Kawasaki India has launched the updated Z650RS at Rs 6.99 lakh, ex-showroom. This makes it Rs 7,000 dearer than the 2023 model but it justifies the additional cost with the extra equipment it brings to the table.
For 2024 the Kawasaki Z650RS gets a two-mode traction control system. The first lets you ride the bike in a sporty manner with minimal intervention from the traction control system. This is useful in near-perfect riding conditions or in case you are a rider with an advanced skill set.
The second mode primes the TC to be more alert and cut in much earlier, say while riding on wet surfaces and preventing an incident. Riders can also choose to turn off traction control completely, under ideal conditions or if they are inclined towards wheelies.
The rest of the 2024 Z650RS is similar to the 2023 bike. The highlights include a modern-retro design that looks rather fetching with its round LED headlight, the slim fuel tank and the stubby tail-section.
Under the gorgeous bodywork, lies a steel trellis frame that’s similar to that of the Kawasaki Z650. It is suspended by a conventional telescopic fork and a monoshock. Braking duties, meanwhile, are taken care of by dual, 272mm discs at the front and a 186mm disc at the rear.
Coming to the heart of the Z650RS, you’ve got a 649cc, parallel-twin engine that makes 68bhp at 8,000rpm and 64Nm at 6,700rpm. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox.
In terms of features, besides the new traction control system, you've got all-LED lights, and a twin-pod instrument cluster with analog dials and a LCD readout in the center.
The Kawasaki Z650RS goes up against Triumph Trident 660 or the Kawasaki Z650.