he middleweight naked bike category is one of the most exciting and competitive segments in the motorcycle world. It’s the sweet spot where performance, practicality, and price converge. Two compelling contenders in this space are the Italian-designed Benelli 752S and the Japanese stalwart, the Kawasaki Z650. While they both compete for the same audience, they offer distinctly different philosophies and riding experiences. Let’s break them down.
At the core of any motorcycle is its engine, and this is where the first major difference appears.
Benelli 752S: The 752S boasts a larger 754cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. This gives it a clear advantage in raw power, producing around 76 horsepower and a healthy dose of torque. The power delivery is muscular and comes on strong in the low-to-mid rev range, giving the bike a brawny, satisfying pull when you twist the throttle. It has a deeper, more guttural exhaust note that speaks to its Italian design heritage.
Kawasaki Z650: The Z650 is powered by Kawasaki’s well-loved 649cc parallel-twin. While it produces less peak power (around 67 horsepower), this engine is renowned for its lively and forgiving character. It’s incredibly smooth, eager to rev, and delivers its power in a linear, predictable way that inspires confidence. It’s a peppy and engaging engine that is just as happy zipping through city traffic as it is carving up a canyon road.
Verdict: If you prioritize torque and a muscular feel, the Benelli 752S has the edge. If you value a smooth, user-friendly, and rev-happy engine, the Kawasaki Z650 is a proven winner.
This is where the bikes' different approaches become even more apparent.
Benelli 752S: The Benelli is built with premium components. It features a robust steel trellis frame, beefy 50mm Marzocchi inverted front forks, and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock. For stopping power, it’s equipped with impressive dual 320mm front discs clamped by Brembo monobloc calipers. This high-spec setup provides a very planted and stable ride, especially at higher speeds. The trade-off? The 752S is significantly heavier than the Z650, which you can feel in slow-speed maneuvers.
Kawasaki Z650: The Z650 focuses on lightweight agility. It uses a light trellis frame, a conventional 41mm telescopic front fork, and a horizontal back-link rear suspension. The braking system, while not Brembo-branded, consists of dual 300mm petal-style discs that provide more than enough stopping power for the bike's light weight. The Z650’s key advantage is its flickability. It feels incredibly nimble and easy to manage, making it a joy in tight corners and urban environments.
Verdict: The Benelli 752S wins on component specification, offering a big-bike feel with premium suspension and brakes. The Kawasaki Z650 wins on agility and ease of use, thanks to its significantly lower weight.
Benelli 752S: The styling is pure Italian flair, often drawing comparisons to a Ducati Monster. The exposed red trellis frame, muscular tank, and minimalist tail section give it an aggressive and exotic presence. The riding position is relatively comfortable but slightly more aggressive than the Z650. The tech is straightforward, with a simple but clear full-color TFT display.
Kawasaki Z650: The Z650 showcases Kawasaki’s sharp "Sugomi" design language, with angular lines and a crouched, predatory stance. It looks modern and aggressive. The ergonomics are famously accommodating, with a comfortable, upright riding position that suits a wide variety of riders, from beginners to veterans. Newer models feature a beautiful color TFT display with smartphone connectivity, giving it a clear edge in the tech department.
Verdict: Style is subjective, but the Benelli offers exotic Italian muscle while the Kawasaki provides modern Japanese aggression. For technology and beginner-friendly comfort, the Z650 takes the lead.
There is no single winner here, only the right bike for a particular rider.
Choose the Benelli 752S if:
Choose the Kawasaki Z650 if:
Ultimately, the Benelli 752S is the passionate choice, offering Italian style and high-spec parts. The Kawasaki Z650 is the pragmatic choice, delivering a perfect blend of fun, accessibility, and modern reliability. The best way to decide? Ride them both and see which one speaks to you.
