2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 Review

The most practical sport bike you can buy!
Instagram @scouts_out_yt
If you like camera gear and want a good deal, use
SCOUTSOUT at neewer.com/?re...
Camera/Editing Gear I used for this video
-Canon EOS R6 amzn.to/2Xuhnkd
-RF 24-70 2.8 L amzn.to/3crUO3Z
-GoPro Hero 10 amzn.to/30iEK1a
-Max Lens Mod-amzn.to/3wQF4zo
-Media Mod-amzn.to/3uW8Tx3
-DJI Mavic Air 2-amzn.to/3uOgn5a
#motorcycle #kawasaki #ninja650
The links above are affiliate links with Amazon, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. If you chose to use them.....Thank you for your support

[@vybniko6827]

im 5'5 5'6" will I be on my tippy toes?

[@soberizing]

i don’t think

[@vybniko6827]

@@soberizing I wasnt just got the bike a month ago and its been a blast

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice dude congrats on the new bike!

[@orlandoflores7720]

You will not. I’m 5’5” and I can flat foot it.

[@cmair77]

Ok good to know, this will be my 1st bike. ​@orlandoflores7720

[@DaRealGust0]

I have a 2023 Ninja 650, I daily it everyday 80 miles in total to and from work. I have 10K miles on it and I couldn't be happier with it.

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice! They really are great all around bikes

[@CrystalClad]

Hope this be me one day😄

[@nanashi7779]

80 mile daily commute! Quite a distance brother, but maybe it seems so because I'm from the UK

[@markmtbrider]

It just looks better than the Mt 07 .

[@DaRealGust0]

@@nanashi7779 Yea man its a big commute, anywhere from 80-90 miles a day 😂. Bike currently has 15,000 Miles on it and its running strong.

[@deanhough8993]

Excellent review and yeah, you nailed it. It's at the high end of beginner bikes but good to start on, not too much to handle but more than enough to crush the freeway with. Good gas mileage, good tank capacity, 240 mile range, good torque with low gearing makes it rather snappy and gets up to 110 MPH in a jiffy, able to hit 131 MPH. I've had mine 2 years and put 20,000 miles on it, very happy with it. Yeah, it's kind of mellow, much stronger than a 300cc or 400cc, also affordable. Not too shabby a choice for a starter bike, commuter bike, touring sport bike says it all.

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha thanks man, I don't know why it took me so long to finally ride one but I was pleasantly surprised how good and well rounded it was.

[@exploh]

I bought a 2022 ninja 650 as my beginner bike on the 17th. I really liked it but honestly didnt know much other than that it was amazing looking and not fully sport bc that hurt my wrists honestly, altho they look cool as hell. I love that all the reviews say the same. A all in all lovely bike with power and good seating and great mileage etc. So glad i bought it :)

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice dude, congrats on the new bike!

[@williamwintemberg]

I have a 2017 version of this. I have considerably more milage in the seat than a short demo ride. That said, you nailed this bike! I have 4 bikes, some bigger and some smaller. The 650 Ninja is by far my favorite. Outstanding Review!

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha nice thanks man. I was shocked how good of an all around bike it is!

[@williamwintemberg]

@@ScoutsOut It's the first bike I have owned that Loves anything you do with it. It's so easy to become one with it!

[@annka5598]

I rode my ninja 650 over 10.000km in a year and I can say it's an amazing beginner bike! It's fast, not that expensive and is super easy to handle. The engine does a great job and can also take a lot.

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice! Yea it's a solid choice

[@mindofvirtuoso3358]

Hey annka i hope you are ok. May i ask you how much you bought your 650. I want to build a price estimate on bikes so i can pick a good price to performance bike. Thank you!

[@charlietaulbee4977]

@@mindofvirtuoso3358 they Running 8500$ plus tax title and licensing

[@Madcatdave]

Been stuck with cruisers most of my life because I’m short. I happen to see this exact bike in my local dealership and I was surprised I flat footed it. Probably going to pick it up sometime in the future I’ve always wanted a sport bike. thanks for the review

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea man the n400 and z400 are the same way they all have nice low seating positions glad you got to test it out

[@MotoNekid]

I own a 2023 650 as well, and this review is spot on. I love the lower slung seat with higher bar, it’s extremely ergonomically comfortable for longer rides.

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice! Thanks I was pleasantly surprised how good this bike is

[@kalnwi2023]

shrimp

[@Vanity7k]

I love how you mentioned the difference between the z650 and the Ninja 650. I have a FZ07 that I want to sell or trade in for a Ninja 650 ABS for the exact reason of a naked bike being way too damn loud above 50 mph. I also don’t like the seating position of the FZ, feels like i’m on top of the bike as opposed to “in the cockpit”.

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice, glad it was helpful. I still having rode an FZ07 just the R7 and MT07 but for sure the Ninja, you are in the bike not on top. Let me know what you think when you get it

[@ryannafe9252]

For me, the Ninja 650 is one of the few bikes that’s well under 10K and not actually bad at anything. It’s a very good generalist’s motorcycle if you’re a fan of the looks, which I am. Still rather have my 2020 Katana though.

[@ScoutsOut]

Well said m, such a great all around bike and you can't beat the price

[@ryannafe9252]

Yup, for around $8,000 there’s plenty of competition but the Ninja 650 is one of the better choices. I like Suzuki and I like inline-4’s though, so personally I’d take a GSX-S750, those bikes are sweet. About the same price as the Ninja but more power and torque plus that glorious 4-cylinder scream.

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice, I just haven't been able to ride a lot of Suzukis. I rode the gsxr 600 and gsxr 1000 but that's it. I need to try a few more out

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

I much prefer the Ninja 636 personally, the in-line 4 sound is the best by far, much superior to me than the parallel twin in this one. Alternatively I'd also chose the Zx4rr for the same reason

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea I had the 636, it was a great bike. I currently have the 4rr and I love it, having that sound again is just so nice

[@superbikekevin]

I got 23 650 last month 😍😍and is really good

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice, congrats on the new bike!

[@deanhough8993]

I got one 2 years ago. Love it, even though now I'm starting to outgrow it. But affordable, pretty quick, very good mileage and very good power. Great range, handles well. There's a lot of positive things about this bike. Good all around but not spectacular at any one thing. I rode LA to Chicago last summer to join Brian_636 with his Lean Back in Chiraq stunters ride. Cruised at 100+ MPH all they way there and back in 7 days roundtrip. It was a blast.

[@ScoutsOut]

Well said. That sounds like an epic ride lol

[@jonathanbulkheed338]

I just bought the 23 650 KRT yesterday. Lol. I'm going to pick it up tomorrow morning.

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice!! Congrats on the new bike

[@Jeekue]

Bought this ‘23 650, zero miles back in Oct of last year & you are spot on. It’s a great all-arounder that most can hop on with satisfaction. A sport-tourer that a seasoned rider can commute with - or beginner can keep their hands full with for a reasonable amount of time. I don’t see myself letting mine go for the foreseeable future though.

[@ScoutsOut]

thats man, so true and such a great all around bike

[@tommy605]

I've had my 2017 N650 since Aug 2018, new no miles. It just never sold. I was looking at the MT07 and SV650 at the time, but I was commuting on highway and the wind protection was a part of the decision. It's weird that during the riding season (up here in Canada, eh) I never think about trading up as I'm riding because the bike does everything I want and need but the off season, I'm like "let's see what's out there". Right now I'm in the "research" phase, but I won't buy anything. Certainly not until the fall anyway.

[@AlexS-ty2zo]

I’m a beginner looking for my first bike I was looking at the 400 but I don’t mind the 650 i feel like more weight is better?

[@ScoutsOut]

Yes and no, more weight is better in the wind but not as playful on back roads

[@Jeekue]

@Alex - Honestly, it depends on a few different variables. To keep it short & sweet.. if you’re just starting out, fresh no experience - *depending on your maturity level* the 650 is tame enough to grow into. It’s a sport-tourer. The 400 has less torque mid-range, but the ergonomics are set up to ease you into/onto a supersport path. iMO, If you’re leaning more toward the 400 - I would consider the zx4r. If you’re looking to be more comfortable for commuting - go 650.

[@d.kuhlman]

Owner of a brand new 2024 Ninja 650 KRT ABS. Special order from Kawasaki. Back seat removed, and cowl put in its place. Rear pegs removed. Sliders installed. Other weight reductions done. It is an awesome bike. Handles well and comfortable. Reduced weight makes a difference. Looks awesome. Usually gets 50 mpg on fuel if not riding really hard.

[@ScoutsOut]

nice man and congrats on the new bike! i love the seat cowl option makes the bike look so much better, good options to have added!

[@tommartz1909]

I am a 74 year novelist. I am currently writing a spy mystery novel based on Motocross and sports bikes. I have never ridden a bike before but after doing the research on the sport I would loved to have started riding motocross as a young man. I was a college athlete in the 1960s and 70s and played some professionally for a few years. My reflexes were always super fast and still, to this day remain fast. My eyesight is good, though I wear bifocal glasses and i have great peripheral vision. Most people think I look at least 10 - 15 years younger than I am. I walk a little slower than i did in my youth. That being said, I am in great shape according to my physician. That is the back ground to my question of you. I plan to take the MSF course this coming spring with the hope that I can actually buy and ride a motorcycle. I have come down to the choice of either the Ninja 400 or the Ninja 650. My desire is to drive the local roads here New Hampshire. I don’t have to commute anywhere as other than writing I am retired. I will just be doing fun rides and I do not plan on riding much on the interstates…but would like to be safe on them when i do use one. I am 6 foot tall and weigh 200 lbs even. What are your thoughts and suggestions for me? I was leaning to the 400 as I do not feel i will need the extra power of the 650 however talking with several people at bike shops they feel because of my height and weight the 650 would be a better fit. I like the sport bike look. Since this will most likely be the one and only bike I will be purchasing your suggestions is very much appreciated. Thanks for your thoughts. Sincerely, Tom

[@ScoutsOut]

If you’re only looking for 1 bike, with no interest in upgrading down the road I would suggest the 650. My thought for the future would be more adequate for freeway and if you would ever want side or top bags it would be more equipped to handle them. I hope this helps either way both are great bikes

[@respairful]

Tom! How are you? Your story interested me and I wanted to know if you ever got the bike, haha.

[@tommartz1909]

@@respairful Hello. Nope i wanted the ninja 400 because of size for my garage. However, the 400 was discontinued in the US by the time the dealership ordered it for me so I ended up with the Ninja 500 instead. I love it. Getting to use it a bit though with travel I am still in the break in period. thanks for asking. It is a nice new adventure.

[@respairful]

@@tommartz1909 Ahh! awesome to hear! Damn good choice too. Looking forward until I’m on the countryside with a bike of my own aswell. Hopefully the new adventures provide you with that inspiration you’re looking for! All the best with your journey and novel Tom!

[@respairful]

@@tommartz1909 Solid! Happy to hear brother. Consider recording one of your road trips man! Even if you don’t post it. It’s nice to have the memories, and photos of course! Many great set up rigs for cameras like Go Pros, or 360 cameras even. Some for not bad prices. Online. Bet some of the local kids see you as a hero now! Lol

[@xorbe2]

I had my 650 for years before I realized it actually has some intake growl! The engine characteristic is like a mini Ducati 937.

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha yea man I love that I take sound... it's so good

[@Excal111]

Looking at getting a 650 for my first bike. I've got a bit of riding experience on my dad's Suzuki Volusia Intruder 800, heavy bike but comfortable. With this thing weighing a whole 100+lbs lighter I can expect it'd be much easier to handle. Not planning on any crazy riding, mostly just to commute to and from work. Great review!

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea man this would be much easier to handle and a decent commuter. Thanks

[@ChadrikThunderCaulk]

Did you get one? Im literally on an intruder 800 looking at the same swap 🤣🤣

[@Excal111]

@@ChadrikThunderCaulk Not yet, id be getting one next year at the earliest. Intruder is a nice bike, shaft drive is low maintenance but boy is that thing heavy lol

[@davinkeeney7855]

get the 650 got it this summer as a new rider and it’s a blast of a bike. Lots of torque downlow and comfortable for really long rides. Only thing is the suspension might not be as nice as some other bikes unless preload it or change it.

[@cmair77]

Thank you for the review, this will be my 1st bike

[@ScoutsOut]

Your welcome, I’m glad it helped

[@lad4694]

Finally a rider who openly says his height to give a rough idea of bike fit

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha right! I don’t k ow why people don’t mention that

[@ThomasFilbert]

Finally, an unbiased review. Thank you!

[@ScoutsOut]

Thanks you! It’s a damn good all around bike

[@dreamelbourne9287]

got mine ninja 400 love it cant wait to upgrade to 650, thanks 4 video mate

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice dude congrats on the new bike! How are you enjoying it so far

[@dreamelbourne9287]

Thanks bro, love it ride with 400 specially around the corner its easy to control 👌 👌

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea bro that’s why I love small bikes so much, so easy to throw around, enjoy it!

[@jerrymorales6501]

THX for the demo and the comparison to the R7. I've demo'd the 650 and ended up getting the R7. But one cannot deny your comments. The Ninja 650 is super comfy. Plus they offer more than what Yamaha puts on the R7. For the track however, you definitely would need to put rearsets on the Ninja 650. I love my R7, but the one thing that the Ninja 650 had that made me hesitate was the TFT screen. Kawasaki put a NICE screen on the Ninja 650. Great review. It would be nice if you did a comparison of the bikes on track. I think, in stock form, the R7 would fair better than the Ninja 650.

[@ScoutsOut]

Man that would be cool if I could get it out on the track but I agree the r7 would be much better as it's more purposefully designed for it but the 650 would still be a ton of fun

[@jerrymorales6501]

@@ScoutsOut you gotta do it. It would make a great KZbin vid. Comparing both and giving the viewer commentary as you make your way around the track on ready bike. I haven't seen a vid like that on KZbin yet. 👍

[@c0dy1287]

​@@jerrymorales6501What's funny is I'm thinking about getting a ninja 650 to make sort of lightweight sport tourer because I think it'd make a fun low maintenance bike to just commute and maybe go on a few decent trips. Though it's partly because I already have early 2000s kawasaki 600 that I just plan to keep, so I'll have that obnoxious little 600 to turn to when I want that energy

[@Nicholask85]

Always had ninjas and love them, so much in fact that I am getting the 2023 650 as my new ninja.

[@ScoutsOut]

nice, they are fantastic bikes!

[@jimmansi1187]

You definitely can take it to the track, I did a session on one at NJMP & was smoking other riders on supersports & superbikes, that bike was awesome, comfortable & fast, great all round bike! I agree with all your points, nice review

[@ScoutsOut]

Thanks I appreciate that, it turned out to be a considerably better bike than I thought it would have been

[@AnakinLi314]

i got both yamaha r7 and kawasaki ninja 650 . R7 is more sporty and engine doesn’t vibrate as much as the ninja 650 at high rmps. and r7 has better seat comfort for me regardless the sporty riding position . i had ninja 300 and 400 and R3 before. those free reving engines are just more playful . yes it’s the easier bike to ride.

[@ScoutsOut]

well said, its always just been an easy all around good enough for whatever kind of bike just doesn't wow the crap out of you.

[@1000750]

There are a ton of bikes that are great bikes just I have a very narrow box I'd buy from for me personally. Looks like fun all the bikes you got to try, you get to see it all. 🤙

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea bro, it's been fun to try so many bikes and the ninja 650 was on my least interesting bikes imo but I was pleasantly surprised how good all around the bike actually was

[@No-ze7ne]

I have a ninja 300. I could DEFINITELY see this being my second bike lol

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea for sure a good upgrade

[@JonnyMoto]

I sold my ZX6R because my job was killing my back and that bike was basically a torture device. My back has since been getting better and I'm considering something upright, even cruiser/sportster. This however seems like it might be right up my ally. I'm not looking to go insanely fast anymore, I just want comfort :)

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea the good ole ninja 650, it fits in just about all categories in my opinion I’ve always dismissed it throughout the years but man was i pleasantly surprised at how good of a bike it actually is. Let me know what you end up getting?

[@RobertNixAlternativeArtist]

Ninja 650 is still quick though getting you up to LEGAL highway speed in close to the same time as the ZX-6R.

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea, the torque of it makes up on the low end for sure

[@rocknraptor3195]

I hate that its consistently called a "starter" bike! I got it bc its comfortable (i have back problems) & got it a lot cheaper than a 636 or GSX-R! Yea i want something a little faster but its definitely NOT slow, so far been a 136mph & Im definitely not done with performance mods! Super easy to do wheelies & good gas mileage.

[@ScoutsOut]

Totally agree, it's more than enough power. Especially for the streets, I think if you have some experience on moto you could possibly start on it but it's not a beginner bike

[@Ryan_Carder]

11:47 You just described me to the T. I've got a 250 dual sport now. Been craving a higher top end than 63mph screaming wide open downhill 😂

[@ScoutsOut]

awesome, glad it was helpful!!. I hear ya, I had the CRF250L and it was just not fun to buzz that thing on the highway lol...love the 63 downhill lol

[@Ryan_Carder]

@@ScoutsOut I live in central PA so there's TONS of fun little backroads to take this thing on instead of highways. It's a great bike man, but every time I get a clear straight away, my inner adrenaline junkie kicks in and I crave that acceleration. Once I finish this payment plan, and start wanting to upgrade my arsenal. I think the Ninja 650 is first on my test ride list.

[@davidwendel6080]

Stoked with my 2021 z650 after 1500 miles... upgrade from a cb300f. My only complaint sofar is the budget suspension.

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice congrats on the new bike, yea it could use better suspension but still a fun bike. Enjoy

[@stanggang768]

I don’t mind the suspension. It settles really well in corners. And allows for controlled breaking in a corner due to rider error 🤦‍♂️ it absorbs energy but is also “flickable”. I think this is a good beginner bike, even over a 400

[@ScoutsOut]

I would agree man, the suspension although not adjustable did provide a good feel. I know I would have fun on a track with it, and its just right in the window of beginner bike imo too

[@stanggang768]

@@ScoutsOut I’d love to take mine to the track. It’s so comfortable and confidence inspiring. And the brakes do a very good job (Abs version). I know small people who’ve outgrown their 400/500s in the first riding season. I almost want to keep my 650 as it’s super comfy and I know I could travel with it. And getting a 600 for “fun”

[@off2078]

Hi guys iam having a hard time deciding between the ninja 400 and 650 what do you guys think is the better option i do weigh a bit more so i might need the extra power the price difference is about 1500€

[@Vanity7k]

650 with ABS, just be really careful if it’s your first bike. I don’t think I’d still be here if I would’ve started on a FZ07 like the one I have now.. shit’s crazy. Don’t be stupid with the speed, practice braking and swerving and you’ll be fine.

[@d3stroyah]

Well I had both. 400 and 650 are pretty much similar, 650 has much more torque but for the streets it's kind of equivalent. 650 is much heavier and slower turning. I'd take the 650 simply because its more comfortable. But 400 is more fun.

[@davidwendel6080]

How old are you? More, whats your maturity level at? Do you have dirt experience? Are you planning further training? Dose anything mater? If I started over at 18 I'd get the z400 or a duke390(the bike I was saving for when I picked up the cb300f) For me at age 18/19 Vstar650 (crashed) 888screaming eagle(crashed) Me at 30 Cb300f (dirt training and track classes) crashed on track day, traded in for reliability issues after lots of supermoto jumps. Buell1125r WHAT WAS I THINKING, sold so I would not have to fix it again... and didn't want to die. Drz400sm the most fun I've had on two wheels. Currently partially taken apart for a rebuild. Sad face. Z650- the replacement for the Honda 300 and I'm absolutely loving it.

[@jonathanbulkheed338]

650 for a beginner is perfectly fine, just don't push harder than you are comfortable with. I've had my 2023 650 for just over 2 weeks with 1,300 miles on it. Already been 120 redline in 6th gear, leaning at 90mph, etc. My first bike ever. If I had known then what I k ow now, I would have just taken the 636. The 650 is a more comfortable ride though. Especially for us older crowd 35+

[@jarsky]

Im 38, I have riden a few friends bikes and quads when i was a teen but never owned one. I'm 6'1 220lb, and I got the 2022 Ninja 650 as my first bike. For me I was looking at the naked bikes first like the Z650 and the MT-07. But being used for commutes more im happy I decided on the Ninja 650. I've been really happy with it. Enough power but still nimble enough and not to heavy.

[@Solofein321]

i have a 2023 ninja 650 i love it

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice! Such a great all around bike!

[@ANDY-we7mr]

Cracking video very well explained thanks for sharing that information what's the best bike Kawasaki ninja 650 or the kawasaki ninja 400 Is there mutch difference just passed my mod 1 last week but had bikes since I was a kid

[@ScoutsOut]

The is man much appreciated, let me know what bike you end up getting 🍻

[@keariawallace847]

I like newer-ish rider’s reviews. It’s like people who drive Lambos all the time test driving a super charged Charger saying “I mean it’s okay for someone who doesn’t need much”. That’s what 1000cc with 10 years of riding do to all the bikes that aren’t TOP OF THE LINE $40,000 bikes. But a Super charged Charger is MORE than enough for the regular person. If it doesn’t ride “JUST LIKE” a Lamborghini, they’ll have little snobbish stuff to say. Instead of … “For this price, YOU’RE WINNING with this bike”

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha so true bro, it’s easy to get used to the high end stuff but that doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate a good all around product

[@vonny-n8x]

I have had my Lerners for maybe 3 months top ninja 650 is my first and only motorcycle, I found it easy to learn on and it weighing 192kgs you hardly feel it personally if your 19 years or older being that little bit more mature this can definitely be a fantastic choice and review is spot on

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice, I agree as long as you are mature it can make a good starter bike

[@5slumsD]

Going get mine in 4 months

[@ScoutsOut]

nice, you will enjoy. such a fun bike to ride, let me know what you think when you get it

[@phantomnus]

I was curious about this bike, now I'm looking for a dealership close to me that has one in stock

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha, nice let me k ow what you think when you check it out

[@ItzMiketho2x]

its crazy how just 3 months ago you made a comment about the 636s not having tft and the new 2024s finally do lol its like they heard you.

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha I know right and there it is lol the new 636 is pretty cool I hope to get to ride it soon

[@TheRookeryFlat]

Fantastic review

[@ScoutsOut]

Thank you!

[@SammyHammy367]

Idk if i should get a 400 or a 650. I just feel like a 400 would get stale fast once i get used to riding. “ im a new rider”

[@ScoutsOut]

There is no doubt, at some point it will feel slow for you but to be honest so will the 650. I guess it depends on your riding interest, and as you learn to ride what your sense of fast is I guess would be a good way to put it. I like more curvy Sharp turns and track riding so the little 400 in tight corners will be more fun and a much better learning experience in the long run. Have you tried to demo one yet?

[@joerilbook1300]

I'm 6'2. Can anyone my height comment on how these are for taller folks? Im looking at getting a 2022-650

[@AlexGritts]

Hi, 1.86m here, 94kg. You would defo love it. I drive it daily for at least 100 km city and also 6h drive touring.

[@joerilbook1300]

@@AlexGritts Nice. Thanks for your response. I think I'ma go ahead and get it.

[@ralfyboii]

I was like wait a minute this place looks familiar 😂 much love from SB

[@ScoutsOut]

haha yea man its so nice down in SB

[@2WheeledShenanigan-gs7cl]

I'm still rocking a 2013 that I purchased new, I wished that I would've gotten ABS but at that time my dealer never got any of those bikes in if it was an option. The ABS isn't really a deal breaker but is an added convienence and should offer more resale value down the road, I haven't checked but hopefully cheaper insurance premiums too but one can only hope if it does anything to reduce it. I believe now with the Ninja 650 to get ABS you have to opt for the KRT Edition which in itself is already adding a premium price. I don't know why Kawasaki is still playing this game, they should've made it standard by now and just dropped the other non-versions of those bike. The one you rode did not have ABS as it's grey, the KRT's are green with the special graphics and even then ABS is an option. It's an excellent bike but really it's long overdo for a revision and 270 degree crank, if not this model then they need to add something into their line-up like the Suzuki GSX-8s. This is my first and only motorcycle so far so I would say yes given the right individual rider with a level head and good control with the throttle hand it can be an excellent first motorcycle, personally I'd recommend something in the 400-500cc range for most people, I'm 5'10 and 190 lbs or so and a 500 would've been fine but I didn't want to get something and then upgrade soon after. The Ninja 650 gives you just enough to keep you satisfied, honestly there are times I wish it had more but it's enough for most riders. I think the features I like best are the fairing with the windscreen, also the fuel economy that this thing gets, I typically get around 56 mpg and regulary over 200 miles per tank... the most negative that I can say about mine is that it's a pig, it's way too heavy for what it should be at 460.8 lbs but the new ones are 419 lbs which is a 41.8 lbs savings, mine feels top heavy I guess mostly due to the larger fuel tank. Found a Kawasaki Demo event coming up that's within driving distance so I'm hoping that I'll be able to ride this new one so I can compare. I don't think I would purchase a new one as I already have it, there hasn't been enough updates for me to make that decision, however the new display and gear indicator would be nice to have. This bike really is the Jack of all trades, master of none, it does things very well but not great by any means and honestly for the money it's very hard to beat for what you get, it was the same back then and it still holds today.

[@ScoutsOut]

dang I missed this sorry it took so long to get back to you, KZbin put your comment in held for review and I just seen it. so did you end up getting to the demo event?

[@2WheeledShenanigan-gs7cl]

@@ScoutsOut I did, but did not have a good time really as it was all booked up. We had to wait 2 hrs after we arrived just to get a spot, the Ninja 650 was already taken for that time slot but got to ride the z650rs, after that it was another 1-1/2 hrs for the next available ride... we ended up leaving, already waited so long just to ride something and then wait again... no thank you. The z650rs is comparable to my Ninja, at least the powertrain anyways but different riding position, it still has all the same vibrations that mine has, we went down a bumpy road and the handlebars were killing my hands from all the vibes. It felt just like my Ninja only the engine might've felt a lil bit smoother, more refined is all.

[@ScoutsOut]

Ahh man sry to hear that, at least you got to ride the rs and get a feel

[@95turboteggy65]

I wonder if I would enjoy this bike my previous bikes were a 1200 Sporster and a 14' fz09. Just looking for something for weekend riding. The power just worries me. The style looks spot on.

[@ScoutsOut]

Id say you need to ride one then

[@95turboteggy65]

@@ScoutsOut yeah I'll have to see if any demo events are around me.

[@m1activealesis551]

like the bike but the price kills it for me. At that pint I rather spend the extra money and get the zx6r.

[@ScoutsOut]

Totally agree, the prices are close. I bought my zx6r back in 2018 for 7800, I know prices are going way up but I think it's more of knowing what you want out of the bike, lots of people want to be comfortable and not in that race position

[@Harlem_knights]

I miss my 21 ninja😢😢

[@ScoutsOut]

What did you get now?

[@Harlem_knights]

@@ScoutsOut awh man I haven’t ridin in 2 or so year trying to talk my wife into letting me get another hopefully she caves soon 😂

[@ScoutsOut]

I hear ya it took years to con my wife into getting one. Good luck man

[@p_joshy_p3624]

Thinking about getting this bike but with a restrictor as I only have an A2 license.

[@ScoutsOut]

nice, does the restrictor come out easy for when you get past the A2?

[@xeneditz21]

Right in front of that bike is the one i currently own 23 klx300sm 0:14

[@ScoutsOut]

I got to ride the 300sm that day it was fun!

[@GMXR7]

Ive had a 2000 katana 600 for 3 years now and im torn between the 650r and 1000sx...i really want the SX but the 650 is way cheaper

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea and probably much easier on the ole insurance

[@torreypires6192]

It’s really not much faster than a 400 and prob not much faster than a new 500 but it’s heavier and is really that much more comfortable? I love the 650 tho I’m thinking a 400 or 500 or 650

[@ScoutsOut]

you should check out the zx4rr as well, thats a fun little bike too

[@dry509]

Did you go fast enough to see if there are a lot of vibes at 60-75 mph?

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea and no it's not viby at those speeds at all

[@foodrecipesin]

Thank you for sharing this video👌👌

[@ScoutsOut]

Glad it was helpful cheers

[@FSH-fv6ww]

The one thing I do notice is with those handle bars, there doesn't seem to be a place to mount my phone mount. Which, with my R3, isn't a problem.

[@ScoutsOut]

Good point, I'm sure there is something for the bike though. I'd bet quad lock has something for it

[@thatsk6183]

There is a spot. I have quadlock on mine. It's dead center.

[@markchoryan1187]

Dude said totally hugs your ass 🤣

[@ScoutsOut]

Lol yessir!

[@elwalker9034]

650cc, good little bike

[@ScoutsOut]

Yeah, it really is, exceeded my expectations for sure

[@davidelkins3826]

clutchless down shift are a real no no to stability...use the clutch thats whats its there for!! DaveBlade.

[@ScoutsOut]

yea defiantly can be, it you get good with it on the bike its such a fun way to ride in my opinion

[@JopelB]

What gloves are you using here? They look very cozy

[@ScoutsOut]

They are the Oxford RP 1 amzn.to/45MuiMq

[@rugershooter5268]

Had versys 650, tuned different from ninja, plenty enough power......now have versys 1000 and kinda miss the 650....... Been thinking about ninja650 Ninja over Z because of mirror placement 4cylinders too much power road......except maybe the 23 Z400 4cyl......if they put that in the ninja 400 I'd be in line

[@ScoutsOut]

Good info, I also road the versys 1k the comfort imo was better than the 650 but only minor and could agree the 1k is so much more power than needed the 650 is enough. I definitely getting the zx4rr hopefully it's out this month but the engine on the z would be really cool too

[@rugershooter5268]

@@ScoutsOut just don't like mirrors on handlebars on sport type bike, versys is ok because I'm usually not in sport mode....mirrors up on the fairing is good Of course if I rode a little faster I wouldn't need mirrors

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea me too, I struggle with mirrors on the handle bars, I just don't like them and there are no amazing options to replace them imo

[@gurgenmakaryan4428]

I didn't know that new models have an traction control

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea, I believe it works off ABS sensors so not the best type of TC but still cool to have the extra safety feature

[@julinetteklein1266]

Is it a good bike for beginners power wise? Is it easy to handle

[@ScoutsOut]

It’s hard to say man, I made this vid to try and explain that Is the Yamaha R7 a good beginner motorcycle kzbin.info/www/bejne/paKTn3pjhcSSZ6M

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

How was the hip pressure? I have inner hip cramps on my MT07 after a little time riding. Just being folded in that position for a length of time causes me to want to get off the bike and do some yoga stretches. I even have short legs.

[@ScoutsOut]

It's been a little while since I rode an mt07 but I would think the 650 is just a tiny bit more cramped but thigh position was nice on the 650 imo. You would really need to sit on one to confirm

[@lugokeith3256]

Should I get a ninja 500 or ninja 650? Please help I’m 6’1” 195 lbs

[@ScoutsOut]

That’s hard to say man, I haven’t rode the 500 yet

[@glenndelacruz2906]

windscreen can be adjusted up to 60mm up

[@ScoutsOut]

That's cool, I'm surprised I didn't notice that!

[@xorbe2]

2017-2019 were adjustable, I thought they took that away starting 2020

[@ScoutsOut]

That's possible, I didn't notice any adjustments on it but I could be wrong

[@Fastfregga]

ive owned an er6n from 2016. ive loved this bike but i didnt like the engine, it felt really boring and the vibrations at around 4k rpms were really annoying. did kawasaki make any changes to the engine?

[@ScoutsOut]

Not sure man, that was the first ninja 650 I’ve rode. I would agree it’s a little buzzy but not enough to annoy me. As for the engine feel and enjoyment, I would agree it’s well rounded but it going to wow ya either way

[@Fastfregga]

@@ScoutsOut the engine ist bad, definately not. i love the ninja, its just their sortiment that doesnt fit me. ive switched to the sv650, while both have their perks the V2 is really a blast and far superior imo in terms of fun. the kawi alternatives are the zx models, but i dont like supersports. ive tried the 1000sx, but its too much of a tourer, i prefer naked bikes. the 650 engine, as ive said, has the annoying buzzes (not really vibration, more like frequence) and the engine feels "rubbery", like straight linear without any punch. ill stick to my suzuki but ill stay updated in terms of the ninja, theyre the best looking naked/touring mix imo

[@oneaudience2574]

Im debating between a 2012 ninja 650 and a 2000 R6, which is much cheaper, anyone have any thoughts? Haha

[@ScoutsOut]

If you can get the r6 cheaper than the 650 do that lol. But really I think it’s more about your skill level and what you want to do with the bike. If you want to race r6, if you are just riding around town and don’t care about racing 650

[@evye64]

is it better than the r7?

[@ScoutsOut]

in my opinion no, but some people don't want to be in a race bike position and would prefer the comfort of the 650

[@elizabethwonders]

That intake sounds sweet!! Love the tft display! Looks super comfortable! Thanks for a great video! 😊🔥🤟🏼👍🌟

[@MalibuMoto]

@@ScoutsOut hows the power compare?

[@ScoutsOut]

Thanks Elizabeth, it was super comfy a practical sport bike

[@ScoutsOut]

The r7 pulls harder for sure, I didn't really get to test out the top end of it but it's just slights slower than the r7

[@zakhey]

As much as I'd like to get the Ninja over a Z, I've a need for storage, so the Ninja just wouldn't look all that nice with a 50litre top box on it ☹️

[@ScoutsOut]

Thats true, the z will look much better with storage on it

[@andrewkanjepe2228]

Will it be good as first motorcycle ever? I only drove 50cc moped before 😂.

[@ScoutsOut]

That’s a hard one bro, it’s manageable power and a low seat height so it’s possible but I would always recommend a 400 first

[@sebastianroque4799]

Im looking into the ninja 650 23 but i was wondering if the metallic grey or even the white one has abs cause i honestly dont like that racing team colors

[@ScoutsOut]

yea for sure all three color schemes have the option for ABS

[@sebastianroque4799]

@@ScoutsOut thank you i never knew that

[@tommyapples8490]

For someone who just squeaked by the motorcycle course, is this bike too much for a beginner or is the 400 better off?

[@ScoutsOut]

I personally think the 400 is the best option for a year or two then figure out what you want next. The 400 is honestly a lot of fun and worth keeping when you want a second bike

[@tommyapples8490]

@@ScoutsOut then that's the OnE! Thanks!

[@arch417powersports]

Pretty sure I rode that EXACT Ninja 650 :D

[@ScoutsOut]

haha yea you did, looks a lot more fun out there in AZ cheers bro!

[@wrightwayhvacr4463]

Most of the 650s in my area don’t have abs, would you guys still buy it?

[@ScoutsOut]

I would wait for one with abs bro

[@wrightwayhvacr4463]

@@ScoutsOut thanks big dog I will

[@shawnallen8470]

I would wait for the abs. I had a 17 ninja 650 without abs and there were times I wish I had the abs but there are some things I like to do that abs does get in the way (fishtailing)😅

[@mountainbearoutdoors]

had the er650 for a while, those parallel twin motors are so boring, they even sound boring when running. I would go v twin or even the new R7 that uses a parallel motor but with a 180 degree firing order that sounds like a V.

[@ScoutsOut]

yea I would agree to the power is so linear it can be a little lack luster but still a great all around bike. I do currently have the R7 and the Aprilia Tuano 660 which have the 270 crank and yea they sound amazing, especially with the Yoshimura I put on the R7... so good!

[@Spy_Pigeon]

R7 has 270° crank

[@mountainbearoutdoors]

@@Spy_Pigeon my bad i realised after i commented

[@Angelxnxhdhxhcjc]

Would it be a bad idea to wanna start as a new bike rider on a ninja 650? 🤔

[@ScoutsOut]

Best choice no but with some previous dirt experience and maybe the MSF course I’d say you be good

[@impyr3x293]

how does it compare to the zx4rr now?

[@ScoutsOut]

It’s been a while since I rode the 650, but I definitely prefer the 4rr

[@JesseMoto]

more upright position, mt-07 or ninja 400 or 600 ??

[@ScoutsOut]

MT-07

[@tiagomoreira8742]

Undecided between this One or Honda cb650r thanks for your vídeo

[@ScoutsOut]

That is a hard one, the Hondas are good to. I need to get out and ride a few more Hondas.

[@tiagomoreira8742]

@@ScoutsOut yeah basically for thé price Im between Payinng More 1k and get thé ninja or Honda worth already good tires

[@wereoursouls3472]

Same here. I have read on other KZbin videos that the service costs are less for the Honda.

[@tiagomoreira8742]

@@wereoursouls3472 thanks! We need to check everything well eheh

[@xorbe2]

If you add a Corbin Gunfighter seat to the Ninja, it is hands down the more comfy commuter bike. CBR is leg cramped and less torque down low, but makes that inline-4 noise to 13K rpms. Depends on what you are looking for. I have both, may trade the CBR for the new zx4rr. There's just something about the Ninja 650, I can't get rid of it out of my fleet.

[@kikkerkinker550]

Guys can you guys help me. I am looking to buy my first beginners bike ever and I am struggling to choose between the ninja 400 and the ninja 650. Which one could be considered better for a beginner. Also I will prob when I have ride for a while buy a heavier bike.

[@ScoutsOut]

Ninja 400 is a safer first bike then the 650, if you think you are going to grow out of it fast. Try to find a used one and learn on it before you buy the next bike

[@kikkerkinker550]

@@ScoutsOut thank you very much for the advice really appreciate it.

[@MielPopsKiller]

I own à 22 one with akra exhaust and same color. She's seeeeeexy and I have tons of fun with

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice, I bet the Akra sounds good!!

[@thatsk6183]

Should I keep my 23 ninja 650 or 98 cbr f4 600rr? 🤔

[@ScoutsOut]

hard choice, the f4s were cool but I really enjoy common day EFI and nice gauge clusters

[@pookhub9290]

Getting mine in a months time, should I get the 2024 or go with 2023? 2023 has a decent discount and it will be my long term bike coming in from a scooter

[@ScoutsOut]

I don’t think they changed anything for 2024 so I would save the money

[@pookhub9290]

Thanks mate! Is the power overwhelming for a beginner?

[@ScoutsOut]

Not really, I would say if you know how to ride a motorcycle it’s fine but if you don’t and have never ridden it might be a little to much

[@NathanCruz1]

Help guys, I'm debating on trading in my Vulcan S 650 for this Ninja. Should I or keep my Vulcan?

[@ScoutsOut]

Hard to say man, would you rather have a sport bike or a cruiser

[@flankeedoodle]

Mt07 / fz07 review next ??

[@ScoutsOut]

I've rode the mt07 but not the fz, I would love to get my hands on them to test them out for a review

[@flankeedoodle]

@@ScoutsOut its the same bike

[@Blitz-N-Pieces]

I seen this on another video for ‘good first bikes’ would you recommend this? I’m looking to get my bike license

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea bro this bike is close to an ok beginner, I would totally suggest taking the MSF course first then start looking into what bike you want

[@realtientrung1122]

hey, can i ask how tall are you? I'm 6.06 feet and I think this buy can not make me feel comfortable :(

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea I'm 5'10" it's hard to say, it was pretty comfortable to me. Have you been able to sit on one yet?

[@realtientrung1122]

@@ScoutsOut yo i'm try to sit on Z650 and I feel it so small with me :( then I find some guy like me and ask them how

[@LightningDes]

6’2 260. Will i fit on this bike?

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea I think so and they have mods that can change the position up to make it more comfortable

[@subzero-ku2wx]

This is not much of a step-up from a NInja 400. Debatably, it could be considered a lateral move. The suspension on the 400 is probably better than the 650. Power:weight jump isn't substantial enough to make it a "great upgrade" in any sense.

[@ScoutsOut]

Yea it's debatable

[@VS-yv8yk]

How different is it vs the R7?

[@ScoutsOut]

R7 is a little faster, but most noticeably the seating position and suspension. The r7 has better suspension and is in a full race position where the 650 is upright comfortable and will soak up the bumps. Really two different styles of bikes.

[@VS-yv8yk]

@@ScoutsOut thanks for the feedback! I had a hard time deciding, got the R7 because I love the looks but was curious on how the R7 would be

[@ScoutsOut]

Nice good choice, I love mine I made tons of vids on it. I’m at the track this weekend and can’t wait to ride it on the track again

[@cyberspd]

Sounds a lot like my '23 Vulcan S Cafe. Hmmmm.....

[@ScoutsOut]

It should! They have the same engine, such a fun power plant

[@haythamabounaja7448]

Is it a 2 seater?

[@ScoutsOut]

yea its a small rear seat but decent enough for short rides

[@d1ff76]

I can’t decide between ninja 400 and 650 any thoughts ?

[@ScoutsOut]

🤔 I'd say if you have never ridden a bike before and your learning on it or you have a bike that you want to work up to later, the 400, but if you have experience riding the 650

[@d1ff76]

@@ScoutsOut I just dunno if the extra 15mph and 1/2 sec of a 0-60 is worth the bigger price. Idk I’ve been debating for a long while a big part of me wants the 650 cause it’s more powerful but nothing crazy and then a different part of me wants the 400 cause it’s cheaper to buy and maintain and there’s just so many mods and everything is so well documented

[@ScoutsOut]

Good points, from riding both and owning a 400 for many years. The 650 felt more like a full size bike and the torque lower made it feel like a much faster bike, but on the other hand the 400 is lighter easier to through around, better fuel mileage and obviously cheaper. I guess the way I would look at it a ninja 400 is a good beginner or fun second bike/track learning bike where the 650 imo would be a decent all around bike with no real desire for a second bike

[@d1ff76]

@@ScoutsOut so hard to choose that I might end up choosing a 2001 sv650 650 for 2000$ from Craigslist

[@ScoutsOut]

Those are good bikes too

[@pdepaul]

How much hp does this bike has?

[@ScoutsOut]

47 ish foot pounds

[@jamesknight802]

Why do review videos say, "It's got a ton of torque " when it's listed as 47 ft lbs. That doesn't seem like a "ton" to me when there are bikes with over 100lbs of torque

[@ScoutsOut]

based off the bike and the HP the way the engine produces power is lower in the range prioritizing torque over high reving HP

[@jamesknight802]

@Scouts Out sorry, but 120ftlbs at 3000k rpms is much more than 47 ftlbs at 6500 rpms. I just have a hard time visualizing it. I am not talking about Sportbike vs. Cruiser... just the description of tons of torque down low...

[@GPz84]

@@jamesknight802 Do you lack the ability to comprehend?

[@jamesknight802]

@Concours Chef nope... pretty straight forward. The description of "tons" of power is used in every review...if the bike has 27ftlbs or 120ftlbs. So, it is not a comprehension problem, it's an accurate description of the item I have an issue with.

[@kalnwi2023]

2 minutes on the highway and a expert on the bike huh ?

[@ScoutsOut]

👍🏼

[@deanzaZZR]

Santa Barbara? That's about as green as you'll ever see it.

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha I know right, we have been lucky this year we have had green for more than two weeks lol

[@Evluite19969]

I speak like severus snape❤️

[@ScoutsOut]

Haha so true I totally sounded like that in this vid 😂

[@ruelmalala5844]

ZXR RR600 di uubra 650 cc mo

[@ScoutsOut]

👊🏽

[@ameermallik5680]

Bro what's it's colour😍

[@ScoutsOut]

METALLIC MATTE GRAPHENESTEEL GRAY/EBONY

[@gokmen9928]

Egzaoust sound is ridicilous for this motorbike. CBR650R always beat it at every aspect.

[@ScoutsOut]

The CBR650R is a great bike for sure. I still haven't rode one but I'm sure the inline 4 is awesome