Kawasaki updates Ninja 650, Z650 with traction control

Kawasaki has updated its middleweight motorcycles, the Ninja 650 and Z650, with its traction control system, and new colourways for 2023. These updated models are expected to make their way to our shores in the coming months. 

• Both bikes feature TC with 3 levels (including off)

• Z650 gets three new colours; Ninja 650 gets two new colours

• Z650RS and Vulcan 650 don’t get this feature right now

Kawasaki Ninja 650, Z650 get Traction Control: details

The Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) system these bikes are equipped with is a fairly basic unit and employs wheel-speed sensors alone to measure data and there is no lean-sensitive functionality offered by an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), like on more advanced systems. This system is likely the same one that does duty on the recently launched Kawasaki Versys 650. 

The KTRC system is offered with two modes – Level 1 offers gentle intervention allowing some level of slip before it kicks in, while Level 2 is intended for conditions where grip is poor and intervenes much earlier. The system can also be turned off entirely, if the rider so chooses. 

Accompanying this additional feature are a bunch of new colour schemes on offer. The Z650 gets three new colour schemes, while the Ninja 650 gets two new ones. There is no word yet on whether the neo-retro Z650RS or the Vulcan 650 will be equipped with this safety feature as well. 

Mechanically, these bikes are identical to the previous versions. Both bikes feature a 649cc parallel-twin engine making 68hp at 8,000rpm and 64Nm at 6,700rpm. The chassis, suspension and braking hardware continue to be the same units as before. Considering the changes that are on offer, we expect the newer model to carry a slight increase in price over the current model, when it does make its way here. Currently, the Z650 retails for Rs 6.43 lakh and the Ninja 650 commands Rs 6.95 lakh. 

All prices mentioned are ex-showroom, Delhi.

Are you more likely to consider these bikes with the addition of this safety feature? Let us know in the comments section below.