Kawasaki Z650 2017 vs. KTM 690 Duke 2012

Kawasaki Z650 2017

Kawasaki Z650 2017

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

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Overview - Kawasaki Z650 2017 vs KTM 690 Duke 2012

The Kawasaki Z650 2017 and the KTM 690 Duke 2012 are both popular naked bikes with their own unique features and strengths.

In terms of engine power, the Kawasaki Z650 2017 has a slightly lower power output of 68.2 HP compared to the KTM 690 Duke 2012 which has 70 HP. However, the difference is minimal and both bikes offer sufficient power for their respective models.

When it comes to torque, the Kawasaki Z650 2017 has a torque of 65.7 Nm, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a torque of 70 Nm. Again, the difference is not significant, but the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a slight advantage in terms of torque.

In terms of cylinders, the Kawasaki Z650 2017 has 2 cylinders, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a single cylinder. Having two cylinders generally provides smoother power delivery and better overall performance, but the KTM 690 Duke 2012 compensates for this with its higher torque.

Both bikes have liquid cooling systems, which are efficient in maintaining optimal engine temperature during long rides or in hot weather conditions.

Kawasaki Z650 2017

Kawasaki Z650 2017

In terms of displacement, the Kawasaki Z650 2017 has a displacement of 649 ccm, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a displacement of 690 ccm. The KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a slightly larger engine displacement, which can result in slightly more power and torque.

The suspension systems of both bikes differ slightly. The Kawasaki Z650 2017 has a telescopic fork front suspension, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension. The upside-down telescopic fork is generally considered to be more advanced and provides better handling and stability.

In terms of the chassis, the Kawasaki Z650 2017 has a steel frame, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a chromium-molybdenum frame. Both frames are tubular in design and offer good rigidity and stability.

The braking systems of both bikes also differ. The Kawasaki Z650 2017 has double piston front brakes with petal technology, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has four piston front brakes with radial technology. The four piston front brakes on the KTM 690 Duke 2012 are generally considered to provide better braking performance and control.

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

Both bikes are equipped with advanced rider assistance systems. The Kawasaki Z650 2017 has ABS, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has Ride by Wire technology. ABS provides enhanced safety by preventing wheel lock-up during braking, while Ride by Wire technology improves throttle response and control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have similar front and rear tire widths and diameters. The Kawasaki Z650 2017 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1410 mm compared to the KTM 690 Duke 2012 which has a wheelbase of 1466 mm. The seat height of the Kawasaki Z650 2017 is 790 mm, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a higher seat height of 835 mm. The Kawasaki Z650 2017 also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 15 liters, compared to the KTM 690 Duke 2012 which has a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z650 2017 offers even power delivery, a sporty chassis, compact dimensions, and a negative display. On the other hand, the KTM 690 Duke 2012 is known for its extremely fast yet smooth performance, precise and manageable chassis, and high agility.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z650 2017 may be a little too small for tall people, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 may take some getting used to when driving bends in the road.

Overall, both the Kawasaki Z650 2017 and the KTM 690 Duke 2012 are impressive naked bikes with their own unique features and strengths. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Z650 2017 compared to KTM 690 Duke 2012

Kawasaki Z650 2017
KTM 690 Duke 2012

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore83 mmBore102 mm
StrokeStroke60 mmStroke84.5 mm
Engine powerEngine power68.2 HPEngine power70 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power7,500 rpm
TorqueTorque65.7 NmTorque70 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,000 rpmRpm at Torque5,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio10.8 Compression Ratio12.6
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeAntihopping
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders1
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesRocker arm, OHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement649 ccmDisplacement690 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTelescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameChromium-molybdenum
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeTubular

Brakes Front

PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountSemi-SchwimmsattelShock mountFixed caliper
TechnologyTechnologyPetalTechnologyradial

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFloating caliper

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABSAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsRide by Wire

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width160 mmRear tyre width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,410 mmWheelbase1,466 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height790 mmSeat Height835 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity15 lFuel Tank Capacity14 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Z650 2017

Kawasaki Z650 2017

The Kawasaki Z 650 is the tip of the middle class for small male and female riders. On its compact dimensions, you probably won't feel comfortable as a giant. Heart-warming feelings, however, come from the engine, which delights with a very smooth pull. On the chassis side, a Kawasaki-typical tight set-up was chosen, which finds a great compromise in everyday use. The negative display is very easy to read and is reminiscent of its predecessor, the ER-6n - very nice!

Even power delivery

sporty chassis

compact dimensions

negative display

a little too small for tall people

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

More than a decade after its launch, the KTM 690 Duke remains a fascinating bike with its own character. The attempt to turn the rebellious Duke into a bike with more mass appeal has proven to be a successful strategy. The combination of an outstanding LC4 engine, direct handling and good value for money continues to make it an attractive option for riders looking for something special. Although newer twin-cylinder models are superior in terms of smooth running and comfort, the 690 Duke offers an immediacy and character that only a large single-cylinder can deliver. As a used motorbike, it has proven to be surprisingly stable in value and durable - provided you pay attention to regular maintenance.

Outstanding LC4 single-cylinder engine with a unique character

Outstanding power-to-weight ratio (2.29 kg/HP)

Direct, precise handling in all riding situations

Good value stability and surprising longevity

Disengageable ABS and effective anti-hopping clutch

Low fuel consumption (3.5-4 litres/100 km)

Suspension without adjustability with limited reserves

Mediocre shifting precision, especially at higher mileages

Alternator as a potential weak point at higher mileages

Clutch play needs to be adjusted more frequently

"Whipping" chain at very low speeds in the partial load range

Slight vibrations at higher speeds (especially before 2016)

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Z650 vs KTM 690 Duke

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Z650 2017 and a KTM 690 Duke 2012. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Kawasaki Z650 2017 is about 13% higher. A Kawasaki Z650 2017 experiences a loss of 340 USD in one year and 520 USD in two years of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 190 USD and 660 USD for a KTM 690 Duke 2012. Compared to KTM 690 Duke 2012 there are less Kawasaki Z650 2017 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 11 compared to 16. It takes less time to sell a KTM 690 Duke with 50 days compared to 76 days for the Kawasaki Z650. Since model year 2017 1000PS.de editors have written 31 reviews for the Kawasaki Z650 and 29 reviews for the KTM 690 Duke since model year 2008. The first review for the Kawasaki Z650 was published on 11/8/2016 and now has more than 25,000 views. This compares to more than 14,800 views for the first review on KTM 690 Duke published on 9/28/2007.

Price Kawasaki Z650

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM 690 Duke

Model year
Current average market prices

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