2017 Kawasaki Z650 revealed

The Z650 is the newest addition to Kawasaki’s Z Series and features a 650cc parallel-twin engine with strong low-mid range torque and an all-new lightweight chassis in a slim, compact middleweight package.

The Z650’s handling, feedback and acceleration are complemented by easy-to-manage power delivery and rider-friendly manoeuvrability, offering an ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility. The eye-catching Z styling also reflects the sporty nature of this exciting new machine.

Like the 1976 Z650, whose torquey engine and compact chassis offered a lighter, nimbler alternative to the larger, more powerful Z1, the all-new 2017 Z650 is ideal for riders who prefer agile, sporty riding.

The Z650’s low weight and low seat height both contribute to manoeuvrability, whether riding, walking beside the bike, or foot peddling in a parking lot. The easy-to-manage engine response and strong low-end torque further facilitate low-speed manoeuvring.

The combination of 790mm seat height and a slim chassis also make it easy to reach the ground enables a wide range of riders to enjoy the Z650 with confidence.

Wide, flat handlebar and a relaxed, sporty riding position allows riders to fully capitalise on the Z650’s sporty street riding potential which is designed to inspire confidence and put the rider in the ideal position for control.

The Z650’s aggressive Z Supernaked styling blends sugomi design elements with a slim, light-looking package, resulting in a head-turning design that conveys both excitement and approachability.

Complementing sugomi design elements (crouching stance, low-positioned head and upswept tail) give it an instantly recognisable silhouette, its condensed appearance is emphasised by slim, close-fitting bodywork designed to give the bike a light, nimble image that reflects its sporty performance.

The stacked instrument cluster features a large analogue-style tachometer with a gear position indicator at its centre, sitting atop a multi-function LCD screen.

The liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve 649cc Parallel Twin with fuel injection delivers smooth, responsive performance, especially in the low and medium rpm ranges. The strong low-end focus lends itself to sporty riding, but also translates to rider-friendly power characteristics that facilitate control and inspire confidence in new riders.

Performance and feel were optimised for the mid-range (3000-6000rpm range). However, in the low-rpm range (below 3000rpm) power delivery is very smooth, and even above 6000rpm power and torque curves continue on without dropping off suddenly. The new engine settings also contribute to excellent fuel efficiency., with mileage in the range of 4.2L/100 km. (*Actual mileage varies depending on riding style, riding conditions and vehicle maintenance.)

The Assist & Slipper Clutch was developed based on feedback from racing activities. The clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam), offering two new functions not available on a standard clutch.

When the engine is operating at normal rpm the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever pull when operating the clutch.

When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and help prevent the rear tyre from hopping and skidding.

One of the key components realising the Z650’s light weight (noticeable as soon as the bike is lifted off its side-stand) is the all-new frame which weighs only 15kg and contributes significantly to the bike’s light, nimble handling.

Components of the high-tensile steel trellis frame follow the ideal pipe line. The lines of the frame were made as straight as possible, and when bends were necessary their angles were made as small as possible, resulting in a design that disperses stress extremely well

The rigid-mount engine is a stressed member, contributing to the frame’s idealised rigidity balance. Even the footpeg stays are used as stressed members, further contributing to the frame’s rigidity and light weight.

A steep caster angle contributes the sharp handling, and Kawasaki’s new in-house analysis technology was used in the swingarm. Similar to the frame, the line from the pivot to rear axle was made as straight as possible. The lightweight design of swingarm (4.8 kg) contributes to the bike’s light, natural handling.

 

41mm telescopic forks handle suspension duties up front. Horizontal Back-link rear suspension offers a progressive character. Compared to link-less type suspension, it delivers a better balance of sporty performance and ride comfort.

Rear suspension positions the shock unit and linkage above the swingarm. This arrangement contributes to mass centralisation, while ensuring that the suspension is located far enough from the exhaust that operation is not affected by heat.

Dual 300mm front petal disc brakes and a 220mm rear deliver plenty of braking power while contributing to the bike’s sporty image. Dual-piston front calipers, master cylinder and brake pads offer superb brake touch and control.

Both clutch and brake levers are 5-way adjustable, able to accommodate a variety of hand sizes for increased comfort.

In addition to the very effective petal disc brakes, customers looking for an added degree of reassuring braking performance can also choose models with ABS. A compact Bosch 9.1M ABS unit contributes to both weight and space savings in ABS models.

Stylish star-pattern 5-spoke wheels contribute to light weight, while their high rigidity benefits handling. They also contribute to the bike’s light looks.

Thanks to the low seat height and the bike’s slim overall design, it’s easy to keep both feet firmly on the ground when stopped, an important consideration for many riders. 790 mm seat height accommodates riders spanning a wide range of heights, enabling them to ride with confidence.

Wide, flat handlebar contributes to the Z styling while offering a wide grip to facilitate control. Footpeg position offers a relaxed knee bend, contributing to rider comfort.

The slim fuel tank is also positioned low in the chassis and in addition to contributing to the light, dynamic styling, the shape is easy to grip with the knees.

 

 

Other features include an LED taillight, which lights up in an “Z” pattern, luggage hooks built into the passenger footpeg stays, providing convenient tie-down points, and an inner fender that incorporates part of the chain guard to help keep the underside of the tail cowl clean and contributes to the aggressive Z styling.

The stacked instrument cluster features an easy-to-read layout. Analogue-style tachometer features a gear position indicator at its centre and sits atop the multi-function LCD screen.

A number of Kawasaki genuine accessories allow riders to further enhance the Z650’s sharp, sporty looks or offer added comfort or convenience for increased touring potential.

The 2017 Kawasaki Z650 will be available in two colour schemes: Pearl Flat Stardust White / Metallic Spark Black and Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Spark Black.