2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650

Chassis Management Technology

• HORIZONTAL BACK-LINK REAR SUSPENSION: Compared to the Kawasaki traditional Uni-Trak® rear suspension, which mounts the shock unit vertically, with Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension, the shock unit is almost horizontal. The original Kawasaki suspension arrangement locates the shock unit very close to the bike's center of gravity, greatly contributing to mass centralization. And because there is no linkage or shock unit protruding beneath the swingarm, this frees up space for a larger exhaust pre-chamber (an exhaust expansion chamber situated just upstream of the silencer). With a larger pre-chamber, silencer volume can be reduced, and heavy exhaust components can be concentrated closer to the center of the bike, further contributing to mass centralization. The result is greatly improved handling. A secondary benefit is that the shock unit is placed far away from exhaust heat. Because it is more difficult for heat from the exhaust system to adversely affect suspension oil and gas pressure, suspension performance is more consistent.

Engine Management Technology

• ASSIST & SLIPPER CLUTCH: Based on feedback from racing activities, the Assist & Slipper Clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam) to either drive the clutch hub and operating plate together or apart. Under normal operation, the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever feel when operating the clutch. When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and helps prevent the rear tire from hopping and skidding. This race-style function is particularly useful when sport or track riding.
• DUAL THROTTLE VALVES: Late-model sport bikes often use large-bore throttle bodies to generate high levels of power. However, with large diameter throttles, when a rider suddenly opens the throttle, the unrestricted torque response can be strong. Dual throttle valve technology was designed to tame engine response while contributing to performance. On models with dual throttle valves, there are two throttle valves per cylinder: in addition to the main valves, which are physically linked to the throttle grip and controlled by the rider, a second set of valves, opened and closed by the ECU, precisely regulates intake airflow to ensure a natural, linear response. With the air passing through the throttle bodies becoming smoother, combustion efficiency is improved and power is increased.
• ECONOMICAL RIDING INDICATOR: Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider's control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an "ECO" mark appears on the instrument panel's LCD screen. By riding so that the "ECO" mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced. While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the "ECO" mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimize negative impact on the environment.

Handling

• NIMBLE & RESPONSIVE: The Ninja® 650 motorcycle delivers the thrills with a perfected trellis frame design for agile handling and maneuverability.
• SPORT GETS SPORTIER: Upgraded Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires contribute to the sportiest and most enticing ride yet.
• STRONG FOUNDATION. AGILE RIDE.: A light and slim chassis features a trellis frame and horizontal back-link rear suspension for nimble handling and excellent traction response, resulting in a more direct connection to the road.

Power

• EXHILIRATING & FUN: The sporty 649cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth and responsive performance with exciting mid-range power that is felt in every gear.
• PERFORM IN THE CLUTCH: An Assist and Slipper Clutch helps to put the power to the ground while providing an extremely light pull at the lever and reducing rear-wheel chatter during downshifts.

Styling

• AGGRESSIVE & SLEEK: The Ninja® 650 motorcycle stands out with more angular styling, aggressive headlights, an upswept tail cowl and a TFT color instrument panel.
• SHARPER NINJA® STYLING: Sharp styling comes with bodywork and twin LED headlights for an even sportier appearance. The redesigned windshield is positioned lower, and is mounted flush with the upper cowl for a sleek design. A thicker passenger seat not only provides a more comfortable seat for the passenger but improves hip support for the rider.
• COMFORT MEETS DESIGN: The more upright angle of the windshield maintains sufficient wind protection for a comfortable ride when speeds pick up.

Technology

• HIGH-TECH ELECTRONICS: TFT color instrumentation and Bluetooth® smartphone connectivity add high-tech elements to the ride and allow you to connect to the Ninja® 650 motorcycle like never before.
• AHEAD OF THE GAME: A 4.3-inch TFT color instrumentation brings high-class function to the cockpit. The meter offers a full-color display and a high level of visibility with multiple functions including speedometer, tachometer, gear position indicator, shift lamp, fuel gage, odometer, fuel consumption and much more.
• STAY CONNECTED: Connect your smartphone via Bluetooth® (and through RIDEOLOGY THE APP*) to view your vehicle information, detailed riding log, telephone notifications and general display settings. *RIDEOLOGY THE APP is not intended for use during vehicle operation. Only use RIDEOLOGY THE APP when the vehicle is not being operated and it is safe to do so.