From now on, this new Z650RS is powered by a vertical twin, whereas the B1 released in 1977 was powered by an in-line 4-cylinder.
Taking advantage of its 650 platform with the Z650 and Z650 Ninja, Kawasaki now offers a third version in neo-retro style.
The heart of this motorcycle is therefore the 649 cc twin-cylinder which develops 68 horsepower (50.2 kW) at 8,000 rpm and 64 Nm at 6,700 rpm.
Of course, a restricted version for A2 license holders is also available.
On the chassis side, it is the tubular lattice structure which already equips the Z and the Ninja which was retained without surprise.
However, the rear part of the frame has been modified by becoming lower, in order to give a line closer to that of the Z650-B1 with its famous little spoiler extending the saddle.
The suspensions follow the same logic as well as the braking system.
At the front, there is a non-adjustable 41 mm telescopic fork (125 mm travel) and a twin 300 mm semi-floating disc pinched by Nissin twin-piston calipers.
The rear is a little more modern for the suspension with a horizontal Back-link system mated to a shock absorber adjustable in preload (travel 130 mm).
There is also a 200 mm disc with single piston caliper.
Bosch 9.1M ABS assists braking.
Simply beautiful
There is no denying the style of this new Kawasaki Z650RS is really successful.
The lines are unhesitatingly reminiscent of the B1.
Both the narrow tank with the vintage KAWASAKI display in relief and the famous "duck tail" refer to Kawa production of the 70s. Ditto for the side covers where there is also a "Z650RS" inscription of the most beautiful effect. .
Without forgetting the round headlight and especially the choice of color - Green Candy Emerald - for the version that we tested.
And it continues when you get on the Z650RS.
In front of you, a dashboard made up of two analog counters in the shape of “shells” – the old ones will understand – with nevertheless a touch of modernity in the form of the small digital central screen inserted between the two dials.
It includes the segmented display of the fuel gauge and engine temperature.
In the middle, a clock and below, other information such as partial trips, average and instant consumption, autonomy and odometer.
These data scroll in the form of a drop-down menu controlled directly via the left stalk.
The Z650RS is welcoming.
The saddle with a height of 820 mm is affordable for most sizes.
And if that's not enough, a saddle offering 800 mm of height is available as an option.
The large handlebar is reassuring and topped with two large circular mirrors which also contribute to the retro look.
The two clutch and brake levers are adjustable in spacing.
North ferry
Our test begins in the center of Marseille.
We must reach the Vieux Port before following the coast towards the Col de la Ginestre.
But it was without counting on a terrible weather that will accompany us throughout the morning.
We therefore take the road under real downpours.
Fortunately the Z650RS is light and very easy to ride thanks to its large handlebars and reassuring riding position.
The brakes, without being too incisive, allow me to slow down and stop safely.
The vertical twin, not too flexible under 2,000 rpm, nevertheless tows without any evasion of the rear wheel.
After leaving the coast in the direction of Cassis, the pace increases slightly and the Kawasaki holds the course without shuddering.
The Dunlop Roadsport 2 tires do the job and shifts easily.
So much the better because there is no shifter in the catalog of this Z650RS.
After Cassis, small winding roads lead us to Gémenos before tackling the climb to the Col de l'Espigoulier for our photo shoot.
The rain stops and the sky clears.
Time to take off our rain gear, and the photo shoot can begin.
The moment for me also to detail a little more this little sister of the Z900RS.
The rims with flat sticks are really illusions.
On our version, they are covered with a golden color.
The lock that controls the opening of the saddle is well hidden behind a protective flap under the rear mudguard.
Under the saddle, the space is limited but you can nevertheless slip in a yellow vest, the papers of the motorcycle and an optional USB socket can take place there.
Gotta go back now
We take the direction of La Ciotat then the Route des Crêtes towards Cassis.
This picturesque road, very busy, is an ideal playground for our 650. On a dry and tortuous road, I give myself to my heart's content.
This Kawasaki encourages a relaxed ride, pure happiness.
At the end of the day, traffic is quite dense in Marseille, but the RS behaves like a fish in water.
Fine and agile (187kg), she weaves her way easily through the perpetually moving jumble that is the city centre.
Back at the hotel, the average consumption is 4.3 liters per hundred kilometres.
My only regret will be in the number of cylinders, reduced from 4 to 2. For the rest, this Z650RS will cause a certain nostalgia for the old ones while the young people will find there a versatile and charming motorcycle.
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The Kawasaki Z650RS in a few figures:
Engine: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve, 649cc, 4-stroke parallel twin
Power: 68 hp (50.2 kW) at 8,000 rpm
Torque: 64Nm at 6,700rpm
Gearbox: 6 gears
Final drive: by chain
Frame: steel trellis
Front suspension: 41mm non-adjustable telescopic fork, deb.
125mm
Rear suspension: horizontal Back-link type, adjustable preload, travel.
130mm
Front brake: two 300mm semi-floating discs, Nissin twin-piston calipers, Bosch 9.1M ABS
Rear brake: one 220mm "petal" disc, Nissin single piston caliper, Bosch 9.1M ABS
Saddle height: 820mm
Weight (TPF): 187kg
Tank: 12 liters
Price: from 8.299 €
Motorbike
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