The 2020 Kawasaki Z650 naked hits the road in Barcelona with an updated engine, refreshed sugomi styling and upgraded kit
All eyes may have been on the Z H2 supercharged naked at the 2019 EICMA show in Milan but for the bean counters at Kawasaki it is this, the updated 2020 Kawasaki Z650, that arguably holds greater significance for the brand.
One of Kawasaki’s most popular models in terms of numbers, the outgoing Z650 had nonetheless not only been left behind its newer rivals coming into 2020, but also by its own stablemates as the firm rolls out styling changes and engine updates across the ‘Team Green’ range.
As such, the Z650 is next up on the Kawasaki model cycle to get a refresh that brings it into line with the majority of the range, not to mention get back at its rivals.
Having spent the morning with the Kawasaki Z650 in Barcelona, these are our first impressions…
Kawasaki Z650 First Ride Impressions
From the outset the Kawasaki Z650 retains an aggressive, sporting stance but has been updated with the newest family face. New colours and Dunlop rubber have also been introduced.
As with the newest models in the Kawasaki range – including the recently launched Z900 - the Kawasaki Z650 is upgraded with a full 4.3in full-colour TFT dashboard, which comes with a full suite of technological gadgets, including Bluetooth, GPS logs and phone connectivity.
Perhaps more importantly, Kawasaki Z650 is now Euro5 compliant. Powered by a 650cc parallel twin, revisions to the exhaust and airbox have allowed Kawasaki to bring the Z650 up to a greener standard and ensure a more refined riding experience.
Stay tuned for the FULL REVIEW of the 2020 Kawasaki Z650 this weekend…
