2020 Kawasaki Z650 India launch: What to expect?

Kawasaki is all set to introduce the 2020 edition of its middle-weight naked street bike, the Z650, in India. The motorcycle is expected to be launched around January 2020 in the country. While we wait for the new version to enter our shores, we tell you what to expect from the new Z650.

Refreshed styling

Kawasaki has bestowed the 2020 Z650 with new styling which essentially includes a redesigned front end. The headlamp unit now looks more aggressive, thanks to the sharper contours around its bikini fairing. This blends well with the beefier fuel tank extensions while the rest of styling remains unchanged, boasting of the same butch-looking design theme. 

BS6-compliant powerplant

While the motorcycle continues to be powered by a 649cc, twin-cylinder motor, the engine is now compliant with BS6 emission norms. The changes executed for BS6 compliance has resulted in a slightly drop in its torque figure which now stands at 64Nm, as opposed to 65.7Nm from its predecessor. Meanwhile, the power figure remains unchanged at 67bhp. The engine comes mated to a six-speed gearbox. 

Elongated feature list

The Japanese bike maker has now introduced LED headlamp in the Z650. Another major inclusion is a new Bluetooth-enabled 4.3-inch full-colour TFT screen. This display connects with the rider’s smartphone through ‘Rideology’ app and shows ample of information about the motorcycle. It also has various theme customization options along with automatic brightness adjustment feature. Furthermore, the new Z650 gets more comfortable seat and the previous Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 tyres have been replaced by Sportmax RoadSport 2 rubbers for an enhanced grip and performance. 

Price hike

Owing to the BS6 update and other new features, the 2020 Z650 will attract a heavy premium of around Rs 55,000-80,000 over its BS4 counterpart. While the latter currently retails at Rs 5.69 lakhs, the former will be priced in the ballpark of Rs 6.25-6.50 lakhs. (All prices are ex-showroom)