Kawasaki’s Z650 ABS has always been an affordable option for smaller-sized riders looking for a capable naked bike that won’t be as easy to outgrow as Team Green’s smaller-displacement offerings. Read the 2020 Kawasaki Z650 ABS First Look Preview to get up to speed on this year’s updates. In this video, we swing a leg over it and evaluate its capability and how it slots into the naked bike segment.
Horizontal monocross single shock, adjustable for spring preload and rebound; 5.1-in. travel
FRONT BRAKES
Nissin 2-piston calipers, 300mm discs w/ ABS
REAR BRAKE
1-piston caliper, 220mm disc w/ ABS
WHEELS, FRONT/REAR
Cast alloy
TIRES, FRONT/REAR
Dunlop Roadsmart 2; 120/70-17 / 160/60-17
RAKE/TRAIL
24.0°/3.9 in.
WHEELBASE
55.5 in.
SEAT HEIGHT
31.1 in.
FUEL CAPACITY
4.0 gal.
CLAIMED CURB WEIGHT
412 lb.
WARRANTY
1-year limited
AVAILABLE
August 2020
CONTACT
kawasaki.com
The LED headlamp in the 2020 Z650 is one of the best we’ve ridden lately, after dark, even without corner lighting function.Adam Waheed
In typical Kawasaki fashion, the Z650 has a peppy parallel-twin engine that’s full of rip-roaring character.Adam Waheed
A shapely gull-wing type swingarm hangs off the rear of the Z650 ABS. The rear suspension performs well with a good balance between comfort and sporty road-holding for a direct-mount non-linkage setup.Adam Waheed
A crisp 4.3-inch color TFT dash graces the Z650 ABS. It's bright and easy to read, day or night.Adam Waheed
With a 412-pound curb weight, the 2020 Z650 ABS is a nimble naked bike. It turns easily and is compact and easy to park.Adam Waheed
The rider seat is comfortable and well supported. However the seating position is cramped for a six-foot tall rider.Adam Waheed
Kawasaki’s 649cc parallel-twin is a playful engine that has decent grunt at all engine speeds.Adam Waheed
The ergonomics package certainly favors smaller riders. More experienced riders will yearn for a wider handlebar with more forward sweep.Adam Waheed
The Z650 ABS offers adjustable clutch position adjustment-- a nice detail for a motorcycle in this price range.Adam Waheed
Kawasaki’s classic ‘Z’ naked bike heritage is stamped into the LED taillight.Adam Waheed
Smartphone users can access vehicle information via Kawasaki’s iOS-compatible Rideology app.Adam Waheed
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