Kawasaki Takes The Wraps Off The Retro Z650RS For The Indian Market

Back in September, we broke the news that Kawasaki India aims to launch the Z650RS in the country via the CKD route and it’s here! The 2022 Kawasaki Z650RS is out in all its glory in India. 

What’s The Price? Who Are Its Rivals?

Kawasaki is offering the new Z650RS at a launch price of Rs 6,65,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi). This makes Rs 41,000 more expensive than its streetfighter sibling, the Z650. Its rivals list includes the much more affordable Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, Triumph Trident 660 and the rather expensive Honda CB650R.

What’s New?

Inspired by the Z900RS (currently available overseas), the Kawasaki Z650RS features the same retro guise. It’s launched in this premium looking colour combination of Candy Emerald Green, with contrasting golden pinstripes, and ‘faux spoke’ golden alloys. You get proper old-school design cues like the round LED headlight, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and curvy side panels. Moreover, the twin-pod analogue cluster with the digital inset is a neat mix of modern and retro elements. 

It’s powered by the Z650-derived 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin motor that claims to belt out 68PS at 8000rpm and 64Nm at 6400rpm. It’s mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The output numbers, too, are the same as the streetfighter sibling, so expect a similarly spirited experience from the RS. 

The engine is nestled in a steel trellis frame suspended on a 41mm telescopic fork and a preload-adjustable linked monoshock. Meanwhile, the braking hardware comprises 300mm dual front discs and a 220mm rear petal disc. 

At 192kg, it weighs just a kilo more than the Z650. However, its fuel tank can hold only 12 litres, which is three litres less than the Z650. Additionally,  the Z650RS has a 1,405mm wheelbase, which is 5mm shorter than the Z650, while its 800mm seat height is 10mm taller. Ultimately, though, all this shouldn’t be an obstacle for shorter riders in any case. 

ZigSays

At Rs 6.65 lakh, the Kawasaki Z650RS is quite a value for money offering in the premium section considering the Honda CB650R retails at Rs 8.67 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram). But how does it perform in the real world? Well, you’ll know once we get our hands on the media bike.