The Kawasaki Z650 S Zips along Straights and Tackles Twisties with Zeal.

Kawasaki's latest Z650 has been given the S label, usually associated with sportier performance, extra power and sharper handling. The 2026 Z650 S, however, has had attention to its bodywork and presence with a more muscular look than the standard Z650 model. You won't find the performance lacking, so you can zip along on straights, and the handling allows you to tackle the twisties with zeal.

Introduction.

Kawasaki has put a lot of effort into the design of the latest Z650 S, and it certainly makes a positive impression. The bike has filled out with a more muscular, sharper look, featuring an LED tri-lamp front end and a pair of large side cowlings. It has the look of a larger bike and has some dimension changes from the standard Z650. bars on the S are 40mm further forward, 10mm higher and 30mm wider. The outcome is an almost perfect riding position that exudes a sense of command and control. It strikes a delightful balance between ample leverage and a touch of sportiness, all while maintaining a sense of relaxation for the rider.

Design.

Adding to this refined ergonomics, the Z650 S's footpegs are strategically positioned slightly further back. This adjustment subtly shifts the rider's weight forward, enhancing the connection between the rider and the bike. This configuration not only enriches the riding experience but also amplifies the feedback and feel from the front end, creating a more engaging and confident ride.

The outcome is a seamless, intuitive experience across all speed ranges, providing riders with greater ease and confidence. Additionally, the design offers ample space, catering particularly well to larger individuals, ensuring comfort and stability during rides.

Kawasaki is openly showcasing its intention behind the Z650 S's design, targeting a younger demographic within the riding community. This model caters specifically to new riders transitioning from smaller bikes, such as the Kawasaki Z125. The Z650 S is crafted to foster brand loyalty, providing a pathway for these riders to eventually advance to higher-performance models, culminating in the acquisition of the powerful Kawasaki Z H2. This strategic approach not only captures the enthusiasm of novice bikers but also encourages a long-term relationship with the Kawasaki brand as riders evolve in their skills and preferences.

Riding.

The Z650 S strikes a remarkable balance between its bold, aggressive styling and user-friendliness, making it an inviting option for a wide range of riders. Its seat height is 15mm higher than the standard Z650, a change largely attributed to the additional padding that enhances comfort. This thoughtful design, combined with more rear-set foot pegs, creates a spacious and accommodating riding position.

As a result, riders find the Z650 S surprisingly easy to handle, making it a great fit for riders of all heights. Whether navigating through city streets or embarking on longer journeys, this bike offers a blend of style and ease that's hard to resist.

The powertrain of this motorcycle mirrors that of the Z650, featuring Kawasaki's impressive 649cc 8-valve parallel-twin engine. This engine made its debut two decades ago in the Kawasaki ER6-n and has seen only minor updates since its introduction. With an output of 67 horsepower, Kawasaki has meticulously tuned this motor to deliver robust performance across the low and mid ranges, providing exhilarating acceleration when you twist the throttle. As I ride through the winding curves of the Dorset coast, I am once again reminded of the engine's remarkable character and capability, effortlessly propelling me through each bend with confidence and joy.

Performance.

The engine's performance is characterised by impressive smoothness and refinement, effortlessly responding to your riding style. Whether you enjoy making quick gear changes or pushing it to higher revs, the engine delivers with ample power. Peak torque makes its presence known at 6700rpm, but the torque curve is expertly designed, offering a robust sensation in the lower rev range while maintaining a powerful pull at the upper end as well. Remarkably, vibrations are completely absent, enhancing the overall riding experience and contributing to a refined feel on the road.

Technology.

The Z650 S features an impressive 4.3-inch TFT display enhanced with several new features. This vibrant screen adeptly adjusts to light and dark backgrounds based on ambient light, ensuring optimal visibility in varying conditions. Riders can also choose from two distinct screen layouts to customise their viewing experience. The display offers a wealth of information at a glance, including gear position, fuel range, and even phone notifications. Thanks to its seamless Bluetooth connectivity and integration with the Kawasaki Rideology app, all this crucial information is presented clearly and accessibly, making it easy for riders to monitor their ride without distraction.

The electronic aids on this vehicle are intentionally designed to be straightforward, featuring a two-mode traction control system that can be conveniently disabled if desired. Additionally, it is equipped with an advanced Continental-powered ABS system, enhancing braking performance and safety.

While it lacks a ride-by-wire throttle, which typically offers various rider modes and cruise control options, this omission brings a distinct advantage. The direct mechanical cable connection provides an immediate, engaging response, ensuring the throttle feels intuitive and tactile. This setup delivers a refreshingly natural experience when twisting the grip, allowing riders to feel more connected to the motorcycle.

Kawasaki is set to introduce the Performance Edition Z650 S, priced at £8599, which comes packed with a selection of genuine accessories that amplify the bike's sporty character. At the forefront of this enhanced package is a road-legal Akrapovič titanium exhaust system, known for its lightweight design and performance benefits. Complementing this feature is the innovative Kawasaki Quick Shifter, which allows seamless clutchless upshifts and can also be purchased separately for £240.

In addition to performance upgrades, this edition includes a stylish pillion seat cover and a smoked windscreen, both designed to accentuate the aggressive aesthetics that are hallmarks of the Z-family lineup. The package doesn't stop at looks; it also incorporates practical elements such as luggage options, USB charging sockets, and an accessible lower seat, making it a versatile choice for riders who want both style and functionality on the road.

Summing up.

The Z650 S features carefully refined ergonomics, allowing riders to comfortably settle into a spacious riding position that enhances the overall experience. Its friendly parallel-twin engine delivers smooth power, making it easy for riders to connect with the bike. Additionally, the lightweight chassis contributes to remarkable agility, allowing for nimble handling that inspires confidence. However, this promise of agile manoeuvrability is slightly hindered by the Dunlop Roadsport 2 tyres, which offer limited road feedback.

When it comes to pricing, the Z650 S positions itself competitively against more established brands, often coming in at a lower price point. Yet, it does sacrifice some premium features in the process. Its conventional telescopic forks and two-piston axially mounted calipers perform adequately, but they may appear somewhat outdated when compared to rivals boasting advanced upside-down forks and radial-mounted brake systems. For a motorcycle aimed at attracting a younger audience, incorporating higher-spec components could elevate the Z650 S to truly embody the dynamism suggested by its 'S' designation.

£7200 starting price.