2024 Kawasaki Z650RS First Look
Kawasaki is proving once again that retro styling doesn’t mean sacrificing modern tech by adding traction control to the 2024 Z650RS, which sits alongside the larger-displacement Z900RS in Kawasaki’s two-bike retro sport family.
The Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) system has two modes, plus off. Mode 1 is the least intrusive and designed for more aggressive riding, while Mode 2 plays a heavier role in traction management by intervening earlier. Think of Mode 2 as a welcomed assistant on wet, slick roads.
The rest of the Z650RS is unchanged for 2024. Based on the more aggressively styled Z650, the bike uses Kawasaki’s 649cc parallel-twin engine that’s known for its smooth fueling and punchy midrange. More carryover hardware comes in the form of a steel trellis frame, 41mm nonadjustable fork, and pair of two-piston Nissin calipers, all things that make the Z650RS a lightweight, practical performer in around-town riding.
Designed as an homage to the Z models of the 1970s, the Z650RS’ look is finished off with retro classic styling treatments in the form of a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, round headlight, dual analog speedometer/tachometer, and spoke-style cast wheels.
Fortunately, added technology hasn’t bumped the price significantly; the traction-control-equipped 2024 Z650RS is priced at $9,599, or just $500 more than the outgoing Z650RS. Compare that to Yamaha’s similarly styled XSR700, which sells for $8,899 but doesn’t have traction control.
For 2024, the Z650RS is available in just one color: Ebony/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray.
2024 Kawasaki Z650RS ABS Specs
| MSRP: | $9,599 |
|---|---|
| Engine: | DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 4 valves cyl. |
| Displacement: | 649cc |
| Bore x Stroke: | 83.0 x 60.0mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 10.8:1 |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Claimed Horsepower: | N/A |
| Claimed Torque: | 48.5 lb.-ft. @ 6,500 rpm |
| Fuel System: | DFI w/ Keihin 36mm throttle bodies |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate assist w/ slipper function |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | TCBI w/ digital advance |
| Frame: | Steel trellis |
| Front Suspension: | 41mm telescopic fork; 4.9 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Horizontal back-link, spring preload adjustable; 5.1 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | 2-piston calipers, dual 300mm discs w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 1-piston caliper, 220mm disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Spoke-style cast aluminum; 17 x 3.50 in. / 17 x 3.50 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 120/70-17 / 160/60-17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 24.0°/3.9 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 55.5 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 5.1 in. |
| Seat Height: | 31.1 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 4.0 gal. |
| Claimed Wet Weight: | 423 lb. |
| Contact: | kawasaki.com |
