Had the bike for a year now (and in this colour). Initially I was quite underwhelmed by the sound, but as I've had more of a chance to wring it out on the throttle, it makes a nice throaty intake noise at around 5k onwards which doesn't come across on video. Much less buzzy than you'd expect when you actually sit on the thing. And the looks, at just the right angle, are sublime. I always get someone come over and ask me what bike it is when I park up anywhere. Gotta say it's grown on me.
I had a 1979 SR650 which was an American import (I'm based in the UK). Picked it up in 1995 with 16,000 miles on the clock. It was a great bike. I got it up to 70,000 miles before I crashed it (not for the first time) and bent the frame bouncing it off a Volvo estate at about 50mph (consolation being that they also had to tow his car away coz I'd knackered his front suspension, and then he had to pay me £2500 for the bike, replacement gear and injuries sustained). I sold what was left of the bike to a mate for £200 (about $300) and he took the engine out and popped it into a custom bike he was building and it's STILL running. I'm on a BMW F800S at the mo (nice bike) but I love the look of this new Z650, so I'm either gonna buy one or part exchange the BMW. Great vid this. Nice one. In fact, you guys have an awesome channel here. I've been riding for about 26 years now and I've learnt an awful lot from watching your different videos. Grand job guys. Keep up the good work.
Sorry Zack,but as a previous Ninja 650R owner...........I'm LOVING the sound of that 180' firing-order!!! The engine REVS and REVS HARD and reminds You,that the internals are moving QUICKLY to get You where Your wanting to go!!! Sorry if it doesn't make that "Brump-Brump-Brump" sound (which I don't personally care for!!!) Anyway,to each their own!!! :)
Why Thank-You Zack!!! You do the same My Friend!!! Because no matter WHAT kind of exhaust "sound" bikes make..................at least their not CARS,EH??? Lol. ;)
I thought it was just me, but coming from a CBR250R, my 2014 Ninja 650 sounds amazing stock. I feel like it's a great compromise; it's quiet when you're just taking it easy, but opens up when you give it gas. Video's really don't do it justice.
Agreed fully sphilpot05! I thought my Ninja 650R sounded AMAZING stock,but went with an aftermarket-exhaust that REALLY made it sound fantastic when getting on the revs!!! Loved it!!!
Glad to know you talk to the motorists around you on the road...thought I was alone in that! Totally understood your preference for the Versys over the Z650.
What's your inseam? I ride a lot of offroad, but am looking into getting my first street bike and am very interested in the Z650 but I haven't found one near me to sit on yet and I'm wondering if I'm too short. I'm 5'5 with about a 29" inseam.
One thing that's good about less tire is slightly lower unsprung weight. I think I prefer the look of the Kawasaki nakeds over those of Yamaha or Suzuki, but sound and power are things I wouldn't want to live without.
Really not fond of the sound of the engine too. Actually it was the only reason I didn't buy one, because it's pretty nimble, a little treat. Anyway, went for the Z900 instead (muahaha)!
Well yea we all go bigger more expensive bike if we can. It not that one is any better it’s just the next model up, you sprang for the top bike in that class. Just like your bike is no worse or anything then say a ZX10 it’s just slightly less everything.
From someone who has now been riding his 2010 Versys 650 for its 8th year (YES! ...the longest I have ever kept any one bike), ...I'm totally diggin' all the nods to the Versys. I've told everyone for years, that its one of the all around greatest bikes I have ever ridden and still ride today :p
Went for the Z650 for the wife as she is a bit short for the MT-07 and the Z was priced better. I get it why people dis it for the conventional 180deg parallel firing order, but I cannot help but wonder if we get a different airbox/intake setup here in South Africa. That thing's induction noise on acceleration is one of the best I have ever heard on a bike, especially in this category. Throaty and superb...
Anyone who thinks a 650 twin isn’t fast hasn’t followed Andrew Trevitt around Thunder Hill. In the hands of an expert rider, this bike can rail. It’s just a different kind of fun. Think back to when you couldn’t wipe the grin off your face when you ride your first “big” bike. This bike feels like that. I commute on a ZX14r and track a S1000rr. I picked this up to train my kid and I’m on it more than he is lol.
I really like this bike, but I hate the fact that Kawasaki offered the white with green frame for just one year, that was the color that I liked. I hope when the time comes for me to get another bike they'll bring the color back again, otherwise I'd take my money elsewhere, or maybe the Ninja 400, who knows. I do agree that these bikes have plenty enough power, I've been riding for almost four years now and I started on a Hyosung GT650 naked and got another Hyosung which is faired (it was about $2,200 cheaper than the Ninja 650, I couldn't justify the price difference specially since they both didn't have ABS), and I have yet felt the need to have more power, these bikes get you to jail time speeds in no time and they have plenty of get up in sixth gear on the highway so that you don't need to downshift to overtake. Great category, I love it!
These 650cc bikes are not beyond the point of diminished returns (hp/weight), the engines are plenty powerful enough for the 450ish lb bike. I have noticed people don't expect much from bikes this size and they are shocked when they pull on Harley 1700ccs. A big reason for this is the rev limit, while they are shitfting into 3rd you're still in 1st and all that shifting costs them a lot of delay. Also, look at the size of the transmission on these bikes, it is incredibly small, no wasted weight there!
Pretty much, you sit in between cruisers and super sports with a 650 class twin. Pull away from cruisers with ease, but zero chance of keeping up with even a 600 in a straight line. They corner well though. My Versys will keep up with super sports around a corner below 100mph. In a canyon you will keep up with the super sports, and leave a cruiser miles behind.
Purchased the white 2017 a month back. It is my 4th bike. Just hit 500 miles and can finally rev up to 6k rpm. The break in is a little harsh in my opinion. Have always broken in my bikes according to manual. Will go on my first good mountain/canyon ride tomorrow. What I can confirm is the comfort. I am 5'10" and my legs are a little cramped. Can't imagine what it's like for somebody 6'2".
I was torn between the Z650, Ninja 650 and Versys 650. I ended up buying the Ninja and are very happy with it. I test-rode all three bikes. At 5'-7" the versys was a bit tall. And I've had taller dual sports before and didnt want to deal with that again. If it were just a little bit lower, that would have been my overall choice. The z650 is a great bike, but its just so small to me. I really love the ninja, its definitly fast enough for me, and i dont need to go faster than 130mph on the freeway.But the best part is the wheelies! And the Delkevic pipe makes that engine sound so bad ass!
Good job as always Zack. I agree about the sound of the engine, reminds me too much of a GPz500s I was riding 30 years ago (it was my girlfriend's). Now hunting for your Versys review.
I saw one of these at the dealer the other day and I have to say, it's beautiful. I love the styling and the matte pearl white might have helped. I'm thinking about swapping for my 919, but the difference in power really worries me. I love the low end torque of the old naked.
I've ridden this Z650 the Indian version (Comes standard with ABS) My height is 5'10 and you are right it's a delight for people of my height. I mean my height is compatible with all bikes. Large bikes feel comfy and small bikes are not a very big problem.
I've a Ninja 400 which I like very much. I ride it mostly on track, particularly gokart track. I'm interested in getting a 2018 Ninja 650 for track use and long distance touring. I wonder if stock suspensions , both front and rear, would be as good as stock Ninja 400. Also, will the twin front disk brakes be adequate?
if you would choose one of the 650-700cc bike(cd650r, sv650, z650 or Mt07, those are the brands that I could get my hand into of course), which would you buy? Also would a CFmoto NK650 or GT650 acceptable for you, maybe? Considering the whole costs of keeping one of course.
Nice ride video. Hard to pick something I like because test rides are always too short. Out of this and the yamaha MT-07 what would be the better all rounder for both city use and getting out on the highways for a bit of touring? also have you ridden the Honda CB650F? I like them all but can only buy one of them. I am about 6ft tall and a bit more heavier build to you. Thanks.
Another fun review, Zack! I realize you only review new models but it would be awesome to see you do commute review on a 1100 Hypermotard, or even better, you and Ari compare it to the current water cooled generation. The 1100 Hyper was such an intoxicating bike when it came out and I'd love to see another review of it after all these years.
I own one and it's so much fun to ride around town! Corners well and I can still keep up with my friends who has a FZ-09 and a 1299 Panigale. You definitely hit good points and I also wish it has a better sounding engine!
Saw a Ninja 650 earlier today, didn't sound good at all, it was probably an older model, but I highly doubt the exhaust sounds different on the new one. I prefer the sound of my v twins! But, if I do get a Z650 it would be for commuting so I wouldn't care about the sound, just as long as it's loud to wake up stupid and sleepy drivers.
How in the heck does one choose between this and the MT-07 and the SV650? And how is the transmission gearing..close ratio, wide ratio, appropriate for the engine? How is the fueling? Darn, to bad about the vibrations. Does the Versys have the same vibrations and firing order? So it has a balanced suspension, good transmission, and good brakes. So would you buy a Versys or an Fz-07?
This bike is only available here in Oz as a learner bike (LAMS), with power output reduced to 38.7 kW and not in that dark green colour. It's main competition is still the Suzuki SV650 and a 655cc version of the MT-07 (both also restricted to around 38kW for LAMS power to weight ratio limits). While these are great learner bikes (a lot better to learn on than the RGV 250 which was the rage when I got my licence), the learner approved status kills their appeal to experienced riders (even when an unrestricted version is available). I think it's telling that both the Suzuki and Kawasaki have had to add incentives (last year the Z650 had specials with a full Akropovic exhaust and $500 rebate) to compete with the MT-07.
Great work as usual Zack! ;-) I own a 2009 ER-6N and have also test ridden the Z650. The ER-6N is my track day / city run bike. I have a 2015 Versys 650 for everything else. Imo, the Z650 is a better street-only bike because of its refinements in the areas of weight reduction and linkage suspension in the rear. For all other areas, I prefer the 2009-2011 ER-6N. It has a 11.3:1 compression ratio vs. the Z650's 10.8:1. Believe it or not, that .5 boost on the ER-6N is something I can feel (at 5'11, 200lbs). It's got tangibly more top end smack (despite the parallel twins general purpose intentions). That stated I have upgraded the ER's suspension with a Traxxion Dynamics AK1200 cartridge kit in the front, and Ohlins in the rear. Game changing mods!! Without the upgrades, would I STILL take the ER over the Z650? Yes, because the engine has got more rudeness and smack to it that I appreciate at the track. But what if I didn't do track days? Then it'd be the Z650 all day. It's an incredible mid weight street hustler that sells for a great price! * FWIW, I've also ridden the old SV650, the re-released SV650A, the FZ-07, a 2015 Ninja 650 and the CBR650F.
Is going through the green light a good example of trail braking? I see you rev up for the down shift and then have a bit of front brake on during the first ¼ of the turn or so. Just learned of this technique in the last few weeks, curious to start trying it this season.
I owned a Z300 and I have been wondering whether I should buy the Z650 or Z900. Z650 looks like alot of fun but I don't want to put myself in a position where I have to upgrade AGAIN after a year or so.
Idk if ils me but i couldnt find the ninja 650 commute I would have like to know what u didn't like about it. Is it coming soon or it get deleted or lost ?
Hi Zack, What do you guys make of Honda's CB650 compared to this? Lots of references to the Suzuki and the Yammy competitors in this segment, but none to Big Red! Thanks for the awesome reviews.
Is it any less discourteous to use the washers when another cage is behind? It's just not something people realize until it's happened to them. So far it's only happened to me when I was operating a cage.
Hey Zack, is the S1000XR still a vibration monster? I rode a 2015 and I thought enough people complained that BMW was going to address it but not sure they ever did.
i think they did a minor update in the 2016+ models , to reduce the vibration. (its not a vibration it is just a buzz). Also i think you can find many cheap ways to fix it. Search it on youtube. Amazing bike, a supersport in ADV clothing, it likes going FAST.
Here are my thoughts on engine sound: --I want stock / quiet pipes, so I can actually use my bike outside of an 8am to 9pm timeframe without pissing off my neighbors and/or getting the HOA on my back... loud / aftermarket pipes aren't even on the radar for me --frankly I just don't care what someone else thinks of how "good" my bike sounds -- it's my bike and I'm not trying to "impress" anyone --unless it's just a slow neighborhood trip, I wear earplugs, so I'm not hearing the sound of a stock exhaust anyway Given these facts, I just can't be bothered to care what an engine sounds like. Vibration along with all the other characteristics of torque, horsepower, revving, fueling, snatchiness, etc. are things I care about though.
Well put! I don't have a license yet (slow DMVs), so I've been going out to practice at like 5:30 am. I'm happy to have a quiet Honda rebel so I can sneak out of the neighborhood. Looking at this as the next upgrade. Do you own one?
I get what you are saying but one of things I love the most about the 2020 Street Triple R I have is the exhaust note sounds amazing. But yeah I'm in the same boat for aftermarket parts, I would love to throw a new pipe on it. The carbon stuff is amazing looking, SC has that sexy s bend into their pipe, Scorpion has beautiful shaped exhausts, and they sound amazing but I work shift work so the last thing I want to do is wake up the whole neighborhood when I start my bike up at 10pm.
Put an exhaust on it, and solve all problems... More power, more sound. This is a Euro 4 bike, whereas neither the Fz or SV are up to that level of emissions restraint. The mild deceleration backfire on this bike with exhaust is sick. I think they do actually sell a riser seat for it, but I have to check if it's offered in the states yet. The tires are pretty round, hard compound stock, so it would be unfair to compare it to the SV650s taller, superior, non-Dunlop tires.
I have 2018 Z650 in OD green, and I absolutely love it. I've done multiple mods, and have added bags for longer trips. I'm 5'7" @ 155lbs never had an issue getting over the 125mph stock. ECU flash, full header exhaust by HINDLE upgraded filters and i've hit 134 on a straight. Overall a great bike. ECU flash let's it pop up in 3rd with a drop of the clutch. Much more comfortable then the FZ-09 or FZ-07's and much better feeling quality then the SV650. Also i average with pretty aggressive riding the 48-51mpg. Well done Kawasaki!
The Z650 and new Ninja 650 don’t share a platform with the Versys. They are the new generation steel trellis frame that is much lighter and narrower. The old Ninja 650 that you don’t like (neither do I) and ER6n did share a similar tube chassis to the current Versys.
Hi! So I am looking at getting a motorcycle and I've had a few friends recommend that I start off with an MT-07, Z650, or the GSX-S750 as my first motorcycle! Would you say that these are good bikes to start off on? This would be my first time learning a manual on a motorcycle and a motorcycle with a forgivable clutch would be great. I am not really a fan of Harley Davidson. They are certainly cool bikes but something that is agile and fun to ride would be perfect! My main premise for getting a motorcycle would be more convenient to take to the gym and would be a fun weekend ride!
It's playing in the 80+ horsepower range, instead of the 60+ range. For a 4-banger it's decent, but wouldn't have the same low end stomp as a MT-07. I remember when Honda introduced it, people complained about vibrations. Not sure they've smoothed it out in more recent years.
In this class everything is going to come down to either brand loyalty (maybe who has the closer dealer?) or which you can get the better deal on really, I've had an ER6N (Ninja 650) or 3 years now, covered around 15k miles, it's a good second bike if you are stepping up or a good cheap little workhorse, the everything being said about the Z650 here is pretty much the same for the ER6N
Why do you not like the ninja 650? Im planning to buy one my height is 5'7 so their wont be any leg room problem with me.. i want a sport tourer. If you have already made a video on ninja 650 please comment the link? Thankyou :)
Great review as usual, and I particularly liked highlighting the point that this class of bikes has plenty of performance for the street. These are great "real world" reviews.
I know this has nothing to do with the kawi, but could you get your hands on a Husqvarna Nuda 900r? It's an old bike yes but from a journalist standpoint it has been poorly covered and talked about for the past 7 years and I think it's worth to mention, I'm struggling to find any good videos about it (with the exception of Royal Jordanian of course)
+VtecGoesBwaahh They're not in production anymore, and those who still own one aren't just going to let someone ride it and trash it, which is what motorcycle journalists do; no respect for the bikes they test because they aren't their own.
OfficeBear I'm obviously aware they're not in production anymore, they've only been made 2 years, but these guys aren't completely disrespectful to the motorcycle, it's not just a job for them which you can obviously tell, that's why I'd think it'd be nice to see it featured. They don't need to do an MC Commute or something else but it would be nice to at least see something about it. I'm going to buy one this year and I know it's a great bike, I'd just like to know what they think of it in a bit more detailed way because it's nearly impossible to find anything about it and if so, it's not really from a professional. But yeah I know it's most likely not going to happen.
Did my training and tests on one of these in the UK. The bike is very competent and neutral which I think makes it an excellent learning tool, however there was nothing particularly exciting about it that would make me want to fork out for one. I got a 90s bike which is a little slower yet much more exciting to be on for 1/10th the price of one of these from new.
Crowing your act together . . . lol. Swing arm looked awesome til you look at the adjusters, which look part's bin special off of some S.E Asia 125cc motorcycle . . . I guess welded on billet ends was asking too much. I can live with that color and the bike itself looks x1000 better in video than pictures. I like the sound of the 180* crank on I-Twins, maybe because I already own a 90* V-twin. Vibrations ? LOL. Mine shakes like an asphalt roller from all the exhaust noise. Blue Loctite is A MUST. No free lunch, less weight, less gas, less range . . . choose your vice. Low seat ? Bah, easy fix. 180 tyre is overkill in this application.
Hi! I know u asked if we had any requests on other bikes u could commute on. And I have many but I am very curious on the new bikes from Husky! The 401, 701 Svart pilen and Vit pilen. Is that a possibility? ☺
They really need to put some better suspension under the Z and the Ninja 650. The main selling point of the Versys over these is its SIGNIFICANTLY better suspension. I test rode a Z650 before getting my Versys and even though it was the first bike I'd ridden in almost a decade I could immediately tell the front end was too damn soft, maybe not as bad as the Suzuki Bandit I used to have, but could still feel that bit of squirrliness from a too soft front end. The Z900 on the other hand has amazing suspension, even better than the Versys which handles great but is a tad on the stiff side.
Hello ... great reviews and a pleasure to watch. Wondering about your comment at the beginning about the Ninja 650 - I searched your channel for a review and didn't find any. Curious as to your opinions of that bike ( in a nutshell). Interested in that bike ( 2017 + model) as a get back into biking light tourer, older person's bike. Thanks.
I had the first gen 2006 Ninja 650r. Even that was a fun city machine. I think you should mention maintenance costs. Kawasaki very cheap maintenance, especially if it's tranny work. The cassette type tranny will cost a lot less to fix than the competition. Personally, I prefer the bike that gives me the most natural rider triangle. I'm 6'2", but I never felt cramped on the Ninja. I don't want upright or wide bars. You can't be as aggressive with that. A lot of them feel like dirt bikes. Way too 'sit up and beg'. That's why I'm considering the Yamaha FZ6R. BUTTER smooth inline four and faster than the competition. Been around for decades in one designation or another, so all they've had is time to tweak every aspect of the bike. In my opinion, for my riding style, I'd prefer the FZ-07 and the Z650 had above the clamp clip-ons. Bringing the bars closer to the rider isn't a bad thing, but in their efforts to do so they think raising the bar is good too. Not for me. 2011 Ninja 1000 I had was wonderful. 2006 Interceptor was as good. Both had forward lean. Both were all day comfortable. That being said, I think people that say the Hyabusa and the ZX-14 are comfortable all day cruisers are NUTS! You're bent over the gas tank SLIGHTLY less than a supersport.
7:10 happy to see you didn't flip out at that car. Any other motovlogger would have rev bombed, beeped horn, turned to look back 3-6x to say "what an idiot!?!?!" Haha
Had the bike for a year now (and in this colour). Initially I was quite underwhelmed by the sound, but as I've had more of a chance to wring it out on the throttle, it makes a nice throaty intake noise at around 5k onwards which doesn't come across on video. Much less buzzy than you'd expect when you actually sit on the thing. And the looks, at just the right angle, are sublime. I always get someone come over and ask me what bike it is when I park up anywhere.
Gotta say it's grown on me.
Jamie Pryke got the same colour people ask me what make it is because of colour
The color of this bike is absolutely amazing 🤤🤤🤤
Brought one a year ago same colour really love it
@@nickbutcher6565 Envious!
I have a question in the first gear why is feel weird
Do you have the same problem?
I had a 1979 SR650 which was an American import (I'm based in the UK). Picked it up in 1995 with 16,000 miles on the clock. It was a great bike. I got it up to 70,000 miles before I crashed it (not for the first time) and bent the frame bouncing it off a Volvo estate at about 50mph (consolation being that they also had to tow his car away coz I'd knackered his front suspension, and then he had to pay me £2500 for the bike, replacement gear and injuries sustained). I sold what was left of the bike to a mate for £200 (about $300) and he took the engine out and popped it into a custom bike he was building and it's STILL running. I'm on a BMW F800S at the mo (nice bike) but I love the look of this new Z650, so I'm either gonna buy one or part exchange the BMW. Great vid this. Nice one. In fact, you guys have an awesome channel here. I've been riding for about 26 years now and I've learnt an awful lot from watching your different videos. Grand job guys. Keep up the good work.
Zaaaaaaack Courts, ladies and gentlehooligans!!! Live and dangerous. My life would be a bit emptier without his and Ari's antics.
Ladies and gentlehooligans. Hahaha!
Sorry Zack,but as a previous Ninja 650R owner...........I'm LOVING the sound of that 180' firing-order!!! The engine REVS and REVS HARD and reminds You,that the internals are moving QUICKLY to get You where Your wanting to go!!! Sorry if it doesn't make that "Brump-Brump-Brump" sound (which I don't personally care for!!!) Anyway,to each their own!!! :)
Why Thank-You Zack!!! You do the same My Friend!!! Because no matter WHAT kind of exhaust "sound" bikes make..................at least their not CARS,EH??? Lol. ;)
I thought it was just me, but coming from a CBR250R, my 2014 Ninja 650 sounds amazing stock. I feel like it's a great compromise; it's quiet when you're just taking it easy, but opens up when you give it gas. Video's really don't do it justice.
Agreed fully sphilpot05! I thought my Ninja 650R sounded AMAZING stock,but went with an aftermarket-exhaust that REALLY made it sound fantastic when getting on the revs!!! Loved it!!!
I love the Ninja 650 2017 💪💪💪
The sound isn't a big deal ! Just got one and have a Leo Vince on it, it sounds Amazing ! Will post a video soon.
I love my Z650 !!!
Still no video
Siddhartha Ganni lol
2 years later still no video :shrug:
@@flaviutomuta2083 Guys! I switch to the GSXS 1000...
YmKchannel Great bike, Ride safe 👍!
Excellent review👍👍👍 love the MC commute series.. You guys have the best MC channel on RUclips..👊✌
Zack you are a damn good reviewer and you and Ari are a great combo, keep it coming for years to come pls.
I thank u for coming up with the idea for MC Commute!
This is without a question the best MC RUclips channel!
Congratz guys!
Gullwing swingarm allows them to tuck under the exhaust for lower CG and better clearance.
Yeah and it's cool that one side is bent but the other's straight. Neat little touch for a bike this price
Glad to know you talk to the motorists around you on the road...thought I was alone in that! Totally understood your preference for the Versys over the Z650.
Got one last summer and love it. It's perfect for me since I'm only 5'7.
What's your inseam? I ride a lot of offroad, but am looking into getting my first street bike and am very interested in the Z650 but I haven't found one near me to sit on yet and I'm wondering if I'm too short. I'm 5'5 with about a 29" inseam.
@@casuldad1296 should be perfectly fine for you
8:52 no way it's underpowered to me haha. Great first bike to learn and keep in the long run til you want more power in my opinion.
This bike together with Yamaha07, and the SV-650, are actually made/Assembled in Japan, but the Honda 650's are Thailand
"If you're like me, and when you write home, you write about mirrors."
This guy is friggin' hilarious! Love Zack's deadpan humor
One thing that's good about less tire is slightly lower unsprung weight. I think I prefer the look of the Kawasaki nakeds over those of Yamaha or Suzuki, but sound and power are things I wouldn't want to live without.
Really not fond of the sound of the engine too. Actually it was the only reason I didn't buy one, because it's pretty nimble, a little treat. Anyway, went for the Z900 instead (muahaha)!
Mmm
Well yea we all go bigger more expensive bike if we can. It not that one is any better it’s just the next model up, you sprang for the top bike in that class. Just like your bike is no worse or anything then say a ZX10 it’s just slightly less everything.
Abel Lopes
Are you still loving it?
How is it in the city?
Does it wheelie when it wants to or only when you want to?
From someone who has now been riding his 2010 Versys 650 for its 8th year (YES! ...the longest I have ever kept any one bike), ...I'm totally diggin' all the nods to the Versys. I've told everyone for years, that its one of the all around greatest bikes I have ever ridden and still ride today :p
Thank you Zack for this much anticipated review of the Z650
Went for the Z650 for the wife as she is a bit short for the MT-07 and the Z was priced better. I get it why people dis it for the conventional 180deg parallel firing order, but I cannot help but wonder if we get a different airbox/intake setup here in South Africa. That thing's induction noise on acceleration is one of the best I have ever heard on a bike, especially in this category. Throaty and superb...
Anyone who thinks a 650 twin isn’t fast hasn’t followed Andrew Trevitt around Thunder Hill. In the hands of an expert rider, this bike can rail. It’s just a different kind of fun. Think back to when you couldn’t wipe the grin off your face when you ride your first “big” bike. This bike feels like that. I commute on a ZX14r and track a S1000rr. I picked this up to train my kid and I’m on it more than he is lol.
I really like this bike, but I hate the fact that Kawasaki offered the white with green frame for just one year, that was the color that I liked. I hope when the time comes for me to get another bike they'll bring the color back again, otherwise I'd take my money elsewhere, or maybe the Ninja 400, who knows. I do agree that these bikes have plenty enough power, I've been riding for almost four years now and I started on a Hyosung GT650 naked and got another Hyosung which is faired (it was about $2,200 cheaper than the Ninja 650, I couldn't justify the price difference specially since they both didn't have ABS), and I have yet felt the need to have more power, these bikes get you to jail time speeds in no time and they have plenty of get up in sixth gear on the highway so that you don't need to downshift to overtake. Great category, I love it!
These 650cc bikes are not beyond the point of diminished returns (hp/weight), the engines are plenty powerful enough for the 450ish lb bike. I have noticed people don't expect much from bikes this size and they are shocked when they pull on Harley 1700ccs. A big reason for this is the rev limit, while they are shitfting into 3rd you're still in 1st and all that shifting costs them a lot of delay. Also, look at the size of the transmission on these bikes, it is incredibly small, no wasted weight there!
Pretty much, you sit in between cruisers and super sports with a 650 class twin. Pull away from cruisers with ease, but zero chance of keeping up with even a 600 in a straight line. They corner well though. My Versys will keep up with super sports around a corner below 100mph. In a canyon you will keep up with the super sports, and leave a cruiser miles behind.
Personally, I like the motor to dominate the experience!
Can you please do a 2018 mt 07 review?
Purchased the white 2017 a month back. It is my 4th bike. Just hit 500 miles and can finally rev up to 6k rpm. The break in is a little harsh in my opinion. Have always broken in my bikes according to manual. Will go on my first good mountain/canyon ride tomorrow. What I can confirm is the comfort. I am 5'10" and my legs are a little cramped. Can't imagine what it's like for somebody 6'2".
Thank very much for these reviews you guys do.
It gives a really good Idea how the bike feels, specially for communities
I think the z650 looks the best of the 3 then the MT07 then SV650
Which is lightest and which is most powerful/most torque and which revs highest ?
@@Fee.1 my 🍆
CB650R easily wins in performance, looks and power except for the price
@@neoretroguy4488 The price for two extra cylinders is worth it though.
@@babyvanta absolutely! i own one and its just a joy to ride
Thank god I found someone who's not a fan of the 180 crank. Man, I was hoping the Z650 2020 version would have the 270, well...one can always dream.
I really enjoy your straight reviews. You call it as you see it.
I was torn between the Z650, Ninja 650 and Versys 650. I ended up buying the Ninja and are very happy with it. I test-rode all three bikes. At 5'-7" the versys was a bit tall. And I've had taller dual sports before and didnt want to deal with that again. If it were just a little bit lower, that would have been my overall choice. The z650 is a great bike, but its just so small to me. I really love the ninja, its definitly fast enough for me, and i dont need to go faster than 130mph on the freeway.But the best part is the wheelies! And the Delkevic pipe makes that engine sound so bad ass!
How bad have the vibrations been, particularly in the bars? Did putting on the Delkevic pipe change any of that?
Great review, thanks again Zack. Love watching the channel.
Good job as always Zack. I agree about the sound of the engine, reminds me too much of a GPz500s I was riding 30 years ago (it was my girlfriend's). Now hunting for your Versys review.
I saw one of these at the dealer the other day and I have to say, it's beautiful. I love the styling and the matte pearl white might have helped. I'm thinking about swapping for my 919, but the difference in power really worries me. I love the low end torque of the old naked.
I've ridden this Z650 the Indian version (Comes standard with ABS)
My height is 5'10 and you are right it's a delight for people of my height.
I mean my height is compatible with all bikes. Large bikes feel comfy and small bikes are not a very big problem.
I've a Ninja 400 which I like very much. I ride it mostly on track, particularly gokart track. I'm interested in getting a 2018 Ninja 650 for track use and long distance touring. I wonder if stock suspensions , both front and rear, would be as good as stock Ninja 400. Also, will the twin front disk brakes be adequate?
if you would choose one of the 650-700cc bike(cd650r, sv650, z650 or Mt07, those are the brands that I could get my hand into of course), which would you buy? Also would a CFmoto NK650 or GT650 acceptable for you, maybe? Considering the whole costs of keeping one of course.
Nice ride video. Hard to pick something I like because test rides are always too short. Out of this and the yamaha MT-07 what would be the better all rounder for both city use and getting out on the highways for a bit of touring? also have you ridden the Honda CB650F? I like them all but can only buy one of them. I am about 6ft tall and a bit more heavier build to you. Thanks.
Another fun review, Zack! I realize you only review new models but it would be awesome to see you do commute review on a 1100 Hypermotard, or even better, you and Ari compare it to the current water cooled generation. The 1100 Hyper was such an intoxicating bike when it came out and I'd love to see another review of it after all these years.
Doing my motorcycle courses on one on these, more fun than I expected!
I own one and it's so much fun to ride around town! Corners well and I can still keep up with my friends who has a FZ-09 and a 1299 Panigale. You definitely hit good points and I also wish it has a better sounding engine!
Z650 with a Two Brothers exhaust sounds really good.
It will never sound really good in my opinion, even with an aftermarket exhaust.
Saw a Ninja 650 earlier today, didn't sound good at all, it was probably an older model, but I highly doubt the exhaust sounds different on the new one. I prefer the sound of my v twins! But, if I do get a Z650 it would be for commuting so I wouldn't care about the sound, just as long as it's loud to wake up stupid and sleepy drivers.
Mind you, sound also depends on taste, so maybe you find that they sound appealing, which doesn't make you wrong nor makes us right!
Yeah, I mostly use it around town and commuting to work so the sound doesn't bother me as much!
How in the heck does one choose between this and the MT-07 and the SV650? And how is the transmission gearing..close ratio, wide ratio, appropriate for the engine? How is the fueling? Darn, to bad about the vibrations. Does the Versys have the same vibrations and firing order? So it has a balanced suspension, good transmission, and good brakes. So would you buy a Versys or an Fz-07?
Were you purposely not including a comparison to the CB650f? It seems to me this would be it's closest competition. Thoughts?
This bike is only available here in Oz as a learner bike (LAMS), with power output reduced to 38.7 kW and not in that dark green colour. It's main competition is still the Suzuki SV650 and a 655cc version of the MT-07 (both also restricted to around 38kW for LAMS power to weight ratio limits). While these are great learner bikes (a lot better to learn on than the RGV 250 which was the rage when I got my licence), the learner approved status kills their appeal to experienced riders (even when an unrestricted version is available). I think it's telling that both the Suzuki and Kawasaki have had to add incentives (last year the Z650 had specials with a full Akropovic exhaust and $500 rebate) to compete with the MT-07.
Ditto. I was looking forward to the full powered version of this in Aus. Bike's overall are getting taller but I'm not. What a disappointment.
Great work as usual Zack! ;-)
I own a 2009 ER-6N and have also test ridden the Z650. The ER-6N is my track day / city run bike. I have a 2015 Versys 650 for everything else.
Imo, the Z650 is a better street-only bike because of its refinements in the areas of weight reduction and linkage suspension in the rear.
For all other areas, I prefer the 2009-2011 ER-6N. It has a 11.3:1 compression ratio vs. the Z650's 10.8:1. Believe it or not, that .5 boost on the ER-6N is something I can feel (at 5'11, 200lbs). It's got tangibly more top end smack (despite the parallel twins general purpose intentions).
That stated I have upgraded the ER's suspension with a Traxxion Dynamics AK1200 cartridge kit in the front, and Ohlins in the rear. Game changing mods!!
Without the upgrades, would I STILL take the ER over the Z650? Yes, because the engine has got more rudeness and smack to it that I appreciate at the track. But what if I didn't do track days? Then it'd be the Z650 all day. It's an incredible mid weight street hustler that sells for a great price!
* FWIW, I've also ridden the old SV650, the re-released SV650A, the FZ-07, a 2015 Ninja 650 and the CBR650F.
Is going through the green light a good example of trail braking? I see you rev up for the down shift and then have a bit of front brake on during the first ¼ of the turn or so. Just learned of this technique in the last few weeks, curious to start trying it this season.
@2:06: “...let’s do the damn thing” lol...glad to hear there’s one other person who uses that expression 😂
I owned a Z300 and I have been wondering whether I should buy the Z650 or Z900. Z650 looks like alot of fun but I don't want to put myself in a position where I have to upgrade AGAIN after a year or so.
Idk if ils me but i couldnt find the ninja 650 commute I would have like to know what u didn't like about it. Is it coming soon or it get deleted or lost ?
Is this bike any good for beginners? Better than the SV650 or the MT07?
Hey Zack what gloves do you wear in this video ? Brand and model ? Would be great to know.
Hi Zack,
What do you guys make of Honda's CB650 compared to this?
Lots of references to the Suzuki and the Yammy competitors in this segment, but none to Big Red!
Thanks for the awesome reviews.
Any reason why there are no reviews for Suzuki V strom? Just curious. Thanks
A new and improved er6n. Love it.
What colour is that? Camo Green? Superb colour. Not available here in India I think
Is it any less discourteous to use the washers when another cage is behind? It's just not something people realize until it's happened to them. So far it's only happened to me when I was operating a cage.
Hey Zack, is the S1000XR still a vibration monster? I rode a 2015 and I thought enough people complained that BMW was going to address it but not sure they ever did.
i think they did a minor update in the 2016+ models , to reduce the vibration. (its not a vibration it is just a buzz). Also i think you can find many cheap ways to fix it. Search it on youtube. Amazing bike, a supersport in ADV clothing, it likes going FAST.
Here are my thoughts on engine sound:
--I want stock / quiet pipes, so I can actually use my bike outside of an 8am to 9pm timeframe without pissing off my neighbors and/or getting the HOA on my back... loud / aftermarket pipes aren't even on the radar for me
--frankly I just don't care what someone else thinks of how "good" my bike sounds -- it's my bike and I'm not trying to "impress" anyone
--unless it's just a slow neighborhood trip, I wear earplugs, so I'm not hearing the sound of a stock exhaust anyway
Given these facts, I just can't be bothered to care what an engine sounds like. Vibration along with all the other characteristics of torque, horsepower, revving, fueling, snatchiness, etc. are things I care about though.
Plus, the vibrations people talk about are easily gone once you switch out to better handle grips.
Well put! I don't have a license yet (slow DMVs), so I've been going out to practice at like 5:30 am. I'm happy to have a quiet Honda rebel so I can sneak out of the neighborhood. Looking at this as the next upgrade.
Do you own one?
@@Gaverny that's because you don't need anything loud just yet. Allow yourself to become an actual experienced rider +/- 3 to 5 years, 30k miles..
@@eshelmen thanks for the encouragement.
I get what you are saying but one of things I love the most about the 2020 Street Triple R I have is the exhaust note sounds amazing. But yeah I'm in the same boat for aftermarket parts, I would love to throw a new pipe on it. The carbon stuff is amazing looking, SC has that sexy s bend into their pipe, Scorpion has beautiful shaped exhausts, and they sound amazing but I work shift work so the last thing I want to do is wake up the whole neighborhood when I start my bike up at 10pm.
Put an exhaust on it, and solve all problems... More power, more sound. This is a Euro 4 bike, whereas neither the Fz or SV are up to that level of emissions restraint. The mild deceleration backfire on this bike with exhaust is sick. I think they do actually sell a riser seat for it, but I have to check if it's offered in the states yet. The tires are pretty round, hard compound stock, so it would be unfair to compare it to the SV650s taller, superior, non-Dunlop tires.
This was the bike i took my riding lessons on. I loved it!
I have 2018 Z650 in OD green, and I absolutely love it. I've done multiple mods, and have added bags for longer trips. I'm 5'7" @ 155lbs never had an issue getting over the 125mph stock. ECU flash, full header exhaust by HINDLE upgraded filters and i've hit 134 on a straight. Overall a great bike. ECU flash let's it pop up in 3rd with a drop of the clutch. Much more comfortable then the FZ-09 or FZ-07's and much better feeling quality then the SV650. Also i average with pretty aggressive riding the 48-51mpg. Well done Kawasaki!
The Z650 and new Ninja 650 don’t share a platform with the Versys. They are the new generation steel trellis frame that is much lighter and narrower. The old Ninja 650 that you don’t like (neither do I) and ER6n did share a similar tube chassis to the current Versys.
Hi! So I am looking at getting a motorcycle and I've had a few friends recommend that I start off with an MT-07, Z650, or the GSX-S750 as my first motorcycle! Would you say that these are good bikes to start off on? This would be my first time learning a manual on a motorcycle and a motorcycle with a forgivable clutch would be great. I am not really a fan of Harley Davidson. They are certainly cool bikes but something that is agile and fun to ride would be perfect! My main premise for getting a motorcycle would be more convenient to take to the gym and would be a fun weekend ride!
How do you like this compared to the SV 650, Zac?
I’m interested to see how the CB650F compares.
It's playing in the 80+ horsepower range, instead of the 60+ range. For a 4-banger it's decent, but wouldn't have the same low end stomp as a MT-07. I remember when Honda introduced it, people complained about vibrations. Not sure they've smoothed it out in more recent years.
In this class everything is going to come down to either brand loyalty (maybe who has the closer dealer?) or which you can get the better deal on really, I've had an ER6N (Ninja 650) or 3 years now, covered around 15k miles, it's a good second bike if you are stepping up or a good cheap little workhorse, the everything being said about the Z650 here is pretty much the same for the ER6N
Why do you not like the ninja 650? Im planning to buy one my height is 5'7 so their wont be any leg room problem with me.. i want a sport tourer. If you have already made a video on ninja 650 please comment the link? Thankyou :)
Let's put one thing to rest. You do not put too much emphasis on the way the bike feels. That is exactly why we come here
Just out of curiosity, will you guys be doing an MC commute with the upcoming Royal Enfield GT650 twin?
Great review as usual, and I particularly liked highlighting the point that this class of bikes has plenty of performance for the street. These are great "real world" reviews.
Please do a KTM Duke 390 commute.
I know this has nothing to do with the kawi, but could you get your hands on a Husqvarna Nuda 900r? It's an old bike yes but from a journalist standpoint it has been poorly covered and talked about for the past 7 years and I think it's worth to mention, I'm struggling to find any good videos about it (with the exception of Royal Jordanian of course)
+VtecGoesBwaahh They're not in production anymore, and those who still own one aren't just going to let someone ride it and trash it, which is what motorcycle journalists do; no respect for the bikes they test because they aren't their own.
OfficeBear I'm obviously aware they're not in production anymore, they've only been made 2 years, but these guys aren't completely disrespectful to the motorcycle, it's not just a job for them which you can obviously tell, that's why I'd think it'd be nice to see it featured. They don't need to do an MC Commute or something else but it would be nice to at least see something about it. I'm going to buy one this year and I know it's a great bike, I'd just like to know what they think of it in a bit more detailed way because it's nearly impossible to find anything about it and if so, it's not really from a professional. But yeah I know it's most likely not going to happen.
royal jordanian rides on. fun to watch,
They would need to go to Europe to ride one, it was never sold in the US.
Did my training and tests on one of these in the UK. The bike is very competent and neutral which I think makes it an excellent learning tool, however there was nothing particularly exciting about it that would make me want to fork out for one. I got a 90s bike which is a little slower yet much more exciting to be on for 1/10th the price of one of these from new.
Hey Zach, Can you give any details about if you would or will do a commute on a 2015/2016 gsx-s 750?? Thanks
Crowing your act together . . . lol.
Swing arm looked awesome til you look at the adjusters, which look part's bin special off of some S.E Asia 125cc motorcycle . . . I guess welded on billet ends was asking too much.
I can live with that color and the bike itself looks x1000 better in video than pictures.
I like the sound of the 180* crank on I-Twins, maybe because I already own a 90* V-twin.
Vibrations ? LOL. Mine shakes like an asphalt roller from all the exhaust noise. Blue Loctite is A MUST.
No free lunch, less weight, less gas, less range . . . choose your vice.
Low seat ? Bah, easy fix.
180 tyre is overkill in this application.
It's a bit old but what do you think of the yamaha FZ8?
I actually really like the look of the digital dash on these Kawasaki bikes. I just wish the rest of the bike had better styling.
Did you say brand new day 2017? Just take a while to get these uploaded, or was that a mistake?
YES A GOOD REVIEW thinking about buying one of these this summer
Hi!
I know u asked if we had any requests on other bikes u could commute on.
And I have many but I am very curious on the new bikes from Husky! The 401, 701 Svart pilen and Vit pilen.
Is that a possibility? ☺
Patrick Sandeberg
I
YES!
Could this be a good beginner bike
Just for curiosity, what city is this? Thanks!
They really need to put some better suspension under the Z and the Ninja 650. The main selling point of the Versys over these is its SIGNIFICANTLY better suspension. I test rode a Z650 before getting my Versys and even though it was the first bike I'd ridden in almost a decade I could immediately tell the front end was too damn soft, maybe not as bad as the Suzuki Bandit I used to have, but could still feel that bit of squirrliness from a too soft front end. The Z900 on the other hand has amazing suspension, even better than the Versys which handles great but is a tad on the stiff side.
I might by this or a sv650...ill just wait and sit on both and see what feels better
12 feet of snow on ground...so jealous ...thanks for sharing.
Hello ... great reviews and a pleasure to watch. Wondering about your comment at the beginning about the Ninja 650 - I searched your channel for a review and didn't find any. Curious as to your opinions of that bike ( in a nutshell). Interested in that bike ( 2017 + model) as a get back into biking light tourer, older person's bike. Thanks.
How about a CBR 650f commute
I'd prefer the CB - 650F. The 650 makes more sense as naked than sport. It's the bike I'm most interested in buying.
I agree on CB650f (naked). Plus Honda elected to go with the inline 4 as opposed to the twins on the other 3 manufacturers. I found that interesting.
akm blr the only Japanese 650cc naked bike with 4 silinder. It's good but i prefer with 3 silinder European like MV or Triumph.
I agree
Its fair to prefer the 3 cylider euro bikes, but they are alot more expensive than the Honda.
I had the first gen 2006 Ninja 650r. Even that was a fun city machine. I think you should mention maintenance costs. Kawasaki very cheap maintenance, especially if it's tranny work. The cassette type tranny will cost a lot less to fix than the competition.
Personally, I prefer the bike that gives me the most natural rider triangle. I'm 6'2", but I never felt cramped on the Ninja. I don't want upright or wide bars. You can't be as aggressive with that. A lot of them feel like dirt bikes. Way too 'sit up and beg'. That's why I'm considering the Yamaha FZ6R. BUTTER smooth inline four and faster than the competition. Been around for decades in one designation or another, so all they've had is time to tweak every aspect of the bike.
In my opinion, for my riding style, I'd prefer the FZ-07 and the Z650 had above the clamp clip-ons. Bringing the bars closer to the rider isn't a bad thing, but in their efforts to do so they think raising the bar is good too. Not for me. 2011 Ninja 1000 I had was wonderful. 2006 Interceptor was as good. Both had forward lean. Both were all day comfortable. That being said, I think people that say the Hyabusa and the ZX-14 are comfortable all day cruisers are NUTS! You're bent over the gas tank SLIGHTLY less than a supersport.
I think the MT 07 is a better bike, but I think this one LOOKS better and I love the low seat height. I still love my MT 07.
@motorcyclist is the seat height too tall for riders who are around 5'6??
I never experienced that windshield washing problem myself. I think its funny.
Literally the first time i've ever seen you make that green ..... WOW
I love my z650
Excellent video 👍👍thanks from Paris .
Beautiful bike, beautiful colour.
Is that a Z shape in the gas tank and body work or am I just seeing things?
I’m really enjoying your commutes.
Looks remind me a bit of my FZ. On another note, whose S2000??
7:10 happy to see you didn't flip out at that car. Any other motovlogger would have rev bombed, beeped horn, turned to look back 3-6x to say "what an idiot!?!?!" Haha
Pablo Mendoza KI7DBV I can’t stand that shit. Like move on you children
Will be making this a track bike
At about 4:30 you started driving in between cars at a stoplight. Is that legal where you’re from?
Tim Broadie if he is in California, then yes.