RideFast May 2018

The Ninja 650 is a stunning piece
of kit, and offers so much to
experienced and newcomers alike.
SPECS KAWASAKI NINJA 400
Engine: 649cc Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke
Parallel Twin
Max power: 67hp @ 8000rpm
Max torque: 65.7Nm @ 6500rpm
Tank capacity: 15l
Wet weight: 193kg
Price: R119,995
riders alike, offering
more than enough in all
departments to satisfy all their
needs and wants.
Both bikes are very well
priced, extremely fuel effi cient
and have styling straight from their
bigger, more sportier brothers.
Ninja 650
Since its introduction in 2006,
the Kawasaki Ninja 650 has
grabbed the attention of
riders across the spectrum.
Whether you were someone
who had just proudly
received a learner’s license
or participate in club racing, it
has been a practical way into
the sport world as an affordable,
middleweight bike. In 2017, the Ninja
650 received an upgrade and improved
upon all aspects.
The 4-stroke Parallel Twin motor has
power to satisfy its primary market—new
and intermediate riders—and still has
something for an experienced wrist. When
fi rst fi ring up the new Ninja 650, you’ll be
met with an almost subdued exhaust note,
humming along at idle without upsetting the
neighbors. With a light clutch pull, thanks
to the assist-and-slip clutch, it’s off and on
your way. You can happily take on traffi c
with your newfound commuting pal, zipping
around town with a hearty helping of 67Nm
of torque low and mid-range performance.
Power delivery is incredibly tractable—
meaning that it builds power predictably—
in a direct relationship with how much
throttle is applied. There are no sudden
jumps or surges from the engine, nor are
there any hiccups in the power delivery.
Compounding that already positive aspect
is the truly impeccable fueling, wherein I
found zero faults. It’s crisp and sporty, even
as you push it.
The new 650 is far from intimidating. Its
lightweight chassis is simple and easy to
enjoy. It is a remarkably nimble machine.
Tipping the Ninja into corners requires little
effort any speed. Thought-out movements
pay off and are rewarded, while mid-corner
corrections aren’t met with resistance either.
Despite its nimble characteristics, the
Ninja 650 is quite stable, which could have
been aided by the centrally located mass
of the new Ninja 650. At no point did I
experience headshake while accelerating
78 RIDEFAST MAGAZINE MAY 2018