The middleweight naked bike segment in South Africa is heating up, and two motorcycles are at the centre of the conversation: the Yamaha MT-07 and the Kawasaki Z650. Both are well-known names in the global motorcycle scene, offering the right mix of performance, affordability, and street-focused fun. But as more South African riders eye these two machines, the debate intensifies: which one truly delivers the better ride?
Let’s dive into what sets these two bikes apart — and what brings them neck and neck in the South African naked bike war.
Engine Performance – Twin Power Face-Off
The Yamaha MT-07 is powered by a 689cc parallel-twin engine, part of Yamaha’s CP2 family. Known for its strong mid-range torque and lively throttle response, it produces around 73.4 horsepower and 67 Nm of torque. The engine’s character is smooth yet aggressive enough to thrill on twisty roads, offering a spirited ride without overwhelming newer riders.
The Kawasaki Z650 isn’t far behind. Its 649cc parallel-twin churns out around 68 horsepower and 64 Nm of torque. While it may appear slightly down on power compared to the MT-07, the Z650 shines with its linear delivery and approachable nature. It’s a machine that feels composed in city traffic yet comes alive when pushed on open roads.
On paper, the MT-07 edges ahead in raw figures. But in real-world riding, especially on South Africa’s mix of city streets and long coastal routes, the difference can be subtle and down to riding style preference.
Ride and Handling – Urban Jungle vs Open Roads
South African riders often look for versatility. The MT-07 brings agility with its lighter frame and upright ergonomics, making it perfect for quick direction changes and urban commuting. Yamaha’s suspension setup is basic but balanced, offering a fun ride on smooth surfaces and decent stability on uneven patches.
Kawasaki’s Z650 counters with a stiffer chassis and a sportier stance. The steel trellis frame gives it better cornering precision at higher speeds. For riders who occasionally want to explore winding routes out of town or cruise near the Winelands, the Z650 may offer a more planted ride.
That said, both bikes are well-suited for South Africa’s diverse road conditions — from city centres to rural tar.
Design – Streetfighter Style Clash
The MT-07 sports Yamaha’s signature aggressive styling with angular lines and a distinctive LED headlight. Its updated 2023-2024 models look sharper than ever, drawing glances wherever it goes.
Kawasaki’s Z650 adopts the Sugomi design language — edgy, aggressive, and unmistakably Kawasaki. The Z650’s exposed frame, muscular tank, and aggressive front end give it a slightly more track-inspired vibe.
It’s safe to say both motorcycles turn heads. Choosing between the two may come down to whether one prefers Yamaha’s modern minimalism or Kawasaki’s streetfighter flair.
Features and Tech – No-Frills, But Modern
Neither bike is packed with cutting-edge electronics, and that’s part of their charm. They appeal to purists who want a raw, connected experience with the road.
The MT-07 gets a colour TFT display, optional quickshifter, and standard ABS. Kawasaki matches with its own TFT, smartphone connectivity, and ABS. Both lack traction control or ride modes — but in a market like South Africa, where simplicity often means easier maintenance and lower cost, this could be a plus.
Price and Ownership – South African Context
While exact pricing varies between dealers, both bikes are generally priced in the R140,000–R160,000 range in South Africa. Yamaha and Kawasaki both have decent after-sales networks across the country, including major urban centres like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.
Fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordable servicing keep them attractive for both young professionals and experienced bikers looking for a reliable middleweight.
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Final Thoughts – Which One for Mzansi Roads?
So, which one should South African riders go for? The Yamaha MT-07 is often hailed as the benchmark in its category — punchy, playful, and proven. The Kawasaki Z650, on the other hand, delivers a more refined feel with aggressive looks and steady handling.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal taste. Riders who want an everyday all-rounder with a bit of edge might lean towards the MT-07. Those seeking a sportier stance and slightly firmer ride may prefer the Z650.
Either way, the naked bike debate in South Africa isn’t ending anytime soon — and that’s a win for the motorcycling community.
