We compare the Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Z650, and Honda CB650R — breaking down power, price, ride feel, and modding potential to help you choose the perfect streetfighter for your style.
Looking for the best naked bike to start your streetfighter journey? The Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Z650, and Honda CB650R are three of the most popular options — and for good reason. They're reliable, mod-friendly, and packed with personality.
But how do they compare head-to-head in real-world riding, customization, and overall value?
Let’s break it down.
⚙️ Engine & Performance
| Bike | Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha MT-07 | 689cc parallel twin (CP2) | ~73 | ~67 | ~184 |
| Kawasaki Z650 | 649cc parallel twin | ~68 | ~65 | ~187 |
| Honda CB650R | 649cc inline four-cylinder | ~94 | ~63 | ~202 |
Verdict:
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The CB650R wins in top-end power thanks to its four-cylinder engine — perfect for riders who love to rev.
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The MT-07 is the torque king — low-end grunt makes it insanely fun on the street.
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The Z650 sits comfortably in the middle, smooth and predictable.
🛠️ Modding Potential
| Bike | Aftermarket Support | Popular Mods |
|---|---|---|
| MT-07 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Exhausts, tail tidy kits, LED kits, bar-end mirrors |
| Z650 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Mirrors, crash protection, exhausts |
| CB650R | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Slip-ons, radiator guards, tail tidy, bar swaps |
Verdict:
- The MT-07 has a massive modding community — think plug-and-play parts and tons of YouTube installs.
- The Z650 and CB650R aren’t far behind, but there’s more niche support and fewer budget mod options.
🧭 Riding Experience
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MT-07: Raw, torquey, super flickable. It feels alive under you — maybe too much for total beginners.
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Z650: Predictable, linear power delivery, and beginner-friendly ergonomics.
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CB650R: Refined, slightly heavier, and smoother — it feels more premium and stable at higher speeds.
Verdict:
If you're new, the Z650 is a safe choice. Want excitement? Go MT-07. If you crave smoothness and don’t mind the weight, CB650R is a strong contender.
💵 Price & Value (Australia, 2025 est.)
| Bike | Ride-Away Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Yamaha MT-07 | $14,200–$15,000 |
| Kawasaki Z650 | $13,300–$14,000 |
| Honda CB650R | $15,700–$16,500 |
Verdict:
The Z650 is the best bang-for-buck, while the CB650R is the most premium. The MT-07 offers big torque at a competitive price — especially on the used market.
🔧 Customization Culture
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MT-07: Wildly popular for streetfighter builds, YouTube showcases, and aggressive mods
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Z650: Budget-friendly custom builds and urban commuters
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CB650R: Modern café/street builds, polished aesthetics
Verdict:
If your goal is a fully customized streetfighter, the MT-07 is the current king. The CB650R offers a more refined canvas, while the Z650 is perfect for practical riders with modding ambitions.
🏁 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
| Scenario | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| You're a complete beginner | Z650 |
| You want torque + chaos | MT-07 |
| You want a rev-happy 4-cylinder | CB650R |
| You plan to mod everything | MT-07 |
| You value smoothness + premium finish | CB650R |
| You want the best value | Z650 |
🧠 Iron Revs Recommendation:
All three bikes are excellent. But if your dream is to build a bold, aggressive, custom streetfighter, we recommend starting with the Yamaha MT-07. The torque, mod support, and street presence are unmatched in the sub-$15k category.
🔗 Check out our recommended parts for each bike:
