Utilizing the same basic DOHC 649cc parallel-twin engine from the company’s longtime middleweight Ninja 650 which was first introduced in 2006, the Z650 first made an appearance in the 2017 model lineup as part of Kawasaki’s new “Z” series of naked bikes. Bringing a slightly less sporty and more practical, “everyday” profile than the Ninja, the Z650 ditched the full bodywork and clip-on bars for sleeker, “sugomi-inspired” styling and a conventional handlebar for a slightly more comfortable riding position. A new trellis-style high-tensile steel tubular frame similar to the vaunted H2 series along with a new swingarm dropped a bunch of weight from previous-gen Ninja 650, and subtle changes to the parallel-twin powerplant improved its midrange-strong character. - Cycle World