings as yourself in regards to the engine A revised bhp / torque to the 636 engine would have been preferable to myself

@ronbusa3735 2 года назад

Great presentation and another beautiful Kawasaki !

@donaldwayne4219 3 месяца назад

Personally, I think the styling on this bike is better than the 900. I feel the 900 misses the mark. The original 650 wasn't a great bike. I feel that this bike would be far better to ride, despite basic components. The engine could be a 4 but the styling, the wheels, instruments and the green paint make it look pretty smart. The green is a very pleasant, eye catching colour scheme, I think. When I got my licence, it was on a 900 Ducati and I once owned a Yamaha 650. After that, a few GSX 1100 variants, so mostly big bikes. I know someone with a near new Z650rs in green, so, I am waiting till he is ready to upgrade, so I can buy it from him😁

@BlueMarbleRider 3 месяца назад

That sounds like a master plan! :-)

@Kwajdaddy1 2 года назад

I quite agree with your analysis! I bought a 1977 KZ650 Custom (US spec) and drove it 10,000 miles in the 10 months that I owned it. A great machine. Although I'm sure the new model is far better in many ways, it does seem to be a cheaper retro to those who never experienced the original. It should have a four cylinder engine as the baseline to being a retro!

@azadr9231 2 года назад

Not to critical at all. Actually quite reasonable. I'd but this if it was 15% cheaper than the trident and xsr700.

@jakk222rem Год назад

I think the z650 is too expensive. It's not a big enough step to get to the z900rs. If it were 2k cheaper, it would sell like mad. As it is, as a z shopper, I see the 650 and think for just 1500 more, I could get the full zoot 900.

@TopshelfJunior 2 года назад

How could you not mention the CLASSIC and highly popular Suzuki SV650...?!

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

You are of course, correct. It's a great bike but perhaps not seen as a retro as it is really an original vintage ('99) from before most retros were conceived (except for the w650 and GB500)...if that makes sense. Great bike though. Cheers.

@TopshelfJunior 2 года назад

@@BlueMarbleRider Oh my bad. I didnt know the Trident and the 701Husky were bikes born from earlier bikes.

@kyotosal 2 года назад

Yes, you have been too critical. I am going to buy one........Sal : )

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Great bike, and yes, much nit picking. Cheers and have fun!

@_Per_Aspera_Ad_Astra_ 2 года назад

best review till now and I agree. Still considering, 650 is enough for Japanese roads. Sus could be better !!! Btw, is it using unleaded Gasoline (Regular or Extra) ??? Thank you 🙏

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Not sure on the grade of gasoline, but as a rule, I always try to find non E5/E10 91-94 for my bikes. A 650 twin will likely run fine on 89, but ethanol, if left in the tank, will tend to attract water and rust...

@2Gales 2 года назад

I wouldn't want an inline four. Power comes at high rpm, I prefer the twin's torque down low, at each stop light. In the 80s there were no twins nearly this powerful or torquey.

@2Gales 2 года назад

For power at high rpm, Honda 650 or Trident, (or the z900 at a higher cost).

@2Gales 2 года назад

Four cylinder: weight, maintenance, fuel consumption. Keep it simple. By the time the four gets to the power rpm, the twin is gone.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Definitely some virtues in a twin. And perhaps on a smaller 4 cylinder bike that may be true, but they have come such a long way. It used to be that 4 cylinder bikes were like two strokes with power bands above 7K rpm, but that's gone in the case of the Z900RS at least - its got plenty of low down grunt and smooth all the way up. The sound is epic. I'm pretty sure with modern fuelling, cam tuning/timing they are able to make a decent midsized four cylinder. But as you say, cost, maintenance etc would put a lot of younger riders off. Cheers.

@pravinprithviraj7883 2 года назад

He's right about the 650 twin, it sounds sloppy for a 650,. If you hear it in the dark , chances are you'd mistake it for a single cyl 150 cc bike

@timheather3923 3 года назад

Good and spot on review. Pretty but should have been a 4.. That exhaust is awful.. Why on earth did they change the Kawasaki tank badge for a sticker on the moon dust version??

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Perhaps to look more Scrambleresque? I think they're trying to win a broad sweep of riders with this one. Agree though, it diminishes the bike a little.

@barryjmarling 3 года назад

Just seen the price £7549,now that’s a lot of bike for the cash.

@112deeps 2 года назад

Good enough but could be better. RE sounds better

@mikehusky3967 3 года назад

I’ll just buy this for the looks. Lol

@laurencetan6785 2 года назад

I bought this bike because the price point was so much better compared to the overpriced RE int, XSR and Trident. I don't understand why these other bikes were overpriced in my country. The other real option was the Honda CB650 and might actually be a better option given the availability of parts for that bike

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

I'm surprised that the Z650 is cheaper than the RE Int650. Where are you located? Cheers.

@henryhartley9993 3 года назад

An inline four would have been better and a lower seat height, loved the original and this just looks like a XSR clone to me...

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Certainly the mechanicals are cosmetically similar to the Z650 and XSR. Cheers.

@gunman9131 2 года назад

I believe in KAWASAKI insights and decisions over most vloggers and random people commenting. KAWASAKI is an INSTITUTION. LEGENDARY indeed.

@BirdArvid 3 года назад

7:08 Although I agree with you, this bike is already set apart from the XSR, the Vitpilen and the Trident; it's gorgeous and they are decidedly not. The Trident looks boring and the XSR and Vitpilen are just plain ugly; this, on the other hand, with the teardrop tank and ducktail is lovely. I agree about the cringeworthy video.. The only thing Kawasaki got wrong, IMO, is the expected price; I agree that if they're going to sell this on looks alone, the price needs to be very close to the standard Z650, because I'm certain; someone will very quickly offer a cool, classic exhaust which sounds better and looks right, and lots of other aftermarket parts. I want this, but then I'd already decided the standard Z650 was wild enough for my middle-aged ass and this looks miles better.

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

It will be interesting to see how the bike performs with the younger riders too. Cheers.

@tigerward88 3 года назад

Shame it's not staying true to original blew it with that motor

@MichaelJeffrey 2 года назад

The exhaust gets a 3 out of 10. It's shockingly ugly

@jozsefkovacs5879 2 года назад

Look at the ugly ,over sized, vulnerable radiator .They got it from the garbage or what ?

@need100k 2 года назад

A 750 4 cylinder would have been the perfect engine. Not in the superbike range of the 900, but strong enough to be comfortable on a long trip, and I am NOT a fan of two cylinder engines.

@marnixhoebers5176 2 года назад

They aren’t going to make a new engine specially for one model of bike.

@need100k 2 года назад

@@marnixhoebers5176 - They already did. They made a 2-cyl 650. My point is, had they made THAT bike a 750 4-cyl I'd be all over it. I have no interest in a 650 twin.

@law844 2 года назад

I wish these companies would realize that a lot of us don’t want a big displacement engine and would appreciate a smaller displacement bike with higher performance components.

@greenbow7888 Год назад

Yes, it's a shame that we have to look at higher end bikes to get desirable parts. One mid size bike that did spec out with some nice parts, is the Honda CB650 R. Showa big piston SFF forks, Nissin calipers. Am not pushing for that bike - just saying. It feels nice all round, bar the bony seat.

@rinkadink66 3 года назад

i admit I was expecting an inline four.. even if in looks only.. am sure kawasaki could have tried harder, after all, they've already done a great job styling the 900...

@davidorourke1123 3 года назад

I totally agree with Chris B, I would have liked an inline four cylinder like the original.

@daveinwla6360 2 года назад

Those noodley-looking downpipes and the voluminous underslung cat/muffler are all ugly. The first mod I'd make on this bike is to change the *entire exhaust* system. And yes, 4 cylinders, but tuned for torque, would've been nicer, too.

@juliojames5986 2 года назад

The exhaust is the only, single deal breaker for me. Holy crap man hard to keep up with all your comparisons in speed talk. It is called a 650, to me an old guy, that is the twin….what is the inline four cylinder ? And in the dame class ? With four cylinders ? Maybe I am too old going back to 650s of the sixties ?? Thanks for the vid,

@johns1139 Год назад

i believe your torque figure for this bike is incorrect. Per Kawasaki, it makes a claimed 48.5 ft/lb of torque

@mikehatswell3961 3 года назад

Oh so close,, lovely clocks, tank, seat and tailpiece really captured the looks. they could have even gotten away with the 650 twin if only they had fitted a 2 in to 2 swept up exhaust. I'm sure kawasaki have done there research and just like the 650 Versys this bike will have a dedicated following, if the aftermarket get behind it, we could build some fantastic bikes from it.

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Totally agree: there's still a lot that can be done with this to make it a little more authentic looking. Hopefully we'll see some creative owners and cusomizers take it to the next level. Cheers.

@danweyant707 2 года назад

Thing is, those old air cooled UJMs were HEAVY. I think they realized that the weight saving was worth it to newer riders.

@simongilbert2704 Год назад

yes , those old 650 were VERY heavy and not that great ;;

@edirib2004 Год назад

I have bought one last week and it’s already in hands! Awesome toy!!

@BlueMarbleRider Год назад

Congrats!

@dardobartoli Год назад

Not so much too critical, just plain wrong in places ;-) This bike is aimed at those of us who realise that our litre bikes are mostly pointless on UK roads and that the RS reflects the bike we longed for when kids. Add to that that the XSR, like most Yamahas are as ugly as they are poorly built. Additionally, I doubt whether 5% of most riders ever tune their suspension so paying for something that is not required. The only criticism I agree with is the downpipes, it's such a pity and could prove a distraction for those who are not blown away by the rest of the aesthetic beauty of this bike. TBH, it's best competitor is the SV650 in terms of classic bike style and rudimentary

@BlueMarbleRider Год назад

Thanks for the feedback, Bob. All good points. Cheers.

@WillPower46 2 года назад

In NZ this bike is $3k more than the Z650. That's a total rip off. $500 would have been fair. But for $3k more it needed to be an inline four.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Agree, William - that's silly money. Cheers.

@southernairman5628 Год назад

Great video! It’s beyond professional and far better than I’ve ever seen anywhere! I’m very interested in this bike, I’d have to try it first

@gaudykevincabrera4933 2 года назад

They should've taken the zx6r engine instead of the z650 🤦🏼‍♂️

@Speedytrip 2 года назад

100% agreed on the engine. Its a great engine, but sounds boring and lacks character. Even the engine from the W800 would have been better.

@da72ma 2 года назад

The Trident was never an option... I see the competition more on the Triumph Street Twin/T100 side... of course there is the Yamaha XSR700... While the engine is OK I wish Kawasaki would have gotten a different exhaust.., the price point won't justifies the failure... as long as the suspension justifies the price point I am OK with the inferior forks and rear shocks... but it would have been OK to upgrade and raise the price a little... I think I love the bike for its ease of riding, good looks, and cheap price and wish somebody with some brains makes a different exhaust for the aftermarket... or Kawasaki executives authorize a new exhaust to catch the still elusive buyer... This being said would I buy one... There is no doubt that the green version is the most wonderful paint they could have applied here and it draws me in... so yes... I would take that green Team Green model any day, even over the XSR, just keep that black one...

@rubo1964 2 года назад

for 9k its way overpriced and agree boring and agree should of had I4 and adjustable suspension.Why bother with this when XR700 SV650 offer better performance and even cheaper.This bike obviously was designed by office marketers pencil pushers since no real designer with any blood flowing in veins would design such heedlessly uninspiring machine.

@alandmorley 3 года назад

Exhaust is let down for me and what about some engine fins on the engine barrels can not cost Kawasaki a lot of money to sort that out. for me the bike is a little bit poor, but I had the 650 Versys for 3 years and what a great little bike that is.

@katrinapaton5283 2 года назад

Easy answer is I wouldn't buy ANY bike over the Trident, end of story. But I do agree, if someone gave me a Kwaka Z650RS, that exhaust would have to go, it just looks all kinda of wrong.

@wongfeihung6285 2 года назад

Yep... the exhaust system is an ugly looking affair IMO. The engine too looks plain. Personally... I like the more balanced look of exhaust pipes on both sides of a street bike.

@chrisvozza6530 2 года назад

I love that green with the gold colored wheels

@twowheelsoneleg5672 3 года назад

I think its sits nicely between the Royal Enfield 650 and the XSR700. Not quite as traditional as the RE but more so than the XSR. I'm old enough to have owned both the original Z650 & Z900. IIRC most of us used the z650 as a stepping stone to something bigger and I think this is where the big will fit in. While some people will buy the bike upgrade the exhaust/suspension/brakes I suspect most will just ride it standard, get some miles and experience under their belt and trade up

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Agree with your analysis of who will be buying this bike and why: I think it will be a great intro to the retro market. Cheers.

@ben9l351 2 месяца назад

I agree with you. Getting to re learn riding after a 35 yr break. I have done a 1000km or 600miles and realising its limitations, the Z650RS is fun but on my way to a heavier Triumph T120 with lower instant torque before I reach 73 yrs

@twowheelsoneleg5672 2 месяца назад

@@ben9l351 Welcome back to biking, enjoy and ride safe

@agx502 2 года назад

Looks weak compared to the competition. The Yamaha XSR700 and Triumph make for more compelling propositions IMHO.

@steveweeden7647 2 года назад

I love the look. Competes with RE int, Moto Guzzi V7, Triumph T100. All great bikes. But the Z650RS is lighter and better for me as I'm an old codger.

@G4gazhotmail 3 года назад

I like it but it's not close enough to the original z650 for me and I won't be buying it, people love heritage and they have messed it up with the engine and exhaust, I may look at one in a few years if they change those bits or the price comes down in the 2nd hand market, I would rather get a z900 and paint it that gorgeous green

@MrAndrew1953 3 года назад

I don't think it's a patch on the original 650 inline 4.

@ekimandersom4478 2 года назад

People will buy this for the looks. No other bike on the market looks this classic, only the royal enfield interceptor . They could have just done the green colour tho, nobody will go for the other 2 boring colours.

@emilio55 16 дней назад

totalmente de acuerdo, muy pintona si, pero le faltan 2 cilindros y 2000 rpms. más para ser lo que dice que quiere ser. Pero no la he cambiado por mi hornet 600 2007 😅

@BlueMarbleRider 14 дней назад

The 600 Hornet is a great bike. Cheers.

@zephyrwestern3056 2 года назад

Installing a 4 cylinder with 4 into 2 exhaust would certainly be more appealing to me, having learned on a 650 car … oh well. Also agree on the under belly exhaust and the right side view of the rear swing arm. Feels like a lazy exercise.

@MrGeati6783 2 года назад

The engine is the most boring thing on this bike. It looks very cool, but you can't pass Yamaha with the CP2 for this engine.

@streetlifethai8327 3 года назад

Why didn't they use the 'finned' version of the cylinder they already have on the shelf from the Vulcan S. That and an appropriate exhaust would have made a big difference. 12 litre tank is a bit on the small side too.

@backroadjourneys7674 3 года назад

As others have noted, an inline 4 would have separated it from all the others in the class. Looks like a good starter bike if the price is right. Cheers!

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Agree - should be a great entry or mid range bike for someone wanting the rideability of a proven engine with a little more style. Cheers back at you!

@LaminarSound 2 года назад

@@BlueMarbleRider Im about to get my motorcycle license. Im 37 years old. Responsible and not interested in top speeds and sport bikes. The 900RS looks like a dream to me, sexy as hell, ticks all the right boxes for me, but I suspect might be *too much bike for me as a first bike. This 650RS looks great as well, although theyre much newer and harder to find in the used market. It looks like I can find a used 900RS for the price of a new 650RS, or maybe even less(in Texas). What you guys think? 900RS too much for a new rider my age?

@MutsuKazuma Год назад

If you arent riding like a maniac probably not

@greenbow7888 Год назад

@@LaminarSound Too late now I guess. It depends what you have been riding. If you have come from a 125cc bike, winding back the Z900 RS will leave you shaking in the seat. The Z650 RS would too. However if you are no fool whatsoever, or have come from maybe a 400cc, then the choice is completely yours. Either would be fine. However if someone were contemplating the Z900 RS seriously, when coming form a smaller bike. Then why not rent a mid sized bike for a few weeks, before buying the Z900 RS. Get experience of the weight, feel, and power, of a bigger bike.

@simongilbert2704 Год назад

no , you have not been to critical , this bike has good looks but thats about it , it is in no way similar to the old , slow heavy , carbed , wire wheeled , air cooled , multi exhaust , twin shocked , bike of the seventies and neither is the 900 ;

@cycoklr 3 года назад

Aesthetically, the whole design exercise looks so wrong from a "classic" standpoint. Although the view from the top looks classic, the angle of the exhaust headers leading to the hideous muffler looks awkward and the engine bay looks cluttered.

@lukesims6636 2 года назад

Yes I agree with the dislikes it should definitely be a 4 cylinder and the forks look to be budget 👍🏻🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿I like the looks especially the green

@fjp3305 2 года назад

I would definite buy it, I like the looks. I'm not young anymore, so I don't need a four cyl. And if wanted to go faster I would buy the 900. I'd be riding it in the city, so I don't need much speed, and a two cyl. weighs less, giving it better handling in the city.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Certainly is the best looking 650 for me; and it would be perfect for the city. Cheers.

@m12ttd Год назад

Not only would an Inline Four add weight and cost, but I also believe that riders are moving away from top end speed for more low-down grunt and affordability! I certainly have gone backwards with my Bikes! I started with a GSXR750, had Blades and Ninjas too! High speed accident in 2008 taught me a lot! So, I just ride for fun on a Vespa with my wife on hers! However, I do plan on getting a bike to take my son on tour with! Possibly a Z650RS, but I do like the Triumph T120!

@HS99876 3 года назад

Good review, the ergonomics is more important than just the retro look, I think people are buying these retro mainly for the comfortable ergonomics than just the looks. This new 650 has upright seating position, the handlebar are up high and moved back, much comfortable ergonomics. The naked version of these bike are more sporty and uncomfortable ergonomics, lean forward on the handlebar which make them very uncomfortable after 45 minutes riding.

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Yes you raise a good point - if ridden reasonably, this will be a comfortable bike. Thanks for your input. Cheers.

@HS99876 3 года назад

@@BlueMarbleRider the ergonomics on these retro bikes are very close to adventure touring bikes but with out the fairings, extra weight and the windshield which I would add to the retro bike. Old days they made things simple and practical!!! You had one bike and it did everything for you, now we have a a bike for different ridings( street, track, touring,….)

@stephenwright6969 3 года назад

Agree with everything you said. It should have been 4 cylinder and the exhaust is awful. Yes kawasaki will sell bucket loads of these especially in Europe but for me all they had to do was switch the 900 engine for a 650 from the out going sportsbike and bingo Z650 of old is born.

@RadioReprised 2 года назад

The paint is hideous except for the green one, but even IT should have been true to the original in color and striping. A two into one megaphone pipe would help with the style as well.

@noelbrown6771 8 месяцев назад

I like the mix of classic styling together with modern performance - Bench seat with teardrop tank/ABS & slipper clutch. The twin cylinders keep the weight down and helps with marketing in the A2 license countries. Even Honda have dropped the inline four and gone the parallel twin route with the new Hornet.

@BlueMarbleRider 7 месяцев назад

Yes it seems the way of the future, and it has grown on me since. It would be interesting to see if Kawasaki incorporate the new 400 - 4 cylinder into a future Z400RS. Unlikely, but you never know!

@iwoodrep11 Год назад

i'm actually shopping around for my first bike, and they have about 4 of these at my local bike dealer. salesman was real chill & real smart about what i wanted and what i was looking for. he suggested i take a look at 1 of these, and when i sat on it, sweet geezus i was blown away. lol. real nice to sit on, weight is just right, rider position is great for my taste, controls were simple & no nonsense. i was highly impressed. then i test rode 1, and felt right at home, calm, confident, and relaxed. it was an instant connection for me to want this bike. dude quoted the bike at about 9k for the 1 i wanted, and honestly, i was all for it. i'm just in the process of saving up some more money before i actually buy the bike. but overall, the z650rs is excellent, in my opinion.

@BlueMarbleRider Год назад

All that counts is how it works for you, and it sounds like you have found the perfect bike. It's great to hear. Cheers.

@mayimbe2198 2 года назад

You are correct there are a few other better options available for the price they are asking, $9K USD plus another $2K in taxes and dealer fees, you are getting a very mediocre bike with a cheap made in china look and feel for $12K USD, If am going to make that kind of investment, I would just save a little more and go with a Triumph. It is an attractive bike, it is very small and nimble and its looks are very enticing that is what attracts me to it, it looks like a very easy to ride bike perfect for in town use, very approachable and easy to throw a leg over and go, that is it’s most pulling factor. Ease of use. I do not like that green color in person, not for me. The black is to lame. The best option is the gray color version, the only one that is all blacked out with no chrome highlights. I hate that round headlight with the chrome tapper edge, Also the LED partitioned design on the headlight is ugly, Honda did much better with their Neo Retro headlight design. I also hate that digital display stuck between the two round clocks, totally takes away destroy the nostalgic look. It should have two simple round clocks with a small digital square inside, copy what Harley Davidson has been doing with their fat bob and their sportster round click incorporating analog and digital within the clock. That whole underneath muffler from the ninja / Versys / z bikes is hideous, Kawasaki needs to abandon that muffler design, completely kills the looks of otherwise beautiful bikes. Kawasaki left me with no other option than to save more for a Z900SE, but that is a bigger and heavier bike, I was looking for something (cute and small) on the Z650RS but didn’t get it. I currently own a Versys 650, which for the same price as the 650RS, the Versys comes XT comes with fully adjustable suspension, lockable luggage, windscreen, bark busters hand guards, and a larger fuel tank, so $9K for a Z650 RS makes no sense. At this point I will end up with a Triumph Trident.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

I do think a change in exhaust would really spice the bike up, and many of the smaller quirks you mention could be changed in the after market, but as you say, it's a little rich for the price to have to do many of those mods in order to get a bike you like. The Trident is a lovely bike. Cheers.

@kevinroberts2395 2 года назад

100 percent agree with you. Kawasaki should have stuck with an inline 4 and a 'normal' exhaust pipe to capture the prospective retro owner. It looks great but I wouldn't buy it because of its parallel twin and an under slung exhaust. I'm a child of the 60's and surely that is the target market. None of this LAMS stuff in a retro bike for the Australian market PLEASE !!! Surely learners are not your target market for this style of bike Mr Kawasaki. Not on my shopping list.

@kurdiansyahsiauw8202 2 года назад

Looks gorgeous, but I don't like the engine. Should use zx6r engine.

@dmaxcustom 3 года назад

The Z650 has better handling and braking than the MT07/XSRT700. So I understand why they didnt changed it. The Trident has high HP for the size but the throttle is muted and full of nanny hand holding attitude. Its a very boring machine, more than Z650, while being a triple. It hurts saying this, but I did a test drive. I was floored and walked very sad from the dealership. The RE, which I love, does not have the punch of any of these engines, is a different type of machine. Besides the style I have a hard time putting them together. Yes, the engine is boring. I would love for Kawasaki to upgrade it, but that would mean to increase the price. However, the engine is good, really good, there is torque everywhere, the bike can do jail time speeds, it can happy wheelie. Its a very effective and relieable engine, but sounds boring. Absolutely agree with the exhaust. Boy that's an ugly piece of crap. They could have give it some chrome pipes and the bike would have been so much better instantly. However, I love the style. I think Kawasaki does a better job at making classic looking machines than other brands. And they actually put clocks in the cockpit instead of stupid cell phones screens. That's a big win for me.

@2Gales 2 года назад

Looks like all this bike needs is an aftermarket exhaust. Better looks, better sound, more fun.

@bananaman3237 2 года назад

Bought one. Love it, end of.

@mikeflanagan825 3 месяца назад

im a w650 rider and i wish my bike had the 650rs performance,this engine is fun,fun.

@BlueMarbleRider 3 месяца назад

Used to have a W650. Miss it. Very different bikes, no doubt the RS is more capable.

@Nick_R_ 3 года назад

Agree. Also don't like the radiator cap sticking so far out. It looks a good bike. But the z900RS is a great bike.

@damasovi_travels1244 3 года назад

very nice review. I like what I see and would love to make this my big bike! I have a scooter, and have had small bikes for a while now, and I remember how the Kawasaki KLR650 with less power and less everything (than this Z650RS) took me from Mexico to Canada and back and many many (over 50K miles) in over a decade.... so I think this new bike is enough for me and my style...of course now I am a middle age man with less need for speed or performance than before! just add the grabhandle and strap them bags!

@BlueMarbleRider 3 года назад

Go for it!

@exothermal.sprocket Год назад

Correction @ 1:45 that tank is 15L or 4.0 gallon. Correction @ 2:07 the torque is 47 ft-lb, not 67. Kawasaki has had this 649cc engine around in one form or another since 2006. To say they couldn't have redesigned this engine or retuned it with a much more charismatic sounding/feeling 270º by now, or gave us a 90° V-twin by now, is just lazy on Kawasaki's side. They are a massive corporation and can afford to do things (given the H2 series, Z900 engine, 300 dual sport dirtbike, new ZX-10R, one of the last 600 supersports still being made). They could easily upgrade the 650 engine for the Versys, Vulcan, Z, ZRS, and Ninja. They don't because they have phoned it in. Even Suzuki who doesn't put out any new engines in a very long time have created an all-new GSX-8S with a 270° 776cc engine.

@BlueMarbleRider Год назад

Tank is 12L, not 15L. Torque is 64N.M. www.kawasaki.co.uk/en/products/Z900RS/2023/Z650RS/specifications?Uid=0893CllZCQtRXFtbUFEOXA1eWwpfCVBYWlpcWg4LWQ4NUF4

@exothermal.sprocket Год назад

@@BlueMarbleRider Amazing, they reduced fuel capacity from the Z650, I stand corrected in that. Makes me want one even less than not wanting one. However, the narration clearly said "sixty-seven pounts-foot of torque" I marked the time.

@joedudz 2 года назад

At least it hasn't got the pig ugly front brake reservoir that's been fitted on the Z900RS.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Yes, that's something a lot of riders change.

@rayseaman6204 2 года назад

Honda has built the CB650 R model with a four cylinder engine. It cost 9,500 U.S. Dollars. The Kawasaki Z650 RS cost 7,000 U.S. dollars. BOTH are GREAT BIKES ! The question is : HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO SPEND ??? I personally would be HAPPY to find either of these FINE MACHINES in my garage !

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Great point!

@PubRunner 3 месяца назад

Having owned both the Interceptor and currently own the Z650RS the Kawasaki is a so much better bike in every single way.

@BlueMarbleRider 3 месяца назад

Interesting comparison. What were your takeaways about the differences?

@PubRunner 3 месяца назад

@@BlueMarbleRider comfort for one on a long ride. The build quality and reliability. I also much prefer the look of the green and gold Z650RS. My shorty wife can also flat foot the Kawasaki where she couldn’t the Interceptor even with it being lowered. Yeh Kawasaki also has much more power and mine is the LAMS version which is nobbled somewhat.

@ben9l351 2 месяца назад

The RE is top heavy and struggled with it. Purchased a demo Z650RS less than a RE650 and purchased a top quality leather jacket......so all up $300 extra than the RE

@mgerg0 2 года назад

Hi All, In Hungary the price tag is thesame on Trident and Z650RS. The Trident is more sofisticated, the performance is higher for this price. Even so I would rather buy the RS as I'm a new rider, and the look is much more better than the Trident in my opinion. The finish is mostly thesame. As I see a "new rider bike" should be relativly cheap (both buying it and maintenance it), need to be reliable (there is a "?" in me by the Triumph), and should not surprize me in any riding situation. As I saw in the tests the Trident is designed for more experienced riders. The other good thing that RS's simlicity makes the maintenance easier and the Kawasaki reliability makes it cheaper in longer term.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Thanks for your thoughts, Gergo. They're both great bikes; think I prefer the looks of the Z650RS over the Trident though. Good luck.

@mgerg0 2 года назад

@@BlueMarbleRider you are right: both are great. I think this is the first really "retrovolutioner" bike in the mid segment (~70 HP) with its 70's design. Hopefully car manufactures will also follow this trend. The review is great. Thx for it. 🙂

@jonwalwick2517 2 года назад

I don't think I would buy this motorcycle. I would like there to be a little more in the way of of better suspension, brakes and an inline 4 motor. I realize that I am describing the Z900RS but a Z750RS with the inline 4 cylinder and the other upgrades might be what I'm talking about. Not to the same high level as the 900 but more than the 650 to make a nice in between model. I think the Z650RS would make a great second bike. If I ever get the chance to ride one I might change my mind but there is nothing like a Japanese inline 4 cylinder motorcycle.

@jonwalwick2517 2 года назад

Great review! I forgot to say that in my initial message.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Agree: there's nothing like that old formula one sound as you scream up through the gears...Cheers.

@saulontheroad9605 2 года назад

Nice bike, but seat height is ridiculous high for a bike like this. Is like a statement for girls and short guys to stay away. Event the guy at the end of the presentation cannot go flat feet. Deal breaker in my opinion.

@BlueMarbleRider 2 года назад

Agree: the man in the cringy launch vid was the CEO of Europe - why he thought sitting on the bike with his shorter stature was a good idea boggles the mind, and only serves to illustrate your observation! I certainly haven't heard that there will be a lower seat option.

@saulontheroad9605 2 года назад

@@BlueMarbleRider Thanks anyway for your excellent video and have a nice day

@lovingmylifeasIage6741 3 года назад

They need to put a MT07 motor in it.

@N-SOJU 3 года назад

Spot on! If only the 3 dislike were non existent, I will buy this bike in a heartbeat..

@jefflambert8603 Год назад

A bit more Tank Capacity is all I can think Of to Improve it 12 litres is not Enough.. 15 would have been more Practical

@BlueMarbleRider Год назад

Athough the fuel economy is said to be very good with a gentle right hand in the city.

@jefflambert8603 Год назад

@@BlueMarbleRider oh that's for sure I Have the Standard Z650 The 15 Litre Tank. Gives a Decent Range I suppose they gave the RS the 12 litre. tank. More for Style ..?