2020 Kawasaki Z650 vs Yamaha MT-07 Compared - Beginner Motorcycles

I take a look a the latest mid-weight beginner options out of Kawasaki and Yamaha, in the form of the 2020 Kawasaki Z650 which has just received an update, alongside the latest Yamaha MT-07.

Both machines are popular parallel-twin options for new and intermediate riders, offering ideal levels of performance for the inexperienced who are after a challenge and machine that's going to last an extended period with plenty of room to grow.

On Kawasaki's Z650 we've seen the adoption of a TFT display, alongside LED headlight, with killer styling and beautiful build quality, backed up by a super smooth and refined powerplant, with a controllable braking system.

The Yamaha MT-07 on the other hand offers a cross-plane parallel-twin, which offers a bit more punch in the mid-range at the expense of the Z650's refinement, with a stronger front brake package thanks to four-piston calipers, while the headlight is ole reliable halogen, and the display a simple but functional TFT.

I take a look at these two machines and how they differ and their strengths and weaknesses, with both being ideal options at the end of the day.

A big thanks going to Moto Hub in Castle Hill, Sydney for lending me their demo Z650, check them out for a test ride!

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[monck]

Test rode both, bought the Kawasaki. The main reasons were: the Z was a better physical fit, the seat was more comfortable and most importantly the engine power is spread right across the rev range. At the top end the Kawasaki still feels strong, whereas the Yamaha's a bit breathless. Can't go wrong with either but the Z's a more rounded bike in my view.

[marajaded]

I considered the MT-07 and sat on it, but ultimately, I went with the 2020 Z650, which I just purchased last month. Thanks for comparing the two...great video and very informative.

[crustybikers]

I have a 2017 FZ-07, My Pop's rides a 2017 Z-650, love both bikes, wouldn't be able to choose between the two if I had to.

[terribletcm]

Mr Kris. Please don't be afraid to "jump" between pictures to show the bike you're currently talking about. I got a little lost in the first minute when you talked about one bike, but showed the other. If you were to jump between bikes (and show examples of the mods/features you are mentioning) I would subscribe. :P Ehh, prolly will anyway.

[komalley]

The beginner msf courses here use 125s. You can buy them used, ride them for a year, drop them frequently, and then sell them for what you paid.

[FreeThoughtCrime]

I have an Fz-07. When I bought it nearly 4 years ago, I preferred its styling to the Z650. But ever since the Z got updated with the dual headlight, I just think it looks so incredibly badass that I'm thinking of switching.

[zanathzanath]

This comparison vid from Australia may be the best comparo vid. He discuss from how they look to how it runs 😀 to the bits it of was made! Best.

[ClearBrookExotics]

I had the MT07. LOVED the power, but it was top heavy. Felt like riding the top of a car. The seating position and compact design of the Z650 is much better for a smaller guy like me.

[bruceleong]

Nice objective review Kris. For me, it’s the MT07 every day. I love the more classic style and the sound of the cross plane motor is right up there for me. I’m also a fan of light weight, as I believe it’s always easier to set up the handling on a lighter bike. Great work Kris!

[DJustice]

Z650: better tech, more sophisticated, sharp looks
MT-07: engine, sound of thunder and war

Why can't I put these two together... 😪

[evanlamarr]

I’ve ridden both, and I don’t know how you can say you prefer both the same. The Z650 was as exciting as vanilla pudding, while the MT07 feels like flying a fighter jet. more peppy engine.

[sathishrao]

Great balanced review.. Even though I’m not a fan of the looks of these Street fighters, Z’s looks are slightly more appealing to me, so given a choice I’ll pick Z.

[komalley]

Beginner bikes? Each of these bikes have as much horsepower as my first three bikes combined.

[petera.marquez]

In a battle of big bikes between the two I would prefer to ride a KAWASAKI Z650 than a Yamaha MT-07.

[TM-nuiz]

I’ve been riding a 2018 MT-07 lams since late 2018 since they are available in NZ and Australia and I have throughly enjoyed riding it since it is light, agile and it has a good amount of torque for responding to the throttle while riding

[andrewhannam.]

Great review and comparison as always. The Zed has my vote as much as the MT is a good motorcycle.

[TheGravityAxe]

Didn't know you could relocate the blinkers to the main body. I'll have to look into the pros and cons of it.
Nice vid.

[farmoboy]

Own a 2007 sv650 but never ridden yet this 2 bikes. The z650 looks stunning and with more aparent quality than the mt07. The mt07 is supposed to be slightly faster and nervous. I would still choose the z650 if sv650 was not an option. Incredible bikes for road use, commute and ocasional weekend fun rides.

[RYang-udni]

I own the fz07 for 3 years now....when people say "the suspension is to soft" just blows my mind away. I live in the states (colorado) to be exact; and I've hit twisties here in the rockies and this bike will handle flawlessly no problem. I love the 07 because it can get you in and out of situations whether that's city or twisties. Dont let these comparisons make your decision...only you can keep the rubber side up! Throttle happy can get you in trouble if not careful with any bike. Anything 600cc and up has more then enough "grunt".

[BobbyDully__P]

Fz/mt07 all day. Sound etc better in my opinion . I live in murica so its not restricted ;)