Kawasaki has shown its 2023 Z650 and Ninja 650 for the first time, with visual and technical updates on both bikes. Show
As with many of its other bikes for 2023, Kawasaki is introducing new colours to its Z650 and Ninja 650. The Z650 will be available in “Metallic Matte Grey/Ebony Black”, “Metallic Phantom Silver/Metallic Carbon Grey”, and “Black Metallic Spark/Black Metallic Flat Spark” according to the Kawasaki France website. On the other hand, the Ninja 650 will be available in “Lime Green/Ebony Black” and “Metallic Matte Grey/Ebony Black”. Both bikes maintain the same steel tubular frame as before, and the performance is much the same as previous years. However, for 2023 Kawasaki’s Ninja and Z650 will be available with KTRC, Kawasaki’s traction control system, for the first time. The system is able to be turned off, of course, but its inclusion in Kawasaki’s top-end A2-eligible bikes is a good step for their accessibility and safety. The step up from a Z400 to a Z650, for example, might be more approachable now with the electronic aids. At the same time, for those with more experience and confidence the system can be dialled back for a freer, more fulfilling riding experience. In addition to the KTRC electronics, Kawasaki has fully integrated the Z650 and Ninja 650 with LED lighting for 2023, including the indicators, which should be a step up for the bikes’ visibility in low light conditions. Both bikes have their prices dependent on colour choice, but the Z650 starts from €7,799 (around £6,750 at time of writing), and the Ninja 650 from €8,399 (around £7,250 at time of writing). Kawasaki Ninja 650 Review First Ride | Visordown Motorcycle ReviewsJul 05, 2022 at 10:18am ET It’s July, 2022—and you know what that means? While some 2023 models have started trickling out, this is typically the time of year the news starts in earnest. For anyone who’s been watching it for more than a season or two, you’ve probably noticed that new model announcements tend to come in waves. First, there are the paint-and-tape specials to pave the way. Next come the new models that have more than just a new year and coat of paint applied. Typically, they roll out a bit like concert billings: smaller acts (minor changes, in this case) go first, leading up to whatever the year’s Big News may be from a given OEM. So, what’s Kawasaki cooking up? A careful reading of California Air Resources Board documents lends credence to the idea that an updated Ninja 650 and Z650 are on their way for 2023. The fine folks at Motorcycle.com dug deep, and discovered that the 2023 Ninja 650, Z650, and Versys 650 will now all share an engine. Although the trio shared a displacement before, the Versys 650 recently had an engine update on its own—and now, it looks as though the Ninja and Z are all about to sing in tune. More Kawasaki: What other changes can we expect? It seems likely that the Ninja 650 and Z650 will get the same traction control already found on the Versys 650. It’s not clear how much else (besides the obvious paint and graphics) will substantially change, though. This seems like a relatively minor package of changes, rather than an entirely new engine. Although the past few years forced OEMs to quickly adapt to different ways of unveiling new models to the
world, shows like EICMA,
Intermot, and the
Tokyo Mobility Show are now very much back on the table. It’s not clear at this point exactly when and where Kawasaki plans to unveil these updates, only that they’re in the hopper and on their way
sometime this fall. The new additions come at a nominal price hike
The Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Z650 are two very popular motorcycles in their segments, and things have gotten even better for 2023. Both motorcycles have received a couple of updates and new colors which give them an edge over their rivals like Yamaha R7 and MT-07. 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 And Z650 - What’s New? The most noteworthy update for both motorcycles is the addition of a two-level traction control system (KTRC). Level 1 is less sensitive and lets you enjoy the grunt till the tire says no more, while the second level is targeted for low-grip conditions such as rain, slush, or dirt. You also have the option to switch it off completely, something track fanatics will appreciate. In addition, both motorcycles now boast all-LED illumination (LED indicators being the fresh addition) which accompanies the likable crisp Bluetooth-equipped TFT instrument cluster.
A Kawasaki model year update won’t be complete without new color options, and the case is no different here. The 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 is offered in two new colors - Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray and Lime Green. The latter wraps the motorcycle in a sinister dark grey shade while the former is Kawasaki’s new rendition of its KRT livery, similar to the 2023 Ninja 400. The 2023 Z650, meanwhile, gains three new colors, and here’s what all you get: - Metallic Spark Black (black body with red accents and red pinstripes)- Metallic Phantom Silver (silver body with red frame and red alloys)- Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray (matte grey body with green frame) 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 And Z650 - What’s Unchanged? The Ninja 650 and Z650 carry forward the same 649cc, twin-cylinder engine (with 67 horsepower and 64Nm) we’re accustomed to seeing on Kawasaki 650s. Similarly, the suspension (telescopic forks and monoshock), as well as the brakes (two front discs and a rear disc), are the same as before too. 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 And Z650 - Price
The 2023 models of the Ninja 650 and Z650 have received a minor ~400 Euro price hike in Europe, which is pretty justified given the updates. We can expect a similar hike when the two motorcycles set foot in America. For reference, the Ninja 650 currently starts from $7,899 while the Z650 begins at $7,549, and even after getting a $400-$500 hike, the motorcycles will continue to be epic value for the money. What is Kawasaki releasing for 2023?Kawasaki is very excited to announce the launch of additional 2023 motorcycle models including the all-new KLX®230 SM, the new KLX®230 and KLX®230 S, the new KLR®650 S, and the updated Ninja®650 and Z650 motorcycles.
Will there be a 2023 Ninja H2?2023 Kawasaki Ninja H2 • $31,500
The Ninja H2® motorcycles bring the mind-bending power of Kawasaki's supercharged hypersport racer to the street. Boasting a powerful 998cc inline four-cylinder engine, state-of-the-art electronics, and the latest Brembo® brakes, the Ninja H2 amount to pure performance on the road.
Will there be a 2023 Ninja 400?For 2023, the Ninja 400 and the Ninja 400 ABS are available in Metallic Carbon Gray / Metallic Matte Carbon Gray, Pearl Blizzard White / Metallic Carbon Gray, and Metallic Magnetic Dark Gray / Metallic Matte Twilight Blue. MSRP for the non-ABS models starts at $5,299. MSRP for the ABS models starts at $5,699.
What is Yamaha's equivalent to the Ninja 650?Yamaha YZF-R7 vs Ninja 650 on the Dyno
Claimed power and torque for both machines are in the same ballpark with the Yamaha YZF-R7 coming out on paper on top. That means 74.8 horsepower at 8800 rpm and claimed torque of 50 ft/lb delivered at 6500 rpm.
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