It’s not even a month into 2017 and already Kawasaki Motors Malaysia has made their intent to strengthen their position in the market known with the launch of four new models for the year.
The new models, namely the Z900, Z650, Ninja 650 and Versys-X 250, were revealed today at the company’s annual gala dinner in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year. First deliveries are expected to take place somewhere in April.
Z900 ABS
The newest member of the Z family is the successor to the Z800 that features a 948 cc, inline-four engine with 125 PS at 9,500 rpm and 98.6 Nm of torque at 7,700 rpm. It is mated to a six-speed transmission with Slipper and Assist clutch.
One of the key components is the trellis frame that weighs only 13.5 kg, contributing significantly to the bike’s light, nimble handling. The bike is also equipped with an inverted 41 mm front fork with a stepless rebound damping and spring adjustability in the left fork tube, as well as a back-link horizontal rear suspension.
The Z900 also comes with ABS and a brake system comprising double 300 mm discs with a four-piston caliper up front and a 250 mm petal disc at the rear. There is also an analogue-style tachometer with three selectable display modes.
The bike is available in Grey while the Special Edition comes in Blue. The later adds a myriad of accessories such as special graphics, single seat cover, meter cover, DC outlet, radiator screen, sliders, engine cover rings, front axle sliders, tank pad and knee pads.
Estimated price: Less than RM58,000
Z650 ABS
The successor to the ER-6n in the middleweight category is ideal for riders who prefer agile, sporty riding as well as those whose are new to bigger capacity bikes. The styling is similar to that of the Z900, which is a blend of aggressive stance and “sugomi” styling elements.
The Z650 is powered by a 649 cc parallel-twin engine that churns out 68 PS at 8,000 rpm and 65.7 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. To optimize performance for everyday riding, care was taken to maximise low-mid range torque.
The chassis is made of a 15-kg trellis frame that is combined with a 41 mm telescopic fork up front and a horizontal back-link suspension at the rear. Like the Z900, it also comes with slipper clutch.
The Z650 features dual 300 mm front discs and a single 220 mm rear petal disc, as well as Bosch 9.1M compact ABS. The bike also has a multi-function display with a gear position indicator, shift-up indicator and ECO mode.
It is offered in two colours: Lime Green and Titanium.
Estimated price: Less than RM37,000
Ninja 650 ABS
The Ninja 650 and Z650 are identical bikes in the sense they share the same chassis, engine, transmission, suspension, brakes and many more. The difference lies in the exterior where the Ninja 650 wears a full fairing.
Additionally, the Ninja 650 also comes with an adjustable windshield that has three positions covering a total range of 60 mm. It is offered in Lime Green and Orange.
Estimated price: Less than RM38,000
Versys-X 250
Combining adventure styling with a small capacity mill, the Versys-X 250 comes as the entry-level offering in the Versys family. Its unique features include long-travel suspension, wide reach handlebar and a low seat, all of which contribute to its all-road capability.
The Versys-X 250 rides on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels wrapped in multipurpose tyres. Combined with the long-travel suspension designed to soak up road imperfections, the bike is expected to deliver riding excitement across a wide range of riding situations.
Power, 34 PS at 11,500 rpm and 21.7 Nm at 10,000 rpm to be exact, comes from a 249 cc parallel-twin engine that is mated to a six-speed tranmission with slipper clutch.
The Versys-X 250 is only available in Lime Green.
Estimated price: RM25,000
