After creating a hit with its homage to the original 1973 Z1 in the retro-styled Z900RS, Kawasaki wisely looked at recreating that same theme in its middleweight Z series naked bike, the Z650. The resulting Z650RS has the same sleek lines (and much better looks than the standard Z650, say many) as its larger sibling, with the teardrop-shaped fuel tank, upright conventional tubular handlebar, round headlight, dual analog speedometer/tachometer, round gauges, and spoke-style cast aluminum wheels. The long and mostly flat one-piece seat has much more room to move around on than the standard Z650′s shorter rider perch, and even though Z650RS’ seat height is listed slightly higher at 31.5 inches (versus the standard Z650′s 31.1 inches), the area near the tank is narrower to allow the rider’s legs a straighter shot at the ground. The ergonomics are much more upright and relaxed than the sportier Z650, with the RS’ handlebar putting the grips 2 inches higher and 1.2 inches closer to the rider, with slightly lower footpeg positioning as well.
The rest of the mechanical portions of the Z650 carry over to the RS model, including the smooth and midrange-strong 649cc parallel-twin engine also getting the benefit of KTRC traction control for 2024. Two modes are available, plus off, accessed via a switch on the left handlebar controls. The same trellis steel tubular frame with fairly sharp steering geometry (24 degrees of rake, 3.9 inches of trail) provide nimble steering, although the nonadjustable 41mm KYB fork and single spring-preload-adjustable-only shock have spring/damping rates tuned specifically for the RS (read: slightly softer for comfort). Dual 300mm rotors clamped by two-piston slider brake calipers up front make the transition as well, providing very good stopping power, with an ABS system that isn’t overly intrusive.
The Z650RS ABS demonstrates that cool retro styling doesn’t have to impede a platform’s performance. Kawasaki’s spunky middleweight now has a model with the side benefit of a more relaxed riding position that simply accentuates its balance of fun and practicality.
The 2024 Kawasaki Z650RS ABS is available in Ebony/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray for $9,599.
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