Kawasaki bikes has expanded its middleweight streetfighter range in India with the launch of the MY27 Z650 S. The new motorcycle is priced at ₹7.59 lakh (ex-showroom) and is positioned above the standard Z650, which continues to be available at a lower price.

The Z650 S is not an entirely new-generation motorcycle. Instead, it is an updated version that focuses on sharper styling, revised ergonomics and improved technology. It continues to use Kawasaki’s familiar 649cc parallel-twin engine, while the exterior design now takes stronger inspiration from the larger Z-series motorcycles.

Deliveries have commenced in India, making the new variant available to buyers through Kawasaki dealerships.

Kawasaki Z650 S Price in India

The new Kawasaki Z650 S has been launched at ₹7.59 lakh (ex-showroom). It costs ₹33,000 more than the standard Z650, which is priced at ₹7.26 lakh.

Sharper Sugomi Styling Inspired by the Z900

The biggest visual change on the Kawasaki Z650 S is its redesigned exterior. The motorcycle follows Kawasaki’s Sugomi design language, which is also seen on larger models such as the Z900.

At the front, it gets a new headlight design with a sharper appearance. The updated tail-light and revised body panels give the motorcycle a more aggressive streetfighter stance. The fuel tank area and side shrouds also look wider and more muscular.

The new styling gives the Z650 S a stronger connection with the bigger Z-series motorcycles while retaining the compact proportions of the existing Z650.

The Pearl Blizzard White and Candy Lime Green colour combination is the only option listed for the Indian market at launch.

4.3-Inch TFT Display and Smartphone Connectivity

Another important upgrade is the new 4.3-inch full-colour TFT instrument display. It replaces the older instrument setup and gives the cockpit a more modern appearance.

The display supports smartphone connectivity and offers access to connected functions. Turn-by-turn navigation is also reported as part of the updated equipment package for the Indian motorcycle.

The TFT screen makes it easier for riders to view important riding information and gives the Z650 S a more contemporary feel. Kawasaki has also listed traction control among the motorcycle’s technology features.

A Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) is available as an accessory, rather than being a standard fitment. Buyers interested in this feature should confirm the accessory cost and availability with their dealership.

649cc Parallel-Twin Engine Continues

Mechanically, the Kawasaki Z650 S retains the familiar 649cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. It uses a DOHC, eight-valve configuration and is paired with a six-speed gearbox.

The engine produces a maximum power output of 68 PS at 8,000rpm and peak torque of 64Nm at 6,700rpm, according to Kawasaki’s India specification listing.

There are no major engine changes over the standard Z650. This means the new S variant focuses more on design, equipment and riding ergonomics than on increasing performance.

The six-speed transmission is designed to work with the parallel-twin motor for both everyday riding and faster highway use.

Suspension, Brakes and Handling

The Z650 S uses a tubular diamond frame. Suspension duties are handled by a telescopic fork at the front and a horizontal back-link swingarm setup at the rear.

The motorcycle gets dual disc brakes at the front and a single disc at the rear. One specification change worth noting is the brake disc size: the S variant uses 272mm effective-diameter front discs and a 186mm rear disc.

It also gets Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), which is designed to help manage rear-wheel slip. Dual-channel ABS is listed among its safety equipment by motorcycle industry reports.

The new model has a kerb weight of 193kg, while the standard Z650 is listed at 188kg. That makes the S variant 5kg heavier. Its seat height is 805mm and the fuel tank capacity is 15 litres.

Kawasaki Z650 S: Key Specifications
 

What Is Different Between the Z650 S and Standard Z650?

The main difference is the updated design and equipment. The Z650 S gets revised headlight and tail-light styling, updated bodywork, a 4.3-inch TFT display and a more forward-leaning riding position.

The engine capacity and power output remain unchanged. The S variant also has different brake disc dimensions and weighs 5kg more than the standard model.

For buyers considering the two versions, the decision will largely depend on whether the updated appearance, TFT display and revised ergonomics are worth the additional ₹33,000.

Should You Consider the New Kawasaki Z650 S?

The Kawasaki Z650 S is aimed at riders who want the Z650’s familiar parallel-twin engine with a fresher design and more modern instrumentation. Its sharper Sugomi styling gives it a stronger visual identity, while the TFT display and smartphone connectivity add useful technology.

However, it is important to understand that this is primarily an equipment and styling update rather than a performance upgrade. The engine output remains the same, and the new variant is heavier than the standard Z650. The revised brake disc dimensions are also worth considering when comparing the two motorcycles.