1979 Kawasaki Z 650 C
Review of 1979 Kawasaki Z 650 C
The Kawasaki Z 650 C, introduced in 1979, stands as a significant milestone in the world of motorcycles, embodying the essence of the late '70s era of performance and style. With its powerful 653cc air-cooled, inline-four engine, the Z 650 C delivered an exhilarating ride characterized by robust power and a smooth delivery, making it a favorite among both novice and seasoned riders. Its lightweight chassis, combined with a comfortable riding position, allowed for agile handling, enhancing the overall riding experience. The iconic design, featuring a classic café racer aesthetic with a distinctive angular tank and streamlined bodywork, further solidified its appeal, making it a standout model in Kawasaki's lineup. In terms of value, the Kawasaki Z 650 C has become a sought-after classic in the vintage motorcycle market. Enthusiasts and collectors appreciate its historical significance as one of the early models that contributed to Kawasaki's reputation for producing reliable and performance-oriented motorcycles. Its distinctive styling and riding characteristics have earned it a dedicated following, ensuring that well-maintained examples can command respectable prices. As the motorcycle community continues to celebrate the golden age of biking, the Z 650 C remains a testament to Kawasaki's engineering prowess and a cherished piece of motorcycle history. Its blend of performance, style, and cultural significance ensures that it will continue to be revered for years to come.
Advantages
- Classic Styling: The Z 650 C features a timeless design that embodies the classic motorcycle aesthetic, appealing to vintage bike enthusiasts and collectors alike.
- Strong Performance: Powered by a robust 653cc parallel-twin engine, the Z 650 C delivers a good balance of power and torque, providing an enjoyable riding experience both in the city and on the highway.
- Lightweight and Agile: Weighing in at approximately 440 lbs, the Z 650 C is relatively lightweight, making it nimble and easy to handle, especially for riders who prefer a more responsive motorcycle.
- Comfortable Riding Position: The bike's ergonomics are designed for comfort, with a relaxed seating position that allows for longer rides without excessive fatigue, making it suitable for both daily commuting and weekend trips.
- Aftermarket Support: Given its popularity during its production years, there is a strong aftermarket community for the Z 650 C, providing ample options for customization, parts replacement, and restoration. These pros highlight the enduring appeal of the Kawasaki Z 650 C as a classic motorcycle choice.
Disadvantages
- Limited Performance by Modern Standards: While the Z 650 C was considered powerful for its time, its performance may feel underwhelming compared to contemporary motorcycles, especially in terms of acceleration and top speed.
- Weight and Handling: Weighing more than some of its rivals, the Z 650 C can feel cumbersome, especially for newer riders or those accustomed to lighter, more agile bikes.
- Vibration Issues: The inline-four engine can produce noticeable vibrations at certain RPMs, which might lead to discomfort during longer rides.
- Availability of Parts: Being a vintage motorcycle, finding specific replacement parts can be challenging and may require sourcing from specialty shops or online platforms, potentially increasing maintenance costs.
- Braking Performance: The brakes on the Z 650 C may not meet the safety standards expected by modern riders, with less effective stopping power compared to modern motorcycles equipped with advanced braking systems.
Alternatives
- Suzuki GS550 (1977-1980) The Suzuki GS550 is a classic mid-sized motorcycle known for its reliability and smooth performance. Featuring a 543cc inline-four engine, it offers a balance of power and agility, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced riders. Its lightweight frame and comfortable ergonomics contribute to a fun riding experience.
- Honda CB650 (1979-1983) The Honda CB650 is a versatile and well-rounded motorcycle that features a 653cc inline-four engine. It is celebrated for its dependable performance and refined handling. With a classic design and comfortable riding position, the CB650 is suitable for everyday commuting as well as longer rides.
- Yamaha XS650 (1970-1983) The Yamaha XS650 is a legendary motorcycle known for its unique parallel-twin engine configuration. With a 653cc displacement, it combines classic styling with a solid performance. The XS650 is often favored for its distinctive character and is a popular choice for café racer and custom builds due to its simplicity and availability of aftermarket parts.
- Kawasaki KZ650 (1976-1983) The Kawasaki KZ650 is a close relative to the Z 650 C, featuring a similar 653cc inline-four engine. It is known for its robust power delivery and smooth ride, making it a popular choice in the standard motorcycle segment. The KZ650's classic styling and comfortable seating position make it an attractive option for those seeking a vintage bike.
- BMW R65 (1978-1984) The BMW R65 is a compact and well-engineered motorcycle featuring a 648cc air-cooled boxer twin engine. Known for its exceptional build quality and smooth ride, the R65 offers a distinctive riding experience with its low center of gravity and comfortable ergonomics. It appeals to riders who appreciate German engineering and a classic touring experience. Each of these models offers a unique blend of performance, style, and character that can serve as great alternatives to the Kawasaki Z 650 C.
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