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Yesterday’s WorldSSP300 race in Portugal saw Ana Carrasco (ETG Racing) became the first ever female rider to win a World Championship motorcycle race.

The 20 year old Spaniard was locked in battle throughout the race but was able to pull off a stunning win at the very last corner and finish straight where she crossed the chequered flag first.

Currently, Italian Alfonso Coppola (SK Racing) still sits on top with only a single point separating him and the runner up, Marc Garcia (Halcourier Racing).

The WorldSBK round last weekend held at the iconic Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal saw quite a few historic moments. One of the most memorable events has to be the photo finish at the end of the WorldSSP300 race where 20 year old Spaniard Ana Carrasco crossed the chequered flag in first place. Carrasco became the first woman ever to win a World Championship motorcycle race in history. (more…)

  • Kawasaki’s motorcycles are famously popular for many reasons

  • Kawasaki has historically produced the most potent and great looking motorcycles

  • Click here to visit Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia)’s website for the comprehensive list of models

Kawasaki motorcycles are manufactured by the Motorcycle & Engine Division of the Kawasaki Heavy Industries juggernaut. Kawasaki motorcycles have come a long way since their inception in the early-60s to become what it now one of the Big Four out of Japan.

Here in Malaysia, it was Kawasaki who paved the way for large capacity motorcycles as mainstream bikes, instead of being just the toys of the rich. Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. are also supplying motorcycles to the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM).

But what made Kawasaki a popular brand? While Kawasaki does have a proud heritage, that alone doesn’t guarantee a brand’s success.

We’ve put together the top reasons why you should own a Kawasaki, and these are a few of those factors that have made Kawasaki a force majeure.

1. History of Engineering Excellence
Kawasaki Heavy Industries which includes Kawasaki Motorcycles Co., Ltd. has its roots in shipbuilding since 1896. Started by Shozo Kawasaki, it went on to become an industrial juggernaut, involved in building ships and submarines, railway rolling stock, aircraft, steelworks, robotics, space vehicles, and motorcycles.

The very first Kawasaki motorcycle engine – the KE-1 – in 1952 were designed and built by Kawasaki’s aircraft engineers to aircraft technology. It would mark Kawasaki’s motorcycle pedigree ever since as employing groundbreaking technologies

Those technologies would in turn affirm that Kawasaki motorcycles as the fastest production motorcycles, in their classes, if not in the world. They would soon turn into icons and legends. Case in point are a long list of Kawasaki models such as the H1 Mach III (1969), Z1 (1972), KZ100R (1981), GPz900R – the first Ninja (1984), GPz600R (1985), ZZ-R1000 a.k.a. ZX-10 (1988), ZXR750 or ZX-7 (1989), ZZ-R1100 a.k.a. ZX-11 (1990), ZX-12R (2000), ZX-10R (2004), ZX-14 (2006) and, of course, the H2R and H2 (2015).

And we haven’t even touched on the other ranges, ATVs and watercrafts yet!

2. Racing Heritage
Kawasaki had cut their teeth in competition, from Japanese endures in the early-60s to Anton Mang’s victories in the 250cc and 350cc world championships. Reg Pridmore’s 1977 win at Pocono on a Kawsaaki Z1 marked the first AMA Nationals win on a Japanese motorcycle (he took the 1977 and 1978 AMA Superbike titles, too). And who could forget Eddie Lawson’s dominance of the 1981 and 1982 AMA Superbike Championships on the Kawasaki KZ1000R. “Steady Eddie” would go on to be a four-time World 500cc Champion.

Kawasaki has also won four World Superbike Championships, three of those in the last four years. Tom Sykes won in 2013, followed by Jonathan Rea in 2015 and 2016 on the Kawasaki ZX-10R. Rea is currently leading the 2017 championship and looks set to the third successive title.

While there’s no doubt that MotoGP enjoys the bigger audience, WSBK is important nevertheless as the series is based on production motorcycles. It means that those bikes being raced in WSBK are the same bikes you and I could purchase at a Kawasaki dealer.

Experience gained from racing success translates to technologies being adapted to road bikes available to the public.

3. Cutting Edge Technology
Kawasaki has always pushed the boundaries of engineering and technology to deliver the most potent and fun motorcycles. Rider safety is paramount, as such, Kawasaki’s motorcycles feature traction control, ABS, ride modes, high-end brakes, good suspension, etc. In fact, Kawasaki was the first Japanese manufacturer to adopt traction control, called K-TRIC (Kawasaki Throttle Ignition Response Control) on the 1400GTR. Let’s not forget the supercharged H2R and H2!

4. Cutting Edge Design
Kawasaki’s motorcycles have historically broken the mould of styling conventions to deliver stunning and distinctive designs, for example the GPz900R, ZX-14, ZX-10R, H2, among others. They not only receive admiring stares from other bikers and general public, but a riding a good-looking motorcycle is both gratifying and confidence-building.

5. Availability of Genuine Parts and Accessories
As there are greater numbers of Kawasaki motorcycles in the market, that also means spare parts and accessories are readily available, at relatively lower costs. Coupled with the availability of authorized Kawasaki dealers and workshops around Malaysia, a Kawasaki owner can be assured of quick turnaround times when repairing their bikes.

6. Large Authorised Network
There are currently 80 authorised dealers and 32 authorised spare parts dealers all across the country, including in East Malaysia. This means easy access to not only new bikes, but also for maintenance, parts and accessories. Click here for the complete listing of the nearest authorised dealers. The personnel at the Kawasaki Exclusive Service Centres (KESC) are fully trained professionals, as with those at authorized dealers.

7. Wide Range of Models
Kawasaki Malaysia’s model range (click here and select PRODUCTS) is comprehensive and covers every segment of every capacity and size, subdivided into Ninja (sports), Z (naked, standard, sport-touring), Versys (adventure touring), GTR (premium sport-touring), VN (cruisers and full-dress tourers), W (modern classic), Street (motards), KX (motocross and supercross), KLX (enduro), and J (scooter).

There are also watercraft (jetskis), ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), and Mule (utility vehicles).

Whether it’s for your first bike, only bike, an upgrade or additional bike, you can find anything that suits your needs.

8. Reliability
Truth is, Kawasaki motorcycles are reliable and provide lots of trouble-free fun. Maintain your bike well and any modern motorcycle is just as reliable at the other. As mentioned in an earlier article (click here), this writer’s Kawasaki has not encountered serious problems, apart from normal wear and tear. Many of this writer’s friends also own Kawasaki motorcycles of various models and no one has had a breakdown, unless wrongly operated or had performed modifications that are not recommended by Kawasaki.

The 2017 Kawasaki Versys-X 250 which was introduced earlier this year has been dubbed one of the most affordable adventure bikes in the current market.

This very unique option has filled the ever growing demand for the small capacity adventure bike segment which has been receiving a huge number of demands.

Priced at a very reasonable RM23,789 (basic price with GST), the multi-purpose dual sport machine allows for great fun both on and off the paved roads no matter the riding conditions.

Everyone wants a bit of an adventure in their lives. Whether it’s heading to the office during weekdays or going on weekend rides to experience some freedom from the harsh realities of the everyday life, we tend to look for that extra special bit just to make things a bit more exciting. (more…)

Kawasaki Motors has just released a short teaser video of what seems to be the Kawasaki Z900 RS modern classic bike.

The short teaser video posted on Youtube by Kawasaki Motors ended with the message “Unveiling of Kawasaki’s #TrueSpirit TOKYO, 25-10-2017”.

The date stated at the very in the end indicates that the unveiling will be made during the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show happening this October.

Looks like Kawasaki has finally confirmed the predictions to revive their modern classic range with the introduction of the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS. The short teaser video posted on Youtube by Kawasaki Motors ended with the message “Unveiling of Kawasaki’s #TrueSpirit TOKYO, 25-10-2017”. (more…)

  • Kawasaki’s 650cc middleweight marks an 11-year evolution.

  • The new Ninja 650 ABS, Z650 ABS and Versys 650 are enjoying a massive success.

  • Fun, rider friendly, affordability and low maintenance costs make them popular.

Kawasaki Z650 – pic courtesy of MCN

Kawasaki’s 650cc middleweight range, which now consists of the Ninja 650 ABS and the Z650 ABS, has been produced since 2006.

2006 Ninja 650R

The 650cc lineup went through a number of cosmetics and chassis-related changes between its debut in 2006 to 2011, with the engine untouched.

2009 ER-6f

2012 saw some major revisions, including to the frame, running gear, and cosmetics.

2012 ER-6n

When Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) started to CKD the bikes ER-6f, ER-6n and Versys 650, it’s popularity exploded and those models were everywhere in Malaysia. They were the superbike for the masses.

But what made them such favourites then and favourites now? Here are the top 10 reasons.

10. CONTINUOUS DEVELEPMENT

Being in the market for 11 years means Kawasaki has collected much experience and data regarding the models. Consequently, the 650 range has evolved to be better and better with every new iteration. All three models now feature fuel injection with ECU-controlled Dual Throttle Valves, with the Ninja 650 and Z650 featuring ABS. The new models are also fitted with an all-new frame, suspension and 649cc, parallel-Twin engine.

9. COMFORT

No motorcycle is useful without good ergonomics. Kawasaki’s 650s are well-known for their comfortable ergonomics. Kawasaki’s designers have put in much effort in perfecting the “rider’s triangle,” the term for the relationship among the handlebar grips, seat and footpegs. The 650 range offers a relaxed riding position with a dash of sportiness thrown in. Which explains why thousands of owners have toured around Malaysia and into neighbouring Thailand on many occasions.

8. TORQUEY ENGINE

Why torque and not horsepower? To simplify, torque is the force you feel when the bike accelerates, while horsepower is the top speed at full throttle. So, unless you race at the track, an engine which spreads its torque throughout the RPM range is the practical choice. It means you only need to open the throttle to overtake, instead of having to shift gears all the time. Good torque also allows you to carry a passenger and large luggage loads.

7. RIDER FRIENDLY MOTORCYCLE

With great ergonomics and tractable engine power, learning to ride the Ninja 650 is ever so easy. And fun!

The low seat on the Ninja 650 ABS and Z650 ABS accommodate riders of any height, and all three models including the Versys 650 cosset you with an all-day comfort. The engine’s power characteristic is linear and doesn’t threaten to ride like a wild horse, which means you could cruise slow, or ride briskly or fly at high velocity whenever you wish.

 The combination of ergonomics, predictable handling, smooth power contributes to a motorcycle that’s easy to learn for riders who are stepping up to bigger bikes. Besides that, being torquey doesn’t threaten the engine to stall on the clutch – a boon for riders who are new to the manual clutching.

Now you know why the ER-6n is the favourite motorcycle for B-license students at Malaysian driving schools.

6. IT’S FAST

70 bhp may not set the spec sheet on fire, but coupled that wide torque the Kawasaki 650s are famous for and you have a lively ride.

The 650 range is no slouch, consistently recording 3.5 seconds from 0 – 100 km/h and ¼-mile (400 metre) runs of 12.0 seconds flat. Even the taller Versys 650 hits 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and charges through 400 metres at 12.5 seconds. So not only does Kawasaki’s 650 appeal to newbies but to returning riders and seasoned riders too.

5. PRACTICALITY

The Kawasaki 650 range are designed to be the jack-of-all-trades. You could commute daily, sling through corners up Genting Highlands on weekends, go touring with your buddies during the holidays, balik kampong with the wife to celebrate Raya and, haul all the lemang and rendang to please your mother-in-law. Just think it and do it.

From slapping on luggage to turn them into tourers, to those that were accessorized and modded for more racy performance, the range is supremely configurable to the fancies of each owner.

4. FUEL ECONOMY AND RANGE

Fuel is expensive these days, right?

Independent fuel economy database site www.fuelly.com publishes peer-tested results on different types of motorcycles, and currently lists 114 Kawasaki Ninja 650R owners who have logged a total of 894,400 km (559,000 miles) of fuel mileage data. The majority of owners logged between 19.6 km/l to 20.0 km/l, while there were a few who reported figures as high as 24.2 km/l. The lowest being 15.7 km/l.

That means, considering the lowest figure of 15.7 km/l, you’d only consume 1 litre of petrol when you commute to your office from Petaling Jaya to the Kuala Lumpur city centre – costing only RM 2.16 per trip (as of 6th September 2017).

On another hand, if you consider the middle figure of 19.6 km/l when touring, a full 15-litre tank on the Ninja 650 and Z650 should only run dry in 294 km. That’s in the ballpark for this writer’s personal 2011 ER-6f. On the Versys 650, however, a full tank could ferry you through 411.6 km. Rawang R&R to the Gurun R&R (360 km) in one tank, anyone?

3. GOOD LOOKS

The design of the Kawasaki 650 range has definitely come far, hand-in-hand with the technological updates.

The fully-faired Ninja 650 ABS looks uncannily similar to the Kawasaki ZX-10R that’s currently dominating the World Superbike Championship. It gives the impression of a high-performance and dynamic motorcycle, one which exhilarates the rider and turns the heads of others at the same time.

The naked Z650 ABS’s revolutionary design is the result of the Japanese sugomi principle. Sugomi is described as, “…an intense aura given off by a person or object felt by the person looking at it.” The result is an organic-looking motorcycle, something that’s living and has character, instead of being sculpted by the wind-tunnel.

As for the Versys 650, its sharp profile and purposeful design portrays lightness and nimbleness, in tune with the bike’s true prowess. It stands apart from sport/adventure-tourers that look tall, heavy and unwieldly.

2. PARTS, ACCESSORIES WIDELY AVAILABLE

Being in the market for a long time and popular has great benefits for the owner.

While we always advocate performing maintenance at the Kawasaki Exclusive Service Centre at Glenmarie, Shah Alam and/or authorized workshops, plus using only genuine Kawasaki parts and accessories, motorcycle owners may have to seek help outside the official network during emergencies.

Since the Kawasaki 650 series has been in the market for a long time and very popular, there are plenty of places that may be able to assist in emergency situations.

Let’s just hypothetically say you’re in Danok, Thailand when you snapped the clutch cable (it’s unlikely). You could visit the nearest motorcycle shop, greet the mechanic sawadeekahp, install a compatible cable and then ride your Kawasaki 650 to the first Kawasaki dealer you see and have it replaced with the genuine item. Done.

1. RELIABILITY

Contrary to what some may have you believe, Kawasaki’s 650cc range consists of reliable motorcycles. The model line will not have continued on if it were the contrary.

As mentioned above, Kawasaki has evolved the 650 family to the current level of sophistication through 11 years. In spite of that, there’s no denying that the models remain relatively simple without undue complexity. That translates to ease of maintenance and also being less maintenance intensive, and ultimately affordable to own and enjoy.

There are dirt track racing teams in the US who utilize the 650cc engines, to great success.

As you can see, there are many attributes that makes the Kawasaki 650 range the favourite middleweight motorcycle the world over. There are also many other little qualities that we couldn’t find the space here for, but bear in mind that these little qualities contribute to motorcycles that are fun for everyone.

So do check one out and grab some seat time and you’ll be amazed.

Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd has organised their second road show stop in Pasir Gudang, Johor as part of their “Always Closer to You” Kawasaki Road Show last weekend.

Over 2,500 people attended the road show to participate in the road show events especially the test rides sessions of all the latest Kawasaki models.

Folks from around Pasir Gudang and Johor Bahru were given the opportunity to test out bikes from the fun Z125 pit bikes all the way to the ever powerful 2017 Z900 ABS.

Over 2,500 visitors gathered at the Pusat Bandar Pasir Gudang, Johor to take part in the Kawasaki “Always Closer to You” Road Show. The event which was organised by Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (KMSB) gained a lot of attentions from the public as they were able to test out all of their latest motorcycles on the road show grounds. (more…)

The folks over at Kenstomoto displayed their latest creation during the 2017 Art of Speed Malaysia festival which is the Kenstomoto Jū racer, a fully customised 2004 Kawasaki ZX-10R.

The brains behind all the design and fabrications are none other than Kenny Yeoh, the founder of Kenstomoto as well as a proud member of the Custom Cartel.

The end result is a super awesome track machine that has bagged several awards at this year Art of Speed Malaysia gathering.

To those who always said that “You can’t teach and old dog new tricks” obviously have no acquaintances whatsoever in the motorcycling industry. While some folks would either revive their seasoned motorcycles by restoring it back to their former glories, the folks over at Kenstomoto took theirs to whole new different level. (more…)

Some of the 2018 Kawasaki models will be getting a complete makeover with a bunch of new interesting colours.

These models are the Kawasaki Z1000, Z1000SX, Versys 650, Vulcan S, Vulcan S CAFE and the Versys-X 250/300.

The new 2018 colours will be available in the European market in stages starting from October this year.

It has been confirmed by Kawasaki that their 2018 models will be getting some new and interesting colours. These 2018 models range from the ever powerful Kawasaki Z1000 to the versatile entry-level Kawasaki Versys-X 250/300. (more…)

Accessibility to wide range of riders, ability to fulfill many roles, stylish and fun are cited as main reasons.

Updates make the Kawasaki Ninnja 650 and Z650 more agile and smoother to ride.

Both motorcycles are new from the ground up.

For many years from 2009 to 2015, three models of midrange large capacity motorcycles ruled the Malaysian streets. The Kawasaki ER-6f, ER-6n and Versys 650. (We’re leaving the Versys 650 out of this article, however.)

There are many factors contributing to their popularity. The fully-faired ER-6f looked sporty, while the naked ER-6n looked “fierce”. But since they were built around a common platform of engine, frame and chassis, they shared common traits among them: A torquey and tractable engine, street tuned suspension, easy handling, good brakes, and upright seating position. They were both easy to cut through traffic and haul luggage on long rides. They became the bikes that a rider could do everything with them. Topping off those endearing features was the affordable price, since they were the first CKD big bikes.

Both bikes were ideal for beginners, commuters, weekend riders, riders who returned to motorcycling, veterans and there were those who took it down to the track. It was the most popular model for club racers in the United States.

So popular was the ER series that even Malaysian riding schools started using them as bikes for newbie training and “Full B” license exams.

One could hear the distinctive exhaust note, resulting from a unique 180-degree crank, anywhere. The engine was a simple, liquid-cooled, DOHC, eight-valves, fuel-injected, 649cc, parallel-Twin. It pumped out a healthy 71 bhp and between 66 Nm (2006 to 2011) and 64 Nm (2012-2016) of torque.

And I do not want to hear about “reliability issues.” My 2011 ER-6f has covered nearly 100,000 km without a single engine problem, valve adjustment or rebuild. I ride my bike very hard, day in, day out. In fact, ER-6 engines went on to power flat track racing in America to a high level of success. Click here for the articles.

EVOLUTION
The ER-6 variants (called Ninja 650R in some countries) made their debut in 2006. The second generation ER-6 made their appearances in 2009 to 2011, before being superseded by the third generation from 2012 to 2016.

There were only major exterior and internal mechanical changes between 2006 to 2011. The 2012 ER-6’s signified many changes including styling, stepped seats, a bigger fuel tank capacity, a new frame, and suspension with added travel. The ER-6f now looked even sharper and sportier, while the ER-6n looked muscular.

The engine was left almost untouched except for a small reduction in compression ratio. Spent gasses was pumped through a revised exhaust system. A new engine management mapping was tuned to spread torque further down the engine range, which lowered the peak power slightly. Kawasaki also debuted the ECO indicator in the LCD.

Since I own a 2011 model, I had felt that the 2012 version represented the peak of the ER-6 model evolution, when I tested both the –f and –n versions. Power was delivered smoother, the seats were comfier and most of all, it handled way better and was more stable than my own bike. It started right up every time and never once coughed through the throttle bodies.

Then Kawasaki took the covers off the 2017 models. Oh boy.

Kawasaki has dropped the ER-6 name. The fully-faired version is now called the Ninja 650, aligning it as one universal designation. The naked version, on the other hand, is called the Z650, and inducted into Kawasaki’s family of naked bikes. Both the Ninja 650 and Z650 share the same engine and chassis components.

We had expected only cosmetic changes but it turned out otherwise, because Kawasaki had gone ahead to totally update an already great format.

STYLING
The Kawasaki Ninja 650 now looked almost exactly like the company’s range-topping ZX-10R superbike, especially when decked out in the special-edition KRT colour scheme. Those headlights have gone “raptor-like” and the fairing wraps tightly around the body.

However, as sporty as the Ninja 650 may look, Kawasaki has wisely designed the ergonomics to be friendly to a broad spectrum of riders. The handlebars are set high and slightly forward, the rider’s seat is low (790mm seat height), and the levers are 5-way adjustable.

A new multifunction instrument panel is installed which includes a much-welcomed gear position indicator, shift light, and ECO indicator. The tach needle changes colour from white to pink to red as it swings up.

The Kawasaki Z650, meanwhile, has been given the Kawaski Sugomi (“sugomi” means “awesomeness” in Japanese) design treatment for a distinctively organic look. Kawasaki explained that they see the Z650’s stance as that of a black panther stalking its prey, in a crouched stance, with its head low and tail upswept.

A naked sportbike has to look fierce and that’s a great inspiration.

Unlike the Ninja 650, however, the instrument panel has a different design in order to fit behind that “flyscreen.” The tach is stacked on top of the LCD display, with the gear position indicator in the middle. The tach needle flashes at the rider’s preset rev limit.

The Z650 shares the same architecture as the Ninja 650 (more on this below), and as such it has the same seat height of 790 mm.

ENGINE
Kawasaki reengineered the familiar parallel-Twin engine to feature new cam profiles to reduce valve overlap duration (for better low-down and midrange torque); smaller, 36mm throttle bodies for smoother and precise throttle response; and a new exhaust system. These changes collectively result in a broader torque curve to provide the rider with power anywhere (in the rev range) at anytime it’s called upon.

Any previous ER-6 owner, myself included, could tell you that the engine’s strong back torque (engine braking) could sometimes impede smoother cornering transitions (as you’re dragged back by heavy engine braking, which causes the bike to loose speed, followed by instability and the reluctance to turn, ultimately resulting in the rider losing confidence), besides encountering rear wheel hop (or even skid) if we downshifted too aggressively.

Kawasaki countered this by adding an assist and slipper clutch. The slipper function is a nice addition, allowing for smoother corner entries and eliminating wheel hop. The assist function provides easier gear upshifting, by using cams that function as a servo mechanism which pulls on the clutch hub and and operating plate together, to compress the clutch plates.

FRAME AND CHASSIS
Kawasaki has also given the new 650’s a new trellis steel frame, which is 15 kg lighter than its predecessor –  contributing to a light 193 kg and 187 kg overall weight for the Ninja 650 and Z650, respectively. The sections are made as straight as possible to tune the frame for shock and load dispersion. Rake is at a sporty 24-degrees.

Moving downwards, the old ER-6 (and Versys) mounted their rear shocks on the right side of the motorcycle, connecting the frame and swingarm directly without a link. Adjusting the shock’s preload couldn’t be easier, but there are riders who complained of cornering imbalance. (Although this is subjective, as many motorcycles utilize this solution.)

The Ninja 650 and Z650’s new shock is now mounted in a horizontal back-link format for a more progressive action. But instead of having the part of the shock and linkage underneath the swingarm, they are positioned on top. This also ensures the components are moved away from the engine’s heat. The swingarm is now a curved unit.

BRAKES
Braking is handled by a pair of dual-piston Nissin calipers gripping 300mm petal discs up front, while the rear is stopped by a single-piston caliper gripping on a 220mm petal disc. ABS is standard on both ends.

If a motorcycle is the sum of all its parts, then the it’s easy to see why the Ninja 650 and Z650 is enjoying overwhelming success in America ad Europe. The answers are: Easy to approach, practical, economical, stylish while still being able to provide an exhilarating ride for both new and experienced riders.

Plus the price. An unbeatable value.

Pictures by Kawasaki Motors Malaysia and Sep Irran

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 8-valves, parallel-Twin
Compression ratio 10.8 : 1
Bore X Stroke 83.0 mm X 60.0 mm
Displacement 649 cc
Fuel system Fuel injection, 38 mm throttle body with dual throttle valves
Maximum power 67.3 bhp (50.2 kW) @ 8000 RPM
Maximum torque 65.7 Nm @ 6500 RPM
CHASSIS
Front suspension 41 mm telescopic forks
Rear suspension Horizontal Back-link, adjustable for preload
Front brakes Dual semi-floating 300 mm petal discs, two-piston calipers
Rear brake Single 220 mm petal disc, single-piston caliper
FRAME & DIMENSIONS
Frame Trellis, high-tensile steel
Trail 100 mm
Front wheel travel 125 mm
Rear wheel travel 130 mm
Wheelbase 1410 mm
Ground clearance 130mm
Seat height 790 mm
L x W x H 2115 mm x 740 mm x 1135 mm (Ninja 650)

2115 mm x 775 mm x 1080 mm (Ninja 650)

Curb weight 193 kg (Ninja 650) / 187 kg (Z650)
Front tyre 120/70-ZR17 (58W)
Rear tyre 160/60-ZR17 (69W)

 

Our very own Malaysian rider Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman made it to a podium finish in second together with Kawasaki Team Green in the 2017 Suzuka 8 Hours FIM Word Endurance Championship race in Suzuka yesterday.

Together with BSB rider Leon Haslam and Japanese Kazuma Watanabe, Team Green scored the second podium position just behind the Yamaha Factory Racing Team which took home their third consecutive win.

Team F.C.C TSR Honda finished in third with their Honda CBR1000RR SP2 race machine piloted by Randy de Puniet, Dominique Aegerter and Josh Hook.

Besides the annual Art of Speed Malaysia 2017 gathering, the 40th Coca Cola Suzuka 8 Hours FIM World Endurance Championship took place in Suzuka, Japan this past weekend. This weekend also marked a historic moment where three Malaysian riders competed in the iconic eight hours race but what’s even more amazing was the fact that one of our very own made it onto the podium! (more…)

The Art of Speed Malaysia 2017 saw a huge crowd turnout to show their support, love and dedication to Malaysia’s home-grown ‘Ol-Skool’ and ‘Kustom Kulture’ scene.

This year’s event that happened the past weekend was bigger than ever with much participation from big manufacturers to small garages to showcase their amazing machines from brand new motorcycles to the super rare transportations.

A lot of special invited guests made their way to AOS 2017 from countries like Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, US, Japan and many more.

The custom scene for anything with wheels like motorcycles, cars, bicycles or even skateboards has been growing rapidly. Once a small scale section in this ever-growing motoring industry, one particular gathering has gained massive following and attention not just from Malaysians but other countries as well. We are of course talking about the annual Art of Speed Malaysia ‘Ol-Skool’ and ‘Kustom Kulture’ festival. (more…)

Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) organised a very special Hari Raya open house earlier today specially-planned for orphans and the entire Kawasaki family.

From staff, friends, families to the members of the Kawasaki Owners Group Malaysia all attended the prosperous event held at the Dewan Angkasaraya near TUDM airbase, Sungai Besi.

Apart from great food, company and activities, KMSB also prepared a special test ride session for those who were interested in trying out the Kawasaki Z900 ABS, Z650 ABS, Ninja 650 ABS and Versys-X 250.

Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) organised a very special Hari Raya open house specially planned for orphaned children to help spread the Hari Raya spirit and happiness towards the end of Syawal Islamic month. The special open house was held at the Dewan Angkasaraya located near the Royal Malaysian Air Force airbase, Sungai Besi. (more…)

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