I also like the ergos of the 650R vs the ZZR - I guess it's a tough choice to make... and I didn't especially like the 650R seat compared to the cushy 500R or the huge vulcan 900 seat. Are their any lifespan differences between the twin and the I4 provided they are both maintained equally well.

 

don't know about any specific lifespan differences - but typicly lower reving engines last longer between major rebuilds.

 

from kawasaki website reffering ot the 650

"- Most compact engine is the in its category, even smaller than the Ninja 500’s, which helps reduce the dimension of the entire motorcycle "

 

Honda's CX motors (500 & 650) were V-twins. The heads stuck out the sides just like a Motoguzzi. In some situations, the gyro effect at times would tend to want to pull you out of your line you were riding in. I almost got sucked into a car next to me once on the highway going around a turn. Almost felt like I couldn't do anything about it. Hair-raising experience.

 

I had a CX 500 Compstall, not much time riding it though.

 

I owned a CX500 for 16 years. Was my first piece of transportation. Just couldn't get rid of it for some reason. Too many memories as a kid on it.