Kawasaki has launched the updated Z650RS in India; it remains mechanically identical, but the engine is now E20-compliant and produces slightly less torque. This neo-retro sibling of the Z650 also gets a new colour and is priced at Rs 7.83 lakh, ex-showroom.
1. Kawasaki Z650RS gets a new paint scheme
2. Its 649cc engine produces 68hp and 62.1Nm
3. Peak torque is 1.9Nm lower than the outgoing model
2026 Kawasaki Z650RS: What’s new?
E20-compatible but remains mechanically unchanged
Recently, Kawasaki has been updating its entire 650 line-up to be E20-compatible, with the Z650RS being the latest model to get this update after the Ninja 650 and Versys 650. Additionally, the 2026 bike features a new paint scheme. While the outgoing model came with a black and gold colourway, this new model wears metallic blue and gold. The graphics remain unchanged, and it still features those shiny gold wheels.

The Z650RS remains mechanically unchanged and is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that produces 68hp and 62.1Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The peak torque figure is 1.9Nm lower than the outgoing model’s – likely to safeguard the longevity of the engine due to the 20 percent ethanol blend in India.
Priced at Rs 7.83 lakh, the Z650RS commands a premium of Rs 14,000 over the outgoing model, which retailed at Rs 7.69 lakh.

