Updated BS6 Kawasaki Z650 and Ninja 650 launching soon

Both models get substantial upgrades in terms of equipment including LED headlamps, a full-colour TFT dashboard with Bluetooth connectivity and phone pairing. Will demand a higher price than before

Just like it has for every other manufacturer, the coronavirus pandemic has also wreaked havoc to Kawasaki’s product plans for the year. The Japanese bike-maker was scheduled to bring in the Z650 and the Ninja 650 around March-April, but that plan now seems to be delayed due to the current lockdown. If the lockdown lifts on 3rd May, expect the Kawasaki twins to be launched.

The 2020 Z650 and the Ninja 650 aren’t just BS6 updates – they pack a lot more than just that. The most noticeable change is in the feature list. Both bikes now get a LED headlight and taillight and a TFT colour screen for the instrumentation that can be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth. Kawasaki will also bring both the bikes with new graphics and colour options.

At the heart, both motorcycles will continue to make 67.3bhp from the 649cc parallel-twin motor. The torque output has stands at 64Nm. Needless to say, the Z650 and the Ninja 650 will now comply with the BS-VI norms. Transmission duties are performed by a 6-speed unit that is assisted by a slipper clutch. Stopping power will continue to be performed by a similar setup – 300mm twin discs at the front and a 220mm disc at the back.

The Z650 and the Ninja 650 have always offered phenomenal value for money, but with this update expect them to demand a substantial Rs 50-70,000 more than before. Even after all these years, the Z650 and the Ninja 650 don’t have any major competitors in its class. That being said, Royal Enfield has the Interceptor 650 and the Continental GT 650 on offer and Honda had the CBR650R on offer as well. Of course, all of these parallel-twin offerings are priced poles apart.

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