What To Know
- The Z650 is a bit more nimble and agile, while the MT-07 has a bit more power and torque.
- If you’re looking for a bike with a bit more power and torque, the MT-07 is a great choice.
- If you’re not sure whether the Kawasaki Z650 or Yamaha MT-07 is the right bike for you, there are a few other alternatives to consider.
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha MT-07 are two of the most popular naked bikes on the market today. Both offer a great balance of performance, style, and affordability. But which one is the better choice for you? Let’s take a closer look at each bike and see how they compare.
Engine and Performance
The Kawasaki Z650 is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine that produces 67 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque. The Yamaha MT-07, on the other hand, is powered by a 689cc parallel-twin engine that produces 74 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the MT-07 has a slight advantage in terms of power and torque. However, in the real world, there’s not a huge difference in performance between the two bikes. Both bikes are plenty fast for everyday riding and commuting.
Handling
The Kawasaki Z650 is a very nimble and agile bike. It handles well in corners and is easy to flick from side to side. The Yamaha MT-07 is also a good handling bike, but it’s not quite as nimble as the Z650. It’s also a bit heavier, which makes it feel a bit more planted on the road.
Brakes
The Kawasaki Z650 has a single front disc brake and a single rear disc brake. The Yamaha MT-07 has dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake.
The MT-07’s dual front disc brakes give it a slight advantage in terms of braking power. However, both bikes have good brakes that are more than adequate for everyday riding.
Suspension
The Kawasaki Z650 has a non-adjustable front fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock. The Yamaha MT-07 has a preload-adjustable front fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock.
The MT-07’s preload-adjustable suspension gives it a slight advantage in terms of ride quality. However, both bikes have good suspension that is comfortable for everyday riding.
Features
The Kawasaki Z650 comes with a few more features than the Yamaha MT-07. These features include:
- ABS
- Traction control
- LCD instrument panel
- LED headlights
The Yamaha MT-07 does not come with any of these features. However, it is available with a few optional extras, such as:
- ABS
- Traction control
- Quick shifter
Price
The Kawasaki Z650 has a starting price of $7,999. The Yamaha MT-07 has a starting price of $7,699.
The MT-07 is slightly cheaper than the Z650. However, the Z650 comes with a few more features, so it’s ultimately a better value for the money.
Which Bike Is Right for You?
The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha MT-07 are both great naked bikes. The Z650 is a bit more nimble and agile, while the MT-07 has a bit more power and torque.
Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a nimble and agile bike, the Z650 is a great choice. If you’re looking for a bike with a bit more power and torque, the MT-07 is a great choice.
Alternatives to the Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha MT-07
If you’re not sure whether the Kawasaki Z650 or Yamaha MT-07 is the right bike for you, there are a few other alternatives to consider. These alternatives include:
- Suzuki SV650
- Honda CB650R
- Triumph Street Twin
- Ducati Scrambler Sixty2
These bikes are all similar to the Z650 and MT-07 in terms of performance, style, and affordability. They’re all great choices for riders who are looking for a fun and versatile naked bike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which bike is faster, the Kawasaki Z650 or Yamaha MT-07?
A: The Yamaha MT-07 is slightly faster than the Kawasaki Z650. It has a more powerful engine and a higher top speed.
Q: Which bike is better for commuting, the Kawasaki Z650 or Yamaha MT-07?
A: Both the Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha MT-07 are good for commuting. They’re both comfortable to ride and have good fuel economy. However, the Z650 is slightly more nimble and agile, which makes it a bit easier to maneuver through traffic.
Q: Which bike is cheaper to maintain, the Kawasaki Z650 or Yamaha MT-07?
A: The Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha MT-07 are both relatively inexpensive to maintain. They both have long service intervals and their parts are readily available. However, the Z650 is slightly cheaper to maintain, as it has a longer valve clearance inspection interval.