The Kawasaki Z650RS | Can it Beat the Brits?

The Japanese motorcycles of the 1960s and 70s finished off the British motorcycle industry. This, the new for 2022 Kawasaki Z650RS is the successor to the highly regarded Kawasaki Z650 of 1976.
With looks clearly reminiscent of that 1970s bike, how does Kawasaki’s latest offering in the retro motorcycle market compare to the current crop, such as the Triumph Speed Twin 900, the Moto Guzzi V7, and the Royal Enfield Interceptor, among others.
Can this little Kawasaki offer enough character, charm and performance to be a real competitor in the market?
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The Bike:
Kawasaki Z650RS
650cc
187kg
67hp
Parrallel Twin
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Thanks to Wheels Motorcycles in Peterborough for lending me the bike for a week! You can follow them on Instagram (@wheelsmotorcycles) and Facebook (@wheelsmotorcycles).
Wheels Motorcycles
First Drove
Fengate
Peterborough
PE1 5BJ
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Locations:
- Holbrook, Suffolk
- Woolverstone Marina
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My personal motorcycle: 2010 Triumph Bonneville 865cc (the base version)
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Gear for the Day:
- Exklusive Helmets, Rage Shiney Black
- Frank Thomas Patrol Jacket
- Broger Moto California Washed Black Jeans
- TCX X-Blend Boots
- Indian Motorcycle Gloves
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- Filming and editing: @monikameraki (Instagram)
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Music:
Mindserver Unlimited - On Cruize Control
Larry Poppinz - In The Middle Somwhere
Lofive - In a Little While
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Some affiliate links may be used. You won’t be charged a penny for clicking on them, but I may get some commission from any purchase

[@Sideburns892]

As a freshly qualified rider I took out a Z650RS for a test ride, was incredibly surprised and impressed by how easy it was to ride. Really sublime handling. Glad I'm not the only one that feels this way. Engine not the the most exciting but plenty of character and the bike felt quick enough. And those looks really sell it, especially in the green.

[@tde2902]

I loved this bike already, but that guy praising that bike in elegant british english made me order it immediatly

[@MrCerddoriaeth]

I have one of these and it’s an awesome bike. I used to ride back in the late 70s and early 80s and have just come back to riding bikes aged 60. It has beautiful handling and very quick indeed! Love it.

[@robdc4829]

Good for you Sir! 🍻

[@tony-ce7qp]

me to...stay safe and well!

[@raymondkinch3766]

I have one also. Replaced my 2014 Moto Guzzi v7. The V7 had more torque but greater Z650RS handles like a dream compared to the shaft drive V7. I'm 72 and have been riding motorcycles since the age of 18.

[@FilipeNeves-xp1ur]

​@@raymondkinch3766Congratulations on the excellent choice of bike you made. They call it the bike of a lifetime. In addition to being too beautiful, it has a cornering behavior of the best in the class, very fun and pleasant to drive and comfortable, with good torque already and more than enough power and 100% usable. Best regards ✌️

[@SQTierHog]

Paused at 5:14. I'm reminiscing so much here. Although in my mid-teens (or so) when this came out, I'm remembering when my older brother brought home his new KZ900. I'm so grateful to be alive to see (and ride) all the 'old' bikes making 'new' appearances but with new tech! Thank you Monica and Freddie!

[@FreddieDobbs]

Ahhh I love this- this is why these Retros are so special. Thank you and have a great day!🙂

[@SQTierHog]

@@FreddieDobbs Yes, they make us older folks feel like kids again!

[@kellanhills1972]

Kawasaki make such beautiful bikes. The retro bikes are sublime. As an aside Monica and Freddie your talents exceed a motorcycle channel. Superior video work and editing great scenery and always excellent information. Freddie your delivery and comfort in front of the camera makes the videos easy to watch and you always have great information. Great channel. Blessings for further success

[@walterfabianodeandradebenn1177]

Moto muito Show não tenho que reclamar , sou de Curitiba tenho uma 22/23 tirei dia 19 de fevereiro única ressalva é o tanque de combustível ser 12 litros e dia 29 de outubro colidi no trânsito com outra moto , ainda não tinha feito o seguro devido ficar mais parada que rodando até então está com 4 mil km , resultado 17 mil reais de prejuízo 8 itens quebrados mais caro farol 12 mil optei por restauração muito mis em conta e o radiador esse teve que trocar 8 mil o resto entre é um pouco , mais em conta se não por seguro fale de vez , se eu ficar com ela vou segurar agora!

[@Drt0Kkdo]

what I love with their retros bikes are they are they look exactly like the old bikes they are inspired by. They are overflashy neo remakes. You could stand it next to the original and you wont be able to tell which one the latest one is if you squint

[@ChickenMeister84]

This is the kind of bike you'd see an older uncle stop by with and the one you'd promise yourself you'd buy when you were older. Nice to see retro done well.

[@pneumaticman5927]

Brilliant. 👌🏻

[@Mountain_Manu]

I am 34 and really consider this as my first motorbike, feeling offended 😅

[@madcoyote]

I drove the Triumph Street Twin and it sadly didn't fit me or I was just not feeling comfortable, on the Royal Enfield I had so much fun, but when I got on the Kawasaki it was just pure bliss. About the engine looks, I don't care, because it's so blacked out, you hardly see it. The only thing you see is the lovely tank and silhouette 🤗 Funny that you like the look of the exhaust...I don't . I get it, that for a modern exhaust it's well done. Especially the sound 👌 But I got the 50 years of Z book along the bike and in that are just some wonderful examples how I want it...so I will change it in the near future. 😁 End note...it's a Japanese bike, so it will be much more reliable then all the named competition 😉

[@FreddieDobbs]

Great to hear from an owner, thanks for your input Martin🙂 This’d be great- I would love to see how an exhaust would change the look. The right exhaust would give it an old school look (which can only be great!🙂). I agree; the silhouette is beautiful😍

[@robertpinder2307]

Love the exhaust, many today look like hideous afterthoughts. This is integral to the machine.

[@nikitis13]

If you don't mind the sound from that Kawasaki 650 twin, I think you'd be a happy with your purchase... I would have preferred they used an in-line 4, not so much for the performance but for the traditional Kawasakii 70's howl. It's a bit of a miss for me 😕

[@jefflambert8603]

The point of this is if Kawasaki had used a Four Cylinder Engine it would have been Far more Expesive It would not Handle as well :& would Weigh Loads more ..once its on the Move it has a fantastic Bass growl From the Engine. That you cant Hear at Tickover by using an existing Engine & Frame the Cost has Been Kept at £7000. If you want a Four cylinder get the RS 900

[@Grumpy-Goblin]

@@jefflambert8603 Just my personal opinion but to my mind the real question is why is it an £8000 bike when it shares so many parts with other bikes ? The development costs of the ER-6 engine must be well and truly paid back now and the frame is z650 so again development costs are at least shared. It has no fancy electronics it has plastic fittings everywhere so why is it £8000 when Royal Enfield can produce a bike fresh from the drawing board with all the development costs for £6000 ? Yes I know the RE is only 48bhp but that was deliberate to widen the market to include A2 and that engine is easily capable of more. You could argue that RE skimped a bit on some components to get the price down and I would agree but there doesn't seem to be any major reliability issues so how much does that really matter ? Personally I think they could have made it 4 cylinder but they chose to maximise their profits by using an existing engine that is a completely different character to the original and it is the equivalent of Triumph building a 650 single and calling it a Bonneville. I really wanted to like this bike as the original was a big favourite of mine but it misses on the engine and, for me, the styling is slightly off and I would have preferred to see spoked wheels but that is a very personal thing.

[@jefflambert8603]

@@Grumpy-Goblin of course it all a matter of Personal opinion & Yours is as Valid as anyone else I dont think its a Bad value Bike You do pay Extra for the Emerald Green. It will probably appeal more To younger Riders who dont really Hark Back to 1976 but like a Retro Look They are shifting loads of RS Z650s In America so Kawasaki must be Doing Something Right. I think Freddie Dobbs is Spot on With this review

[@WyreForestBiker]

@@Grumpy-Goblin I agree it's an old bike in new clothes but in terms of pricing it's spot on. You cannot compare it directly with the RE which is a budget bike built by a budget bike manufacturer. Kawasaki are a very different entity, If (theoretically) people had the choice of an identically designed bike built by the 2 Company's and offered at the same price RE would not sell any!

[@TommyAngelo1337]

You can just buy the Z900RS? I know it's more expensive but an inline 4 Z650RS would have been more expensive also, at that point just get the 900, especially when it's way better looking, as beautiful as this 650 is.

[@mattdavies5706]

Freddie your passion for bikes is contagious. Try the bigger sibling Z900RS, you’ll love it. Keep up the good work, my favourite channel.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Hugely appreciated, thank you Matt🙂 I’m really keen to try the Z900RS- hopefully soon

[@KRYPTOS_K5]

​@@FreddieDobbs don't bother with it... Z650rs now has traction control... Is has better handling and much better looking than the z900rs It is probably the most beautiful retro bike in industry today. However it is not so retro as enfield and triumph and it has only 67hp (5hp less then kawasaki versys or er6n) and a weak frontal swing fork. However with a better pillow it could be easily used as a formidable commuter bike (retro street/city bike and as a medium to medium-long range Turing roadster with comfort). It is totally different than the typical retro bikes and also it is different if compared to the z650, sv650, mt07, cb500x, moto Guzzi, harley street 750 or any other bike in the same spectrum. Considering I don't care to the super authentic "retro art engine" it would be my retro first choice. Brasil

[@jadethompson5269]

@@KRYPTOS_K5definitely doesn’t look as good as a 900rs 😵‍💫

[@mgerg0]

I saw many times this test and I got a problem: there is no chance to give a like more than one time. 😊 I love the way you introduce the bikes. The emotions are coming through the screen all the time I view your videos. Good job again. 🏍️💪🙂

[@dionoliveira4058]

Freddie there are many that review well and technically sound, but here you have shown something special! the passion you exude for this bike and its character are tangible! Thank you.

[@michals1108]

Kawasaki is really underrated in motorbike world, z1000sx, w800, versys 650 (so popular in Asia), z900 and z900rs all great bikes

[@shree397]

The pricing of this motorcycle in India is absolutely bonkers, Z900 costs around £11600 in India z650rs costs £10,300😂 (converted ₹-£) Said that an interceptor 650 with basic accessories costs £3600🤦🏻‍♂️ after all the taxes

[@fingerhorn4]

Same engine as my old ER6f from well over a decade ago. It was also a light machine and the engine was a cracker, but this Kawasaki is clearly more comfortable, is utterly stunning to look at and it's reasonably priced. It's going to be a huge success (or perhaps already is).

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

I put the Z900RS side by side to my T120 gold line in the dealership. Took a long hard look and the T120 was just finished off better. The wiring and routing of cables was better and overall appearance was far nicer. The Kawasaki was a nice bike but for the same price the T120 in my humble opinion was the real retro bike, that will stand the test of time.

[@machineabart]

Tried Speed Twin and the 650RS. Both great bikes. What drew me to purchasing the RS is rev counter which does not exist on the Triumph Speed Twin. Also my legs are more bent on the Speed Twin. RS is more relaxed position wise.

[@3xk890]

im wondering how much, both of the bike priced at in your country?

[@FilipeNeves-xp1ur]

Hello. I have the same dilema. You make a good choise. Congratulations on the excellent bike. Best regards ✌️

[@xu10j4rs1]

I’m between these two bikes, are you still enjoying the 650rs?

[@machineabart]

Absolutely. More than ever. Very universal bike. Using it in Warsaw traffic on everyday basis but not only. My butt survived a trip to Vienna which is 700 km from my city.

[@kenschauer3781]

Great review! I ended up buying this bike and totally agree with this review. Great bike, very nimble and faster than I want to go., and pulls hard in 3rd and 4tth gears..love it!

[@motoexploration4169]

"... hand on heart, it would be this bike ... " nicely put. Balanced review, indeed. I'm sold and bought one.

[@panosrallis3901]

One of the best videos I have ever seen on motorcycle presentation... So much passion... I love the bike and I hope I can have it really soon. Keep up the excellent work my friend... Greetings from Greece 🇬🇷

[@hatchetjack1031]

My Son and a friend of mine both own Kawasaki Z650's, one the RS model. They love them! If you buy a Japanese bike or a Triumph today, it's probably made in Thailand. ( Z650 engine/ Thailand). I've got the Japanese made Kawasaki W800 Cafe! All are VERY reliable, I remember the 60's and British bikes...Amal carbs, Smith instruments and Lucas electronics insured that they would be very IFFY regarding reliability! I was riding Hondas and Yamahas (XS650)...My friends with Triumphs and Beezers were riding tow trucks!

[@mrbxv]

Outstanding review, Freddie. You always give the full context of why the bikes are made and compare them to their competitors.

[@peterconnell3162]

The Kwak 650 was my son’s first proper motorcycle after he passed his test. It served him well, and I think its a great first bike. For me, that is its niche in the market.

[@jayryan7473]

Since there's never been a Kwak 650 Lord knows what you're talkin about. Considering Kawasaki has made multiple 650 motorcycles are YOU even sure what bike you're referring to?

[@peterconnell3162]

@@jayryan7473 ER-6f to be precise!.

[@ErelasInglor]

So one thing that your videos often lack (and often for motorcycle reviewers in general) is a pillion review, or a 2 seat review where you get on the motorcycle, drive with a friend on the back, and review that aspect. Why? Because, this situation is very different on every motorcycle, from comfort to safety, and from maneuverability, and handling once 2 are up! To someone that expects to have more than one on occasion, I'd love to see the actual test done for all the bikes you review and the consensus by the driver and the passenger. 👍🏻

[@LaminarSound]

I agree with this! Hopefully when Monica feels a bit better she can provide some solid pillion review???? I plan to have my wife with me once or twice a month, so not critical, but still prefer her to be somewhat comfy for an hour or 2 on the back of whatever I choose to buy.

[@Big_DT]

I live in the us and the funny thing is, I love Triumph motorcycles. I own a modern classic in the Bonneville T120 and recently purchased a Tiger Sport 660. I love them both and the Triumph triple in the TS, along with the handling, is outstanding. The Bonnie doesn't handle as well, but it has its own look, feel and style. Like you said, it's a great time to own a bike and there are so many great options out there. Reliability has increased across the industry, with a few exceptions, making almost every choice a good, if not a great one. Buy the bike that fits you!

[@fiveowaf454]

I have a 77 Kawasaki Z650 in the exact same color scheme as the new model shown here. Riding that bike now makes you realize what an incredible machine that was in it's day. It's still fast and smooth and with modern tires and aftermarket springs it handles well too. Sadly much as I love my 73 Triumph Tiger, it's all too easy to see why the British bike industry was destroyed by the Japanese offerings.

[@BeemerTwelve]

What difference does it make whether it's been built from the ground up or not if the riding experience is what you're after? And the Kawa is gorgeous.

[@SteveInskip]

Nice vid Freddie. The new Kawasakis are excellent, but I’d have the 900RS over that one. I rode big Kawasakis in the early ‘80’s….gorgeous bikes. With that one you’re a couple of cylinders short of the original Z650, which for me would be a bit like having a Bonneville single……so the 650 doesn’t work for me as a true ‘retro’. I’d still have it over the Enfield. You don’t ‘need’ the extra power, but you’ve got it when you want it. Power has never got me into trouble but it’s sure got me out of trouble a few times.

[@FreddieDobbs]

I like your angle on power, Steve. This is a very valid point that I do often overlook🙂

[@carlostrujillo4750]

You have done a masterful job at explaining the z650rs .

[@monikasado7246]

Ok, she's is coming on Friday. Thank you for that review. I think the most outstanding and passionate review I've seen so far on KZbin in the last 5 years.

[@garywibberley1842]

I'm in my mid 60s & been biking since I was 16, the bike I had before this kwaka was a speed triple I bought new in 2000 & loved it to bits but now I wanted something retro & light, this bike is perfect for me & what has impressed more than anything is the low down toque, this bike is such a joy to ride & hoping I'll still be riding her in my 70s

[@mattus1gig]

I’m with Monika regarding the colour of the wheels.

[@boxwoodgreen]

I bought a 1977 KZ650C1 new. It had an inline 4 cylinder engine. I did a 5000+ mile tour of the U.S. from the border area of Canada as a young lad just after the break in period. All I had to do were an oil, and brake fluid change halfway, and a new rear tire (hot desert :) so it performed flawlessly. The 4 cylinder was so smooth. This new retro is so much lighter ( by 81 lbs ! ) Much of that weight on the C1 "custom" model KZ650 was the early generation mag wheels which were grossly heavy compared to today's versions.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fabulous video as ever Freddie and Monika...I love the looks of the Z650RS (particularly in that colour scheme!!) - I've not ridden one yet so I'll have to put that right. I'm wondering if you've ridden the Z900RS....I'm guessing not? I really love that bike too and I'm wondering how much quicker it feels over the 650 given it is quite a lot more money. The 650 looks pretty much the same as the 900, with those great retro clocks, fuel tank and so on....but then I do like me the 4 cylinder in the 900.....I dunno, decisions decisions!! So many great value bikes in this sector....

[@anthonyashby8898]

I agree, changed the Ninja 650 for the Z900RS. I can say it’s so much smoother and yes you do feel the 40bhp difference.

[@jefflambert8603]

I do hope you Get a Ride on the Z650 RS TMF... Would "On Yer Bike "westcott lend yoou a Demo Bike ? Its not going toCompete with the Power of the 900RS but its a Torquey Engine , Lightweight, sweet Handling Bike

[@gcosmos960]

The quality of the video is superb! What a review !!! I still prefer the Mg v7 but great effort from Kawasaki.

[@williamzeller294]

This video caught my attention as I was an owner of the original KZ650 B1, as it was called in the States, back in June 1977. The full purchase price with tax was $1745.00, incidentally. I ended up putting 80,000 miles on that bike with never a problem or broken part. Interestingly, it "replaced" my '67 BSA Royal Star twin as my all-purpose bike. Yet I kept the BSA and rode it until the '90s. It bears mention that my BSA, which did about 40,000 miles for me, was utterly reliable, a first-kick starter that served as a commuter and everything else. The new Z650 is indeed attractive and carries styling cues that are taken from the olden KZ, but a comparison is a bit of a stretch. The KZ was a large, four-cylinder bike that weighed some 500lbs, far larger and heavier than today's 435lb Z650. Since my wife is the (very) proud owner of a newer Ninja 650, very much the same bike as the Z650, I can make some direct comparisons. The new Z is indeed lighter and far more agile. Yet as a road bike, the KZ had the advantage of bulk and smoothness to make long trips possible. While I don't have my KZ to ride back-to- back with the Missus' Ninja, my strong recollection is that the older bike was much more relaxed at long highway-speed drones. The newer twin is vibey-er and more skittish by comparison. The seating on the KZ was better, too, with plenty of room for a passenger and a surprisingly good seat. As a passenger hauler, of course, the larger size gave plenty of room for two-up work. The current twin is indeed marginal for taking someone on the pillion. I do have to note that in real life, the Ninja gets right around 50mpg in US measure. Whatever the computer says, it isn't going to present a useful picture. Her 650 has a 4.1 gal US tank and refueling is normally at the 150 mile mark or so. Interestingly, the old KZ was only a little more thirsty, although that was based on the optimistic -speedo/odo. Accordingly, the 120+mph top speed I saw was likely more in the 110-115 range- it was a liar in that regard. So the Z650's styling is definitely a heartstring-grabber for this old-timer, but it's still a lightweight twin and not quite the full-sizer roadburner the KZ650 was.

[@davejohnson2051]

The backgrounds again are absolutly beautiful, Monika has an amazing eye for the spectacular, The pillion seat looks child size, Nice looking bike, Great video again Freddy.....Monika needs a pay rise for the quality of videos....fantastic photography

[@nickduffy8482]

Monica, I will have to watch that video again to listen to what Freddie was saying about the bike because I was so entranced by the beautiful videography that I was totally focused on the overall ‘scene’ rather than the detail. The clouds and sunlight around the 7.10 mark with the topiary hedges in the foreground was an absolute masterpiece, as were the scenes with all the boats in the background. You don’t need to like motorcycles to love these videos! Once again my Sunday morning has started perfectly thanks to this wonderful channel and two of my favourite people on the internet. Now let me start over to see what Freddie thought of the bike!

[@nickwilding5852]

Hi Nick. You echo my thoughts on the locations and quality of videography. For me also is another dimension, that I grew up in the Ipswich area during the 70’s and know the locations really very well. The hedges are at The Royal Hospital School, Holbrook and the boats at Woolverstone Marina. My first motorcycle was used to take me from home to go dinghy sailing on the River Orwell here. Now living in Asia Pacific, it’s great to reminisce about the great times we had as youngsters. Thank you Monica and Freddie.

[@charlietighe5533]

She really did a wonderful job.

[@nishiki7047]

Thankyou for such a positive review Freddie , I’ve just took my full license at 54 so I could take my partner on my Vespa 300GTS , I learnt on a Z650 and loved that bike ( I’m a short ass and it fitted me like a glove ) I’ve fallen in love with the RS , I’d like the extra power of the Honda CB650R , but this Kawasaki is just gorgeous !!!!!!!!

[@Dreddingbath]

Really like the way Freddie breaks down and appreciates (or not) the design elements. We get what he means by “British” bikes but of course their reliability has nothing to do with being “British”!

[@HoratioBlogs]

Monika, your photography and video work are exceptional.

[@SteveByerley]

Hello Mr. Dobbs, Just a compliment on your mastery of motorcycle reviews; and of course that appears to be from a tremendous amount of passion for motorcycles. I don't comment very often; but I just find your honest and completely thorough review extremely refreshing. Carry on my friend. Steve

[@Thunderous117]

My first motorcycle was an old rough around the edges 1981 Suzuki GS450e that I got back in the late 2010’s when I was 18, I rode it for a year and had to rebuild the engine on it. It was a mechanical mess with a rats nest of redone electrics but I must confess I really deeply miss throwing around a Japanese twin, they are light and handy and the weight is low, a real riders bike. I have a deep love for the styling of Japanese bikes of the early 80s and these Kawasaki’s have me longing for another summer nights ride into the sunset.

[@dummatube]

Yup, I bought a Yamaha XS 650 in 1972 and my BSA and Triumph mates said is was like silk in comparison and it was “the beginning of the end”. My boss wasn’t happy though as we were a Honda dealership😂

[@oyvi]

Always a pleasure waking up with a morning coffee and an amazing review from Freddie. Have a great Sunday ☕️👍

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thank you, you too!🙂

[@georgemcray]

19:45 The end of the video says it all. Thank you for being, as always, honest in your opinion in a discrete way of course.

[@pleun315]

Great video the bike is not retro enough imo , the only ones right now are the Guzzi V7 classic and the Kawasaki W 800 and the Royal Enfield family. Its time that the Japanese do a real proper job on making the ultimate late 60s and early 70s retro bike. It will be a huge banger ! Its time ! Keep it going i love your video's. Greetings from the Netherlands everyone ❤️

[@chrispekel5709]

It's not worth the 10's of millions in development cost for a whole new retro engine platform, as the company doesn't have that market. They all want to develop things that can be used across all their models now, and most bikes are modern looking

[@pleun315]

@@chrispekel5709 every new bike and almost every new model looks like any other bike that allready excist somewhere, its getting boring...... No...☝️it is boring. They are lazy as fak at the R & D departments, the whole market is not exciting anymore or as it used to be.

[@chrispekel5709]

@@pleun315 I agree! Has the passion gone for the people who make them, or is it the bean counters trying to run companies as cheaply as possible? I think it's both.

[@pleun315]

@@chrispekel5709 its all about the money as always... But with a little effort more even with bits and peaces from another model they can do it. A Honda CB with spoked wheels and some chrome fenders oooh my God, the old skool way, they did it ones and should do it again! But......The excitement is gone when you walk in a showroom, Lets be honest. A showroom should always be that one place you can walk in with a boner and come out with a boner... Its really not wurth it anymore... Its really sad...

[@littlefishy6316]

Finally a retro bike I'd actually buy. Thank you to the bike shop for lending the bike for review

[@dsambernardo]

Probably the best reviewers on the internet. Thanks Freddie and Monica

[@arremangalapuerca]

I saw it on red the other day and it is even better looking. Magnificient! I didn't ride it but had it between the legs and it felt weightless. So well balanced.

[@patrickvelasco6354]

I have a Kawasaki Z2 750 as a project bike and I really love how this Z650RS is put together.

[@ninja1970fin]

So lucky to own this bike💚many thanks Freddie

[@christophertyacke6019]

I used to have a 79 kz650sr and now I just bought my 22 z650rs. Next week I put the smile back on.

[@ravenfeather09]

One of the best-looking bikes imo, the only thing I would probably nitpick about this bike is the handlebar. I think a chrome handlebar suits it well.

[@rogersleash]

I briefly had a Z650 from 1978 and the mirrors on the bike you're showing are perfect!

[@amalconcentric898]

A very canny review bonny lad, however there is an all important and very real #3 in the demise of our bike industry. And that...was us. The 1970s workforce. Militant, left Wing and heavily unionised. Intent on pushing back against any attempts at streamlining or thinning out of dead wood. We were a huge nail in the coffin. I know. I was there. Keep it up.

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Lovely review and locations 👌🏼 For my money, a retro tank, dials and forks isn’t enough to make it a true modern classic, because the rest of it looks awful in my opinion. Still Triumph and Royal Enfield would get our vote, and we’ll have to see about BSA. Did you say that you’ve put a deposit down for a BSA?

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thanks! I do agree re Triumph and Enfield. I’m tempted by the BSA, but I need to get my hands on one for a few days🙂

[@PhilWare1]

I would say its in a different category to the Interceptor, as lots of owners buy them to mod and tinker with them, so the 2k saving is attractive. Good match up to the Triumph though

[@robertbrandywine]

As for your last comments, I think this bike, in this color, with that tail and all, would win me over looks-wise, even though the engine isn't at all traditional looking.

[@anthonysherry2628]

Hi from NZ. I used to own 2 original Z650's. They were good bikes then. I moved up to Z1R. I owned 2 of those. One had been modded, bored out to1105cc, Yoshimura 4 into 1. The other was stock. Before that, i owned a couple of triples, S2a, and H1. Should have kept them. I am thinking of getting one of these.

[@BirdArvid]

So happy you like driving it because in my opinion, it is the best looking neo-retro/retro-bike in its price-class. I want one.. I rode one during Kawasaki's dealer-tour this summer and loved it.. sigh!

[@arenalife]

Lovely video and shooting, thanks very much. The impressions don't surprise me at all, I had an ER6 when they came out and it was far from a 'commuter' bike. It was very light and quick, ahead of it's time when the other bikes were all quite tubby and overweight. They managed to make it look a bit better in that Vulcan cruiser that uses it at the moment

[@nevadawolf619]

I love that color! 😍 I like that you give a back story and provide some history into your reviews. I find it makes your reviews much more interesting to watch and listen to. Not 'just the facts:" Otherwise anyone could just look up the manufacturer's specifications, which wouldn't do much good to me because I am new to motorcycles. I wouldn't know or understand all of that technical mumbo jumbo.

[@davideloi9176]

So beautiful it's emotionally moving

[@JKaymitBindestrich]

My fiancee owns the Z650RS and after several rides I can say it's a great bike. I ride the Z900RS and would buy the Z650RS as a second bike.

[@filoIII]

I really do LOVE it not having all the doodads. I have a Versys '09, and that thing REALLY straightens the curves.

[@ogasi1798]

It's. Simply. Beautiful. What a looker !

[@lindagoodchild4062]

Another great review and enjoying the views on the peninsula again.

[@nickwilding5852]

Great video again Freddie and Monica…..you always manage to make the most of the beautiful Suffolk countryside.

[@russelllocke7180]

G’day to you there in merry old England Freddie. From an Aussie subscriber in Tasmania, 44 degrees south. 🐧 Love your work & Monicas laughs & comments from behind the camera. PS Get we’ll soon Monica.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Oh wow- Tasmania!! Thank you Russell- sending all my best to you all the way over there👋🙂

[@lackoliver55]

Great review as always Sir Fred. I do agree with you on the styling. It's silhouette definitely tells you what the bike is going for, retro, only when ingested on a quick passing glance. But further examination is ostensibly modern. Though not markably different, the Z900RS has a slightly different engine/chassis design complete with faux machined air-cooling fins on the engine adding just a tad bit more retro aesthetic. The 900 is what brought me to this model, and was confused at first when you brought up this engine, only to notice the difference. Why would they forgo such a small, but effective, addition to creating the nostalgic styling we assume they aimed for? Would love to see you on a Z900RS! Keep up the great videos. Cheers to you and Monika!

[@danmataleon]

I am considering to buy it, here in my country it is offered with a great disccount (-5K USD for a 2022 model, 0 km), but i guess you there in europe don't have to deal with the massive "speed reductors" and potholes we have here en south america, so the only weak point I notice on this gorgeous motorcycle is the lowest ground clearance. Nice video btw, cheers from Peru

[@alexanderfaust4192]

Convinced my father who is retiring this year, and hasn't owned a bike since the 80's (Honda Interceptor), to buy another one. He's only been talking about it my whole life. We found all of TWO of the emerald green available new close enough to us in the United States. We drove almost 8 hours to get it. He's very very happy now. Absolutely stunning bike. By far the best looking retro naked out there.

[@bluefoam]

Good observations... I'd say the Kawasaki is a great retro for someone coming from a sportsbike... Something like the Moto Guzzi is better if you want to personalize it or make it your own. It is a trade off, authenticity or performance. I chose authenticity 😃

[@cchimozmin]

In a sense, the Kawasaki is authentic because it’s not pretending to be old. I think it looks really gorgeous in those colours too. (Biased as I’m Irish). Unpretentious. 😊

[@bluefoam]

@@cchimozmin Irish, or American with Irish heritage?

[@cchimozmin]

@@bluefoam ha! Have passport living and born in England. First generation. But I get your point 😜

[@alexpryce555]

if this was an inline 4, or a 270 degree twin, it would be much more popular, i'd even consider one. i just cant get over the 180 degree sound unfortunately! great review freddie.

[@jefflambert8603]

Honestly once its on the move Its got a Great Bark from the Engine It comes up from the Airbox More than you Hear from the Exhaust.

[@stevewelebny2749]

You need to ride it to know what it sounds like.

[@ericweber1969]

Outstanding video, Freddie. Really enjoyed this one, so happy to hear Kawasaki nailed this bike. Brilliant!

[@1234567marks]

I’ve ridden the 900rs and was unimpressed, no feel from the front wheel and not torquey enough low down, I then rode the 650rs, loved it!, handling as Freddie said is great, it’s light and flickable, just a joy to ride, bad points for me we’re the exhaust note on tick over (sounds like a 125 single), exhaust note higher up the revs is good though, and the top yoke an handlebars look really cheap and nasty, which is a shame because you see them whilst riding, all in all though a great little bike. Freddie for Christs sake learn to pull off!, all that paddling looks very amateurish 😂, let the clutch out quicker and get your feet straight onto the pegs!

[@oblahdes]

You seem to make every bike desirable for unique reasons. Again great videography. Sorry Monika I do like the gold combo.

[@martinzimmermann2284]

Again a good video of you. With a really nice motorcycle. I showed The Motorcycle to My Wife and she liked it immediately. She wants to get the driver's license for the motorcycle next year and the Kawasaki is on the shortlist.

[@IdeaStudioBKK]

This is a grogous bike, I've given it some thought myself. I really enjoy your one shot description and review sections these videos.

[@jasonadams5187]

Awesome video and awesome content can’t wait for the next video Thank’s Freddie and Monika

[@estern001]

Good job, Monica! The picture is wonderful. Thank you!

[@Ikoleb]

Lo verdaderamente bueno de este canal es que en sus pruebas transmite muchas sensaciones y pocos datos técnicos. Realmente es lo que creo que quieren encontrar las personas que buscan contenido de motos; saber cómo se siente el probador en ella. No si tiene discos de 320mm o de 270mm ya que eso se encuentra en cualquier sitio. Me encanta este canal¡ 👍 By the way, esa kawa va a ser mi primera moto a mis 50 años 😇

[@jayryan7473]

Great video! The motor is nearly identical to the Vulcan S. I have the S and it's a quick, nimble bike. Considering the Z650RS is 80 lb lighter (similar weight to the Ninja) I bet it would be a blast to ride. Excellent paint scheme on yours. And I agree the exhaust tone is perfect!

[@Jagshemasher]

I would love to see Kawasaki do a 4 cylinder 650 like the original. I love the Z900RS . . . my dream garage would have T100, Speed Twin (1200), T120, T100 (a bit lighter than a T120), Street Triple, Z900RS/RS-SE . . . . .this would be on top of the Ninja 400 and FJR1300 that my son and myself currently own. BMW's . . . .maybe a 1250GS but I've owned BMW cars and I don't want any more money pits. I love your reviews because you are not a spec sheet warrior. Your reviews are from the heart . . . . based on what you "feel" about the bikes. It is very refreshing.

[@Bob-us9di]

I was just about to say '...but what about that monstrous carbuncle under the tank' when you did a Meatloaf on me ('You took the words right out of my mouth'). What it really needs is several square metres of ugly, pointed, plastic fairing (with distracting decals) to hide the carbuncle. So I'm left to carp about the grey and green plastic , the downpipes and the visuals of the silencer. An excellent balanced review, as always!

[@flow5718]

Of course it handles great since the frame is borrowed from the Z650 naked and the Versys ADV. I wouldn't sacrifice that for more classic retro looks, for me personally I'd go for the interceptor if I wanted a more laid back modern classic and the Kawasaki for the handling and the neo retro look. Totally different goals I'd say.

[@kevinshaffer1047]

I was always having to adjust the tappets on my 79 Bonneville..but..being in the US Navy and being transferred several times..I could take my Bonne apart. put it in 4 boxes, ship it with my household effects, put it back together again in 1 day...and ride it into work the next day..there are not very many bikes you could do that with..lol....excellent review my friend..but am sticking with my brit bike..lol...

[@sebastianriedel8627]

That thing with some nice looking upside down forks and a crossplane inline 2 would be awesome. Love the green

[@marcusbetteridge764]

Remember the old british bike adage,if its not leaking oil,its run out.

[@rafaeltavares6928]

Underrated comment 💀

[@goglossy3939]

😂

[@jefflambert8603]

at Last! You really Have summed up The Virtues of this Parellel Twin ( I have the Z650) yes Just 67 bhp But that Trellis Frame moved the game on From. The Original ER6 Its when its on the Move the Growl Comes up from the Airbox.🎶 Purists will say why not a Four Cylinder Engine Like the B1 of the 70s? Well , Cost , weight, Handling,! Its just a Great Fun good Value Bike

[@FreddieDobbs]

Totally agreed Jeff- we’ll said!🙂🎶🎶

[@michaelkruck-weimuller31]

Monica, thanks for another great video. I loved the shots with the sailing boat in the background and the canopy of the tree. Who of you two gets to choose the fantastic locations? KUDOS!

[@SPSteve]

Yamaha should take notice of this bike. The fantastic Yamaha XS 650 from the 70's should be brought back in a package similar to this beautifully styled 650RS.

[@Dog_in_tree]

You've sold me on it. My local dealer gas the 50th anniversary edition on sale, and I think I'll get that one.

[@lupia4]

So glad I found your channel. You guys are top shelf on the content and production values. All the best to you!

[@johnlenart597]

Probably not a good 2 up ride but as a 1 upper, it's just fine. Love the color combo and retro looking.

[@gregoryhicks2463]

Hi Freddie...I bought this in USA (Post Falls Power Sports) Idaho and absolutely Love It. Great Review 👍

[@tigerick7291]

Great review and fantastic camera work and picture quality.👍

[@peteeldridge1783]

I guess times have moved on as the 650/4 was a dream bike. As a returning biker in 2008 I acquired a K650 and it was lovely….should have kept it.

[@tenpercentfordabigguy8550]

I bought the Z! which is an amazing bike . The 650 looks just as impressive.

[@ThisIsBarcode]

Refreshing review with so many others harping on about how the engine should have been inline four. Think it offers a great blend of retro looks and useable performance all with that Kawasaki reliability. Great review Freddie. Time to review some Husqvarnas.

[@alandmorley]

The best review of this bike on the internet. What are your views on why Kawasaki did NOT use the engine from the Kawasaki Vulcan 650. The RS would have looked a lot better in my opinion with engine cooling fins even if they are false. Keep up the good work.