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 system (KTRC), has two modes plus off. Mode 1 is less intrusive for aggressive riding. Mode 2, on the other hand, plays a larger role in traction management. You can think of Mode 2 like a welcome assistant when you are driving on slick or wet roads.
For 2024, the rest of Z650RS remains unchanged. 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. The Z650RS also features a steel frame with trellis, a 41mm non-adjustable front fork and a pair of Nissin two-piston calipers.
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.
In 2024, there is only one color available for the Z650RS: Ebony/Metallic Matte Grey.
2024 Kawasaki Z650RS Specs
| MSRP: | $9,599 |
|---|---|
| Engine: | DOHC, liquid cooled parallel twin; four valves per cyl. |
| Displacement: | 649cc |
| Bore x stroke: | 83.0mm by 60.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Claimed Horsepower: | N/A |
| Claimed Torque: | 48.5 lb. – ft. at 6,500 rpm |
| Fuel System | DFI w/ Keihin 38mm throttle bodies |
| Clutch: | Multiplate wet assist with slipper function |
| Engine Management/Ignition : | TCBI w/ digital advance |
| Frame: | Steel trellis |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic fork 41mm (4.9 in. Travel |
| Rear Suspension | Adjustable spring preload horizontal back-link; 5.1 in. Travel: 5.1 inches |
| Front Brake | Dual 300mm discs with ABS and 2-piston calipers |
| Rear Brake | 1-piston caliper 220mm disc with ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast aluminum with spoke-like design; 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: | 55.3 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 5.1 in. |
| Seat Height | 31.5 in. |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.2 gal. |
| Claimed Wet Weight: | 412 lb. |
| Contact: | kawasaki.com |
