TL;DR
The 2026 Kawasaki Z650RS has been launched in India with E20 fuel compliance and a new metallic blue and gold paint scheme, maintaining its classic design and features.
Kawasaki has introduced the updated 2026 Z650RS in India, priced at Rs 7.83 lakh (ex-showroom). The middleweight neo-retro motorcycle retains its mechanical foundation but receives notable updates, most significantly becoming E20 fuel-compliant. This aligns the Z650RS with India's evolving fuel standards and Kawasaki's broader strategy for its 650cc range.
Powering the 2026 Z650RS is the familiar 649cc parallel-twin engine, producing 68 hp and 62.1 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch as standard. Visually, the bike maintains its classic appeal with a circular LED headlamp and teardrop fuel tank, but for the 2026 model year, it sports a fresh metallic blue and gold paint scheme, complemented by golden alloy wheels, replacing the previous black and gold combination.
The motorcycle also features a telescopic front fork, a rear monoshock, and disc brakes on both ends with dual front discs. On the electronics front, it combines analogue-style dials with a multi-functional LCD display and includes Kawasaki Traction Control with two selectable modes. Deliveries for the updated Z650RS are expected to commence from mid-January 2026.
