Kawasaki Ninja 650 Vs Benelli 600i

The world of mid-sized sportbikes is a competitive one, with numerous manufacturers vying for riders’ attention. Two of the most popular options in this segment are the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and the Benelli 600i. Both bikes offer a blend of performance, practicality, and style, but which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we will pit the Kawasaki Ninja 650 against the Benelli 600i to determine which one reigns supreme.

Performance

Engine and Power:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: 649cc parallel-twin engine, 68 horsepower, 49 lb-ft of torque
• Benelli 600i: 600cc inline-four engine, 80 horsepower, 45 lb-ft of torque

The Benelli 600i takes the edge in terms of power, thanks to its inline-four engine that produces 80 horsepower. The Ninja 650’s parallel-twin engine, while less powerful, offers a smoother and more refined power delivery.

Acceleration and Top Speed:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds, top speed of 130 mph
• Benelli 600i: 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds, top speed of 135 mph

The Benelli 600i’s superior power translates into slightly faster acceleration and a higher top speed. However, the difference is not significant enough to be a major deciding factor for most riders.

Handling and Suspension

Chassis and Suspension:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: Steel trellis frame, 41mm conventional forks, preload-adjustable rear shock
• Benelli 600i: Aluminum twin-spar frame, 50mm USD forks, preload and rebound-adjustable rear shock

The Kawasaki Ninja 650 utilizes a steel trellis frame that provides a good balance of rigidity and flexibility. The Benelli 600i, on the other hand, features an aluminum twin-spar frame that is lighter and more rigid, resulting in sharper handling.

Brakes:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: Dual 300mm front discs, single 220mm rear disc
• Benelli 600i: Dual 320mm front discs, single 260mm rear disc

Both bikes offer adequate braking power, with the Benelli 600i having slightly larger discs. However, the Ninja 650’s brakes provide a more consistent and progressive feel.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Riding Position:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: Upright and comfortable, with a moderate reach to the handlebars
• Benelli 600i: More aggressive and sporty, with a lower and forward-leaning riding position

The Kawasaki Ninja 650 offers a more relaxed and upright riding position, making it more suitable for longer rides. The Benelli 600i’s sportier ergonomics provide a more engaging experience but may become tiring over extended periods.

Seat and Wind Protection:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: Wide and supportive seat, minimal wind protection
• Benelli 600i: Narrower and firmer seat, better wind protection

The Ninja 650’s seat is more comfortable for both the rider and passenger. However, the Benelli 600i offers better wind protection thanks to its taller windscreen.

Features and Technology

Instrumentation:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, LCD display
• Benelli 600i: Fully digital LCD instrument cluster

The Benelli 600i’s fully digital instrument cluster provides more information and is easier to read than the Ninja 650’s analog and LCD combination.

Rider Aids:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: None
• Benelli 600i: ABS

The Benelli 600i comes standard with ABS, which provides an added level of safety and confidence, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

Price and Availability

Price:

• Kawasaki Ninja 650: Starting at $7,999
• Benelli 600i: Starting at $6,999

The Benelli 600i is significantly cheaper than the Kawasaki Ninja 650, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious riders.

Availability:

Both the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and the Benelli 600i are widely available at dealerships across the country.

The Verdict

The Kawasaki Ninja 650 and the Benelli 600i are both excellent mid-sized sportbikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Ninja 650 offers a more comfortable and practical riding experience, while the Benelli 600i provides better performance and handling. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs.

If you prioritize comfort, practicality, and a smoother power delivery, the Kawasaki Ninja 650 is the better choice.

If you desire more power, sharper handling, and a sportier riding position, the Benelli 600i is the way to go.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Which bike is more fuel-efficient?

Both bikes have similar fuel efficiency, with the Ninja 650 slightly edging out the Benelli 600i.

2. Which bike has a larger fuel tank?

The Kawasaki Ninja 650 has a larger fuel tank with a capacity of 4.1 gallons, compared to the Benelli 600i’s 3.7-gallon tank.

3. Which bike is better for commuting?

The Kawasaki Ninja 650 is better suited for commuting thanks to its more comfortable riding position and better fuel economy.

4. Which bike is better for track days?

The Benelli 600i is the better choice for track days due to its more powerful engine and sharper handling.

5. Which bike has a better warranty?

The Kawasaki Ninja 650 comes with a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty, while the Benelli 600i has a 24-month unlimited mileage warranty.