- Revised styling, wider handlebars and 805mm seat height
- 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 67bhp and 64Nm
Kawasaki has launched the new Z650 S in India at Rs. 7.59 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2027 model gets revised bodywork, a more aggressive riding position and updated instrumentation. It also gets traction control, smartphone connectivity and an optional quickshifter. For India, the Z650 S will be available in the Pearl Blizzard White/Candy Lime Green colour combination. The new motorcycle is priced Rs. 33,000 higher than the Rs. 7.26 lakh for the previous Z650.
Kawasaki has given the Z650 S a wider and more muscular appearance, drawing inspiration from the larger motorcycles in its Z family. The front features a redesigned LED headlamp assembly accompanied by more prominent fuel tank extensions and sharply styled body panels. The motorcycle also gets aluminium radiator covers and a raised rear section.
There are changes to the riding ergonomics. The handlebar is positioned further forward creating a more committed riding posture than the previous model. Wider handlebar should also give riders greater leverage when changing direction. Seat height has increased from 790mm to 805mm, which is worth considering for shorter riders who appreciated the outgoing Z650’s relatively accessible dimensions.
Z650 S retains the 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. It pushes out 67bhp at 8,000rpm and 64Nm at 6,700rpm same as earlier. The motorcycle also receives an assist-and-slipper clutch to reduce clutch lever effort and helps control rear-wheel instability during aggressive downshifts. Kawasaki is additionally offering its Quick Shifter as an optional accessory allowing riders to make clutchless upshifts.
The updated motorcycle is slightly heavier than its predecessor. Kawasaki quotes a kerb weight of 193kg for the Z650 S compared with 188kg for the previous Z650. The additional 5 kilograms may not make a substantial difference during regular riding, but it is still an interesting development for a motorcycle that has traditionally been appreciated for its manageable weight and easy handling. The 15-litre fuel tank remains unchanged and ground clearance continues to stand at 130mm.
Z650 S has a 4.3-inch colour TFT instrument cluster with a revised display layout. Riders can access vehicle information, riding logs and selected notification functions through the connected system. Full-LED lighting is also part of the package.
