Kawasaki is bringing back both the Ninja 650 and Z650 for 2023 with one significant update – traction control. Formerly a rider aid only for the most powerful sportbikes on the planet, the safety benefits of traction control reach far beyond trying to go quickly around a racetrack. The two-step KTRC system does not feature the exotic IMUs that flagship sportbikes use, but a more modest system. In mode 1, KTRC allows the rear tire to slip a little more and doesn’t intervene as early. It’s a sport setting designed to allow the rider maximum drive and acceleration off a corner.
Mode 2 is more conservative, intervening earlier than in mode 1 and is ideal for riding in bad weather or low-grip situations. Then, for riders who insist on being in complete control of their engine’s power, KTRC can be turned off entirely.
Visually and mechanically, both the Ninja and Z 650s don’t deviate much from last year’s model – not that that’s a bad thing. The Ninja-inspired looks remain, as does the tried-and-true 649cc parallel-Twin engine, petal brake discs, and meager suspension. See the press release below for full details.
For 2023, the Ninja 650 is available in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Ebony or Pearl Robotic White / Metallic Matte Flat Raw Graystone / Ebony, with an MSRP of $7,999. The Ninja 650 KRT Edition modeled after the Kawasaki Racing Team is available in Lime Green / Ebony, with an MSRP of $8,199, and is also available with ABS with an MSRP of $8,599.
The 2023 Z650 is available in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black, with an MSRP of $7,749. The Z650 ABS model is available in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Ebony, with an MSRP of $8,249.
With sleek, angular bodywork draped over a light weight, sporty trellis frame and responsive parallel twin engine, the Ninja 650 delivers uncompromising middleweight Ninja motorcycle performance and style while maintaining everyday versatility.
2-Mode Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) (KP)
• Kawasaki’s advanced traction control system provides both enhanced sport riding performance and reassurance under certain conditions to allow riders to negotiate low-traction surfaces with confidence. Two modes allow riders to adjust settings to suit the riding situation and rider preference.
• Cassette-style transmission puts the transmission shafts and shift drum into a compact layout.
• Includes Positive Neutral Finder, a Kawasaki exclusive user-friendly feature.
• Sporty five-spoke wheel design has a light, nimble appearance.
• Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires contribute to light handling.
• Sporty five-spoke wheel design has a light, nimble appearance.
• Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires contribute to light handling.
†Do not operate smartphone while riding
• A Bluetooth chip built into the instrument panel enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP,” a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.
Become a Motorcycle.com insider. Get the latest motorcycle news first by subscribing to our newsletter here .