2020 Kawasaki Z650 ABS Review | MC Commute

Kawasaki’s Z650 ABS has always been an affordable option for smaller-sized riders looking for a capable naked bike that won’t be as easy to outgrow as Team Green’s smaller-displacement offerings. Read the 2020 Kawasaki Z650 ABS First Look Preview to get up to speed on this year’s updates. In this video, we swing a leg over it and evaluate its capability and how it slots into the naked bike segment.
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[@marknolan8052]

As a 66 year old that has been riding since the 70's, I love my 2017 Z650. Owned everything from 125's to 1100's, this bike is perfect for my riding now. No major highways, just secondary highways & backroads. Really like the low seat height & light weight. It's a little quicker than I thought it would be. Just a fun bike to ride.

[@dm1927]

I'm 62 and thinking hard about getting one 👍

[@juicy9592]

Its slow af

[@rzu7120]

Your honesty and thoroughness is appreciated.

[@sarag1158]

I'm 5'4 and this bike is literally made for me. If you are on the shorter range the ergonomics are not an issue

[@astout6494]

I’m also 5’4 I’m thinking of getting this any other Problems with this bike that you noticed

[@simonrichards5430]

Love your commentary ... need to see you angle your camera higher. My neck hurts from straining to see more road!

[@TomReinerDE]

Same here!!! 😂

[@lawkig7212]

@@TomReinerDE avv

[@dry509]

Please advise which other bikes in this class perform better in twisties. That is what I am looking for.

[@steve-wu7jp]

dry509 sv650. That said this bike handles very well for what it is.

[@dry509]

Sierra Nevada Thank you.

[@shreader327]

Dude, I'm 6'1-1/2 and this bike is super comfortable.. it is NOT too small for taller and bigger riders..with the upgraded seat option for $185 it's is plenty comfortable and it has more than enough power to tour the country and take to the track for a day if you want.

[@Nollecablex]

im 6´1 aswell 106 kg..... new seat, wider bar and wider tires jobs done.... ppl shit on this bike all the time

[@johnhooper1933]

Thanks for reporting on the headlights.

[@HardEarnedBacon]

This is my exact bike, bought it two months ago. It’s my first motorcycle and I absolutely love it. Several of the negatives you mention are positives for me, especially the ergonomics. I am way more comfortable on the Z650 than the MT-07, my ankles kept hitting the pegs on the Yamaha at stops but the Kawasaki controls are positioned perfect for me. I’m also getting 65mpg with 91 at 4800’ elevation. That’s just cruising around town with highway mixed in here and there. I’m also not going wide open at every opportunity so that probably helps lol.

[@abelortega6131]

My first bike as well!! Just created a KZbin channel and uploaded my first video more moto vlogs and stunt vids coming soon!!!

[@cpreid]

I agree, I love the z650 ergs.

[@gabrielheredia1898]

Do you recommend it for a 6'2 rider? Is it comfortable for some who's kinda tall?

[@campowell6372]

Does it have a quick shifter or is he doing something to change up gears that I’m missing?

[@shoakman]

Yea moto ergos are so personal. It's good he mentioned his height when talking about how uncomfortable it was for him. Motorcycle comfort ratings should always come with a statement on the riders size. Love my z650

[@guywolff]

Great information .. I couldnt look at the clip . Looking forward to the next one where we can come along for the ride ....

[@suzukigixxer67]

When is the review for the 2020 z900? Im really thinking of buying it would love to see a vid on it

[@JaydubyaX]

The low angle of cam made it really hard to watch...not being able to see the road and traffic signs made me nervous that you were staring at the speedo and not the road...🤷🏼‍♂️😄🤯

[@max022251]

I actually started to get a headache watching this. Otherwise good video

[@alejandrodg82]

Glad you kept it real Adam, best regards from Argentina

[@bustelopilon9525]

♥️ the channel. Keep up the good work.

[@hungrypigsfarm2959]

thanks for the video i think ill go for this next spring

[@dawsonjohannes613]

I commute on a Z400 and absolutely love it. I've definitely considered moving up to a Z650 but I definitely agree with Adam about the weird ergonomics. MT-07 is most likely next.

[@DontNickMe]

Ummm are you using a quick shifter?? I have a 2017 z650, can I swap the display? I love the 2020 one

[@nealgibson9517]

There is an optional extra higher seat available at 30 mm higher than the regular seat and it is better for taller riders.

[@terpdx]

The amount of cars driving right next to each other once he got onto the highway was kinda crazy. That was something I was always taught not to do whenever possible.

[@grumpysquid]

With this reviewer I have found it ideal to listen to video at 1.5 speed

[@gm2256]

I don't mind so much that it lacks in top end compared to its direct competitors. It seems to have nice tractable torque, which would make riding this bike a joy. I'm not looking to set any land speed records anyway. As a returning rider, this bike seems like it would be great for me. Plus, the look of this bike is my favorite of the bunch, especially with this black & green frame combo.

[@jerdasaurusrex557]

Any reason why Kawasaki stopped having the monoshocks on the flanks like in ER-6N and Vulcan S? I think those look neat.

[@alpap1980]

How does it feel compared to new FZ07 and Monster 797?

[@ewilliamsz2099]

Thx for your honest review no kissing up for perks you just tell it like it is. I'm looking to upgrade from my trusted Ninja 650. I'm a 5'6 guy the 650 fits me just right. What would you recommend as an upgrade. Around the same seat hight I was looking at this bike but I can see it's no upgrade for me. I also like the low end toque I would like to keep that in my next bike. I just need a lil more power. I like the 750 but it's just a lil too tall for me. I was on my tippie toes I don't like that. I don't necessarily have to flat foot a bike but tippie toes seems a lil schecche to me.

[@ng_jr0096]

Now I know what I want for my birthday!!! :)

[@Ziggi-jl6xd]

Did u get it?

[@crappiehookking387]

Great honest review

[@beals6631]

Anybody know what type of helmet he’s wearing? It’s so quite in his videos

[@c0uchsl0uch]

I hear the front forks are soft, is the dive bad when front brakes are applied ?

[@terrymoore4208]

Hello there can you explain the vibrations on the Kawasaki 650

[@NewTechChannel]

You only used the clutch only from 1-2-3 higher then that you just shift gears... Is that ok?

[@fredmaldonado9204]

Forget my earlier comment. Your obviously a professional rider that knows how to shift without using your clutch.

[@marionkyman]

Nice video. I loved watching you zoom between all the slow or stopped cars.....ESPECIALLY the police cars. Lol

[@TommyAngelo1337]

This one is going to be popular.

[@VibhavGautam1234]

Love your videos, please review the ducati scrambler icon!

[@willtauch2915]

Curious to see a 2020 Z900 MC commute as those bikes seem to be amazing. Also can't wait to see the RS660 commute cause I know that's coming in the near months.

[@darthkarroto2183]

Can’t decide between the Kawasaki z650 and the Suzuki sv650 any advice appreciated

[@02LM7]

I picked up a Cb500f, is the z650 worth upgrading to?

[@henkaishi]

Damn, wish I could control my bike that smoothly and easily. Did my MSF course last month and got a 2022 z650 about 3 weeks ago so still a bit rough and only riding around my neighborhood for now. Someday I'll get there

[@flush_entity]

look into Yamaha's ChampU classes (or their street class.) Well worth it. Watch their youtube stuff, too.

[@4kWalkingandDrivingTours]

Great video, thanks! Tall guy reviews bike for smaller rider, I’m 5’8”, your review nailed it. I want one! 👍🏼😎😀

[@grumpysquid]

Very very good review. Camera angle could be higher. Audio and video quality was crisp. Content covered was comprehensive and beneficial.

[@garykrout8558]

I got my first bike ever as a 2022 z650 abs and so far I love it!!

[@lucasramon1632]

Olá amigo ela é realmente boa para iniciantes???

[@deependdiver9737]

hows the bike treating ya ? i got one as well and seem to like it

[@racerdaveracerdave]

The dash is outstanding

[@charlies_ears]

i wonder what the dash looks like

[@momchilyordanov8190]

The camera angle is too low. And the footage is badly overexposed.

[@GHOSTNINJASD]

yeah, I couldn't watch it.

[@GeminiMoto]

ive had this exact thing happen, but recording something twice can make the vibe even worse. lose lose really

[@GeminiMoto]

also, hes not using superview. gives a way better POV. filming properly is tricky at times

[@GeminiMoto]

for those wondering either his ISO is set too high or his ND filter is wrong or both

[@AdamWaheed]

@@GeminiMoto The exposure was clocked up on accident.

[@alexisromero3913]

How come you don't press the clutch when shifting up? Sorry I'm a beginner

[@benjamincalev1569]

Please review the Z900 brohim!!! Keep doing what you do

[@rohandcruz5297]

Hey, cap'n! Can you please do a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 review? PLEASE!

[@hamoud_0038]

Pro the motorcycle have traction control ?

[@MCGMB]

Hair deserves an Emmy.

[@WolfgangVonKempelen838]

Or cut

[@snowboardinpassout]

Great review as usual. How would you compare this to the Triumph Trident 660?

[@luiz576]

More "budget" bike, but in the end, Triumph only has a better sound (3 cilinders vs twin). Not much performance difference ar all

[@billyburnett2638]

As a 5’6 upcoming rider that is good news that it favors a shorter height, not many cool bikes do

[@toofastnobrakes]

Bruh, I’m 6’5 and I can’t even touch the majority of sport bikes.....

[@noeagosto9231]

@@toofastnobrakes really? Dang? Must have a short inseam.

[@toofastnobrakes]

@@noeagosto9231 no I have a 35in inseam. There is no room for my knees 😔

[@Operation_Lurch]

Agree I’m 6’4 and can’t fit comfortably on most bikes that aren’t a cruiser

[@Porsche996driver]

Black background gauges with white numbers and indicator. Pioneered by Ferdinand Porsche himself and still done that way. 👌🏼And yeah my BMW Boxer comes close to 200miles range, that provides near 3 hour highway riding.

[@paulstanley3265]

Wow what’s the speed limit there my city is 35 45 or 50

[@samuraicheech5977]

Im 5'2 would i possibly fit this?

[@thedavisftw6746]

so how’d you shift up without pulling in the clutch? i’ve been able to downshift without the clutch but like same concept?

[@AvoidsPikes-]

I saw that too. You can shift without using clutch, but I don't. I find it weird. I noticed that he does use the clutch when downshifting.

[@kimdelapaz4505]

i was staring at the dash as he was discussing it, stared too long and panicked cause i needed to look straight at the road.

[@oliverroche9139]

Is the z650 a lot more punchy than the z400 acceleration wise? is it hard to handle? Coming up from a 125. Feel like I would out grow the z400 to quick.

[@Illness.og.]

Z650 feels light it's tiny and it's a 650 so yes it's faster and more torque then the 400

[@abagent4767]

Mc commutes in the night would be fun as well:)

[@tonyh4233]

Think about geometry and your comment regarding inward sweep of the bars, what happens to the bars when you turn, what is the angle of the bars then? Ride a cruiser if you dont like corners, and fly a plane if you want a cock pit. To many people ride too many bikes and just rabbit on with their opinions to achieve ratings, though having said that I still enjoyed your expressive contribution of a review and will watch more.

[@dry509]

So how bad are the vibes at different rpms? If so is mt-07 any smoother on vibes or throttle response? Does this or mt-07 have sudden throttle response or gradual throttle response? I am 6 feet 210 btw. I don’t like sensitive throttle.

[@deependdiver9737]

my z650s throttle is twitchy as fk in parking lots lol dealer even warned me about it haha like dont die bro XD i tolerate zero throttle play or it gets dicey in some corners

[@dry509]

@@deependdiver9737 Bummer.

[@ez_tz3561]

I owe this bike! Such a great ride!

[@abelortega6131]

My first bike as well!!! Just created a KZbin channel and uploaded my first video more moto vlogs and stunt videos coming soon

[@ez_tz3561]

Not my first bike, but one of my most fun bikes!

[@AJKammerer]

Why don't you update your iPhone though?

[@jermur8053]

Kramer??

[@TheImtoomuch]

Another good review. I understand the camera view is too low so that the wannabe traffic cops don’t rag on you for every yellow light. Plus, you have to give them something to complain about. Otherwise good job.

[@AddyAdderson]

Is that speedometer set to kph or mph? We're you really topping 90?

[@th3m3du54]

Those are mph (:

[@leighchard2929]

z650 or the z650rs both look awesome i assume its personal preference

[@tobyh4862]

Hey guys good morneeeeen

[@zrx4me1]

I would go MT-07 before the Kawi. Another great review Waheed. Next up the Z900 please.

[@jhhd1]

I am a Kawasaki fan, have a ZRX1200R and a ZX-12R and as much as I like the look of the Z650, I just have no room on it, so I would have to take the MT-07 between the two. Now the Z900, would probably go with that

[@ajitkakrayan2778]

New subscriber 😊 bro Akki from India 🙏

[@aaronburela432]

Love this bike

[@dextzapf]

Adam, please do an MC Commute review of the ZH2 please

[@sungerbob1786]

haha, do you have enough experience and money to buy a ZH2 and you need other peoples opinions?? that doesnt make any sense.. im sure you cant buy/ride that bike even if its a perfect commuter...

[@dextzapf]

@@sungerbob1786 yes I do have, but do you? that's why I'm asking him or the channel for a review. Sure there are lots of videos about the bike but I wanna know his insights. clearly enough I didn't ask for your opinion which is full of enviness and insecurities tho. The world is full of bad vibes especially now and I don't wanna get involved in more of it by sharing with your hatred.

[@jonnycando]

sunger bob I watch reviews of Rolls Royce cars but it’s unlikely I could buy one.....one likes to dream, don’t steal it from us.

[@johnd9031]

Like the dash, swept back handlebars, looks and reliability. Don’t like vibrations though.

[@angley476]

I Think you should Upgrade the Front Suspension to next level Upside down🤔

[@patricksandeberg8184]

Is the ergofit system not included for the Z650 as it is for the Vulcan S?

[@buraqmejker]

I'm afraid that just the possibility of buying a higher seat is enough to make this model 'Ergo Fit-compatible'. However, Vulcan S is the only bike you can adjust so many things on.

[@patricksandeberg8184]

@@buraqmejker Thanks👍🏼

[@dry509]

Please advise which other bikes in this class perform better in the twisties For a 6 foot person? That is what I’m looking for.

[@bdizzle194]

SV650 is better in every way, other than styling which is subjective. Handles better, better engine, sounds like a Ducati Monster with just a slip on (v-twin). Basically it's toss up between MT-07 and SV650 coming down to preference. I rode both and liked SV650 better, but MT-07 is an awesome bike too. All these bikes have budget suspension and brakes at this price point, but you can upgrade later.

[@dry509]

BrianLarsen Thank you for your response.

[@Supperup40672]

Nice bike hoping to get one to teach the wife one day

[@christopher7310]

how would you rate the ride on the Z650 vs the Ninja 650?

[@migmoto9915]

more wind blast, otherwise its identical.

[@hawkrider88]

I'm 5'5" and this bike fits me perfectly. However the vibes of the parallel twin really bother my hands after awhile.

[@buraqmejker]

Don't worry! It gets much smoother over first 1500 kilometers, and then even more smooth after 12,000 kilometers service when they replace spark plugs. It's like a different bike after that (I owned a 2018 Ninja 650).

[@jaybosher6144]

@@buraqmejker why would those services change anything? If anything I'd say look into replacing the grips with something squishy, it'll help keep your hands comfortable for much longer. Same goes for the seat if needed

[@buraqmejker]

jay bosher feel free to try whatever you like. I'm just saying what really made a difference. Vibes are totally bearable after first 1500 kilometers anyway...

[@jaybosher6144]

Redrum idk I don’t feel like that would do anything really. The vibrations are just due to mounting an inherent instability of an engine type. I don’t see that changing due to miles

[@ricsim78]

@@jaybosher6144 Good for you, then do not believe it! You are the type who thinks your "logic" overrides experience. I believe what he said and sometimes that is how things are. Maybe after a while, it does smooth out? Plus things that are glaring at first, you get used to them. The Ninja 400 is also a parellel twin and I have never heard someone say it has vibration from the motor. It may be true that a parellel twin is not as smooth as an inline 4, I can see that being a reality. That being said, it is a nice motor and been around a while. Kawasaki makes good stuff, but no design is flawless.

[@-DC-]

Those handlebars are insane like something from the 1930's !

[@Jurica-mtb]

I wish handlebars were wider like on mt07.

[@mikemcclernon5784]

Just saw the 'Z650rs', thats getting closer, I believe.

[@Jurica-mtb]

Upgrade the tires to sport touring like Mitas Touring Force or Pirelli Angel GT for better mileage and grip but these will reduce the mpg but improve the confidence. I would suggest upgrading to a little bigger windscreen for this bike because the stock one doesn't provide good wind protection at speeds higher than 100km/h. Mine is a 2019 tourer version and it's surely a nice bike. Nothing much but it is a good choice for new riders. If you're taller than 182cm and if you ride long distances you should go for a bigger bike. Sometimes I feel fatigue in lower legs becasue of such tight ergonomic.

[@erolyalim2911]

I'm really glad you review a wide range of bikes. Dealership here in Fort Lauderdale doesn't allow test rides! Says because of insurance reasons! Ha ha..

[@Godric_71]

I really liked the z800. It seemed to be just the right size.

[@pyrolooga3393]

Would this bike be good for two person riding?

[@pyrolooga3393]

@@ElCoco1984 :(

[@aravsandhala6821]

does this have a quickshifter? cuz at 3:30 it kinda looks like it

[@migmoto9915]

no, he's just using the moment between throttle/no-throttle when there is no pressure on the gears to flip up and down. its a fun and easy skill to learn.

[@Jonn44ss]

im almost 6,5,(198 cm) and im fitting good on this bike to be honest. Amazing motorcycle!

[@dallantobler6144]

That’s good to hear, cause I’m 6’3 and planning on buying this bike and was starting to get a little bit worried

[@Jonn44ss]

@@dallantobler6144 dont worry, you'll be fine!

[@TheSweetasanut]

Brilliant

[@yarddog4912]

I was wondering if you saw that popo while you were driving in between the car's

[@alexp6409]

Yard Dog it’s legal in CA.

[@Elementpunx]

I am 270 punds and I fit in the seat. Didnt ride one yet tho.

[@doylee469]

Kawi comming out with the z900 and z650, yamaha with the mt series, suzuki with the gsxs series... one must ask, where’s Honda during all this?

[@mt09madness]

Honda CB series...

[@doylee469]

MT09 MaDnEsS the cb1000 doesnt provoke the same excitement as the torque monsters that are the fz10, and z900.. and on top of that its priced way above them.. cb650 isssss again overpriced. Honda line needs revamping big time.

[@bennybouken]

I literally waited for the 2020 model before I got one cause I want the new tft display. I replaced my Gladius 400 for this.

[@Jurica-mtb]

Funny, I chose the 2019 version because of dashboard, higher windscreen and headlight. I bought a tourer version (crash protectors, cariage cases and mounts) for the same price as the 2020 standard version. It's a nice bike except for those Dunlop tires.

[@gypo_gault]

I was hoping to see the Z9

[@sungerbob1786]

Waiting for the aprilia 660 rs

[@vedq5TVvideo]

How much is the out of the door price bro?

[@migmoto9915]

got mine for 7600 OTD

[@GrandmasCamera]

Thank god, a bike for shorter people or even average sized riders. It’s so annoying to hear people over 6ft tall talk about how comfortable a bike is only for me to try and get on it and barley be able to tippy toe the bike lol. Sure an experienced rider only needs one foot on the ground but I don’t feel like its conducive to stop and go commuting.

[@torreypires6192]

Is it automatic?

[@snakedr67]

Do ya think Kawasaki will return the Z1000 to America?

[@SeraphCrimson777]

Unfortunately no, because they've positioned the ZH2 as it's replacement in the US market.

[@TheWAP5]

The speed is in MPH?

[@holmiumh]

Yes

[@zanderwest54]

in case you ever wanted to change it, im 6'5 and i test fit a z650 just the other day, its near perfect for me

[@vectorphresh]

Have to agree. I’m 6’0 and loving mine.

[@jamesdarnell8568]

I'm 5'-10" and the ergos are perfect for me as well. I don't know what he is talking about regarding the handlebars. I prefer these to being leaned over to reach a straight bar. Watch Mark Pulling's video. He's 5'-9" with a 30" inseam and he mentions that the 2020 Z650 fits him very nicely as well.

[@koufax3739]

Is this the naked version of a ninja 650?

[@SinuousGrace]

Yep.

[@HONDALUIGI21]

I loved the er6n

[@RapidRedRider]

You can change the color of the display