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2026 Kawasaki Z650 S gets more aggressive styling and premium tech
The new Kawasaki Z650 S updates the middleweight naked with refreshed design, smarter features, and the same reliable 649cc twin.
The middleweight naked segment has always been where real riders live. These bikes hit the sweet spot of power, weight, and price—perfect for daily riding and weekend fun. Few have done that better than Kawasaki’s Z650, and for 2026, it gets a smart, meaningful upgrade in the form of the Z650 S.
Visually, the Z650 S adopts the new Z-family look seen on the Z900 and Z500. It now wears a compact triple-LED headlight setup and tighter, more sculpted bodywork. The tank, tail, and seat are all redesigned, giving the bike a slimmer profile. Ergonomics have also been refined, with the seat slightly taller and wider, and the handlebar 30mm wider for a more natural, upright riding position.
Power comes from Kawasaki’s proven 649cc parallel-twin engine, producing around 67hp and 65Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 6-speed gearbox, with a quickshifter available as an option. The steel trellis frame and suspension setup carry over—41mm telescopic fork up front and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock—delivering the same predictable, easygoing handling that has made the Z650 a favorite among both new and experienced riders.
Tech sees a solid bump. The old analog-digital cluster is replaced by a 4.3-inch full-color TFT display with Bluetooth smartphone connectivity via the Rideology app. Braking gets a small but notable upgrade too, with Continental ABS and new 300mm circular front rotors that offer smoother, more progressive control than the old petal-style discs.
Kawasaki hasn’t confirmed if the Z650 S is coming to the Philippines yet, but with its Euro 5+ compliance and global rollout, it’s only a matter of time. Expect it to slot just above the current Z650 in price once it lands locally.
The Z650 S proves that small updates can make a big difference. It keeps the same balance, reliability, and everyday usability riders love—and just makes them better.
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