Motorcycle Spotlight: Kawasaki Z650
Many seasoned motorcyclists and safety instructors agree that beginner riders should probably start on a bike that’s 500ccs or less while they learn how to sharpen their driving skills. More motor power can be difficult to handle for less-experienced riders, so starting smaller and working your way up is generally encouraged.
However, there are often exceptions to the rule. For instance, the Kawasaki Z650 offers a simple design, smooth ride, and ease of handling. It’s considered an excellent choice for a variety of different riders, including newbies. Its versatility on the road is just one of the reasons why it’s among the best-selling motorcycles in the United States and around the world.
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Here’s the kicker: Many motorcyclists recommend that new riders should start with a bike that doesn’t have an excessive amount of power so they can hone their skills and then trade the starter bike for something with a little more power. The Kawasaki Z650 takes that first part out of the equation. Even experienced riders enjoy the simplicity of the Z650, meaning it’s both a good first and second bike for owners.
Here is a deeper look at the Kawasaki Z650 and why it’s appealing to so many riders.
History
Kawasaki’s origins go all the way back to 1878 when Shozo Kawasaki established Kawasaki Tsukiji Shipyard in Tokyo, Japan. However, the company did not actually begin producing motorcycles until 1953; this is when they manufactured their first motors. Shozo became a tradesman at the young age of 17, and 10 years later, he started a shipping business in Osaka, which ultimately failed when his cargo ship sank during a storm.
Fascinated by Western vessels that were more spacious, stable, and faster than typical Japanese boats at the time, Shozo pursued shipbuilding. In 1896, Kojiro Matsukata was appointed the first president of Kawasaki Dockyard Company, Ltd., a position he maintained for 32 years. During his tenure, he expanded the business to produce rolling stock (locomotives, carriages, wagons, etc.), which eventually set the stage for motorcycle engine production.
Kawasaki began producing motorcycle engines with the release of the KE-1 in 1953. Their first complete motorcycle, the Meihatsu B7, rolled off the line a year later. The B8 125cc two-stroke bike was Kawasaki’s first completely manufactured motorcycle and was released in 1962.
Specifications
Today, Kawasaki motorcycles are known for their powerful engines, sporty performance, and reliability. The Z650 is a testament to the company’s thoughtful engineering. Its parallel twin 649cc engine is a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, two-cylinder, dual overhead cam (DOHC), that can go from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.5 seconds and tops out between 120 to 130 mph.
Offering a trellis-type, high-tensile steel frame, the bike measures 80.9 inches long, 30.1 inches wide, and 41.9 inches high, weighing in around 415 lbs. (curb weight). Color choices include candy persimmon red/ebony or metallic matte dark gray/metallic spark black.
Features
The Z650 comes with an Assist and Slipper Clutch to provide a smoother ride. Under normal conditions, the Assist Clutch allows for a lighter clutch feel. Under excessive braking conditions with quick or accidental downshifts, the Slipper Clutch forces the clutch hub and operating plate apart to relieve pressure on the clutch plates and reduce back torque to keep the rear tires from hopping/skidding.
Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) is an advanced system that allows the rider to choose nine different levels that customizes between maximum acceleration and riding stability. In the less intrusive modes, the Z650 optimizes traction during cornering, and maximizes forward drive from the rear wheel when accelerating out of corners. In the more intrusive mode, even when excessive wheel spin is detected, engine output is reduced to allow wheel grip retainment when encountering short, slippery patches. This includes train tracks or manhole covers, and on extended stretches of slippery surfaces such as wet pavement, cobblestones, or gravel.
Another reason that the Z650 is great for newer or experienced riders who enjoy a smoother ride: the bike comes with dual throttle valves that take the torque out of acceleration without compromising on thrust. Many sports bikes have large-bore throttle bodies to generate a ton of on-command power. With dual throttle valves, there is a second set of throttle valves that are controlled by the engine control unit (ECU) to ensure a more natural, linear response.
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Ride On
Choosing a motorcycle is a matter of preference, and the decision depends on a number of factors like driving skills and riding styles. Whether you’re considering the Kawasaki Z650 or another bike, weigh your options and compare what this impressive model has to offer alongside other motorcycles on the market.
Barrett Baker
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