The Kawasaki ER-6n represents a slightly let loose, wilder off-shoot of the Ninja 650. It’s touted as a dual purpose machine, and is essentially the Ninja 650 sans the full fairing and a sprinkling of other small changes under the skin, or whatever that’s left of it. Let’s find out!
Images: Chirag Mondal
What are the changes?
To put it in character, the ER-6n (650R in select markets) is the gnarly street fighter here, and manages to come across as one. Up front, all the bulk from the 650 (the full fairing) has shrunk to a compact, yet long-faced bikini fairing. There’s also a new under-body cowl, as well as a couple of svelte tank extensions. Two new shrouds covering the upper half of the conventional front forks complete the changes. Organically styled, the new elements compliment the tank and the tail section well, most of which is carried over from the 650.The swept back bikini fairing has a long head lamp which is a daytime running unit, and does the job pretty well. Other things that have been altered for the street is the instrument cluster and the exhaust canister, which is a rather likable minimal affair dominated by a digital speedometer and an analogue tachometer.
In India, the ER-6n is only available in metallic black, along with matt finish for the plastic elements which include the front suspension shrouds and the under-body cowl. We have to say the shade looks rather discreet, but can end up getting a little monotonous, with the bright red, single side-mounted shock absorber strut being the only highlight. We wish Kawasaki offers one in their trademark Ninja green shade as well. Like on all Kawasakis, the ER 6n is a well put together bike with top-notch build quality all round, including all the switch-gear. Both levers for the front brake and clutch are adjustable for reach. The front brake oil reservoir comes in a distinctive shape.
Get astride the ER-6n blindfolded and you’ll be forgiven for thinking that you’re straddling a much smaller motorcycle. The street-fighter manages to mask its 204 Kgs (wet) rather well, and that can be largely attributed to its mass being centered in the middle. In lieu of the character, the riding stance now becomes a bit more aggressive, with the foot pegs moving a little aft.
>>Next page for the ER-6n in pictures>>
Correction ” Two new shrouds covering the upper half of the front USD forks complete the changes.” This bike does not have USD. It has conventional forks.