NINJA 650L (40TH ANNIVERSARY)

PARALLEL-TWIN ENGINE

Exciting Parallel Twin engine offers quick response, strong low-mid range performance and excellent fuel economy. Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve 649 cm³ Parallel Twin with fuel injection delivers smooth, responsive performance, especially in the low and medium rpm ranges. The settings result in a performance that favours speeds most used in everyday riding. Corner pick-up is excellent: the powerful mid-range delivers a satisfying surge of acceleration and the flat, step-free torque curve and smooth engine response let riders open the throttle with confidence – at any rpm with class leading maximum torque of 59.0 N-m.

ASSIST & SLIPPER CLUTCH

The clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam), offering new functions not available on a standard clutch. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever pull when operating the clutch. When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and prevent the rear tyre hopping and skidding.

COOL RIDING

Simplified cooling system routes coolant through the engine cases to the cylinder and head to reduce external plumbing. Patented radiator fan cover located behind the radiator directs hot air down and away from the rider, significantly increasing comfort when stuck in heavy traffic. Redirecting the heated air also helps keep the tank, frame and other parts that contact the rider cooler, further increasing rider comfort.

TRELLIS FRAME

One of the key components to realising the Ninja 650’s weight is the trellis frame.  The frame weighs only 15 kg and contributes to the bike’s light, nimble handling. 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. Kawasaki’s new in-house analysis technology was used to precisely determine the necessary pipe diameter, length and wall thickness to deliver the ideal lateral and torsional rigidity.

TELESCOPIC FORKS

41 mm telescopic front forks handles the suspension duties up front.

REAR SUSPENSION

FRONT BRAKE

Dual 300 mm front petal disc brakes deliver plenty of braking power. Dual-piston front calipers, master cylinder and brake pads offer superb brake touch. Riders looking for an added degree of reassuring braking performance – all Ninja 650 are fitted with front and rear ABS. Compact Bosch 9.1M ABS unit contributes to both weight and space savings.

REAR BRAKE

The rear 220 mm diameter petal disc brake combines with the dual front petal disc brakes to enhances the overall braking performance and sporty appearance.

STYLISH 5-SPOKE WHEELS

Stylish star-pattern 5-spoke wheels contribute to light weight, while their high rigidity benefits handling. They also contribute to the bike’s light looks. Low unsprung weight (thanks to parts like the swingarm, wheels, and hollow-type front axle) greatly contributes to the light, nimble handling. Silica-blend tyres offer both wet-weather performance and reduced rolling resistance, which contributes to the excellent fuel economy.

ERGONOMICS

The Ninja 650’s fine-tuned rider triangle provides both control and comfort. The low seat (790mm) and the bike’s overall design ensure it is easy to reach the ground. Separate, raised handlebars mounted to the upper triple clamp offer control and comfort; they put the rider in a good position for sport riding. Mounting clamp for the handlebars is rubber-mounted to reduce vibration transmitted through the handle grips. Stylish upper triple clamp features strength-reinforcing ribs on its upper surface.

NARROW SEAT. RELAXED FOOTPEGS

Footpeg position offers a relaxed knee bend, contributing to rider comfort. The narrow frame and engine create a narrow overall package, allowing the rider to keep his or her knees and feet close together. Sporty front seat is slim at the front, facilitating the rider’s reach to the ground. Seat bracket is rubber-mounted at the front to reduced vibration transferred through the seat. Mounting clamp for the handlebars is rubber-mounted to reduce vibration transmitted through the handle grips.

SLIM FUEL TANK

Slim fuel tank is positioned low in the chassis. In addition to contributing to the light, dynamic styling, the shape is easy to grip with the knees. Resin fuel tank cap has no visible bolts. The stylish design also contributes to weight reduction.

NINJA STYLING

The aggressive visage is complemented by slim, close-fitting bodywork designed to give the bike a light, nimble image that reflects its sporty performance. Aggresive upper cowl design inspired by Ninja supersport models exudes sportiness and contributes to a strong Ninja family identity.

HEADLAMP DESIGN

Sharp dual headlamp design contributes to the Ninja 650’s aggressive face. Chin spoilers below the headlamps are similar in design to those of the Ninja ZX-10R, further reinforcing the Ninja family resemblance.

COWLING

Fairings use black pieces to draw the eye in a horizontal line, emphasising the length of the bike to strengthen its supersport image. Compact front turn signals are built into the fairings. Slim lower fairings add to the Ninja style. Elegantly sculpted mirror stays position the mirrors for excellent rearward visibility.

BACK END

A Compact, upswept tail. Slim rear seat and under-seat storage with space for a U-lock. LED taillights form “X” pattern when activated. Luggage hooks are built into the passenger footpeg stays, providing convenient tie-down points. Attention given to detailed parts and care taken to ensure clean welding lines and that the electrical harness is hidden from view result in a high-quality finish.

INSTRUMENT PANEL

Analogue tachometer flanked by warning lamps, a gear position indicator combined with a new shift up indicator lamp, multi-function LCD screen, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, remaining fuel range, current and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, clock and the Economical Riding Indicator. The tachometer’s needle changes colour to indicate (rider-selectable) shift-up timing.

ADJUSTABLE WINDSHIELD

The windshield is adjustable, offering 3 positions with a total range of 60 mm.  Wind protection with Ninja Style.