Main points
- The Z650 is more affordable, lighter, and more nimble, while the XSR700 is more powerful, more comfortable, and has a more retro style.
- The Z650 is a more affordable, lighter, and more nimble bike, while the XSR700 is more powerful, more comfortable, and has a more retro style.
- The XSR700 has a more powerful engine that produces 74 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque, compared to the Z650’s 67 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque.
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha XSR700 are two of the most popular motorcycles in their class. Both bikes offer a great combination of performance, style, and value. But which one is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare the Kawasaki Z650 vs Yamaha XSR700 in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Performance
The Kawasaki Z650 is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine that produces 67 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque. The Yamaha XSR700 is powered by a 689cc parallel-twin engine that produces 74 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the Yamaha XSR700 has the advantage in terms of power and torque. However, the Kawasaki Z650 is lighter than the XSR700, so it has a better power-to-weight ratio. This means that the Z650 feels more responsive and agile than the XSR700, especially at low speeds.
Handling
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha XSR700 both handle well, but they have different personalities. The Z650 is a more nimble and flickable bike, while the XSR700 is more stable and planted.
The Z650’s shorter wheelbase and lighter weight make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and on twisty roads. The XSR700’s longer wheelbase and heavier weight make it more stable at highway speeds and on long rides.
Braking
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha XSR700 both have excellent brakes. The Z650 has dual 300mm discs with four-piston calipers up front and a single 220mm disc with a single-piston caliper in the rear. The XSR700 has dual 282mm discs with four-piston calipers up front and a single 245mm disc with a single-piston caliper in the rear.
Both bikes offer good feedback and modulation, and they provide plenty of stopping power. However, the XSR700’s larger front discs give it a slight advantage in terms of braking performance.
Comfort
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha XSR700 are both comfortable motorcycles, but they have different seating positions. The Z650 has a more upright seating position, while the XSR700 has a more aggressive, forward-leaning seating position.
The Z650’s upright seating position is more comfortable for long rides and commuting. The XSR700’s more aggressive seating position is better for spirited riding and track days.
Style
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha XSR700 have very different styles. The Z650 is a modern, naked bike with sharp lines and aggressive angles. The XSR700 is a retro-inspired bike with a classic, round headlight and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank.
The Z650’s modern style is more appealing to some riders, while the XSR700’s retro style is more appealing to others. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to see them in person and decide which one you like better.
Price
The Kawasaki Z650 is priced at $7,299, while the Yamaha XSR700 is priced at $8,699.
The Z650 is a more affordable option than the XSR700, but it also has less power and features. The XSR700 is a more expensive option, but it also has more power and features.
Which One is Right for You?
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha XSR700 are both great motorcycles, but they are different in many ways. The Z650 is more affordable, lighter, and more nimble, while the XSR700 is more powerful, more comfortable, and has a more retro style.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them and see which one you like better.
Wrap-Up
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha XSR700 are two of the most popular motorcycles in their class. Both bikes offer a great combination of performance, style, and value. The Z650 is a more affordable, lighter, and more nimble bike, while the XSR700 is more powerful, more comfortable, and has a more retro style. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them and see which one you like better.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which bike is faster, the Kawasaki Z650 or the Yamaha XSR700?
A: The Yamaha XSR700 is faster than the Kawasaki Z650. The XSR700 has a more powerful engine that produces 74 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque, compared to the Z650’s 67 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which bike handles better, the Kawasaki Z650 or the Yamaha XSR700?
A: The Kawasaki Z650 handles better than the Yamaha XSR700. The Z650 has a shorter wheelbase and lighter weight, which makes it more nimble and flickable.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable, the Kawasaki Z650 or the Yamaha XSR700?
A: The Yamaha XSR700 is more comfortable than the Kawasaki Z650. The XSR700 has a more upright seating position and a more comfortable seat.
