India-bound 2017 Kawasaki Z650 and Ninja 650 launched in Malaysia

Kawasaki has launched the 2017 Z650 and the Ninja 650 in Malaysia, priced at RM 35,609 (Rs 5.25 lakh) and RM 37,189 (Rs 5.49 lakh) respectively. These bikes are expected to go on sale in India in the next couple of months.

While their predecessors took a conservative approach, the new Z650 and the Ninja 650 have been given a design overhaul for more sporty appeal. Based on a revised platform, the Z650 and Ninja 650 have managed to shed 19kg compared to their predecessors. They now feature a redesigned swingarm with a centrally-mounted monoshock in place of the older bike’s offset unit. Powering the Z650 and the Ninja 650 is a 649cc parallel-twin engine delivering 66bhp and 65Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch. The brake setup consists of dual 300mm discs up front and a single 220mm disc at the rear. ABS is standard.

Both the Z650 and Ninja 650 will be locally assembled at the company’s facility in Pune. The Z650 is the successor to the ER-6n. With the launch of the Z650 on the cards, the company has started offering discounts on the existing stock.