2022 Kawasaki Z650RS

[2017EX_imp]

I guess I am just an old dinosaur purist fuddy duddy. Probably the lions share of us on The Forum have been riding for a long time, and consequently lived and rode through a big part of motorcycle evolution, probably spanning 40 years of more. I am into what I would consider the classic look. For me, part of that look is what I think is a more balanced exhaust appearance, with one or more cans ( depending on number of cylinders ) on each side of the bike.

I had a CB750 Four back in the day, and if it had not been that bike, it would have been a Kawasaki KZ900. Both were 4 into 4, and I liked the look as well as the sound. When the Z900RS was announced, I was hoping it would have the classic 4 into 4, or at least a 4 into 2, but no such luck as it is 4 into 1. Personal taste to be certain, but judging from how many of us have spent the dough to buy an aftermarket 4 into 4, I am guessing I am not alone in liking that look/sound. Could it be that the younger riders just dont know what they are missing? Personally, I think Kawasaki blew a golden opportunity with both the Z900RS and the Z650RS by not at least going to 4 into 2 for the 900, and 2 into 2 for the 650, but again that is just my personal taste different strokes for different folks.

Unfortunately water cooled seems to be the way of the future, and I suppose I could live with that, provided the radiator blends in well. Remember the Suzuki 750 Water Buffalo? IMHO, nothing beats the look of the cooling fins on the jugs of an air cooled motorcycle engine. By comparison the flat smooth housing around the jugs of a water cooled engine looks like an after thought.

Although I prefer classic spoke wheels regardless of the fact that they are a time consuming pain to keep clean, I can also accept the look and advantages of mag wheels. That is, provided the mag is not too radical, and somewhat in keeping with a classic look. Personally I think the gold wheels on the Z650RS look gaudy and do not compliment the look of the bike.

Whether we like it or not, the styling of modern motorcycles is gradually getting farther away from what we are accustomed to, and perhaps targeted to a younger demographic. I have no doubt though that classics will never go out of style.

[the Ferret]

Yes there are styling cues that appeal to me, and the reason, or one of the reasons I traded my 13 CB 1100 for a 14 DLX. 4 into 2 pipes and color matched side covers, silver motor and wheels were all things that spoke to me. (others were chrome fenders, round headlight, round mirrors, patterned seat, dual round gauges)




My other bike has none of those lol, but I overlook that because it's just a tool for my daily rides.



Maybe I should change the names of them from the pleasure horse (CB1100) and the quarter horse (NC 750) to The Beauty(CB1100) and the Beast (NC 750)

[peterbaron]

Yes there are styling cues that appeal to me, and the reason, or one of the reasons I traded my 13 CB 1100 for a 14 DLX. 4 into 2 pipes and color matched side covers, silver motor and wheels were all things that spoke to me. (others were chrome fenders, round headlight, round mirrors, patterned seat, dual round gauges)




My other bike has none of those lol, but I overlook that because it's just a tool for my daily rides.



Maybe I should change the names of them from the pleasure horse (CB1100) and the quarter horse (NC 750) to The Beauty(CB1100) and the Beast (NC 750)

Yes!!
Ferret, you already possess jacket with green stripes, so definitely, you must match it with green Z650RS ..analog gauges + many more simple gizmos, exclusively designed for not so old rider with great riding experience!!!
Go for it gadget!!

[GoldOxide_imp]

I think I really do like the stubby exhaust on the Z650RS. I wish some of my past rides had it that trimmed.

[peterbaron]

I just compared the Z650RS/12L and Z900RS/17L fuel tanks with an online catalog and the rear mounting bracket/holes are further apart, plus 2 fuel line fittings sticking out of the Z900, which also does not have a front mounting bracket.
So, it's very hard to tell if these two would be interchangeable. .. may need to do some mods ???.
I will explore this matter further after looking at these two bikes.
The price for the green/17L is and I hope the Canadian one is lower.
Might contact Mr. T.

[Jonnyteabag_imp]

This 50th anniversary colour is stolen from the big brother z900rs
https://imgur.com/a/L2diqWZ
And the other two colour ways in addition to the green paint.

JT

[GoldOxide_imp]

This 50th anniversary colour is stolen from the big brother z900rs
https://imgur.com/a/L2diqWZ
And the other two colour ways in addition to the green paint.

JT

Totally agree.

Also, the 650 is a littl'o pud of the 900.

The 900 is pretty tight to sit on already, but if one can fit on the 650, it could be some fun.

[Crazyirv_imp]

As far as quality goes....every kawasaki I've ever had was rock solid and trouble free. I wouldnt hesitate to buy any Kaw based on that issue

[misterprofessionality]

A good take on this bike. Everything I expected to hear.

[peterbaron]

Thanks MrP
I knew this bike is due in spring '22.
Here is the email, I received today:

"Good morning and thank you for contacting us about the 2022 Kawasaki Z650 RS models. I happen to only have (1) left available that is expected for March/April ETA. This model I have coming is the 50th anniversary edition in the candy diamond brown colour. I am not sure if this bike will sell before it reaches the showroom, but I can definitely let you know if it shows up for you to come and see it."