The battle for the best mid-range street bike is hot, and these 10 are the main contenders
The 650 class is the perfect mix of approachability and power, a bike you can grow into and rely on for years to come. This class has become more popular over the years and led to companies adding more features to create better value for those entering this cc range. Here are our top 10 options for 650 street bikes.
The KLR650 is the OG adventure bike and a fantastic all-around vehicle. This bike is for you if you are a fan of the crossover, off-road truck industry. The 2022 model replaces the carburetor with a fuel-injected platform, which is more challenging to work with the model. This bike allows for ample cargo space, high ground clearance, and plenty of options for the standard heated grips, bark breakers, skid plate, phone charger, and a traditional milk crate. Although geared for off-road usage, which is a clear sign of a capable commuter. This is a wise choice for anyone intending to have a good time and ride in comfort. Although the 2022 version starts at $6,699, any older model can be found for around $2,000-$4,000.
Known for its reliability and impressive handling off-road, much like the KLR650, the V Strom 650 allows for dual usage but primarily focuses on highway travel. A great budget option for those seeking the Triumph Tiger class, the V-Strom is a 645cc V-twin engine with upright ergonomics and basic styling. The bike comes standard with 12-volt accessory ports mounted on the dash, a maintenance-free battery, and a solid LCD display. The back rack is easily used to strap a backpack, and panniers/top boxes are easily added to the luggage system. At $8,904 MSRP for the 2022 model, it is an easy purchase for those seeking more accessories with their ride. V-Strom 650s are notorious for Toyota-like reliability and are easily found on Craigslist or Marketplace for $3,000-5,000 for interested buyers looking for older models to purchase.
Related: This Mean-looking Kawasaki Ninja ZX7R Is Unlike Any Other
This mid-range Z series Sportbike is a step down from the current Z900 models, but a serious step up from the Z400, Kawasaki’s newest entry-level vehicle. This four-stroke, two-cylinder, liquid-cooled 649CC parallel-twin provides 48.5 pound-feet of torque with smooth six-speed transmission. The cycle starts at $7,549 for the non-ABS version and is a crowd favorite for its styling and performance. This bike is a great sleeper pick for those wanting to exude superbike dominance while riding a more realistic mid-range vehicle.
The CBR650R is a head-to-head competitor with the Ninja 650R, offering a custom 4-1 exhaust, slipper clutch, Showa 41mm front fork, and 649cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine. This bike comes with a solid amount of premium features and customization galore. The bike comes standard with an LCD and an aggressive tuck-style seating situation. Those looking for a track-inspired motorcycle with a slightly higher price tag ($9,799), look no further than the beautiful CB650R.
Related: Honda’s First Electric CBR1000RR Is Just As Gorgeous As The Real Deal
The Vulcan 650, or Vulcan S model, utilizes the same engine platform as the Z650 and Ninja 650 models. With this power delivery on a sealed chain drive, the bike exudes confidence and styling while in a cruiser appearance. This bike is popular for those seeking the Harley-Davidson image with a surprisingly lower price tag. The non-ABS version of the cycle starts at $7,349 and provides a top speed of 116 MPH and a maximum of 46.3 pound-feet of torque at 6,600 rpm. This bike is an easy win for beginner and Harley cruiser riders seeking to save a buck.
The Triumph Scrambler-Esque beach cruiser with attitude and comfort. This bike touts style and performance. The 650 twin engine and classic seating position allow for a balanced ride with ample front and rear suspension. While only 47 horsepower, the power is most felt down low, allowing instant propulsion past the monotony of side street stoplights. The low footpeg position and seat allow for a perfect ergonomic triangle design for the most comfortable position possible. This laid-back cruiser is hard to beat and an easy decision for the free spirits. Strap yours with an MSRP of $5,799.
Related: 10 Reasons Why The Suzuki Hayabusa is the Ultimate Motorcycle
The Versys 650 is a capable touring motorcycle with the 650 engine used in the Vulcan, Z650, and Ninja 650. This bike is inspired by adventure riding positioning, with aggressive commuter tires and sleek design (clearly inspired by the Z class cycles). Entry-level pricing for the non-ABS model starts at $8,899 and comes with smartphone connectivity, traction control, windscreen, and upright riding ergonomics. This bill would quickly be equipped with top cases, panniers, and technological upgrades making for an easy, comfortable commuter and a canyon carver on the weekends.
Many will recognize the Triumph Street Triple after its win on the Daytona 200 in its first attempt. Triumph is notorious for a well put together vehicles with excellent performance and a sound reminiscent of Mozart emitting from their exhausts. The Triumph Trident 660 was a welcomed addition to this class, offering an approachable price with the styling and performance one can expect from Triumph’s design team. The bike starts at $8,395 and provides a 132 MPH top speed with 47 pound-feet torque at 6,250 rpm. This is a highly compelling choice for those seeking the Triumph experience at an affordable price point.
Related: Spy Shots: An Early Look At The Triumph 350cc Naked Motorcycle
Touted as one of the most reliable and usable motorcycles for the track and the street, this bike changed the industry in 1999. Although the brand lost many of its faithful followers with the Gladius redesign (SFC650), the brand returned in 2017 with the classic styling and performance edge it was known for since its initial introduction. The 2022 Suzuki SV650 2022 model starts at $7,749 and is a hot contender with the Ninja 650 as the most bang for your buck 650 bikes. The 2-into-1 exhaust gives notoriously pleasant tones to the riding experience. The bike also has an easy start system to assist in low rpm maneuvers, aiding beginner riders in shifting. With 69 horses, this is one of the fastest bikes on this list while maintaining 48 MPG. An excellent choice for those seeking reliability, styling, and performance.
The Ninja 650 is a personal favorite and an easy choice for the value-seeking consumer. With significant parts and a well-known durable package, this bike is an easy win for those looking for a no-nonsense, no-frills attached riding experience. I have had many of these bikes and can confidently say I have enjoyed every moment. This bike is an excellent option for those seeking simplicity at $7,899 entry-level pricing and a multitude of secondhand market options. Although lacking the TFT display that other models are offering in the industry, this bike allows for a focus on the riding experience and satisfaction in reliability.
Jean-Luc has been riding a variety of motorcycles over the past few years but tends to lean Kawasaki. He is passionate about rider education, industry innovation, and the open road. Find him riding the twistys in Provo Canyon, or on his yearly ride through Yellowstone. Find his digital content @motowidelens on Youtube.