Z650 or 600i: which budget motorcycle offers the best bang for your buck?
What To Know
- The 600i offers a more comfortable and composed ride, courtesy of its double-cradle frame and 50mm upside-down front forks.
- The Z650 offers a host of rider-centric features, including an LCD instrument cluster, LED lighting, and a USB charging port.
- The Z650 offers a thrilling ride, sharp handling, and an attractive price point, making it an excellent choice for performance-oriented riders.
The world of motorcycling offers a plethora of choices, and selecting the ideal machine can be daunting. Two prominent contenders in the mid-size motorcycle segment are the Kawasaki Z650 and the Benelli 600i. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on their key attributes, aiding you in making an informed decision.
Design and Aesthetics: Striking Silhouettes
Kawasaki Z650: The Z650 exudes a muscular and aggressive stance, embodying the “Sugomi” design philosophy. Its sharp lines, angular bodywork, and signature Z-shaped headlight create an intimidating presence.
Benelli 600i: In contrast, the 600i boasts a more classic and elegant silhouette. Its rounded curves, flowing lines, and sleek fairing evoke a sense of refinement and sophistication.
Engine and Performance: Unleashing Horsepower
Kawasaki Z650: Powering the Z650 is a liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine with a displacement of 649cc. It produces an impressive 67 horsepower and 50.2 lb-ft of torque, delivering a thrilling and responsive ride.
Benelli 600i: The 600i employs a liquid-cooled, inline-four engine with a slightly smaller displacement of 599cc. Despite this, it generates a slightly higher 81 horsepower and 41.7 lb-ft of torque, promising exhilarating acceleration and top-end performance.
Handling and Suspension: Cornering Confidence
Kawasaki Z650: The Z650’s handling is sharp and precise, thanks to its lightweight trellis frame and 41mm inverted front forks. Its 140/70-17 front and 160/60-17 rear tires provide ample grip and stability.
Benelli 600i: The 600i offers a more comfortable and composed ride, courtesy of its double-cradle frame and 50mm upside-down front forks. Its 120/70-17 front and 160/60-17 rear tires enhance maneuverability.
Braking and Safety: Peace of Mind
Kawasaki Z650: The Z650 is equipped with dual 300mm front discs and a single 220mm rear disc, providing ample stopping power. It also features ABS as standard, ensuring enhanced safety in all riding conditions.
Benelli 600i: The 600i utilizes dual 260mm front discs and a single 240mm rear disc. However, it lacks ABS, which may limit its braking capabilities in certain scenarios.
Features and Amenities: Enhancing the Ride
Kawasaki Z650: The Z650 offers a host of rider-centric features, including an LCD instrument cluster, LED lighting, and a USB charging port. It also boasts a slipper clutch, reducing rear-wheel hop during downshifts.
Benelli 600i: The 600i features a comprehensive instrument panel, LED lighting, and a USB charging port. It also includes a dual-channel ABS system, providing enhanced braking performance.
Price and Value: Dollars and Sense
Kawasaki Z650: The Kawasaki Z650 retails for a competitive price, offering excellent value for its performance and features. Its affordable price point makes it accessible to a wider range of riders.
Benelli 600i: The Benelli 600i is priced slightly higher than the Z650. While it delivers more horsepower, its lack of ABS and other premium features may limit its value proposition.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
The Kawasaki Z650 and Benelli 600i are both compelling choices in the mid-size motorcycle segment. The Z650 offers a thrilling ride, sharp handling, and an attractive price point, making it an excellent choice for performance-oriented riders. On the other hand, the 600i provides a more refined and comfortable experience, along with slightly higher horsepower. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which bike has better fuel efficiency?
A: The Kawasaki Z650 typically returns better fuel efficiency than the Benelli 600i due to its smaller engine displacement and more efficient fuel injection system.
Q: Is the Kawasaki Z650 more comfortable for long rides?
A: The Benelli 600i offers a more comfortable ride due to its upright riding position, plush suspension, and wider seat.
Q: Which bike is more suitable for beginners?
A: Both the Kawasaki Z650 and Benelli 600i are relatively user-friendly and accessible for beginners. However, the Z650’s lighter weight and lower seat height may make it slightly easier to handle for novice riders.
