2017 Kawasaki Z125 Top Speed
KAWASAKI Z650 (2017 - 2019) Review
2
At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | 3.8 out of 5 (3.8/5) |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £110 |
| Power: | 68 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (31.1 in / 790 mm) |
| Weight: | Medium (412 lbs / 187 kg) |
Prices
New N/A
Used £4,400 - £6,500
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakes
4 out of 5 (4/5)
The Kawasaki Z650 naked builds on the success story of the now old ER-6n. The all-new bike uses a similar parallel 649cc 8v twin, which now meets Euro4 guidelines. However, that is where the similarities end.
- Related: Kawasaki Z650 vs Yamaha MT-07 vs Suzuki SV650
The 10kg lighter trellis frame is all new, as is the swingarm, which has a further weight-saving of 2.7kg: overall the Zed is 17kg lighter. This significant reduction in weight and improved low to mid-range power makes the Z650 more enjoyable and easier to ride than its predecessor. It's also another reason the 'lost' four bhp is not noticeable as the power to weight ration of the latest Z650 is much better than the bike it replaced. A lower, thinner seat, lighter clutch with slipper action and dramatic styling make it more appealing than ever.
Kawasaki Z650 can be ridden on A2 licence
In 2018 the company launched a restricted A2 licence-compliant version for those who aren't old enough to have passed the full A UK motorbike licence.
The naked Z650 also got Metallic Matte Cover Green, Candy Lime Green and also Metallic Spark Black options as new colourways for 2018.
This bike was replaced by the 2020 Kawasaki Z650.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: Engine
The old side-mounted rear shock has been discarded in favour of a conventional centrally- mounted horizontal shock with linkage. This reduces the load on the spring and improves the ride quality at both high and low speeds. The rear shock has preload adjustment, but the front 41mm forks are non-adjustable. Both the front and rear suspension are more than adequate out of the box. The Z650 is light, flickable and fun once you've managed to build some heat into the aging Dunlop Sportmax tyres which come as standard.
While there is provision for a pillion passenger, the rear seat is pretty small and the pegs quite high. so anyone riding on the back needs to be brave or very small, or both!
Engine
Next up: Reliability
4 out of 5 (4/5)
The 649cc DOHC engine is based on the old ER-6n but now meets tight Euro4 regulations. Kawasaki have actually lost a few peak bhp compared to the old model - 67.3bhp compared to the 71bhp of the previous model; this is probably due to having to meet new emissions and noise levels which has seen certain exhuast restrictions effect peak power, although the truth is, few will notice the missing four bhp. However, the new engine has a greater spread of torque in the low to mid-range. Peak torque is now 48.5ftlb at 6500rpm.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)
The new trellis frame is made using similar technology to that of Kawasaki's flagship H2 sports-tourer. The finish is really impressive considering how competitively-priced priced the bike is. The new clocks are neater as is the overall styling. There are also a whole host of accessories if you wish to personalise your Zed; from an Akrapovic exhaust to soft panniers for touring. Vibrations from the parallel twin are only just noticeable at high speeds unlike the vibey original ER-6n that first appeared in 2005.
Get Kawasaki Z650 owners' reviews here
Value vs rivals
Next up: Equipment
5 out of 5 (5/5)
At £6349 the Zed was excellent value for money and was priced similarly to Suzuki's new SV650 and Yamaha's award winning and hugely capable MT-07.
The MT-07 has certainly proved a firm favourite over the last few years, but the Z650 has a certain style to it and it's more of an all-rounder than the lively Yamaha. The SV650 has had a recent makeover, but is a little straight-laced in the looks department.
Kawasaki offered some very reasonable finance offers on the Z650.
Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)
As expected and in accordance with Euro4 regulations ABS comes as standard. Kawasaki has also fitted an assisted and slipper clutch for the first time which makes for light lever action when changing gears. The Slip and Assist clutch also prevents the rear wheel locking up if you stamp down through the gears. The new digital clocks are an added bonus.
Specs | |
| Engine size | 649cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | 8v DOHC parallel-twin four-cylinder, 6 gears |
| Frame type | Trellis |
| Fuel capacity | 15 litres |
| Seat height | 790mm |
| Bike weight | 187kg |
| Front suspension | 41mm conventional forks, no adjustment |
| Rear suspension | horizontally mounted rear shock, adjustable for preload |
| Front brake | 2x300mm petal discs. Nissin twin-piston calipers |
| Rear brake | 240mm petal disc, Nissin single-piston caliper |
| Front tyre size | 120/70ZR17 |
| Rear tyre size | 160/55ZR17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance | |
| Average fuel consumption | 50 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £96 |
| Annual service cost | £110 |
| New price | - |
| Used price | £4,400 - £6,500 |
| Insurance group | 11 of 17 How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | - |
Top speed & performance | |
| Max power | 68 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 48.5 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 125 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | - |
| Tank range | 165 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
2017: Z650 replaces ER-6n
MCN Long term test reports
Video: Kawasaki Z650 cleans up for Euro5
Just like lots of new bikes this year, the updates to the 2020 Kawasaki Z650 are designed to squeeze it through the new Euro5 emissions tests, saving time for a big update in the future. So the Z650 now runs cleaner thanks to a new exhaust and revised airbox. But the rest of the bike receives minor …
Read the latest report
Owners' reviews for the KAWASAKI Z650 (2017 - 2019)
5 owners have reviewed their KAWASAKI Z650 (2017 - 2019) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your KAWASAKI Z650 (2017 - 2019)
Summary of owners' reviews | |
| Overall rating: | 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5) |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | 4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5) |
| Engine: | 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5) |
| Reliability & build quality: | 3.8 out of 5 (3.8/5) |
| Value vs rivals: | 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5) |
| Equipment: | 3.8 out of 5 (3.8/5) |
| Annual servicing cost: | £110 |
4 out of 5
15 July 2021
Year: 2017
Definitely recommend it to a friend
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Brakes feel to good for the power sometimes
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
After a wash sometimes check engine light comes on for some sensor
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Good but flawed and needs modding to get it right
23 April 2021 by Johnny rogers
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £140
Excellent design ,poor quality components
Ride quality & brakes 2 out of 5
Poor handling have changed springs front and rear to hyperpro progressive springs ,a great help ,brakes are fine
Engine 4 out of 5
Good power but not smooth delivery added rapid fuel module akropovich from new ,sprint filter --- more power fantastic throttle control and more economical now
Reliability & build quality 1 out of 5
Water pump housing paint peeled off ,exhaust collar disintegrated ,chain rusted and links seizing ,footpeg rubber worn out.suspension poor handling ,dives on braking and changes direction when hitting a bump ,throttle snatch at low speeds.took extra years guarantee but nothing is covered so far ,waste of time
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Local garage used dealer too expensive
Equipment 3 out of 5
Good basic package but poor quality components.have added shorty levers for easier control ,rapid fuel module ,progressive springs and metal footpegs need new chain despite proper mtce now corroded and links stiff
Buying experience: Bought off dealer and had akropovic as extra ,however collar on exhaust corroded and broke up ,however collar beside it was fine (strange faulty component ?) Paid asking price deposit from 650 ktm and bank loan
5 out of 5 Well done to Kawasaki, great redesign
07 May 2019 by Grant John Neville
Year: 2019
Very easy to ride, great looking bike, great fun and excellent value for money. One of the easiest riders ever and extremely comfortable, has all you need in a bike.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
Buying experience: Was the fastest purchase ever. After handing over the cash was on the road in less than one hour.
5 out of 5 New Z650
12 May 2018 by Phil
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £30
Swapped a GSXR for the new Z650. I have little legs so the low seat is confidence inspiring. It's comfy and I like the streetfighter styling. The handling is good. I'm still running it in, so I'm missing the power of my previous bike. I bought it for commuting and trips to a caravan 70 miles away. You either get power or economy, and it has good mpg. I like the comprehensive digital dash, small but easy read and has all usual features (clock, fuel gauge etc.).
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
I've only covered 100 miles on mixed roads, however, the bike coped with everything well. It's comfy and I had no scares. It's predictable and reassuring.
Engine 5 out of 5
Small physically (as is the bike), smooth, torquey and economical. It beats cars from traffic lights.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
None yet as the bike is new, but my daughter's has had no problems in 2 years. Seems well built and painted nicely.
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
DIY usually and can get fully synth oil and filter for £30. If it needs plugs and air filter, brakes etc. the all-in cost is less than £150.
Equipment 4 out of 5
Not used to having no screen at all (could have bought a faired version). I've ordered a taller screen but haven't fitted it yet. It should help on the motorway.
Buying experience: I was disappointed with the trade-in price, but the new bike was discounted so I'm happy with the amount paid overall to get a new one.
4 out of 5 Perfect learner or weekend motorcycle
11 July 2017 by Gavin Murphy
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £150
Good little bike
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Is a little spongy but stops very quickly even at high speeds.
Engine 4 out of 5
Very good has some weird vibration in the mid range comes threw the handlebars and foot pegs occasionally.
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
No issues installed Scottoiler and needs led upgrade kit as standard bulbs are very poor
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Cheap to service and most parts are cheap. Mines a 66 plate and works perfectly easy to do most yourself.
Equipment 3 out of 5
Comes with abs. Standard clocks and a gear indicator.
Buying experience: Orwell ipswich easy bought for £580₩ pre reg new
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Kawasaki Z650 static side profile
Source: https://www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-reviews/kawasaki/z650/2017/
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