2024 Kawasaki Z650RS First Look

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The 2024 Z650RS ($9,599) gets a little sportier with the addition of Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC). (Kawasaki/)

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 (KTRC) system has two modes, plus off. Mode 1 is the least intrusive and designed for more aggressive riding, while Mode 2 plays a heavier role in traction management by intervening earlier. Think of Mode 2 as a welcomed assistant on wet, slick roads.

The Z650RS’s traction-control system has two modes. A switch on the left side of the handlebar enables the rider to turn the system off. (Kawasaki/)

The rest of the Z650RS is unchanged for 2024. 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. More carryover hardware comes in the form of a steel trellis frame, 41mm nonadjustable fork, and pair of two-piston Nissin calipers, all things that make the Z650RS a lightweight, practical performer in around-town riding.

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.

The Z650RS has a more upright riding position compared to the sportier Z650 that it’s based on. Grips are 50mm (2 inches) higher and 30mm (1.2 inches) closer to the rider. (Kawasaki/)

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.

For 2024, the Z650RS is available in just one color: Ebony/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray.

Compared to the larger Z900RS, the 650RS has a slimmer fuel tank and a shorter, more compact tail. (Kawasaki/)

2024 Kawasaki Z650RS ABS Specs

MSRP:	$9,599
Engine:	DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 4 valves cyl.
Displacement:	649cc
Bore x Stroke:	83.0 x 60.0mm
Compression Ratio:	10.8:1
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/chain
Claimed Horsepower:	NA
Claimed Torque:	48.5 lb.-ft. @ 6,500 rpm
Fuel System:	DFI w/ Keihin 36mm throttle bodies
Clutch:	Wet, multiplate assist w/ slipper function
Engine Management/Ignition:	TCBI w/ digital advance
Frame:	Steel trellis
Front Suspension:	41mm telescopic fork; 4.9 in. travel
Rear Suspension:	Horizontal back-link, spring preload adjustable; 5.1 in. travel
Front Brake:	2-piston calipers, dual 300mm discs w/ ABS
Rear Brake:	1-piston caliper, 220mm disc w/ ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Spoke-style cast aluminum; 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:	55.5 in.
Ground Clearance:	5.1 in.
Seat Height:	31.1 in.
Fuel Capacity:	4.0 gal.
Claimed Wet Weight:	423 lb.
Contact:	kawasaki.com

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