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2022 Kawasaki Z650RS first look
2022 Kawasaki Z650RS first look
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2022 Kawasaki Z650RS first look
Kawasaki just unveiled its new Z650RS, a tribute to its classic 650s based on the Z650 platform.
Basically, the new bike is a standard Z650 with old-school bodywork, but the new RS also shows that Kawasaki's retro department has learned a few things from the development of the Z900RS.
Meet the Z650RS
The underpinnings of Team Green's latest machine are borrowed from the naked Z650. The chassis is nearly identical, and the parallel-twin engine gets the same state of tune for 67 horsepower at 8.000 rpm and 47 foot-pounds of torque at 6.700 rpm.
Expect a lively and cheerful p-twin with good manners and reasonable weight. The Z650RS retains the assist/slipper clutch and positive neutral detector that makes rowing changes so easy on other 650s. Seat height is just half an inch over the Z650 for a total of 31,5 inches.
Moving on to the wheels, the Z650RS mimics its big brother with cast wheels designed to mimic classic spoked wheels. The standard tires are the practical Sportmax Roadsport 2 from Dunlop.
Ergonomics and style
The cockpit gets the requisite flat handlebars on revised triple clamps that bring the controls closer to the rider, resulting in a more upright (read: traditional) seating position. Combined with the wide seat, neutral footpeg position, and slim fuel tank, the RS should come reasonably close to the UJM ergo of old.
Let's talk about that tank for a minute. Kawasaki made a lot of decisions right with the Z900RS, but one of the most common complaints seemed to be the bulk of the fuel tank on that model. From the side, it had the flowing lines of the original Z models. The illusion is revealed from any other angle thanks to the width of the tank. The narrow 650 mill gave Kawi's designers another chance to solve the vintage tank problem, and the Z650RS appears to come very close to the long, thin profile of the past.
Other upgrades include a round LED headlight, oval LED taillight, analog-style clocks with integrated digital display and revised engine covers. A single-slit pattern appears on the bead caps, exhaust heat shield, and radiator trim pieces. I wish they had taken the “duck tail” brand a little further, but we can't have everything we want, can we?
Poking around the Z650RS accessories catalog reveals some tasteful add-ons like a chrome passenger grab handle, luggage hooks, metal dash trim, and rubber knee grips to replace the section in front of the side covers.
A competitive class
At €8,999, the Kawasaki Z650RS commands a significant premium over the Z650 (€7,349). On the other hand, it costs €200 less than the slower, heavier and more authentically retro W800. Yamaha's XSR700 will be its natural competition at €8.499. We hope to be able to get our hands on a Z650RS soon to give you the full breakdown of this homage to heritage.
The Z650RS will be available in Metallic Moondust Grey/Ebony and Candy Emerald Green. It's an easy choice for me.
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2022 KAWASAKI Z650RS
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Price (recommended price)
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€8,999
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Motor
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649 cc, eight-valve, liquid-cooled parallel twin
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Transmission, final transmission
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Six speed, chain
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Declared power
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67 horsepower at 8.000 rpm
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Declared couple
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47 foot-pounds at 6.700 rpm;
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Frame
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steel trellis
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Front suspension
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41mm telescopic fork, 5,1 inches of travel
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Rear suspension
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Horizontal back-link with adjustable preload, 4.9 inches of travel |
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Front brake
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Double 300 mm semi-floating petal disc, double piston calipers, ABS
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Rear brake
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Single 220mm petal disc, single piston caliper, ABS
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| Rake, path | 24,0 degrees, 3,9 inches |
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Wheelbase
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55,3 inches |
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Fuel capacity
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4,0 gallons |
| Tyres | Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2, 120/70R17 front, 160/60R17 rear |
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Declared weight
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412,3 pounds |
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Warranty
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12 months
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⚠️ Legal Notice – Important Product Declaration
This product is not certified, approved, or homologated for use on public roads or highways in any country. It is intended for off-road use only, including closed-course racing, sports competition, or private testing . Installation and use of this product on vehicles operating on public roads is strictly prohibited and may violate traffic laws, emissions regulations, or roadworthiness inspection requirements.
By purchasing this product, the customer acknowledges and accepts the following:
- The product is sold “as is” for sports or off-road use only.
- It is not approved for road circulation and must not be used on public roads under any circumstances.
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- Use of this product outside of its intended use may affect your vehicle warranty and insurance coverage.
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