2022 Kawasaki Z650RS

Welcome to the 2022 Kawasaki Z650RS showroom review and specification page. The Z series have always meant power. However in light of the unfortunate use of the letter by the Russians in the Ukraine war, the Z series may be rebadged to something different. That said current affairs is not the purpose of this site. 

In terms of styling the Kawasaki Z650RS is a retro remake of the 1970’s model but with 2020’s embellishments like the tucked in muffler. (Borrowed from the regular Z650) I also believe we call this cafe racer styling? Apart from that design choice it’s pretty much the sort of naked motorcycle you’d see from the 70’s but with Kawasaki badges. I like the overall design and the choice of ‘Kawasaki’ green for this particular model – like built in bettina effect. 

In terms of the engine which is what the Z series is supposed to be about, unfortunately the Z650RS does not live up to the original model. This is a parallel twin vs the in line 4 cylinder of the original. As a result while it produces enough power it is not leading the class and it certainly doesn’t sound like it. The sound a motorcycle engine produces is an important part of the riding experience which the RS isn’t the best example. The Z650RS is also LAMS compliant so it is short on power and I don’t think there is a unrestricted version at this stage. 

Overall the Kawasaki Z650 is a nice looking motorcycle at a decent price for a 650cc until you release it is short of performance due. That said the Z650RS is certainly fast enough for day to day riding. So in the end it is essentially an appearance package based on the regular Z650. If the retro 70’s or ‘cafe racer’ look is what you are after than this is one of the best.