Kawasaki Z650 S Gets Big Updates For 2026 - India Launch On The Cards?

Kawasaki has finally pulled the wraps off the 2026 Z650 S, giving its popular middleweight naked bike a proper refresh. The bike will hit UK showrooms in January 2026, and if Kawasaki’s track record in India is anything to go by, it should make its way here later next year.

Under the skin, not much has changed mechanically. The Z650 S still runs the same 649cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that’s been around since the old ER-6 models back in 2006. It continues with the 180-degree crank layout, unlike rivals such as Yamaha’s MT-07 that now use a 270-degree setup for a more V-twin-like feel. Expect performance figures to stay close to the current 67 bhp and 63 Nm of torque.

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Ahead Of New Model Launch

Where the new Z650 S really steps up is comfort. Kawasaki has reworked the ergonomics with a new fat-bar handlebar that’s 30mm wider, repositioned footpegs, and reprofiled seats for both rider and pillion. The rider’s seat now sits around 20mm taller and offers extra padding, while the pillion seat is wider and softer too. If that’s still not right for you, Kawasaki will also offer both taller and lower seat options.

The design has also been sharpened up. The front end looks meaner now, with a new three-part LED headlight setup and redesigned bodywork that gives the Z650 S a chunkier stance. LEDs are now standard all around, including indicators and the taillight.

Tech updates come in the form of a new 4.3-inch TFT display that connects to your phone through the Kawasaki Rideology app. You can check your ride stats, get notifications, and switch between two tachometer layouts. The screen even switches automatically between light and dark modes based on the surroundings.

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Underneath, the familiar steel trellis frame remains, along with the same suspension setup. Braking is handled by dual 300mm front discs and a 220mm rear disc, now supported by a Continental ABS system. There’s also traction control as standard. Kawasaki will offer a quickshifter for clutchless upshifts. Riders also get some small but useful touches like a USB-C charging port inside the front cowl and options for colour-matched seat cowls and luggage kits.

The 2026 Kawasaki Z650 S will come in three colour schemes: Carbon Grey, Lime Green with Carbon Grey, and Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Grey/Black. Prices will be revealed closer to launch, but in India, expect it to be slightly pricier than the current Z650, which sells for Rs 7.26 lakh (ex-showroom).