2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 Guide • Total Motorcycle (2024)

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 Guide • Total Motorcycle (1)
Contents: ReviewKey FeaturesSpecifications

Contents: ReviewKey FeaturesSpecifications

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650. BASIC LUXURY.

Introducing the 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 KRT…

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

Reinvigorated in 2020 to further embody Ninja sportbike lineage, the Ninja 650 motorcycle comes packed with a sporty 649cc engine, next-level technology advancements and sharp styling. Unmistakable sport performance is met with an upright riding position for exciting daily commutes, while a supreme level of attitude reminds you of its legendary heritage.

Built to embody Ninja sportbike lineage, the Ninja 650 motorcycle comes packed with a sporty 649cc engine, next-level technology and sharp styling. Unmistakable sport performance is met with an upright riding position for exciting daily commutes, while a supreme level of attitude reminds you of its legendary heritage.

Maintaining the “Fun, Style, Easy” concept of its predecessor, the superbly balanced and extremely exciting Ninja 650 features a 650cc Parallel Twin engine with a strong low-mid range focus and a lightweight chassis in a slim, middleweight package. Engine refinements contribute to cleaner emissions and increased mid-range torque, and new tyres offer lighter handling. Sharp new styling, highlighted by new LED headlights and TFT colour instrumentation, delivers a sportier appearance and even stronger Ninja family looks.

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 KRT Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

  • AGGRESSIVE NINJA MOTORCYCLE STYLING
  • TWIN LED HEADLIGHTS
  • TFT COLOR INSTRUMENTATION
  • FUEL-EFFICIENT TWIN-CYLINDER ENGINE DELIVERS SMOOTH POWER
  • LIGHTWEIGHT TRELLIS FRAME PROVIDES AGILE, SPORTY HANDLING
  • Twin LED headlights
  • Sharp upper cowl and windshield
  • Comfortable passenger seat
  • Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires
  • Kawasaki Genuine Accessories (sold separately)

KTRC (Kawasaki TRaction Control)
Kawasaki’s advanced traction control system provides both enhanced sport riding performance and the peace of mind under certain conditions to negotiate low-traction surfaces with confidence. Two modes allow riders to adjust settings to suit the riding situation and rider preference. Riders may also elect to turn the system OFF. For 35 kW kit models, KTRC offers one mode (plus OFF).

TFT Colour Instrumentation
The all new digital TFT colour instrumentation – a Kawasaki first in the 650cc class – gives the co*ckpit a high-tech, highgrade appearance. The new meter also offers additional features unavailable on the previous model.

Improved Windshield
Prioritising a sportier appearance, the redesigned windshield is now lower and flush-fit with the upper cowl. It is set at a more upright angle to offer the rider decent wind protection.

Increased Passenger Comfort
Rear seat with 4 thicker urethane (approximately 5 mm thicker at the centre, 10 mm thicker at the sides) and sides that extend more widely offers increased passenger comfort.

Smartphone Connectivity
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.

LED Headlights
Twin LED headlights, each featuring low and high beam as well as a position lamp, offer increased brightness.

New Tyres: Lighter Handling
New Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tyres contribute to lighter handling.

Sharper Ninja Styling
The Ninja 650’s sharper new styling gives it a sportier appearance and even stronger Ninja family looks. Its sleek and sporty design inspires confidence in riders.

HIGH PERFORMANCE ON THE TRACK AND STREET

Kawasaki’s sport and supersport motorcycle lineup is back stronger than ever for 2023 with several Ninja models set to hit dealerships in the fall. The Ninja 650 has been updated and now features Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC), adding to its already proven package. Additional models set to return include the Ninja ZX-10R, Ninja ZX-10RR, Ninja ZX-6R KRT Edition, and Ninja ZX-14R.

NINJA 650
• NEW Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC)
Kawasaki is no stranger to the pursuit of performance, excitement, and all-out fun, and nothing embodies this philosophy more than the new 2023 Ninja 650 motorcycle. It’s one of the most well-balanced motorcycles Kawasaki has produced, blending fun and easy handling with optimal engine and chassis performance, and the legendary sleek Kawasaki Ninja styling.

For 2023, the Ninja 650 receives Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC), Kawasaki’s advanced traction control system that provides both enhanced sport riding performance and the peace of mind under certain conditions to negotiate low-traction surfaces with confidence. The system looks at a number of parameters to get an accurate real-time picture and allows riders to select between two modes to suit their riding situation and preference. Mode 1 is the least intrusive, helping to manage traction during cornering and designed with sport riding in mind. This mode facilitates acceleration out of corners by maximizing forward drive from the rear wheel. In Mode 2, intervention occurs earlier, meaning when excessive wheel spin is detected the engine output is reduced to allow grip to be regained. This helps riders navigate wet pavement or bad stretches of road. Additionally, riders may elect to turn the system off.

The Ninja 650 features the tried and true 649cc parallel-twin engine that is perfect for a daily commute or an afternoon out on some tight, winding, back roads. Its lightweight chassis delivers smooth and agile handling that is both sporty and versatile. The sharp styling found on the Ninja 650 gives it a sporty appearance that is sure to catch the attention of new and seasoned riders alike. Its 4.3” all-digital TFT color instrumentation provides a premium feel and offers full color for great visibility. Twin LED headlights feature low and high beam as well as a position lamp. Utilizing its Smartphone Connectivity through RIDEOLOGY THE APP*, a number of functions can be accessed, logged, and reviewed contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 KRT Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

ENGINE
649cc Twin-Cylinder, DOHC Engine
• Tuned to deliver strong, responsive power for performance that favors everyday riding and inspires confidence in newer riders, yet is spirited enough for sport riding.
• Camshaft profiles are tuned for quick response and performance.
• Slim intake port shape also helps boost engine response and performance.
• Airbox design with a single large inlet contributes to the power feeling.
• Exhaust system has a short header and the sleek muffler’s internal construction further enhances power delivery.
• Muffler is mounted below the engine to help lower the center of gravity and aid weight centralization.
• Kawasaki Air Management System(KP) (KAMS) radiator fan cover helps direct hot engine air down to the ground and away from the rider.
• Compact parallel twin engine helps reduce the dimensions of the entire motorcycle to keep it small and nimble.
• 180-degree crankshaft plus balancer shaft for extremely smooth engine operation.
• Triangular crank and transmission shaft layout makes the engine very short from front to back, a semi-dry sump(KP) oil system reduces overall engine height, while the narrow pitch of the chrome composite(KP) plated aluminum cylinders helps reduce engine width.

Digital Fuel Injection(KP)
• Fuel injection settings provide smooth low end response while contributing to the engine‘s quickrevving character.
• Throttle body diameter is 36mm and utilizes fine atomizing injectors to further enhance engine response and low-to-mid-range power.
• The throttle bodies feature sub-throttle valves(KP) for optimum performance and rideability. The sub throttles, located behind the main throttle valves, are controlled by the ECU so that the EFI system has more precise throttle response, similar to a constant-velocity carburetor.
• Precise fuel injection plus exhaust catalyzer significantly reduce emissions.
• Automatic fast idle system makes starting and warm-up easy.

Assist & Slipper Clutch(KP)
• Using the rotational forces of the clutch hub and pressure plate, the clutch is forced together during acceleration (Assist function) so that fewer and lighter clutch springs can be used for a lighter feel at the lever. During high back-torque, such as when too low of gear is selected, the Slipper function
allows some clutch slippage to help prevent engine lock-up and stalling, and rear-wheel hop.

6-Speed Transmission
• Equipped with a linkage-type gear shift mechanism for positive shift touch and feeling.
• Cassette-style transmission puts the transmission shafts and shift drum into a compact layout.
• Includes Positive Neutral Finder, a Kawasaki exclusive user-friendly feature.

CHASSIS
Frame

• High-tensile steel trellis frame has optimized dimensions and wall thicknesses to significantly reduce frame weight and contribute to extremely light handling.
• Frame components follow the ideal pipe line so that the lines of the frame are as straight as possible. When bends were necessary their angles were as small as possible, resulting in a design that disperses stress extremely well.
• Three-point rigidly mounted engine and footpeg stays are used as stressed members to contribute to weight reduction.

Suspension
Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension(KP) • Horizontal Back-link progressive suspension system like that found on the Ninja ZX-10R optimizes
balance, sport riding potential and ride comfort.
• The linkage is placed atop the swingarm and helps make room for the under-engine muffler for better mass centralization.
• Rear shock is further away from the exhaust so that its operation will not be affected by exhaust heat.
• Gull-wing swingarm uses hollow press construction that helps keep it light.

41mm Front Fork

• Upper triple clamp has stylish reinforcing ribs on the upper surface to enhance appearance. Triple Petal Design Brake Discs • Nissin brake calipers provide excellent brake feel and control and project a sporty image.
• Front brake calipers grip dual 300mm petal discs and have big 27mm pistons for excellent brake feel.
• Petal design offers great cooling and warp resistance.

ERGONOMICS
Wheels and Tires
• Sporty five-spoke wheel design has a light, nimble appearance.
• Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires contribute to light handling.

Confidence-Inspiring co*ckpit
• Separate, clip-on style handlebar mounts atop the upper triple clamp are positioned slightly forward for an aggressive sport riding position. However, the leg position is opened up by placing the footpegs low and forward to help maintain comfort.
• The seat is low and slim at the front to make it easier for the rider to place both feet on the ground at a stop.
• The fuel tank is positioned low on the chassis and its slim design further facilitates the reach to the ground for added rider confidence. A resin design fuel cap eliminates the presence of mounting bolts for a stylish design.
• 5-way adjustable brake and clutch levers accommodate a variety of hand sizes for increased comfort and control.

Wheels and Tires
• Sporty five-spoke wheel design has a light, nimble appearance.
• Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires contribute to light handling.

Confidence-Inspiring co*ckpit
• Separate, clip-on style handlebar mounts atop the upper triple clamp are positioned slightly forward for an aggressive sport riding position. However, the leg position is opened up by placing the footpegs low and forward to help maintain comfort.
• The seat is low and slim at the front to make it easier for the rider to place both feet on the ground at a stop.
• The fuel tank is positioned low on the chassis and its slim design further facilitates the reach to the ground for added rider confidence. A resin design fuel cap eliminates the presence of mounting bolts for a stylish design.
• 5-way adjustable brake and clutch levers accommodate a variety of hand sizes for increased comfort and control.

TFT Color Instrumentation
• All-digital 4.3-inch TFT (thin-film transistor) color instrumentation gives the co*ckpit a high-tech, highgrade appearance.
• TFT delivers a high level of visibility. The screen’s background color is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light.
• Display functions include: digital speedometer, digital bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, shift lamp, fuel gauge, odometer, dual trip meters, current and average fuel consumption, remaining range, average speed, total time, coolant temperature, clock, battery voltage, Kawasaki service reminder, oil change reminder and the Kawasaki Economical Riding Indicator.
• Bluetooth chip allows connection to smartphone and

RIDEOLOGY THE APP Smartphone Connectivity†
†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.
Available functions:
– Vehicle Info: information such as fuel gauge, odometer, maintenance schedule, etc can be viewed via the smartphone.
– Riding Log: GPS route information as well as vehicle running information can be logged and viewed via the smartphone.
– Telephone notices: when a call or mail is received by the smartphone, this is indicated on the instrument display.
– General Settings: general instrument display settings (such as preferred units, date, date format, etc) can be adjusted via the smartphone.
• Once vehicle information has been downloaded to the app, it can be viewed on the smartphone. Available information includes: odometer, trip A, trip B, fuel gauge, remaining range, average gas mileage, average speed, battery voltage, Kawasaki service reminder, oil change reminder, etc.
• Detailed riding logs including GPS information and vehicle running information can be recorded. While riding, the app tracks vehicle speed, rpm, gear position, current mileage, and coolant temperature from moment to moment. Once the riding log has been paired, riders can review these items in a graphic-style display at any point along the route. The app can also display a ride summary, with information that may include: route travelled, total distance, total time, gas mileage (best/average), speed (best/average). For either display mode, riders can select which items are displayed, and can arrange them in their preferred order.
• When riding with the app ON the bike and smartphone are always connected. When the engine is turned off, the latest riding information stored by the app may be viewed on the smartphone.

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 KRT – Totalmotorcycle.comUSA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $7,999 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $NA CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ NA GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Engine Type 4-Stroke, Liquid-Cooled, DOHC, 4 Valve Cylinder Head, Parallel Twin
Displacement 649 cc
Bore & Stroke 83.0 x 60.0 mm
Maximum Torque 48.5 lb. ft @ 6,500 rpm
Compression Ratio 10.8:1
Fuel Injection DFI with Keihin 36mm Throttle Bodies (2)
Transmission 6-Speed with Positive Neutral Finder
Final Drive Sealed Chain
Rake/Trail 24˚/3.9 in.
Front Wheel Travel 4.9 in.
Rear Wheel Travel 5.1 in.
Front Tire Size 120/70-17
Rear Tire Size 160/60-17
Wheelbase 55.5 in.
Front Suspension 41mm Hydraulic Telescopic Fork
Rear Suspension Horizontal Back-link with Adjustable Preload
Front Brake Type Dual 300mm Petal Disc with 2-Piston Caliper
Rear Brake Type Single 220mm Petal Disc
Fuel Tank Capacity 4.0 gal.
Seat Height 31.1 in.
Curb Weight= 419.0 lbs.
Warranty 12 months
Kawasaki Protection Plus 12, 24, 36 or 48 months
(Specifications subject to change without notice.)
= = Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
When equipped, 50-state models with evaporative emissions equipment adds approximately 2.2 pounds.
Ask about the Riders of Kawasaki (ROK) Club and the Good Times Credit Plan.
(KP) = See Kaw-Pedia section for more details.
* = Changes from previous model year.
** Also available as a 50-state model with the last character ending in “L

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 KRT – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details

See 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 ABS

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 KRT – Totalmotorcycle.comEuropean Specifications/Technical Details

See 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 ABS

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

2023 Kawasaki Ninja 650 Guide • Total Motorcycle (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Jerrold Considine

Last Updated:

Views: 5901

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (58 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Jerrold Considine

Birthday: 1993-11-03

Address: Suite 447 3463 Marybelle Circles, New Marlin, AL 20765

Phone: +5816749283868

Job: Sales Executive

Hobby: Air sports, Sand art, Electronics, LARPing, Baseball, Book restoration, Puzzles

Introduction: My name is Jerrold Considine, I am a combative, cheerful, encouraging, happy, enthusiastic, funny, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.