Get ready Europe, cause there's a revolution coming from Kawasaki. Well, to call this a revolution is stretching things a bit cause in all honesty it's just another standard middleweight, but Kawasaki is introducing a new model for our friends across the pond. The bike in question is the retro-inspired Z650RS, which offers the best of the Z650 line with design aesthetics that allude to the late 1970s. So, it's a naked bike with a round headlight, dual gauges, and a set of handlebars. As humdrum as that may sound, it's actually a welcome addition to the market cause these retro rigs are exremely comfortable and practical as hell.
You Say You Want A Retrovolution
Kawasaki has offered retro bikes in the past (see the W650), but the latest examples have really hit a sweet spot for this Japanese manufacturer. The designers at Kawasaki turned to history, specifically their own model line, to find machines that are deserving of the retro treatment. In 2018, they introduced the Z900RS which was an homage to the legendary Z1. Given the success of that modern-classic, Kawasaki turned to the Z1's little brother, the old Z650, for a similar update.
Produced from 1976 to 1983, the original Z650 was an air-cooled, 652cc inline four that could crank out 64 hp. It was a mean middleweight with plenty of power and thanks to its timeless design it was ripe for an update.
In fact, Kawasaki didn't have to give the Z650RS a whole lot of thought cause they already have a 650 mill in their stable, albeit a twin instead of a four, and they offer that engine in a modern supernaked, the current Z650. After applying a few retro features to the contemporary Z650, the RS came to life. The retro bike comes with the 649cc parallel-twin that Kawasaki has been offering for years in the Ninja 650, a platform that they even use for racing on the Isle of Man TT.
In stock form, that engine pumps out 67 hp and 47 lb-ft of torque. For the RS, Kawasaki opted to detune the engine slightly to improve its low end while cradling it in the same tubular frame as the Z650. And while they were at it they decided to make use of the same futuristic exhaust pipe. Admittedly, that pipe looks out of place but you can bet the aftermarket suppliers are already working on a retro-looking replacement.
When Will The Retrovolution Come To North America?
As is often the case, it would seem motorcyclists in North America are being shortchanged. The manufacturers always introduce the coolest middleweights in Europe and, if we are lucky, they eventually make their way to Canada and the United States. This is hopefully the case with the Z650RS, as Kawasaki will begin offering the bike in Europe starting in November 2021 at a price starting at £7,549 (roughly $10,220).