Known as the KZ650 here in the US and the Z650 everywhere else, this middleweight perfectly fit under the KZ900 in Kawasaki’s lineup. It was introduced in 1976 with three color choices: Candy Super Red, Candy Emerald Blue, or Candy Emerald Green. Introduced as a “large middleweight” alternative to the mighty Z1, the KZ650 delivered much of the big bike experience in a lighter, more manageable, and more affordable package. Designed under the guidance of Gyoichi “Ben” Inamura (the same mind behind the Z1), it struck a near perfect balance between performance, practicality, and value, earning its reputation as one of the most sensible Japanese standards of the era.
At the heart of the KZ650 is a 652cc air cooled inline four with dual overhead cams, a five speed gearbox, and a claimed 64 horsepower at 8,500 rpm, impressive figures for the mid 1970s. Kawasaki refined lessons learned from the Z1, opting for a smoother engine with improved durability, including under bucket shims and a robust plain bearing crankshaft. The steel double cradle frame used larger diameter tubing than its bigger sibling, resulting in a chassis that felt stable yet surprisingly agile.
On the road, the KZ650 exemplifies the best traits of the Universal Japanese Motorcycle: comfortable ergonomics, predictable handling, and an engine that’s happy cruising or being worked hard. It’s not a razor edged sport machine, but it rewards smooth inputs and thoughtful riding, making it engaging without ever feeling intimidating. As values of halo bikes like early CB750s and Z1s continue to climb, the KZ650 remains an accessible, usable classic. A motorcycle you can ride regularly, enjoy fully, and appreciate for exactly what it is: honest, durable, and endlessly likable.
This example is VIN: KZ650B520129.
The odometer shows 54,264 miles.
The owner of this is our very own Abhi. In his words: “I got this in 2019 from an old boss of mine, he had a long history with it and eventually had to let it go. I couldn’t help myself and felt like I had to adopt it but seven years later I don’t really have the room for it anymore so it needs a new home.” He wrote up a series of posts on his personal site about his experience with this bike here:
Introduction
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, Iconic’s service department performed a safety inspection, cleaned/sync’d the carbs and installed a new battery. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Age Unknown (Dark)
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Fail (>3% of moisture)
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Cable Driven
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Cable Driven
Final Drive Condition: Ok but dry
Headlight High Beam: Fail
Headlight Low Beam: Fail
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: Rear Left non Functioning all else functioning
Tail Light: Fail
Brake Light (Front Switch): Fail
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Fail
Plate Light: Fail
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 40%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: Drum
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 37/21
Tire Date Code Rear: 29/21
Tire % Remaining Front: 99%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 99%
Tire Press. Front: 36 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 38 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: Fail
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: N/A
Running Condition: Runs Well on Bench, Runs Well on Test ride
Test Ride Completed: Yes
Test Ride Distance: 2 Miles
Notes:
-Turn Signal needs to be addressed for repair
-Light Assemblies need to be diagnosed for non functioning
Modifications:
Progressive rear shocks.
Superbike GT mirrors.
Dual Stebel horns.
Aftermarket seat.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop D404 tires with date codes of 2921 and 3721.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Kawasaki is offered on a clean California title currently on Planned Non Operation registration status. Have any KZ650 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
