A smaller Z900 RS

In 2016, Kawasaki introduced the Z650, along with the Ninja 650, to replace the aging ER-6 series. It was a huge hit of course, not only here in the Philippines but also in many parts of the globe. 5 years later, the Z650 receives a refresh, this time taking it back to the 1970s.

Like what the Z900 RS is to the Z900 naked bike, the new Z650 RS is a stripped-down version of the Z650 and Ninja 650. It's stripped down in the sense that the plastic fairing and striking lines are swapped for more retro-styled components inspired by Kawasaki’s 1976 Z650. They call this the Universal Japanese Motorcycle (UJM) look as it features a more upright riding position and simpler design akin to a motorcycle designed for universal (daily, sport, leisure) use .

Though the 70s-era Z650 sports an inline four-cylinder block, the 2022-onwards Z650RS is powered by the same parallel-twin 649cc engine of the Z650 and Ninja 650 with a claimed output of 69 Ps and about 66 Nm of torque.

The Z650RS also shares the same trellis frame, as well as the horizontally-linked front shock of the Ninja 650 and Z650.

The new Z650 RS will be available in three colors with the price starting at USD 10,350 or roughly PHP 527,311. Kawasaki PH has yet to announce of it will be offered in the country.

650 kawasaki retro z650rs