2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle Review Specs

The new bike in Kawasaki’s 650cc portfolio in 2022 was the all-new Z650RS. The new 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle is an actual middleweight retro sport that combines the classic styling of the Z900RS with a small, sharp package that riders will want to use daily. Its 649cc parallel-twin engine, lightweight trellis frame, telescopic front fork, horizontal backlink rear suspension, dual-dial instrumentation with multi-function LCD screen, spoke-style cast wheels, disc brakes with standard ABS, and support does.

With a slipper clutch and easy retro riding position, the new 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle is a fun and easy ride. Its shorter, more compact tail and thinner fuel tank set it apart from its larger Z900RS sibling.

The all-new 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle is a vintage sportbike that combines the classic styling of the Z900RS with a small, manageable package perfect for everyday riding.

The 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle is a true middleweight naked sportbike that appeals to various riders with its classic, retro-styled aesthetics. A smaller, more compact tail and a slimmer tank separate the 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle from the more significant displacement Z900RS, resulting in lighter handling and a more approachable profile. Experience the classic looks and contemporary responsive power that make the Z650RS ideal for everyday riding.

The new 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle combines contemporary sports technology with a throwback aesthetic. Unique design elements, such as the twin-cylinder engine, classic circular LED headlights, needle instruments, bodywork, and 1970s-inspired colors, combine to create a striking neo-retro category reference point. The subtle essence of RETRO-VOLUTION of the 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle will surely wow riders everywhere.

2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle – Features and Specs

Small 649cc DOHC twin-cylinder engine

It is designed to deliver strong, agile, and responsive power, especially in the low-to-mid range, with rider-friendly power characteristics that inspire confidence and facilitate control in a variety of riding situations. Improved intake port shape also helps improve low- and mid-range response and performance. The short operating angle and valve overlap on the camshaft provide excellent low- to medium efficiency.

The slim airbox enhances the bike’s slim look and low to mid-range power feel. A shorter header on the exhaust system boosts top-end power, and the smooth muffler’s internal design improves power distribution over short to mid-range.

The muffler is placed under the engine to help centralize weight and lower the center of gravity. The Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) radiator fan cover helps direct hot engine air away from the rider and down. The triangular crank and transmission shaft layout makes the engine very small from front to back. An all-new semi-dry sump (KP) oil system reduces overall engine height. The narrow pitch of chrome composite (KP) plated aluminum cylinders helps reduce engine width.

The compact parallel twin engine contributes to the motorcycle’s overall compact and agile size. The engine runs incredibly smoothly thanks to the 180-degree crankshaft and balance shaft. Oil jets in the big ends of the connecting rods spray oil on the underside of the piston to aid in cooling.

Digital Fuel Injection

The new Dual Throttle Valves on 36mm Keihin throttle bodies provide maximum efficiency and drivability while adding powerful low- to mid-range power. The ECU regulates the sub-throttles behind the main throttle valves to give the DFI® system a precise throttle response. Easy start and warm-up thanks to the automatic fast idle system. Significant reduction in emissions due to precise fuel delivery through fine atomizing injectors and exhaust catalysts.

Six-speed gearbox

Kawasaki’s unique feature called Positive Neutral Finder makes shifting from first gear easy and only requires shifting into neutral when the bike is stopped. Cassette-style transmissions reduce engine size by compacting the shift drum and transmission shaft.

Horizontal Rear Suspension Backlink

The rear shock is further away from the exhaust, so exhaust heat does not affect its operation. The gull-wing swingarm also allows muffler clearance, contributing to light, natural handling. The linkage is placed above the swingarm and helps make enough room for the under-engine muffler for optimal mass centralization.

Frame

Frame components are designed to make the high-tensile steel trellis frame lines as straight as possible. Optimized dimensions and wall thickness reduce frame weight and contribute to extremely light handling. The design dissipates stress very well because where bends were required, they were made at the smallest possible angle. Rigidly mounted and arranged in a three-point configuration, footpegs, and engine stays are used as stressed components to reduce weight further.

Brake discs with triple petal design

The optional Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) uses a compact Bosch 9.1M control unit to reduce weight and space while assisting braking in certain situations. Sporty-looking Nissin brake calipers have dedicated pads for front and rear brakes, the latter offering greater control and a higher total braking force and the former providing a powerful first bite. The front brake calipers’ large 27mm pistons provide excellent brake feel, while the petal design enhances cooling and reduces warping.

Assist and Slipper Clutch

During acceleration (assist function), the clutch is pressed together using the rotational forces of the clutch hub and pressure plate, allowing shorter, lighter clutch springs for a lighter feel on the lever. When the back torque is excessive, such as when a gear is selected too low, the slipper function enables some clutch slippage to help prevent rear-wheel hop and engine lockup.

Spoke-Style Cast Wheels

The original cast wheels have flat spokes intended to resemble vintage wire-spoked wheels. The wheels, built with Kawasaki’s advanced analysis technology, combine a sleek look with reduced weight to improve handling and provide a retro-inspired design. Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires add to the light handling, which is easy due to the light weight. A comprehensive, flat handlebar combined with a comfortable, natural riding position positions riders in a position that helps inspire confidence in various riders.

Relaxed Riding Position

The wide, flat handlebar adds to the classic sports look and provides a generous grip for easy handling. The handlebar position is higher, and the riding stance is more upright due to the 20mm higher location of the upper triple clamp than the 2023 Kawasaki Z650. The handle grip is 30mm further back and 50mm higher (closer to the rider) than the Z650. Low seat height and compact overall design help riders keep both feet on the ground when stopped, which instills more confidence. A wide 35° steering angle helps with low-speed maneuvers.

The Footpeg position enables comfortable knee flexion, which contributes to rider comfort. The stepped seat provides a spacious seating area for a comfortable ride. The front of the seat is short to facilitate the rider’s access to the ground. A rubber-mounted handlebar reduces vibration transmitted to the mirror through the handle grip. The clutch and brake levers can be adjusted in five ways to fit various hand sizes and improve comfort. Rider’s and passenger’s foot pads have rubber pads. A hollow core and reinforced compound footpegs work together to reduce vibrations transmitted through the footpegs.

Styling

The circular LED headlamp emits a bright, white light and combines current and classic design elements. It has two chambers for low and high beams, each with a position lamp illuminating the entire lamp, much like a 1950s headlight bulb. The grooved shape of the thick headlight ring adds a contemporary touch. The sides and top of the fuel tank are divided by edges in a retro style, highlighting the smaller size of the tank.

The straightforward design of the side cover adds to the contemporary throwback aesthetic. The tail of the 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle follows a horizontal line rather than an upward one, which adds to the bike’s level stance. The Z650RS only has a step seat from the original design.

The oval shape of the LED taillight pays homage to Kawasaki’s vintage Z models. The 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle’s LED taillight has a retro-modern look as it illuminates a solid surface, like a bulb taillight, unlike traditional LED taillights that look like a collection of dots.

Dual Dial Display with Multiple Functions

A multifunctional LCD screen complements the analog-style speedometer and tachometer dials, balancing vintage aesthetics and contemporary utility. The LCD screen further enhances the sporty, present image of the instrument cluster, which displays white lettering on a black background. The bullet-shaped dial covers add to the retro look, while the modern typography on the dial faces adds a contemporary touch. A gear position indicator improves accuracy and shift assurance.

Display features include a gear position indicator, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, remaining range, average and current fuel consumption, coolant temperature, clock, and an economy ride indicator. When fuel consumption is favorable, the LCD panel displays economical riding indicators—riding while aware of the conditions that cause the mark to appear can help motorcyclists maximize fuel efficiency.

2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle – Price

The new 2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle is available at $9,099 only.

2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Sports Motorcycle – Technical Specifications

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Performance

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