Kawasaki claim to have started a retro revolution ? or a ?retrovolution? ? with the introduction of this, the Z650RS. They reckon it?ll open up the mid-capacity class to ?a wide range of riders?; although you?d probably have to say that it?s already open to most. Nevertheless, if you?re at the early stages of your riding career, or you get a kick out of reminiscing over the original Z650-B1, back in 1977, the new Kawasaki Z650RS might be worth a look.

 As you might have guessed, Kawasaki have given the Z650RS the same engine as the Z650 and Ninja 650. It?s a 649cc parallel twin, with a slipper clutch and 67bhp. It might not sound like the most engaging motor, on paper, but in it?s Z650 and Ninja 650 guise, it?s got enough poke to put a smile on your face? at least some of the time anyway.
It?s also worth pointing out that it is available in a 35kw (45bhp) version, so you can ride one on your A2 license if you need to. Maybe that?s who Kawasaki are opening up the mid-capacity class to ? A2 license holders. Although I?m sure Kawasaki aren?t the first to offer 35kw versions of mid-capacity bikes. Anyway, I digress.

The 820mm-high seat is nice and narrow, so you don?t have to be built like Lurch to get your feet flat on the floor. The conventional-way-up forks (that look upside-down, these days) aren?t adjustable, but the shock is (although only for preload). They?ve gone for the more traditional round brake disc, rather than the wavy jobs on most contemporary...