The 2024 Kawasaki Z650RS wraps the modern Z650 platform in styling drawn from the original Z family of the 1970s. New for 2024 is traction control, and the price rises $500 to $9599.
The traction control has two levels: Mode 1 for normal riding and Mode 2 for low-traction conditions. Kawasaki also lets the rider switch it off.
The liquid-cooled 649cc DOHC parallel twin also powers Kawasaki’s sportbikes, adventure bikes, and cruisers. It makes 49 ft-lbs of torque at 6500 rpm, with plenty of low-end and midrange punch that won’t intimidate a newer rider, and it rewards experienced riders who rev it out. A 6-speed transmission with Positive Neutral Finder and an assist-and-slipper clutch with a light pull are standard.
The riding position is neutral and upright. The upper triple clamp sits higher than on the Z650, and a wide, backswept handlebar puts the grips higher and closer to the rider. The stepped seat is 31.5 inches high and narrows at the front for an easier reach to the ground.
Retro details include a teardrop tank, side panels and fenders inspired by the 1978 KZ650, twin analog-style gauges flanking an LCD screen, LED lighting with a round headlight, and cast wheels styled like wire spokes.
A steel trellis frame, 24-degree rake, and 55.3-inch wheelbase make the 412-pound RS easy to maneuver in town and on back roads. The non-adjustable 41mm fork and spring-preload adjustable horizontal shock are set up for a comfortable ride.
Nissin calipers grip twin 300mm front discs and a 220mm rear disc, and Bosch 9.1M ABS is standard. Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires mount on 17-inch wheels that accept a wide range of replacement tires. The 2024 color is Ebony/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray.
Benda motorcycles are beginning to make a ripple on US shores with four intriguing and competitive models, courtesy of its partnership with Keeway Group. We were impressed with the Napoleonbob 500 and have now gotten our gloves on the persuasive, entry-level 2026 Benda Chinchilla 300, with its modest MSRP of $4999. It would be difficult to design a more welcoming entry-level cruiser than this easy-handling, visually appealing boulevard bobber. Editor Don Williams and Associate Editor Kelly Callan discuss the Benda Chinchilla 300 and how it actually rode for them.
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Our guest this episode is Jesse Merriman, Chief Technician for Jeremy McWilliams at the Arch Motorcycle racing project. Arch Racing was founded by Gard Hollinger and Keanu Reevs to compete in the Moto America Super Hooligan race series. Teejay Adams chats with Jesse about the Arch motorcycle and the challenges of extracting the absolute most from an air-cooled V-Twin racing engine and custom chassis.
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Here’s quick reminder to check out our monthly digital magazine. It’s filled with everything you want to read on motorcycling, including some things you’ve probably not seen elsewhere. It’s absolutely free and you will find it on the Apple App Store and of course on Google Play as well.
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