After a new rider takes the MSF course, gets that elusive motorcycle endorsement and decides to score a new bike there's an even bigger obstacle to deal with-choosing the right ride. This can be a pretty intimidating decision.
Starting out on a liter bike is just plain stupid and a 600cc sportbike is an equally poor option. So what are the alternatives? Enter the ER-6n. With a name sounding like a small round robot from a sci-fi flick, the Kawasaki ER-6n is a great choice for new riders wanting to get their feet wet or for more experienced riders who desire a unique, fun and inexpensive commuter bike. While new to the US, the ER-6n has been one of the most popular bikes in Europe since its introduction. It was finally brought stateside this year, and is most identifiable as a naked Ninja 650R.
Essentially a stripped version of the Ninja, it shares the same parallel twin power plant, suspension and tail section. But that's where the similarities end.
From the rear seat forward, the ER-6n is all fighter. The most obvious feature is the aggressive dual stacked headlights. Pulling styling cues from the discontinued Kawasaki Z1000, integrated shrouds combine with a compact chin cowling for an aggressive streetfighter design-something previously unseen in the entry level sect. A small gauge pod sits atop the headlights and features an analog speedometer, digital tachometer, odometer, trip meters, clock and the always useful gas gauge.
Braking power is plentiful for the nature of this bike thanks to a pair of 300mm discs up front squeezed by dual piston calipers.
Handling is what you'd expect-this ain't a sportbike after all. For city duties it's plenty capable. Although an experienced rider will explore its limits quickly on a twisty back road, most newer riders will find it competent. The unique rear suspension features a trick looking adjustable offset rear shock, very similar to its Ninja brother. Shorter riders should take note that while the bike can be lowered both front and rear, it can't dip quite as deep as a bike with a traditional 'dogbone' linkage. The most we could drop the front and rear was just over one inch using aftermarket parts. Kawasaki offers a one-inch lower (or taller) seat for an even better fit as well.
The relatively light weight (441 pounds ready to ride) combined with a low seat height and upright, top mounted bars helps to inspire confidence for shorter legged riders.
There's plenty in the peppy parallel twin engine to get up to speed quickly without fear of power wheelying or spinning the tire. Passing cars on the highway is an easy task but does require more right hand twist than a typical sportbike. But for those making the move from behind the wheel to the seat of this 650 they'll find this Kawi more than happy to do as it's told.
GRAB RAILS
Aluminum passenger...
GRAB RAILS
Aluminum passenger grab rails come standard.
MULTI-FUNCTION GAUGE cluster...
MULTI-FUNCTION GAUGE cluster
An LCD screen features a fuel gauge, digital tachometer, analog speedo, clock, odometer and dual trip meters.