PRETTY AND PRACTICAL
Less imposing than Kawasaki’s bigger Z fours and lacking the ferocity of the company’s two-stroke triples, the Z650 scores on everyday practicality. Reliable and affordable, with styling that is more pretty than aggressive, it offers 50mpg and strong performance within legal limits. Jason Shearer of Kawasaki Heaven specialises in selling used Z650 parts and complete machines. “These engines are pretty much bulletproof,” he says. “Cam chain tension is important and if anything does go wrong it is likely to be the starter clutch and gear which costs £400-plus to fix. Clutch rattle is standard and not a sign of trouble. The most popular modification is replacing the points with electronic ignition.”
A daily rider can be had for around £3000; a Z650 in exceptional condition will fetch over £6000.