Kawasaki Z 650S

From Kawasaki web-site:

Boasting muscular new looks, the new for 2026 Z650 S takes a fresh approach to ergonomic fit with repositioned footpegs, a stunning new fat-type handlebar configuration plus updates for both rider and passenger seating. The new forward-leaning riding position marries well with an updated, more cushioned front seat (approx. 15 mm higher than the previous Z650). The overall seating area is wider while the rear seat is 20 mm wider, with 10 mm of added cushioning. Both a Style seat and 20mm lower ERGO-Fit seat are part of the comprehensive accessory range.

For rider and pedestrian alike, the impression is of a substantial machine – a bike with real presence but still with good reach to the ground. Thanks, in part, to the greater overall bodywork volume, the strength of purpose is underlined by a new, aggressive front cowl housing LED front lights — two upper for low beam lighting and single lower for the high beam — matched by an LED rear light and LED indicators.

Not just a new riding position and a 30mm wider handlebar, but also a new 4.3inch TFT meter panel relays all the essential information plus reacts to ambient light offering the best resolution. The display can also be switched between two options. Type one reveals a bar-style tachometer while type two boasts a hexagonal tachometer. The screen’s background colour automatically changes from white to black when ambient light is low, or it can be manually set to black or white as per the rider’s preference. In addition, the meter acts as an interface when the rider uses Kawasaki’s Rideology the App Motorcycle on their Smartphone expanding the range of cool features available.

In terms of the engine, the addictive 649 cm3 compact parallel twin delivers a powerful-feeling throttle response and a quick-revving character with KTRC traction control as standard. To optimise performance for everyday riding, care has been taken to maximise low-mid range torque. Equipped with Assist and Slipper Clutch, a patented radiator fan cover directs hot air down and away from the rider, significantly increasing congested city comfort. Additionally an O2 sensor is added to the exhaust system to assist with reducing emissions while a quick shifter is available as an accessory aiding upshifts.

The characteristic lightweight trellis type chassis tips the scales at just 15kg contributing to nimble handling while braking is courtesy of dual ø300 mm front discs and ø220 mm at the rear. The ABS unit for 2026 is a new item from Continental.

A carefully focused range of accessories also accompany the new Z650 S including colour matched pillion seat covers, luggage options and a convenient USB-C outlet neatly located inside the front cowl.
The “S” in the new Z650 S could stand for “Stunning” “Style” “Stage” or “Spotlight” representing a new eye-catching new approach and attitude. It’s time to level up and greet the new Z650 S.

2026 EU colours:
- Ebony/Metallic Carbon Gray
- Candy Lime Green/Metallic Carbon Gray
- Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Flat Spark Black

Features:

Wide and Aggressive Styling
Retaining its compact chassis, nimble nature, and sporty riding position, the new Z650 S now features Sugomi styling with bodywork that makes it appear wider and more aggressive, appealing to riders who want to be seen on an impressive-looking bike, but one that also has a rider-friendly character.

Latest Technology
The new Z650 S offers advanced Kawasaki technology, including traction control, KQS as an accessory for fun, engaging gear shifting, digital TFT instrumentation to provide information at a glance, and smartphone connectivity to help keep the rider well informed, all of which contribute to making motorcycling life more enjoyable.

Lightweight And Capable
The new model Z650 S retains its signature light weight and nimble handling despite its wider and more aggressive looks. Riders will find it straightforward to handle and more experienced riders will appreciate how flickable and manoeuvrable it is, especially in the city.

Muscular New Looks
Not only will onlookers crane their necks to stare at the Z650 S, but riders themselves will be impressed as they sit on the bike, with the wide, muscular-looking shrouds entering their field of vision. Shared Z design elements like metallic accents around the machine add to a high-quality look, while LED lights front and rear reflect the bike’s sporty performance.

Part of the Z Family
Z machines are identifiable by their Sugomi style and performance, and the new Z650 S is no exception. The Z650 S shares an unmistakable silhouette with time-honored Z proportions (crouching stance, low positioned head and upswept tail) that are hallmarks of the entire Z Supernaked family. Small touches like an aluminium radiator cover and aggressive-looking modern headlights, both shared with other models in the Z family, make it clear that this is a Z model.

Horizontal Back-Link Rear Suspension
This modern suspension arrangement—also featured on Kawasaki supersport and other Supernaked models— delivers a balance of sporty performance and ride comfort, producing predictable handling for an exciting and enjoyable ride.

Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC)
Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) acts to prevent rear wheel slippage, letting riders enjoy the Z650 S on the street with added reassurance.

KQS as an Accessory
For riders looking for even more riding excitement, the Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) is available as a Kawasaki Genuine Accessory. It lets riders shift up through the gears smoothly and quickly, adding fun to every ride.

Exciting Parallel Twin Engine
The 649 cm3 Parallel Twin engine delivers a throttle response with a powerful feeling and a quick-revving character. To optimise performance for everyday riding, care was taken to maximise low-mid range torque. This offers both a high level of control when making minute throttle adjustments and a gratifying rush of acceleration in the lower rpm ranges.

4.3” TFT Instrumentation
4.3” all-digital TFT colour instrumentation with a new display layout gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance.

Smartphone Connectivity
The ability for riders to connect their smartphone with the Z650 S adds fun and convenience to every ride, as riders can use RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE to access a wide range of functions, from vehicle information to riding logs and more.

Highly Manoeuvrable
The Z650 S’s light weight and manageable seat height both contribute to manoeuvrability, whether walking beside the bike, or foot paddling in a parking lot. The smooth engine response and strong low-end torque further facilitate low-speed manoeuvring. This is reassuring for a wide range of riders.

Riding Position Spurring the Rider On
Riders can make the street their playground with a wider, more forward-leaning riding position, produced by a handlebar located further forward than the current model’s, combined with a seat with an optimised seat height.

Light Weight, Nimble Handling
Benefitting from a chassis comprised of lightweight components, the Z650 S was designed using Kawasaki’s in-house analysis technology, resulting in a lightweight trellis frame and swingarm that are key to its ultra-light handling. This contributes to an enjoyable ride quality and suits the bike well to a wide range of riders.