Yamaha Xs650 vs Kawasaki Z650rs
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Yamaha Xs650
Kawasaki Z650rs
Horsepower (hp)
53 hp
67 hp
Torque (Nm)
52 Nm
64 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
170 km/h
185 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
193 kg
187 kg
Type
Classic
Classic
Horsepower
53 hp @ 7,000 rpm
67 hp @ 8,000 rpm
Torque
52 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
64 Nm @ 6,700 rpm
Top Speed
170 km/h
185 km/h (estimated)
Weight
193 kg (wet/curb weight)
187 kg (curb weight)
Fuel
4.5 L/100km (approx. 22 km/L)
4.5 L/100km (approx. 22 km/L typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Yamaha Xs650
8.5/10
"The best vintage Japanese twin you can still reasonably find."
Pros
+Virtually indestructible engine
+Huge aftermarket support still
+Stunning parallel twin character
Cons
−Prices inflated by hipsters
−Many rough project bikes circulating
−Points ignition needs attention
Kawasaki Z650rs
7.8/10
"A genuinely pretty bike that's actually fun to ride."
Pros
+Bulletproof parallel-twin engine
+Stunning retro styling
+Affordable insurance and servicing
Cons
−Suspension soft for heavy riders
−Headers discolor quickly
−Limited wind protection
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
