Like its predecessor, the superbly balanced Z650 offers sugomi* performance and styling in a slim, compact middleweight package that features a 650cc Parallel Twin engine with strong low-mid range torque in a lightweight chassis. Engine refinements contribute to cleaner emissions and increased mid-range torque, new tyres offer lighter handling, and a redesigned tandem seat offers increased passenger comfort. As before, nimble handling and superb feedback are complemented by easy-to-manage power delivery and rider-friendly manoeuvrability, offering an ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility designed to accommodate a wide range of riders. Sharp new styling, highlighted by a new LED headlight and TFT instrumentation, gives this 2nd generation Z650 an even stronger sugomi presence. The thorough attention given to ensure a high-quality fit & finish results in a machine that riders can be proud to own – an ideal ambassador for the Z brand.
Sugomi performance ensures that riding the Z650L is a treat for the senses. A responsive, torqueful engine character and nimble, lightweight chassis offer sporty riding excitement that new and more experienced riders alike will enjoy.
Tuning of the 649 cm³ Parallel Twin engine focused on achieving a throttle response that balanced a powerful feeling and a quick-revving character. To optimise performance for everyday riding, care was taken to maximise low-mid range torque. When opening the throttle, riders will notice an extremely smooth and powerful engine character that offers both a high level of control when making minute throttle adjustments and a gratifying rush of acceleration in the lower rpm ranges. This tuning also benefits fuel economy.
A strong, torquey engine and lightweight chassis contribute to the Z650L SE motorcycle’s sporty performance and versatility.
Raw power comes from a modern parallel-twin 649cc engine that packs strong torque and strong mid-range acceleration well suited for sport riding.
An Assist and Slipper clutch provides a lighter feel at the lever and a back-torque limiting function that helps prevent rear-wheel hop during more aggressive downshifts.
The sharp angles of the cowl, chin spoiler and meter cover were made to give the bike an aggressive presence while wide shrouds boast a muscular appearance. An LED headlamp adds a distinct high-tech note.
The sharp Z pattern of the Z650L SE taillight (brake light) delivers a bold statement every time it lights up.
Horizontal Back-link rear suspension offers a progressive character. Compared to link-less type suspension, it delivers a better balance of sporty performance and ride comfort. Rear suspension positions the shock unit and linkage above the swingarm. This arrangement contributes to mass centralisation, while ensuring that the suspension is located far enough from the exhaust that operation is not affected by heat.
One of the key components realising Z650L’s light weight (noticeable as soon as the bike is lifted off its side-stand), the lightweight frame weighs only 15 kg and contributes significantly to the bike’s light, nimble handling. Components of the high-tensile steel trellis frame follow the ideal pipe line. The lines of the frame were made as straight as possible, and when bends were necessary their angles were made as small as possible, resulting in a design that disperses stress extremely well.
All-digital TFT (thin-film transistor) color instrumentation gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance and visibility. The screen’s background color is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light.
Display functions include: digital speedometer, digital bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, shift lamp, fuel gauge, odometer, dual trip meters, current and average fuel consumption, remaining range, average speed, total time, coolant temperature, clock, battery voltage, Kawasaki service reminder, oil change reminder and the Kawasaki Economical Riding Indicator.
Bluetooth Smartphone Connectivity (using RIDEOLOGY THE APP*) connects you with your bike like never before, allowing you to view vehicle info, riding log, phone notifications, and general settings.
The Z650L’s low weight and low seat height both contribute to manoeuvrability, whether walking beside the bike, or foot peddling in a parking lot. The easy-to-manage engine response and strong low-end torque further facilitate low-speed manoeuvring complemented with the New Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 Tyres.
Low seat height and tapered seat shape create easy foot placement at stops while the upright seating provides a commanding ride position, giving the rider heads-up visibility for a confident riding experience. Superior riding comfort extends to the passenger with thick urethane and wide sides for great padding and support.
For added comfort, both clutch and brake levers are 5-way adjustable to accommodate a variety of hand sizes.
The overall light weight of the Z650L SE comes thanks to a lightweight trellis frame with a low center of gravity for light handling and confident low-speed maneuvering.
Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tyres—made of high-performance rubber—boost handling and provide optimum grip.
A wide handlebar contributes to easy low-speed maneuvering and better leverage for higher-speed cornering.
*Please Note – 2020 model shown in the image.
Ergonomics have a big influence on agile handling. The rider triangle places the rider “in” rather than “on top of” the bike for a feeling of confident connected handling.
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Model | Z650L SE |
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin |
| Displacement | 649 cm³ |
| Bore X Stroke | 83.0 x 60.0 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Valve System | DOHC, 8 valves |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Ignition | Digital |
| Starting | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed, Return |
| Frame | |
|---|---|
| Wheel Travel Front | 125 mm |
| Wheel Travel Back | 130 mm |
| Tyre | |
|---|---|
| Front | 120/70ZR17 M/C 58W |
| Rear | 160/60ZR17 M/C 69W |
| Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Front | Telescopic fork |
| Rear | Horizontal Back-link SWG. ARM |
| Brakes | |
|---|---|
| Front | Dual semi-floating 300mm petal Discs, dual piston calipers |
| Rear | Single 220mm petal Disc, single-piston calipers |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| L x W x H | 2,055 x 765 x 1,065mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,410 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 130 mm |
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Curb Mass | 187 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 15 litres |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Max Power | 38.7 kW @ 8,000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 59.0 N.m @ 6,500 rpm |
| Colour/s | Metallic Spark Black Pearl Blizzard White with Metallic Spark Black |
| Warranty | 24 Months Unlimited Kilometres |