KZ650 E/F and the (Possible) Future Classic Z650RS

An email arrived today from a motorcycle publication telling me about the new Kawasaki Z650RS so I had to check it out. This blog is not meant to be concerned with newer bikes but there are a couple I really like--the W800 and the Z900RS for instance.

First, here are the earliest KZ650 brochures that I have. Both are from 1980. Here is the KZ650-E1 LTD, the successor to the KZ650-D SR (1978-79).





Next up is the KZ650-F1 which was the successor to the KZ650-C Custom (1977-79). Like the E above, the F model was only around for one model year.





In 1981 Kawasaki introduced the spoke-wheeled KZ650-H1 CSR.

Now we come to the Kaw 650cc offering for 2022. The Z650RS. It has a claimed 67hp from a parallel-twin engine that is also found in other models such as the Ninja 650. The new Z is available in two colors on the Kaw U.S. site and three on the Kaw Euro site. The green paint scheme on the following Z is designed to resemble the 1977 KZ650-B. The B model lasted through 1979 in the USA.







The official unveiling video from Kawasaki Motors:



For a review try one of the cycle magazines sites such as Cycle News. Or another of your choice. The Cycle News site has a variety of close-up pictures.

The green one is a consideration due to it's resemblance to the '77. But then again I think I prefer the black one on the bottom with the black wheels. Add the black head light rim, dark radiator trim and covers from just below the fuel tank off of the grey one. Possibly an aftermarket exhaust.

Thanks for looking. Gary  /  kawasaki-yama-zuki