Kawasaki ER-6f

As said earlier, compared to the Ninja 650 sold in many countries, the Malaysian-spec ER-6f is based on the previous generation ER-6n. Here, the petite vertical headlamp has been replaced by a large fairing which incorporates two big and curvy headlamps. The fairing comes with large transparent and fully adjustable windshield and fairing mounted rear view mirrors.

Beyond the front full fairing which partially covers the engine, everything on the motorcycle has been retained from the ER-6n. The fairing comes with large air vents to dispose off the heat generated with ease. These components include the partially exposed tubular frame, curvaceous dual tone fuel tank, split seats and pillion grab rails, minimalist side panels, and slim rear tail section, which end up in a small LED tail lamp. Even the 6-spoke alloy wheels, as well as underbelly exhaust, have been lifted off from the ER-6n.

The Kawasaki ER-6f has been blessed with a part digital analogue instrument console, which though being functional, is not too flashy and comprehensive in terms of data on display. The analogue tachometer comes with a partitioned LCD screen below it, which contains speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer, trip meters and clock.

While the overall design makes the ER-6f look big, it misses out on the novelty factor. The motorcycle looks like it belongs from the last decade, which it actually does, and could have come with a couple or more flashy features to withstand the changing times. The build quality and fit and finish, in typical Kawasaki fashion, are unquestionable.

The Kawasaki ER-6f comes equipped with 41mm telescopic forks at the front and offset laid-down adjustable monoshock at the rear. The overall suspension has been tuned on a softer side, thus making it very suitable for long distance riding. The flat handlebar, wide split seats, and adjustable front windshield further enhance its touring abilities. For stopping duties, the Kawasaki ER-6f comes fitted with dual petal discs at the front and a single petal disc at the rear.

Under the large full fairing, the Kawasaki ER-6f comes fitted with the same four-stroke, liquid-cooled, parallel twin, 649 cc motor which is present on its naked version, the ER-6n. In the same state of tune, the engine, here on the ER-6f pumps out 72.1 PS of power and 64 Nm of torque. The engine is coupled to a 6-speed gearbox, which has taller ratios to suit its touring genre.  

Given that the ER-6f is based on a previous generation motorcycle, it misses out on many of the modern safety aids. This includes the likes of ABS as well as riding modes, which in today’s time is a huge miss in the middleweight category

The price at which it is being offered makes the Kawasaki ER-6f a wonderful value for money option. While the overall design gives it a big bike feeling, the fact that the overall design is pretty dated robs the overall personality. Even the inclusion of a couple of modern features could have saved it from being a dated looking motorcycle. In terms of performance, ride quality, and handling, the Kawasaki ER-6f hits the sweet spot by not being too hardcore like the ZX-6R. All these attributes make the ER-6f one of the most practical middleweight motorcycles in the country.