Kawasaki has launched the 2026 Z650RS in India as part of its MY26 update cycle. Like other recent updates from the brand, this motorcycle now supports E20 fuel and comes with small visual changes. There are no mechanical or feature upgrades this time, but the bike gets a new paint option and a higher price compared to the older model.
2026 Kawasaki Z650RS Price in India
The 2026 Kawasaki Z650RS is priced at Rs 7.83 lakh (ex-showroom). The earlier MY25 version was sold at Rs 7.69 lakh, which means the new model is Rs 14,000 more expensive. This increase is purely due to the model year update, as Kawasaki has not added any new features or equipment.
New Colour Update on the 2026 Z650RS
The main change on the MY26 Z650RS is the new paint scheme. Kawasaki has introduced a new colour called Metallic Ocean Blue, which replaces the older Ebony shade. This blue colour is mainly seen on the fuel tank and side panels and helps the bike look fresh while keeping its classic style.
The familiar gold accents continue on the new model. The horizontal gold stripe on the fuel tank, the gold detailing on the tail section, and the gold-finished 17-inch alloy wheels remain unchanged. The retro KAWASAKI logo on the tank and Z650RS badges on the side panels are also carried over.
Design and Features Remain the Same
Apart from the new colour, the design and features of the Z650RS stay exactly the same. The motorcycle continues with its neo-retro look, featuring a slim fuel tank, minimal body panels, and a relaxed riding posture. It comes with twin round analogue dials paired with a small digital display, along with a round LED headlamp.
Other highlights include a lightweight trellis frame, a stylish swingarm, an underbelly exhaust, and a comfortable seat. The bike has a 12-litre fuel tank, an 800 mm seat height, and a rider-friendly layout suited for city and highway riding. Safety features such as two-level traction control and dual-channel ABS are also unchanged.
Suspension, Brakes, and Dimensions
The 2026 Z650RS continues with the same cycle parts. At the front, it uses 41 mm right-side-up telescopic forks, while the rear gets a mono-shock with a horizontal back-link swingarm. Braking is handled by dual 300 mm disc brakes at the front and a single 220 mm disc at the rear.
The bike runs on a 120-section front tyre and a 160-section rear tyre. Its seat height is 800 mm, ground clearance is 120 mm, and kerb weight stands at 192 kg, which remains unchanged from the previous version.
Also Read: Kia and Renault to Launch Their First Hybrid SUVs in 2026
Engine and Performance Details
Powering the 2026 Kawasaki Z650RS is the same 649cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine with a DOHC setup and four valves per cylinder. This engine produces 68 PS of power and 62.1 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a slip-and-assist clutch.
One small change worth noting is that torque output has been reduced slightly. The earlier MY25 model produced 64 Nm, so the new version is down by 1.9 Nm. In real-world riding, this change is unlikely to be noticeable for most riders.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Kawasaki Z650RS is a simple model-year update rather than a major upgrade. It gets E20 fuel compatibility, a new Metallic Ocean Blue colour, and a price increase, but everything else stays the same. If you like the Z650RS for its retro styling, smooth engine, and comfortable riding position, the MY26 version delivers the same experience with a fresh look. However, buyers should note that they are paying more without getting any new features in return.
