Yamaha MT-07 2018 vs. Kawasaki Z650 2023

When comparing the Yamaha MT-07 2018 and the Kawasaki Z650 2023, there are several key differences to consider.

In terms of engine specifications, both bikes have an inline engine with 2 cylinders and liquid cooling. However, the Yamaha MT-07 has a slightly higher engine power of 75 HP compared to the Kawasaki Z650's 68 HP. The torque on the Yamaha MT-07 is also slightly higher at 68 Nm, compared to the Kawasaki Z650's 65.7 Nm. The Yamaha MT-07 has a larger displacement of 689 ccm, while the Kawasaki Z650 has a displacement of 649 ccm.

Yamaha MT-07 2018

In terms of suspension, both bikes have a telescopic fork front suspension and a steel frame chassis. Both bikes also have double disk front brakes. The front tire width on both bikes is the same at 120 mm, and the front tire diameter is also the same at 17 inches. However, the rear tire width on the Yamaha MT-07 is wider at 180 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z650's 160 mm. The rear tire diameter is the same at 17 inches for both bikes.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha MT-07 has a slightly shorter wheelbase at 1400 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z650's 1410 mm. The seat height on the Yamaha MT-07 is higher at 805 mm, while the Kawasaki Z650 has a slightly lower seat height of 790 mm. The kerb weight of the Yamaha MT-07 is lighter at 179 kg, compared to the Kawasaki Z650's 185 kg. When equipped with ABS, the kerb weight of the Yamaha MT-07 increases to 182 kg, while the Kawasaki Z650's kerb weight with ABS is 187.1 kg. The fuel tank capacity on the Yamaha MT-07 is 14 liters, while the Kawasaki Z650 has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 15 liters.

Kawasaki Z650 2023

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-07 is praised for its extremely agile engine, very light handling, low weight, aggressively angular look, powerful brakes, comfortable seating position, and throaty sound. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z650 is commended for its very accessible handling, compact and easy maneuverability, giving small riders a lot of confidence, and adjustable levers.

In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha MT-07 is criticized for its slightly soft chassis, footrests dragging quickly, some cheap plastic parts, boring telescopic fork, and instruments that could be easier to read. The Kawasaki Z650 has some weaknesses including not enough space on the bike for tall riders, appearing a class smaller than its 650cc overall, a slightly tame engine, a very defensive seating position, and handlebars that are too narrow and cranked too much for a naked bike.