NEW Z650 EASY RIDER

● ‘Light, fun and friendly’

The modern Z650 arrived in 2017 as a refreshed, classically-named version of the old ER-6n in a bid to rival Suzuki’s ever-present SV650 and Yamaha’s hugely successful MT-07. And although failing to match the enormous success of the Yamaha, nearly 40,000 have since been sold, Europe-wide – a number Kawasaki now hope to boost with this second-generation, Euro5-compliant version. But, with the Zed’s chassis, suspension and performance largely unchanged, are a new TFT dash, Dunlop rubber and updated bodywork enough to give Yamaha sleepless nights?

1 Bigger styling

The new Z650 now has a premium look that wouldn’t seem out of place on a larger-capacity machine. In fact, compared to the equivalent Yamaha (MT-07) and Suzuki (SV650), it’s a breath of fresh air and you can’t help but steal glances at yourself in shopfronts as you glide by. This is all thanks to new LED lighting at the front and rear, a more angular front cowling and more pronounced radiator shrouds. Practical revisions. meanwhile, include a new pillion perch, which is 5mm thicker in the middle and 10mm fatter at the sides, they say, for increased comfort.

2 Classic ER twin tweaked

To comply with Euro5 regulations, Kawasaki have tickled the Z650’s 649cc parallel-twin engine, increasing the volume of the catalyser and altering the exhaust for greater efficiency. They also claim to have improved midrange torque by altering a duct between the airbox and throttle bodies. Peak power is unchanged at 67.1bhp but peak torque is actually down by 1.3ftlb. That said, the twin cylinder unit has lost none of its charm and is a delight both around town and out on the open road, delivering a gravelly gurgle from tickover all the way to its 10,000rpm redline.

3Short and tall ideas

Kawasaki offer an impressive range of accessories for the updated Z650, ranging from soft luggage, to fly screens, tank pads and frame sliders. At the launch in Spain we were able to sample the optional taller rider’s seat, which boosts the standard 790mm seat height by 30mm. Costing £139.95, this is a worthwhile option for any pilot taller than around 5ft 4in because, by being perched higher, you feel less like you’re sat ‘inside’ the bike and, with extra leg room and more cushioning for your backside, it makes it a nicer place to be during longer stints in the saddle.