EXCLUSIVE: Kawasaki’s 650cc Retro Bike Is India-bound

According to our sources, the Kawasaki Z650RS will likely be launched in India in November. Unlike the Kawasaki Z900RS, this motorcycle will enter our shores via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route, allowing it to be priced competitively, probably around Rs 7.50 lakh (on-road).

The Kawasaki Z650RS was teased last month, and the specifications were leaked recently. The motorcycle is likely to look similar to the Kawasaki Z900RS. The teaser partly reveals a twin-pod instrument cluster, which is likely to have a digital inset. The circular rear-view mirror is similar to the one on the Z900RS. Expect the ergonomics to be upright, and comfortable enough for both commuting and touring.

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The Kawasaki Z650RS will share its powertrain and underpinnings with the Z650. Its 649cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine will produce 68.25PS and 64Nm, enabling the bike to reach a claimed top speed of 191kmph, which is more than enough for our Indian roads.

This will be Kawasaki’s only neo-retro offering after the Kawasaki W800, which is a proper retro motorcycle. By bringing this motorcycle via the CKD route, the Z650RS will have a much better chance to fare well in the market compared to the then-obnoxiously priced (and now-discontinued) Z900RS. And if Kawasaki nails the pricing, it will be a more affordable choice over the four-cylinder Honda CB650R. On the other hand, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 will still have an edge over the Z650RS in terms of pricing as it is the most affordable 650cc motorcycle in the country.

Images used are for representation.