[JACoH]

Picked up my new Z650 yesterday, rode it home 66 miles. So far, I love it. It is smoother than my old Versys 650. I can get both feet on ground (29" inseam). The handlebars are perhaps a bit low for my tastes, coupled with the high foot position. Although it was comfortable on the way home with the breeze pushing me enough to relieve any wrist pressure. It is really light and maneuverable compared to the Versys, it seems MUCH smaller, which I think is odd. Seat was comfortable for those 66 miles. I adjusted rear shock preload to the lightest load, which is a pain to do with the stock tool, I used a long socket extension and rubber hammer. Computer said I was getting 55 mpg, course I was keeping it under 4000 rpm which is about 55mph. Nice to read in the manual that valves don't need checking until 15,000 miles. I will definitely get Speedy's foot peg lowering kit when available, not sure if the h'bars can be raised because of the tight brake hose routing. OK, going for a ride.

 

[Cowasaki]

Thanks for the ride review!

Hmmmm, if the brake hose is too tight for a raised handlebar, instaling a new hose is going to be a pain that may not be worth the effort. Could try riding it for a day and see how your wrists feel afterwards.

 

[Stitch]

That brake hose is definitely going to be the issue to look at for raising that handlebar. But thanks for the review! Glad to hear you're liking it so far.

 

[Jp Freeman]

Hi,

I'm thinking about getting a Z650 (got CB500F now) and
would like to know what you think of the engine vibrations ?

Thanks,

 

[JACoH]

Not really feeling any vibrations, in either handlebars or footpegs, yet. My Versys vibrated in the bars, but not excessively like my old Royal Enfield or a Harley. Most new bike vibes really aren't an issue unless you have physical problems, and I do have arthritis. After all we are sitting on an engine, they have to vibrate a bit.

 

[Geno Horri]

I'm with JACoH. I pulled the factory bar weights out to put on mirrors. Rode 9 hrs straight, then back 2 days later and really no vibrations that are worth stopping your from buying.

 

[Stitch]

9 Hours straight ?! Dayum that sounds like a fun trip

 

[Cowasaki]

Sounds like you have a butt made of iron. 6 hour rides are pushing it for me.

A more upright position would help with longer rides, but changing out a brake hose is such a pain if you need to do so for higher handlebars.