Overview
- Both the Z650 and the Continental GT 650 come equipped with dual disc brakes at the front and a single disc brake at the rear.
- However, the Z650 offers more power, better handling, and a wider range of features, making it a better value proposition for those seeking a versatile and thrilling ride.
- The Z650 is the superior choice for riders seeking a sporty and agile ride, while the Continental GT 650 is better suited for those who prefer a classic and comfortable cruising experience.
The middleweight motorcycle segment is a competitive battleground, where two formidable contenders stand out: the Kawasaki Z650 and the Continental GT 650. Both bikes offer a unique blend of performance, style, and value, making them popular choices for riders seeking a thrilling and versatile ride. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects of these two motorcycles to determine which one emerges as the superior choice.
Engine and Performance
The Kawasaki Z650 boasts a 649cc, parallel-twin engine that delivers 67 horsepower and 64 lb-ft of torque. The Continental GT 650, on the other hand, features a 648cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 47 horsepower and 52 lb-ft of torque. While the Z650 offers more power and a higher revving nature, the Continental GT 650’s torquey engine provides a more relaxed and cruiser-like riding experience.
Handling and Suspension
The Z650’s trellis frame and 41mm inverted front forks provide agile handling and a sporty ride. The Continental GT 650, with its double cradle frame and conventional telescopic front forks, offers a more stable and comfortable ride, making it more suitable for cruising and long-distance journeys.
Braking and Safety
Both the Z650 and the Continental GT 650 come equipped with dual disc brakes at the front and a single disc brake at the rear. However, the Z650’s brakes offer better feel and feedback, providing more confidence while braking. The Continental GT 650 lacks ABS as standard, while the Z650 offers it as an option.
Styling and Ergonomics
The Z650 exudes a modern and aggressive streetfighter aesthetic, with sharp lines and a muscular stance. The Continental GT 650, in contrast, evokes a classic cafe racer look, with a low-slung stance, a round headlamp, and a sculpted fuel tank. The Z650 offers a more upright riding position, while the Continental GT 650 has a more sporty and forward-leaning position.
Features and Technology
The Z650 features a digital instrument cluster, LED lighting, and a slipper clutch. The Continental GT 650, on the other hand, has a more minimalistic instrument cluster, halogen lighting, and lacks a slipper clutch.
Price and Value
The Kawasaki Z650 is priced slightly higher than the Continental GT 650. However, the Z650 offers more power, better handling, and a wider range of features, making it a better value proposition for those seeking a versatile and thrilling ride.
In a nutshell: The Ultimate Choice
Both the Kawasaki Z650 and the Continental GT 650 are excellent middleweight motorcycles that cater to different riding styles and preferences. The Z650 is the superior choice for riders seeking a sporty and agile ride, while the Continental GT 650 is better suited for those who prefer a classic and comfortable cruising experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the individual rider‘s priorities and riding style.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which bike has more power? The Kawasaki Z650 has more power, producing 67 horsepower compared to the Continental GT 650’s 47 horsepower.
2. Which bike is more fuel-efficient? The Continental GT 650 is more fuel-efficient, with a claimed fuel economy of 70 mpg compared to the Z650’s 60 mpg.
3. Which bike is better for long-distance riding? The Continental GT 650 is more comfortable for long-distance riding, thanks to its more relaxed riding position and more comfortable seat.
4. Which bike is cheaper to maintain? The Continental GT 650 is cheaper to maintain, as it has a simpler design and fewer expensive components.
5. Which bike is better for beginners? The Kawasaki Z650 is more suitable for beginners, as it has a more manageable power delivery and a more upright riding position.
6. Which bike has a better resale value? The Kawasaki Z650 has a better resale value, as it is a more popular and sought-after motorcycle.
7. Which bike is more reliable? Both the Z650 and the Continental GT 650 have good reliability records. However, the Z650 has a more advanced engine design and a longer service interval.
8. Which bike is more customizable? The Kawasaki Z650 has a wider range of aftermarket parts and accessories available, making it more customizable.
9. Which bike is better for commuting? The Continental GT 650 is better for commuting, as it is more fuel-efficient and has a more comfortable riding position.
10. Which bike is better for touring? The Continental GT 650 is better for touring, as it has a more comfortable seat and a larger fuel tank.
