A Z650 RS to enrich the range of neo-retro Kawasaki motorcycles ?

Kawasaki’s "Vintage" range could gain consistency in 2021 thanks to a hypothetical Z650 RS, a new neo-retro motorcycle derived from the small star roadster of the Japanese manufacturer. Prospective.

The information comes from our Japanese colleague: Kawasaki is preparing a new "RS", a classic version of its popular 649 cc roadster. The initiative would make sense insofar as this segment is on the rise and the "Vintage" offer from the Greens is rather limited..

• MNC file :
• MNC file :

This currently consists of two radically opposed motorcycles: the Z900 RS – a fake old-fashioned modern design – and the W800, a true old-school classic. A bit tight to satisfy all profiles, although each one comes in various versions of different styles: Z900 RS Cafe, W800 Street and W800 Cafe.

Adding a new Z650 RS would appropriately diversify Akashi’s range, while competing with the designated rival Yamaha XSR 700. Another advantage, and not least: this potential Z650 RS would be ideal to try to capture the new A2 licenses sensitive to the look from the past !

Retro motorcycle for neo license ?

The transformation could also be quite simple and inexpensive, as with the Z900 RS: just twist the angular plastic casing of the Z650, insert a few tasteful metal parts – like a drip tank of water – and replace its digital instrumentation with a dial in the classic format.

 

Add a round headlight with chrome cowling, a flat saddle on a simplified rear loop, ideally spoke rims and you’re done! No need to rework the engine or the chassis: the 68 hp twin meets all expectations, as do the dynamic qualities of the original Z650.

• MNC duel : Z650 Vs MT-07, bestselling fight !

Remember that this light motorcycle (187 kg), very accessible thanks to its 790 mm saddle, receives the best front axle in the category: MNC had preferred it on this point to its frontal competitor MT-07, which however holds the high dragee at the end of our duel with his more playful temperament.

 

It remains to be seen at what price Kawasaki would launch this hypothetical Z650 RS, knowing that the "standard" Z650 is at 6,949 euros. For the record, the Z900 RS is at 12,099 euros (12,599 euros for the Cafe), while the W800 is rather expensive to pay for its charms of the past: from 9,299 to 10,249 euros !

A Z650 RS below 8,000 euros would make this offer more accessible, while threatening the XSR700 at 7,999 euros. To be continued … provided that Young Machine is well informed, because the "scoops" of the Japanese magazine are far from always materializing … Stay tuned !

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