Z 650 C

1979 Kawasaki Z 650 C Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around Kawasaki's naked motorcycle platform, the 1979 Kawasaki Z 650 C utilizes a 652 cc (39.8 cu in) air-cooled in-line four, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 66 HP (48.2 kW) at 8,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 101.2 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the Z 650 C measures 230 kg (507 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.29 HP/kg (3.48 kg per horsepower). The 16.5-liter (4.4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 190 km/h (118 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 1978 to 1979, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.