Kawasaki Z 650 50th Anniversary

Kawasaki’s legacy of creating motorcycles that have unrivaled performance, excitement, and unmatched styling continues by welcoming four new special anniversary models  to its 2022 motorcycle lineup with the Z 50th Anniversary Z900, Z650 Z900RS and Z650RS.

As the last letter in the alphabet, Z represents the ultimate – the reason why the legendary Kawasaki super4 900 was nicknamed the Z1 in 1972. Since then, the Z moniker has been inherited by several models in Kawasaki’s lineup that have been developed to stand out as the ultimate machines in their respective categories. Fast forward to 2014 and the next step in Z supernaked performance and design was taken with Sugomi styling incorporated into the Z1000. The Kawasaki Z family of motorcycles has grown into one of Kawasaki’s core motorcycle brands.

For 2022, the Z 50th Anniversary editions of the supernaked Z900 and Z650 can be found adorned in a “Firecracker Red” paint scheme, similar to that found on the dominant 1981 Z1100GP that pushed the limits of air-cooled high performance. The Z brand’s 50-year pursuit of the ultimate riding excitement, passed from generation to generation, now vividly adorns these Z supernaked models.

For the Z 50th Anniversary editions of the Z900RS and Z650RS, the iconic “Fireball” colorway of the 1972 Z1 was chosen. With elegant curves resplendent in the lustrous, rich red of the famous Fireball pattern, Z's glorious past and brilliant future shines for all to see. An exquisite milestone to mark half a century of Z history.

Limited production will apply to each of these unique models and a special coffee table book commemorating the 50 years of the Z brand will be included as a premium gift for each customer who purchases a Z 50th Anniversary Edition model.

Z 50th ANNIVERSARY Z900 AND Z650

Z 50th Anniversary editions of the Z900 and Z650 supernakeds are clad in an eye-catching “Firecracker Red” that was found on dominant Kawasaki machines like the Z1100GP. This hue of red was Kawasaki’s signature color in the 1980s, and for these Z 50th Anniversary models, was specially blended, making their aggressive supernaked Z styling even more striking. Dark blue and silver highlights throughout complement the vivid red color and a gloss black frame contrasts the bright coloring. The Z emblem and Kawasaki logo are finished in gold and a commemorative Z 50th Anniversary logo has been added to the front fender, further distinguishing these models from their
standard counterparts. The red wheels feature silver pinstripes, adding to the head turning styling and special seat that has a texture distinct from the standard model. Gold outer fork tubes can also be found on the Z 50th Anniversary Z900, providing a high-class touch.

Z 50th ANNIVERSARY Z900RS AND Z650RS

Reigniting the classic style of the original Z1 900 motorcycle, the Kawasaki Z 50th Anniversary Z900RS and Z650RS retro-sport motorcycles feature a “Fireball” colorway that honors the legendary Z1 and pursues the quality suitable for a 50-year milestone. A special painting process was developed specifically for these Z 50th anniversary models, which includes the candy colors being applied in layers using a special technique that brings out a deep, glossy texture to enhance the inherent beauty of these retro-sport models. The frame is finished in gloss black to complement the rich coloring, and gold colored wheels add to the old school retro styling. Additional special features found on these models include “Double Overhead Camshaft” side cover emblems like that found on the original Z1, a commemorative Z 50th Anniversary tank logo, revised seat material with a distinct texture and special color stitching, and a chrome grab bar.

Adding to the Z 50th Anniversary Z900RS’ design are timeless design elements with minimal bodywork and no fairing for a pure retro-style look.

ENGINE

Compact 649cc Twin-Cylinder, DOHC Engine

- Tuned to deliver strong, smooth and responsive power, especially in the low-to-mid-range, for rider-friendly power characteristics that facilitate control and inspire confidence over a wide range of riding conditions.
- Camshafts have short operating angle and valve overlap for optimum performance in the low-to-mid-range.
- Optimized intake port shape also helps boost low and mid-range response and performance.
- Slim airbox contributes to low and mid-range power feeling and contributes to the overall slim design of the bike.
- Exhaust system has a short header to boost top-end power while the sleek muffler’s internal construction enhances low-to-mid-range power delivery.
- Muffler is mounted below the engine to help lower the center of gravity and aid weight centralization.
- Kawasaki Air Management System(KP) (KAMS) radiator fan cover helps direct hot engine air down to the ground and away from the rider.
- Compact parallel twin engine helps reduce the dimensions of the entire motorcycle to keep it small and nimble.
- Triangular crank and transmission shaft layout makes the engine very short from front to back, a semi-dry sump(KP) oil system reduces overall engine height, while the narrow pitch of the chrome composite(KP) plated aluminum cylinders helps reduce engine width.
- 180-degree crankshaft plus balancer shaft for extremely smooth engine operation.
- Oil jets in the connecting rod big ends spray oil on the undersides of the pistons to aid cooling.

Digital Fuel Injection(KP)

- 36mm Keihin throttle bodies contribute to the strong low-to-mid-range power and feature dual throttle valves(KP) for optimum performance and rideability. The sub throttles, located behind the main throttle valves, are controlled by the ECU so that the DFI® system has precise throttle response.
- Precise fuel delivery through the fine atomizing injectors plus exhaust catalyzer significantly reduce emissions.
- Automatic fast idle system makes starting and warm-up easy.

Assist & Slipper Clutch

- Using the rotational forces of the clutch hub and pressure plate, the clutch is forced together during acceleration (Assist function) so that fewer and lighter clutch springs can be used for a lighter feel at the lever. During high back-torque, such as when too low of gear is selected, the Slipper function allows some clutch slippage to help prevent engine lock-up and stalling, and rear-wheel hop.

6-Speed Transmission

- Cassette-style transmission puts the transmission shafts and shift drum into a compact layout which helps reduce overall engine size.
- Positive Neutral Finder is a Kawasaki exclusive user-friendly feature that allows the rider to easily shift from first gear and only into neutral when the bike is at stop.

CHASSIS

Frame

- High-tensile steel trellis frame has optimized dimensions and wall thicknesses to reduce frame weight and contribute to extremely light handling.
- Frame components are arranged so that the lines of the frame are as straight as possible. When bends were necessary their angles were as small as possible, resulting in a design that disperses stress extremely well.
- Three-point, rigidly mounted engine and footpeg stays are used as stressed members to further contribute to weight reduction.

Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension

- The linkage is placed atop the swingarm and helps make room for the under-engine muffler for better mass centralization.
- Rear shock is further away from the exhaust so that its operation will not be affected by exhaust heat.
- Gull-wing swingarm also allows clearance for the muffler while contributing to light, natural handling.

Triple Petal Design Brake Discs

- Nissin brake calipers have a sporty image and contain front and rear brake specific pads; the front providing strong initial bite and the rear offering optimum control and high overall brake force.
- Front brake calipers have large 27mm pistons for excellent brake feel.
- Petal design offers improved cooling and warp resistance.

ERGONOMICS

Wheels and Tires

- Sporty five-spoke wheel design helps provide a light, nimble appearance.
- Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires contribute to light handling.

Streetfighter Cockpit

- Slightly-forward handlebar position provides sport riding potential.
- Low, forward footpeg placement helps keep the rider’s knees open for increased comfort and ease of operation.
- The fuel tank is positioned relatively low on the chassis and its slim design helps riders to reach the ground and inspire confidence. A resin design fuel cap eliminates the presence of mounting bolts for a more stylish design.
- The seat is slim at the front to further facilitate the rider’s reach to the ground.
- Rubber-mounted handlebar reduces vibration.
- Five-way adjustable brake and clutch levers accommodate a variety of hand sizes for increased comfort.

Strong Sugomi Styling

A sharp, compact cowl and muscular looking radiator shrouds give the Z650 a strong sugomi presence. Sugomi describes the intense aura or energy given off by a person or object of greatness and felt by the viewer. Someone, or something, possessing sugomi inspires awe, leaves an indelible impression, is daunting in stature or ability, and commands respect.

- A compact LED headlight is complemented by a centrally located LED position lamp. Sharp edges emphasize the design of the headlight.
- Sharp, compact cowl has a distinct two-piece design that positions the colored pieces high to create a light appearance. The sharp chin spoiler, meter cover and forward-slanting lines of the cowl contribute to the sugomi design.
- Wide radiator shrouds provide the impression of muscular shoulders, adding to the Z650’s fierce appearance, while their functional design adds to the sharp looks.
- Sharp front fender design and compact, upswept tail cowl contribute to the dynamic, sporty image.
- LED taillight lights up in a Z shape.

TFT Color Instrumentation

- All-digital 4.3-inch TFT (thin-film transistor) color instrumentation gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance.
- TFT delivers a high level of visibility. The screen’s background color is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light.
- Display functions include: digital speedometer, digital bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, shift lamp, fuel gauge, odometer, dual trip meters, current and average fuel consumption, remaining range, average speed, total time, coolant temperature, clock, battery voltage, Kawasaki service reminder, oil change reminder and the Kawasaki Economical Riding Indicator.
- Bluetooth chip allows connection to smartphone and RIDEOLOGY THE APP.

RIDEOLOGY THE APP Smartphone Connectivity
- A Bluetooth® chip built into the instrument panel enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP,” a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.

Available functions:

– Vehicle Info: information such as fuel level, mileage, maintenance schedule, etc can be viewed via the smartphone.

– Riding Log: GPS route information as well as vehicle running information can be logged and viewed via the smartphone.

– Telephone notices: when a call or mail is received by the smartphone, it is indicated on the instrument display.

– General Settings: general instrument display settings (such as preferred units, date, date format, etc) can be adjusted via the smartphone.

Once vehicle information has been downloaded to the app, it can be viewed on the smartphone. Available information includes: mileage, trip A, trip B, fuel level, remaining range, average gas mileage, average speed, max lean angle (right/left), battery voltage, Kawasaki service reminder, oil change reminder, etc.

Detailed riding logs including GPS information and vehicle running information can be recorded. While riding, the app tracks vehicle speed, rpm, gear position, throttle position, front brake fluid pressure, acceleration/deceleration, current mileage, and coolant temperature from moment to moment. Once the riding log has been paired, riders can review these items in a graphic-style display at any point along the route. The app can also display a ride summary, with information that may include: route travelled, total distance, total time, gas mileage (best/average), speed (best/average), max lean angle (right/left), etc. For either display mode, riders can select which items are displayed, and can arrange them in their preferred order.

When riding with the app ON the bike and smartphone are always connected. When the engine is turned off, the latest riding information stored by the app may be viewed on the smartphone. Any vehicle setting changes made via the app while the engine is off, or while out of range, will be uploaded when the ignition is turned on and the smartphone is in range with the app ON. General settings can only be updated via the app when the bike and smartphone are connected.