The Kawasaki Ninja 650 is one of the most versatile motorcycles on the market. It sits comfortably between a beginner bike and a high-performance supersport. It is reliable, looks aggressive, and has plenty of torque.

However, out of the showroom, the bike is designed to meet strict noise and emissions regulations, and the suspension is built for a "budget" price point. To truly enjoy this machine, many riders choose to customize it.

Here is a comprehensive guide to the best exhausts, tyres, touring accessories, and performance upgrades for your Ninja 650.

1. Best Exhaust Systems: Sound and Weight

The most popular modification for a Ninja 650 is the exhaust. The stock exhaust is heavy and very quiet because of the catalytic converter.

Important Note: On most modern Ninja 650 models, the exhaust is a one-piece welded unit. This means you usually cannot just buy a "slip-on" muffler; you often need to buy a Full System (headers and muffler) to see real benefits.

• Yoshimura Alpha Works: This is a top choice for many riders. It gives the bike a deep, throaty rumble without being ear-splittingly loud. It looks premium and sheds significant weight compared to the stock pipe.
• Akrapovic Titanium: If you have a higher budget, Akrapovic is the gold standard. It offers a refined sound and provides the best performance gains when paired with a proper engine tune.
• Two Brothers Racing: If you want your bike to be loud and aggressive, this is the brand for you. It has a very raw sound that makes the parallel-twin engine scream.

Why upgrade?

• Reduces bike weight by 3-5 kg.
• Makes the bike safer (cars can hear you coming).
• improves the look of the motorcycle.

2. Tyres: The Best Upgrade for Handling

The stock tyres on the Ninja 650 (often Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2s) are decent for commuting, but they lack feedback and grip when pushing hard or riding in the rain.

• For the Commuter/Tourer: Michelin Road 6
  These are widely considered the best all-around motorcycle tyres. They have incredible grip in the rain and last for thousands of miles. If you ride to work every day or go on long trips, buy these.
• For the Canyon Carver: Pirelli Diablo Rosso III or IV
  If you only ride on sunny weekends and love leaning the bike over in corners, go for the Pirellis. They are softer and stickier than the Michelins, giving you maximum confidence in the curves, though they will wear out faster.

3. Performance Upgrades: Smoothness over Speed

The Ninja 650 is not a race bike (like the ZX-6R), so chasing massive horsepower isn't realistic. However, you can make the power delivery much smoother.

• ECU Flash: Modern bikes run "lean" to pass emissions tests, which can make the throttle feel jerky at low speeds. Sending your ECU (the bike's brain) to a specialist to be "flashed" or tuned will smooth out the throttle response and unlock a little more power.
• High-Flow Air Filter: Brands like DNA or K&N make filters that allow the engine to breathe better. This is a cheap mod that works well when combined with a new exhaust.
• Suspension: The rear shock on the Ninja 650 is quite basic. Upgrading to an Öhlins or YSS rear shock will make the ride much more comfortable over bumps and keep the bike stable in corners.

4. Touring Modifications: Comfort for the Long Haul

The Ninja 650 is an excellent sport-touring machine. With a few tweaks, you can ride it for hundreds of miles without fatigue.

• Touring Windscreen: The stock windshield is low and directs wind at your chest. Upgrading to a "Double Bubble" screen or a Touring screen from brands like Puig or Zero Gravity pushes the wind over your helmet, reducing noise and neck strain.
• Frame Sliders: Before you go on a trip, install frame sliders (brands like Shogun or R&G). If you accidentally drop the bike in a parking lot, these plastic pucks will save your fairings from cracking.
• Luggage:
  • Tank Bags: Great for holding your phone, wallet, and water.
  • Saddlebags: Soft saddlebags (like those from SW-Motech) are easy to remove and don't require heavy metal racks.
• Seat Upgrade: The stock seat can feel hard after an hour. Brands like Corbin or Bagster offer gel seats that are much softer for long-distance riding.

5. Aesthetic Touches

Finally, to make the bike look sharp:

• Fender Eliminator (Tail Tidy): This removes the long, ugly plastic license plate holder hanging off the back and tucks the plate up tight against the taillight.
• Tank Grips: Rubber pads that stick to the side of the gas tank. They help your knees grip the bike, taking the weight off your wrists.

Conclusion

Modifying your Kawasaki Ninja 650 is about tailoring the bike to fit your lifestyle. If you commute in the rain, prioritize tyres. If you want to smile every time you twist the throttle, get a full exhaust system. Always remember to ride within your limits and wear your safety gear!