The new 2026 Kawasaki Z650 S ABS redefines urban agility with an unmistakable presence. Light, nimble, and highly responsive, it cruises city streets with ease while projecting a bold statement: this is my playground. Retaining the compact, balanced ride feel that Z riders have come to expect, the Z650 S now features broader shrouds,
a wider handlebar, and redesigned bodywork that give it a muscular, aggressive edge.
Beneath the sleek, sugomi-inspired styling, the Z650 S ABS houses a 649cc parallel-twin engine that delivers strong low- to mid-range torque and linear power delivery. The superb chassis feedback, combined with its lightweight nature, offers intuitive handling in the city and confidence-inspiring performance on open back roads. Whether leaning into corners or cruising through traffic, the Z650 S ABS delivers rider-friendly manoeuvrability and everyday versatility, making it as practical as it is thrilling.
Technology and connectivity further elevate the riding experience. Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) keeps riders reassured, while the Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), available as an accessory, adds sportier engagement. A full TFT color display with a refreshed layout keeps essential information visible at a glance, while smartphone integration enhances the Z650 S ABS cockpit with real-time convenience and connectivity. With its combination of performance, cutting-edge technology, and aggressive new styling, the Z650 S ABS transforms the street into your personal playground.
KAWASAKI Z650 S ABS HIGHLIGHTS:
● NEW muscular SUGOMI styling strengthens the Z family image
● Parallel-twin 649cc engine
● NEW Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC)
● NEW Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), accessory option
● NEW 4.3” full color TFT instrumentation
● NEW Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE*
● NEW forward-leaning riding position
STYLING:
The new Z650 S ABS features styling designed for riders who want to make the street their
playground, and its aggressive new design reflects that intent. Bold bodywork combines colored, design-enhancing parts on the upper sections with black, functional lower components, creating a minimalist, dynamic impression that emphasizes the bike’s sugomi presence. Wider, tough-looking shrouds give the rider the impression of a larger, more commanding machine, while shared Z family elements, including metallic accents and LED lighting front and rear, reinforce a high-quality, cohesive look. The overall effect is a muscular, modern aesthetic that perfectly complements the Z650 S ABS’ sporty performance and invites riders to be seen on it.
At the front, styling is sharp and purposeful. A compact headlight cowl with an aggressive slant sits low on the bike, following the lines from the top of the fuel tank. The triple LED headlight setup, with dual upper low beams and a single lower high beam, delivers excellent lighting while sharing design cues with other Z models. Colored panels surrounding the deep-set headlights enhance the bike’s compact appearance, while a sharp, tight meter cover and widened fat-type handlebar reinforce the aggressive Z styling and suggest control and confidence at a glance. Even the front fender, with holes cut into its sides, contributes to the edgy, street-ready image.
Layered shrouds with colored panels create a sense of depth, giving riders the impression of a larger, more commanding machine. The sculpted side profile complements the wider handlebar and evokes a rugged, wild character, while the compact, upswept tail features a layered design and LED taillight shared with other Z models. Aluminum side covers, black resin heel guards, and carefully designed rider footpeg stays create a stylish, mechanical aesthetic, while the hexagonal pattern on the upper side covers under the seat and smooth treatment on the lower rear provide contrast and a contemporary feel. Attention to detail, such as clean welding lines, hidden wiring, and a bolt-free resin fuel cap, adds to the premium quality and reinforces the high standards of the Z family.
Practicality is also integrated seamlessly into the design. Luggage hooks are built into the
passenger footpeg stays, the inner fender incorporates part of the chain guard to keep the underside of the tail clean, and an internal-cut key enhances theft deterrence. Even small details, like the granular-style seat material, contribute to the modern aesthetic while providing comfort and style. Every element of the Z650 S ABS’ styling was designed to enhance both its visual impact and rider experience, making it a striking presence on the street while remaining unmistakably part of the Z family.
ENGINE:
The 2026 Kawasaki Z650 S ABS is powered by a 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that delivers a quick-revving character and a powerful throttle response. Designed with everyday riding in mind, the engine emphasises strong low- to mid-range torque, offering precise control for subtle throttle adjustments and a gratifying surge of acceleration at lower rpm. Performance is optimized across the mid-range (3,000–6,000 rpm), while power delivery remains smooth below 3,000 rpm and continues seamlessly above 6,000 rpm, ensuring confidence-inspiring responsiveness whether navigating city streets, cornering on twisty roads, or enjoying spirited open-road riding. Slim air intake funnels, 36mm throttle bodies with sub-throttles, and fine-atomizing injectors producing 75 μm droplets ensure the ideal fuel-air mixture, while intake and exhaust cams with short operating angles and overlap push torque to the low- and mid-range, resulting in smooth, step-free power and satisfying corner pick-up.
The engine’s compact design contributes to a nimble, agile chassis. Open-deck aluminium cylinders with plated, liner-less bores allow a narrow cylinder pitch and slim engine width, while a triangular layout of the crankshaft and transmission shafts keeps the engine short front-to-back. Semi-dry sump construction, a low-mounted under-engine muffler, and a 180º crankshaft with balancer shaft centralise mass and lower the bike’s center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. A cassette style transmission simplifies maintenance without compromising the engine’s compact layout, while the under-engine muffler and 33mm diameter tail pipe combine performance with sleek styling.
The Z650 S ABS is equipped with an advanced Assist & Slipper Clutch, developed using feedback from racing applications. An assist cam reduces clutch lever effort during normal operation, making shifts light and smooth, while a slipper cam manages back-torque during rapid downshifts, helping prevent rear-wheel hop or skidding. This system ensures controlled, predictable power delivery across all riding conditions, enhancing both confidence and rider comfort.
Beyond performance, the engine balances functionality and visual appeal. Engine covers –
including the generator, clutch, and chain components – highlight the bike’s sporty character, while a simplified cooling system efficiently routes coolant through the cylinder and head. A radiator fan cover directs hot air away from the rider in heavy traffic, improving comfort and keeping contact points cooler.
A new O₂ sensor assists with reducing emissions, and the attractively bent exhaust pipes, under-engine muffler, and sleek silencer combine to create a compact, stylish engine that looks as good as it performs.
KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL (KTRC):
KTRC on the Z650 S ABS enhances sporty riding performance while giving riders confidence on low-traction surfaces. The system continuously monitors multiple parameters to provide an accurate, real-time picture of wheel and engine behaviour, allowing it to intervene precisely when needed. Two rider-selectable modes offer varying levels of intrusion: Mode 1 is the least intrusive, helping to manage traction during cornering and maximizing rear-wheel drive for spirited exits, while Mode 2 provides earlier intervention, reducing engine output when excessive wheel spin is detected. Mode 2 is especially useful for navigating challenging surfaces.
For riders who prefer full control, the system can also be switched off entirely, giving experienced riders the option to ride without electronic intervention. This flexibility ensures the Z650 S ABS delivers both confidence for everyday riding and responsiveness for spirited, sporty performance.
TFT COLOR INSTRUMENTATION:
The Z650 S ABS features a 4.3” all-digital TFT color display, giving the cockpit a high-tech,
premium appearance while maintaining design continuity with other models in the Z family. Using advanced thin-film transistor (TFT) technology, the high-grade full-color screen delivers excellent visibility under a wide range of lighting conditions. The display’s background color automatically switches from white to black in low-light environments, or riders can manually select their preferred background. Screen brightness is also automatically adjusted based on ambient light, with three rider-selectable levels available for further customization.
The TFT screen offers two display types to suit rider preference. Type 1 presents a bar-style tachometer along the top with key vehicle information displayed below, while Type 2 features a hexagonal tachometer for a distinctive, modern look. The display provides comprehensive functionality, including a digital speedometer and tachometer, gear position indicator, shift lamp, fuel gauge, odometer, dual trip meters, current and average fuel consumption, remaining range, average speed, total time, coolant temperature, clock, battery voltage, KQS, status, service and oil change reminders, as well as smartphone call and mail notifications, giving riders all the information they need at a glance.
SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY:
The Z650 S ABS offers seamless smartphone connectivity through the RIDEOLOGY THE APP
MOTORCYCLE* application, allowing riders to wirelessly link their device to the motorcycle and access a range of features that enhance the riding experience. Riders can view vehicle information such as the fuel gauge, odometer, and maintenance schedule directly on their smartphone, while GPS route data and vehicle running information can be logged and reviewed via the Riding Log. Incoming phone calls and mail notifications are displayed on the instrument panel, keeping riders informed without distraction, and general instrument settings, including the clock, can be adjusted via the app for added
convenience.
For riders seeking advanced functionality, optional Voice Command and Navigation features are available with a purchased license, allowing riders to control the app hands-free and plan routes directly from their smartphone. Navigation functions include searching for destinations, adding waypoints, adjusting route order, and viewing route information. Together, these connected features combine convenience and control, further integrating the Z650 S ABS into the modern, digital riding experience.
CHASSIS:
A key factor behind the Z650 S ABS’ light, nimble character is its high-tensile steel trellis frame, which weighs just 33 lbs. The frame’s components follow the ideal pipeline, with straight sections prioritized and bends kept to the smallest angles possible. This design disperses stress efficiently while maintaining strength, allowing Kawasaki engineers to trim away additional material without
compromising rigidity. Using advanced in-house analysis technology, the pipe diameter, length, and wall thickness were all precisely optimized to deliver the ideal balance of lateral and torsional rigidity.
The engine itself is rigid-mounted and used as a stressed member, while even the footpeg stays contribute to overall rigidity and weight reduction. The result is a frame that is both remarkably strong and exceptionally lightweight, instantly noticeable when lifting the bike off its side stand.
Contributing further to the Z650 S ABS’ agile handling is a lightweight 10.5 lb. swingarm designed with the same analysis technology as the frame. Its straight-line design from pivot to axle enhances rigidity while keeping weight to a minimum, supporting the bike’s light, natural handling. Combined with a steep 24.0º caster angle, short wheelbase, and tight turning radius, the chassis delivers sharp, responsive maneuverability. A twin-tube rear frame contributes to the bike’s low seat height, facilitating the reach to the ground while maintaining excellent comfort and control. Together, these elements create a chassis that is both rider-friendly and performance-focused, ideal for city riding or backroads.
SUSPENSION:
The Z650 S ABS is equipped with a 41mm telescopic front fork that provides smooth, responsive action for confident handling. At the rear, Kawasaki’s Horizontal Back-link suspension delivers a progressive character, striking an ideal balance between sporty performance and everyday ride comfort. This setup offers a more refined suspension feel compared to link-less systems, ensuring riders enjoy stability and feedback whether navigating city streets or leaning into curving roads.
Positioned above the swingarm, the rear shock unit and linkage contribute to the bike’s centralized mass, enhancing agility and overall handling performance. This placement also ensures the suspension components remain isolated from the heat of the exhaust system, preserving consistent operation and long-term durability. Together, the front and rear suspension systems give the Z650 S ABS the versatility to handle spirited riding while maintaining comfort for daily use.
BRAKES & WHEELS:
Braking performance on the Z650 S ABS is both powerful and confidence-inspiring, thanks to new dual 300mm front round discs paired with a 220mm rear round disc. Dual-piston front calipers, along with a responsive master cylinder and high-quality brake pads, provide superb brake touch and precise control. A new Continental ABS unit further enhances rider confidence, offering smooth, natural intervention that preserves braking feel while preventing wheel lock-up in sudden stops or low-traction conditions.
Lightweight, stylish star-pattern 5-spoke wheels not only give the Z650 S ABS a modern, sporty look but also contribute to reduced unsprung weight and improved rigidity. This combination delivers excellent handling feedback and agility, especially when paired with the bike’s hollow-type front axle and lightweight swingarm. Complementing the chassis setup are Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires, chosen for their excellent grip and responsiveness. Together, the lightweight wheels, tires, and advanced braking system enhance the Z650 S ABS’ nimble character, giving riders a perfect balance of control, style, and everyday usability.
ERGONOMICS:
The new Z650 S ABS features an updated ergonomic package designed to deliver both sporty control and everyday comfort. A new flat, fat-type handlebar is positioned 40mm further forward, 10mm higher, and 30mm wider than the previous model, placing the rider in a slightly more forward-leaning, elbows-out position that capitalizes on the bike’s sporty Supernaked character. At the same time, the wider stance creates more room between the arms and body, while rubber-mounted handlebars help reduce vibration transmitted to the grips and mirrors for improved long-distance comfort. Both clutch and brake levers are 5-way adjustable to suit a variety of hand sizes, further enhancing rider comfort and control.
A completely redesigned front seat adds comfort and versatility. Approximately 20mm higher and wider than the previous model, with increased cushioning, the seat creates a more relaxed knee bend while maintaining an easy reach to the ground. Its shape now accommodates a wider range of rider sizes, with a slim front section that facilitates confident footing at stops. The new design also creates a flat seating area, with the front and rear portions at the same height for a natural, relaxed riding position.
A rubber-mounted seat bracket helps minimize vibration transfer, while the narrow frame and engine layout keep the rider’s knees and feet close together, contributing to overall comfort and control. For passengers, the rear seat has been widened by 20mm with an additional 10mm of cushioning in the main seating area, delivering improved comfort on longer rides. Under-seat storage offers room for a U-lock and other small items, adding practical convenience.
The riding triangle has also been carefully refined. The higher seat, combined with repositioned footpegs, creates ample legroom while still supporting a sporty posture. Rider and passenger footpegs feature rubber pads with hollow centers designed to reduce vibration, improving comfort without compromising feel. New muscular shrouds surrounding the fuel tank lend a more powerful appearance, but the tank retains its low placement in the chassis and continues to be easy to grip with the knees.
Together, these updates deliver an ergonomic package that blends performance-focused control with everyday comfort, making the Z650 S ABS as enjoyable in city traffic as it is on open backroads.
KAWASAKI GENUINE ACCESSORIES:
A range of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories allows riders to further enhance the Z650 S ABS’ wide, aggressive looks, improve comfort, and increase touring potential. For riders seeking added excitement, the new Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) enables smooth, rapid upshifts for an even more engaging ride.
Comfort and style for passengers can be enhanced with new metal grab bars, while the Style Seat, featuring the same two-tone leather-style finish as the Z900, adds a touch of luxury and reinforces the Z family aesthetic. For riders looking for a lower seating position, the ERGO-FIT Low Seat sits 20mm lower than the standard seat, providing a comfortable reach to the ground, while the pillion seat cover, with its recessed design, complements the tail cowl for a sleek, street-focused look. A USB Type-C outlet located on the inner left side of the front cowl offers convenient, easily accessible charging for devices, and a taller smoked meter cover provides a measure of wind protection while enhancing the sporty appearance.
For touring and everyday convenience, semi-soft panniers (3.6 gallons, 6.6 lbs. each) with brackets allow for overnight or short trips, and a top case (7.9 gallons, 6.6 lbs. max) increases carrying capacity while maintaining a slim profile for city riding. A 1-gallon tank bag with shoulder strap and carry handle provides easy access to small items and portability when removed from the bike. Additional bolt-on accessories include wheel rim tape, helmet lock, radiator screen, frame sliders, tank pad, meter film, and knee pads, giving riders the ability to personalize their Z650 S ABS to suit both their style and riding needs.
All trademarks, registered trademarks, logos, and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.
*RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE and all trademarks, registered trademarks, logos, and
copyrights are the property of their respective owners. Voice command and navigation functions will be available only to users who have purchased a license for those functions. Feature availability may vary to meet individual markets.
2026 Model Variations
- Kawasaki Z650 S ABS
- Color: Metallic Matte Graphenesteel
- Gray/Metallic Flat Spark Black
- MSRP: $7,699
- Availability: Now
ABOUT KAWASAKI:
Kawasaki started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. is committed to maintaining and furthering these strengths which will surely give birth to new legends.
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and JET SKI® watercraft through a network of approximately 1,100 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,700 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. Kawasaki and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 260 of them located at Kawasaki’s Foothill Ranch, California headquarters.
Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the Good Times Roll.®”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.
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