Prepped and Perfected: KAWASAKI Z650RS Custom by STRIKER

• Z650RS

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STRIKER's Z650RS

Though the Z650RS is known as a retro-sport bike, it is equipped with a slim tank and a short, compact tail, giving it modern, casual styling that, combined with its liquid-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder engine with a DOHC 4-valve head, makes it an easily approachable machine. The custom featured here was built by STRIKER WORKS, a support store for the STRIKER brand, using the Z650RS as a base. Of course, it's only natural that STRIKER parts have been equipped, but this bike is actually a new endeavor by the brand, as it was made to be sold as a complete custom. In the summer of 2024, STRIKER/STRIKER WORKS began building complete customs to put up for sale.

Now, you might be thinking that this is the same as the shop's complete custom "SZ" that uses the Z900RS as a base. However, this new endeavor veers in a slightly different direction. According to STRIKER, "the SZ is a custom that is built based on a Z900RS that the customer brings in, so we start the build process with a meeting with the owner, and it takes a little time from then before the build is complete. Some customers want to ride their custom build as soon as possible after that initial meeting, so we tried to think of a way to respond to their wishes. That's where we came up with the idea of preparing complete customs ahead of time."

Of course, it's only natural for customers to want to get right on when they find a bike that strikes their fancy, and STRIKER is working to make that wish come true. As for specifications and base models, nothing is set in stone at present. The basic concept is that when they get their hands on a good quality bike it will be serviced, and then parts will be added. STRIKER/STRIKER WORKS parts will be at the core of the parts used, as in this Z650RS, but using them is not a requirement at present. Incidentally, this Z650RS was priced at 1,298,000 JPY, and a buyer was found not long after the photoshoot for this article. Considering the price and the parts installed, this Z650RS was quite a bargain, and the already light and nimble ride is finished in a way that will make the new owner want to ride it more and more. We are looking forward to seeing more STRIKER/STRIKER WORKS complete customs in the future, as they hope to offer a wide range of models from various manufacturers.

Handle

The exterior, which looks like it could be 2024 Candy Medium Red, is actually an original full-paint finish. The handlebars are fitted with STRIKER Special Bar Ends.

Bodyworks

A STRIKER WORKS Titanium Custom Grab Bar was added to the tail section, as well as a Fender Eliminator Kit.

Engine

The φ83 x 60mm DOHC 4-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine and steel-tube trellis frame remain stock, but parts such as the STRIKER Guard Slider (All Black) and STRIKER Radiator Core Guard, which are recommended even for brand new bikes, are equipped. STRIKER's original titanium bolts are also used for the engine cover and other parts.

Intake & Exhaust

The exhaust system is equipped with a STRIKER Street Concept Titanium Full Exhaust with STRIKER WORKS special emblem. This exhaust reduces the overall weight of the bike and enhances the Z650RS' agility.

Chassis

The styling of the steps is brought together with the STRIKER Special Step Kit & STRIKER Pillion Step Bar.

The φ41mm front forks and brake system are stock, but there's no complaints here.

The horizontal back-link rear suspension and rear brakes are also stock. A STRIKER Racing Stand Hook is added to the swingarm.

The 3.50-17/4.50-17 size wheels are stock, but in a black color instead of the gold that comes with the Candy Medium Red available for the 2024 model, changing the overall look.

Gallery

Specifications

Part	Details
Engine	STRIKER Billet Oil Filler Cap STRIKER Radiator Core Guard
Exhaust	STRIKER Street Concept Titanium Full Exhaust JMCA
Frame	STRIKER Guard Slider STRIKER Racing Stand Hook
Steps	STRIKER Special Step Kit STRIKER Pillion Step Bar
Handle / Steering	STRIKER Special Bar End
Bodyworks	STRIKER Titanium Custom Grab Bar

About STRIKER

Based on technologies cultivated in race scenes, STRIKER is a brand producing exhausts and rear set kits designed for motorcycle dedicated model. They are profesional parts bulider who creates high quality performance parts compatible with Japan made motorcycle including Kawasaki and Honda.

STRIKER brand page

Original Source of this Article

Heritage & Legends