5 Things I Love About My 2018 Kawasaki Z900

[@brianharms2398]

I have a 2019 Z900 and you are correct, it is the perfect blend of everything. I've been riding over 20 years and have had many motorcycles, this one is one of my favorites.

[@ianriggs]

Agreed! Although this is only my second bike

[@megapet777]

Hows the wind on motorway? Its bit too much with honda cb 600 :D

[@exothermal.sprocket]

RS model uses radial brake calipers. I've looked at the parts fish diagrams and the only difference is the inner tube lowers. Seems these forks and brakes are a carryover from the Z800. They work fine enough, but it would be nice to run the same stuff the MT-09, GSX-S750/1000, Duke 790/890R, Ducati 821, ST765R, and other bikes in the class are running pretty much across the board.

[@ianriggs]

@@megapet777 I added the touring windscreen and that helped a lot. Stock it didn't have any wind protection at all really

[@megapet777]

ianriggs okay good to know

[@86Aydee]

I was driving a 2019 z900 performance last weekend for 3hours it where the 3 beste hours in my life!!

[@Daskard]

In 2017 I took a few others for a test ride (MT09, XSR900, Street Triple, R1200R, F800R) and then took this one. It was the only one, which actually made me smile under my helmet, so the decision was basically immediately made :) I have never regretted it.

[@KROWARIZONA]

I did the test ride during the Kawasaki Demo Tour and two weeks later, I got my 2019 z900. Awesome bike!

[@robertsalyers1351]

I just got me a Z400 and I've put 570 miles on it and it is by far my favorite bike I have ever owned in my 20 plus years of Riding

[@TheGoldenPig.]

You can relocate the horn to under the screen if you want to tidy it up a little more. One of my favourite things about the bike and the main reason i bought it is the absense of unessesary expensive electronics. I love how simple but brilliant the bike is unlike other bikes which are boarderline unrideable without intrusive traction and wheelie control.

[@ianriggs]

I totally agree. The throttle sensitivity is perfect no need for rider aids

[@AlecWyld]

I want this to be my third bike. Started on a Suzuki S40, then a Honda Magna 750 (which is an absolute monster). I sat on this thing at the dealership a few times and I love it. Can't wait to ride it myself. Great brief overview.

[@ianriggs]

ya its a great bike, especially for the price

[@hawaii5084]

I’m glad I bought the 2022 Z900 with upgraded electronics and safety features. With a TFT dash nice looking gadget.

[@dial0562]

They are great bikes! I have a 2017 and I'm up to almost 7000 miles with 0 issues. I'm a twisty guy and it handles to turns very well.

[@ianriggs]

My clutch is making a noise when setting off from a stop that is kind of worrying me

[@dial0562]

@@ianriggs how many miles u get on yours?

[@ianriggs]

@@dial0562 around 3700

[@Thesusoperator]

ianriggs you mean when going into first gear from neutral right? Does it sound like a clunk?

[@ianriggs]

@@Thesusoperator no I think that is normal. This is a new thing that just started happening. It is as I'm letting the clutch out from a stop. Im getting like a clutch chattering or something its not a smooth engagement anymore

[@thatfirefighter6463]

Just bought the 2019 z900 in gray and red and I love it! Awesome video definitely learned some things about my bike that I didnt know.

[@slingshot8721]

Congrats! One mean machine!

[@ianriggs]

Awesome! Thanks for watching I'm glad u learned something too. There will be more coming soon

[@spinfowars8958]

I just got my gray / red z900 yesterday - got 50 miles on it so far - love it

[@spinfowars8958]

@@ianriggs where did you get the crash bars ? ? ? I just got my red /gray z900 yestersay

[@ianriggs]

@@spinfowars8958 awesome! You are going to love it! That color is great too the red wheels are sick. Here is the link to the crash bars I got mine from madhornets. www.madhornets.com/engine-guards-set-frame-sliders-protector-crash-bars-kawasaki-z900-2017-black/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwsvrpBRCsARIsAKBR_0KyZwy3_tpz5MPWTttgqGzb52SjT7Y4-dfBZ_sOvzN1RGNKphvC6CIaAk4DEALw_wcB

[@cHernandez6449]

I bought my 2018 Z900 last June and I still love it like the first day when I buy it

[@ianriggs]

Awesome! I'm glad ur lovin yours I'm still enjoying mine a lot too! Thanks a million for watching my video. Subscribe to my channel if u want I'm gunna have more videos comin about my z900 real soon

[@sugarnads]

I love mine. The engine is turbine smooth and the throttle control is perfect. Its nimble but stable, tractable but goes like hell in the top end. Decently comfortable but handles well. And as my old dad said , it looks like an alien space insect (he thinks it looks awesome).

[@rubadubdubb]

picking mine up in a couple weeks I can't wait, looks like you're in my neck of the woods too

[@ProdbyAdwerdz]

Great Video, I bought my 2019 Z900 abs 2 months ago same color but matte black. I love it. Still getting use to it coming from a z125 lol I'm watching this vid because it's too cold and windy to ride outside, so I needed something to fill my void of riding. I'm replacing those thick heavy footpegs to give me more leg room. I wish the rearsets were a lttle lower

[@ianriggs]

I'm short so it's perfect for me :-) but I have thought about swapping those big foot pegs but I'm sure they made them like that for a reason, probably vibration

[@chrisgraham9203]

Excellent review. I agree with your assessment, particularly regarding the ease of service, build design and fit and finish compared to other manufacturers. Whoever designed this motorcycle spent a lot of time attending to the details.

[@mikesnickel]

Got the 2020 Z for a lot less that MSRP and i freeking love this bike! Rider modes saved me today in the rain (which is all its been doing since i bought it in late May) I'm gonna moto vlog soon and that's one of the reasons i bought it! I'm gonna buy these mirrors and radiator cover soon. Added a fender delete, tank pad, OES front and rear motor and fork sliders and rear spools. I am in love with my baby!

[@arnohag1]

Hi Ian. Got mine late in 2019 the red and grey. Thought I had the only one in my area then passed a guy near close to my age also riding same colored one. Great all purpose bike. Test rode all the opposition 750's to 1000's and stuck with the Z900 for price, power delivery and handling. Handles like a 650 sports bike.

[@ianriggs]

Ya I love mine. I took it to the track a few months back in Miami it was my first time on track and the bike did great. Especially with good tires the stock ones that came with it were straight up dangerous

[@gudu2gunpla454]

That seat height really surprise me when I sit on it at the dealership. Just nice for 165cm guy like me. I can flat footed it. Ive ride z800 before,the standard one preety high, need to use lowering kit to be able to stand better at stop. And the handling? Wayyyy better, feels lighter too. That explain the engine position that more upfront and low to the ground.

[@cmochi6999]

wow nice, im also 165cm and was afraid that the seat will be too high

[@gudu2gunpla454]

That z900 perfect! Havent ride one yet, but only sit straight up at the dealership. Quite surprise actually. And yeah,best is you feel like you sit in the bike, not on the bike like other bike. Even z800 already good. But for 165cm height, its recommended to use lowering kit. Just to feel more comfortable and confident riding it.

[@DsCheng81]

I feel a bit too low for a 900cc bike.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

They scalloped the seat foam very thin and the front of the seat is quite narrow. That's how you're able to get your feet down. I'm a long legged person and my knees are folded up too much. I'd rather have a very thick seat and probably run adj. rearsets to ease ergos a bit.

[@0321ReconMan]

I may have to get one of these, seems extremely comfortable and easy to wrench on! Full fairing bikes are a pain to work on...

[@ianriggs]

Yes you are correct! And I am constantly impressed by how easy they made everything to service. They actually thought about making common service/maintenance items easily accessible

[@Samibravo832]

Very informative. Keep doing what you're doing!

[@ianriggs]

Thank you!

[@Craigs-corner]

Great video, and good summation of the Z900. I have a 2017 that replaced a Street Triple, that sadly, I high-sided and totaled (first bad get-off since starting to ride in 1990). I like the Pro-Race GP-S1 you have on there...sounds slightly louder than stock, and seemed crisp.

[@ianriggs]

Thanks a lot! I'll have more videos with the Z coming soon. Glad u survived ur "get-off" to ride another day 😁 be safe out there

[@Craigs-corner]

Street3x the Z900 has more top end for sure, but it’s power builds more progressively...it’s sort of deceiving. Having said that, it’s not as punchy down low as my ST was, and isn’t as nimble/flickable either. I’m sure a full system and ECU tuning would probably change that, but it’s plenty fast...does nice wheelies like the ST.

[@davidcandito5276]

CKZBinMO what specific street triple did you have?

[@Craigs-corner]

David Candito it was a standard 2009 ST (not the “R” model).

[@davidcandito5276]

CKZBinMO ah shoot man, the newer street Triple is whole different animal!

[@joejoe1738]

Nice bike 👍 and it sounds good 👌🏽. Ride safe Bro

[@Mr710324]

Hey I’m going to get this bike 2020 model.. I got a 2019 ninja 650 and love it but the right foot peg vibrates so much I’ve decided to trade it in and try out the Z900 next spring.. hope it’s a lot smoother

[@ianriggs]

Yes it is a pretty smooth engine most 4 cyl bikes r pretty smooth until you get real high in the rpms. That's weird that you have that much vibration in one foot peg

[@robertsalyers1351]

Tighten it up

[@silverrambo1508]

Hi ianriggs, Can you send link or place where did you bought slip on muffler? Thanks.

[@ianriggs]

www.pro-race.co.uk/#!/Z900-A2-2017-2019/c/24156726

[@kamilf9558]

Great video Love the mirrors Thumbs up 👍 Thanks for sharing Peace

[@ianriggs]

Thanks a lot! Subscribe if you would like I will have more videos coming soon about the Z

[@alexboyde7357]

You know what... I currently own a ZRX1200 but I want something a bit more modern. Z900 is now high on my list thank you for the video

[@ianriggs]

Awesome I'm glad u enjoyed the video. Subscribe if u want I'll have more videos about the z in the coming weeks and one of them will he aimed at potential buyers

[@MrNightpwner]

Can you source that info about not needing a fuel controller or tune with a full exhausts?

[@butlersracing7692]

In South Africa these are the same price as the Suzuki GSXs1000 and the new Katana. Having test ridden them all including the Z1000 which is still manufactured can honestly say the Suzukis walk away from the Kawasakis. I'm honestly thinking of getting one of these as it would be a good daily commuter and love the colors😍

[@elchaconaso]

where you got the crash bars?

[@spinfowars8958]

that's what I want to know too !

[@ianriggs]

Madhornets.com

[@rupamhalder1994]

13:20 r u crying bro?😁

[@MarvFitBikesKicks]

lmao

[@dusting5195]

Subscribed. Love the bike. I've been looking at it since they came out and sat on few at dealerships. I'm also short only 5'3 and having to take seat height into account really limits my options but I love how it felt when I sat on it. I know for the price and power and seat height it stands apart from every other naked. Hoping very soon to be able to buy one. Trying to buy a house first tho. Thanks hurricane Michael no longer have a house. But hopefully soon I'll have a garage to park this bad boy.

[@ianriggs]

Nice! Thanks a lot good luck with your house and getting a Z!

[@livinginthailand7487]

Love my Z900 SE. I have a Daivo race pipe fitted. The sound is wicked. I agree with a lot of what you have to say. Best value for money bike I could find in Thailand

[@ianriggs]

Nice! Is ur pipe a slip on or a full system? I just watched ur early morning ride video it sounds great

[@ianriggs]

Could u post a video of what it looks like and exactly which one u hav? I love the sound I may want to get it if they will send to the US

[@redeyesra131]

Those crash bar aren't the best I went down around 45mph it did its job but the bolts on them snapped where the front right engine bolt. Plus it pinned my foot between the bike and cage. I'm looking into a different set.

[@ianriggs]

Oh thanks for telling me how they performed. I've been thinking about getting a different set too

[@redeyesra131]

@@ianriggs yeah they are good in a drops or slides I've been looking at crazy iron but they seem to wide check out sw motech it looks nice on the bike and could add lights. Pluse they have Chinese versions of both on aliexpress decent price.

[@ianriggs]

@@redeyesra131 ya I almost got the sw motech ones instead but I liked the look of these better. At some point I will change them out especially now that one side is broken in one place

[@redeyesra131]

@@ianriggs which side is it the engine bolt

[@ianriggs]

@@redeyesra131 right under the left foot peg and shift lever

[@rexdaledave]

how was the power increase over your ninja? Manageable or you have any sticky situations? I know you say its not too touchy, but i mean coming out of corners

[@ianriggs]

For me it was manageable. It could get someone in trouble that didn't have any self control but that would be true with any fast sportbikes. It is almost 1000cc after all. The nice thing about this bike is u have to ask for the power. But when you twist the throttle open more than halfway it becomes a rocketship lol. The ninja 300 was pretty slow in comparison. Hope that helps

[@rexdaledave]

@@ianriggs Thanks!! it does. I had a Suzuki 500 and have been eyeing this one. I like the Rain Mode to keep me out of trouble until i get my riding legs back. Appreciate the super fast reply.

[@rexdaledave]

@@ianriggs Picked mine up a couple of weeks ago and put 350km's on it so far. Loving it. Did a video on it mentioning your comment about asking for the power and how true it is. Thanks again :)

[@16KoEn]

Hello, what brand are the engine protector

[@ME-ru4hv]

The things about the shape of the bike is that the rider actually compliments the whole picture

[@miswaw]

Whats your impression from this crash bars? They have only one "star" on amazon with "poor quality".

[@COGSCNY]

Did you have the rpm limited by the dealership until you hit 600 miles? I just got a z650 and when I hit 4000 rpm the computer flashes at me. I can’t wait to open her up

[@ianriggs]

No my 2018 z900 never had anything like that

[@shubhambane2494]

Can 5.4 feet people drive safely ??? Or come any problems to them

[@ianriggs]

You are probably going to have to test ride one or at least sit on one. I am about 5.6 foot tall and I'm on my toes to get both feet down

[@davidizquierdo5690]

got my brand new z900 2021 today :D

[@Uninfluenceable]

it blows my mind that in Florida you can ride a 200 horsepower death machine without a helmet, yet you are not allowed to split lanes....

[@ianriggs]

ya it doesn't make much sense, along with many other things in this state and this world lol

[@N0t4v41l4ble]

...or buy alcohol when you are 18, that's just insane :-)

[@ripmax333]

Maybe what they thought, who ever made these laws is that if you crash and your without a helmet , its your life and your loss. If you lane split, there the risk of maybe injure someone or damage other people property ...but nonetheless...yeah not allowing lane spit is stupid.

[@JL-xp3mk]

F that I ride in FL and lane split all the time

[@collinbetten5631]

120 horsepower

[@dpf2149]

I have a 2019 z900. I like your frame / engine protection bars. Who is the manufacture and cost?

[@ianriggs]

Thanks! They are just the steel coated crash bars that come from China for the Z900 they are sold under a few different brand names but I ordered mine from madhornets.com. I am going to do a video about them in the next week or two with some tips for installation. It was pretty simple but could have been easier if I had known certain things. Here is the link to them. www.madhornets.com/engine-guards-set-frame-sliders-protector-crash-bars-kawasaki-z900-2017-black/

[@nathannyall7318]

Do those bars fit the 2019 version?

[@ianriggs]

@@nathannyall7318 they should. As far as I know there is no difference between 2018 and 2019

[@nathannyall7318]

@@ianriggs awesome, thanks man!

[@rodrick722]

@@ianriggs I bought these same ones and couldn't get them to fit, although it was a diff retailer on Amazon. On the brake lever side the bottom bolt is where I had clearance issues that I couldn't seem to resolve. Looks good though!

[@dvijn99]

Its a very nice looking bike but why does it always look like there is missing a headlight at these bikes? (When the light is turned on ofc.)

[@az_pit_viper4270]

Great video sir, I am buying a 2018 Z900 this coming Wednesday an can't wait. I wanted to ask you, what microphone and or video equipment are you using for this video. The audo is very good.

[@ianriggs]

Hey thanks! Its been so long since I picked out that mic but I'm pretty sure it is this one. The more important thing is the"dead cat" that surrounds the mic. Do a search on that term if u don't know what I'm talking about. It makes all the difference when it comes to wind noise. The camera was just an older GoPro when they actually had a microphone jack. There are all kinds of videos on what mounts to use to attach it to the helmet www.amazon.com/Sony-Compact-Lavalier-Microphone-ECMLV1/dp/B08YJQXJRM/ref=asc_df_B08YJQXJRM/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=533440586576&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11476220371627499937&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9012311&hvtargid=pla-1295686581723&psc=1

[@ianriggs]

I believe this is actually the video I used to create mine. Check it out kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5zIgqVvnNutqac

[@FoiMal123]

How tall are you? I'm 5'8" the bike looked big when I saw it. I haven't sat on it, but I'm just curious at what height can you flatfoot this.

[@SM-zf6ye]

Dzimka Bujiashvili I’m 5’ 8” and I can flatfoot the bike

[@user-un6hs2nx9u]

I’m 5’8” and the bike is a perfect fit.

[@ianriggs]

I am also very short it is great for short people. I came from a ninja 300 and this has about the same seat height

[@FoiMal123]

Thanks for the intel. I’m definitely looking to get one of these in the future. I fell in love with it from a distance.

[@ianriggs]

@@FoiMal123 ya I sat on the fz09, gsxs, pretty much all of its competitors and it has the lowest seat height and isn't super wide either

[@motocam1497]

Hey man are you over by the Florida turnpike? Like in the Oakland area? It kinda looked like it. I used to live over by there I bought my 2017 Z900 from West Orlando Powersports right over there lol

[@alejandroescobarqueretaro1218]

Cada vez me gusta más mi Z900. Muy buena y bonita moto. Kawasaki tiene motores muy potentes y se siente.

[@troyg.katucki4436]

Would the z900 make a good second bike coming off a 250 duel sport?

[@ianriggs]

In my opinion yes it would be perfect! The weight is the biggest thing you will need to get used to. Hope this helps

[@troyg.katucki4436]

@@ianriggs How is the conferet on long rides would it make a good touring bike?

[@adrian9422]

Can you share the factory name of the exhaust you own?

[@cuzimaluzer777]

Pro-race.

[@spydude13222]

I've been looking into the z900 for a bit now. Currently riding a 2016 cbr1000rr I bought new, but due the riding position my messed up back just can't do the aggressive riding position anymore, would you say the z900 is a much better riding position on the back than the cbr or similar bikes.

[@uMaDVeLoAn]

Dude the riding position on the Z is comfy as fuck

[@Shockwave_jon]

Where did you get the exhaust tip?

[@ianriggs]

www.ebay.com/itm/294542808957?hash=item44941e977d:g:CLYAAOSwfvlbzzrE

[@ianriggs]

Here is a link to the carbon fiber heat shield I have that hides the catalytic converter after the stock exhaust is replaced www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/arrow-carbon-fiber-heat-shield-kawasaki-z900-2017-2019?sku_id=1274835 Hope that helps!

[@AwangNauvalLuthfansa]

My dream motorbike🔥🔥

[@ianriggs]

Nice! I'm lovin it so far!

[@UKJaiO]

Snap your fingers and it's yours

[@AwangNauvalLuthfansa]

@@UKJaiO absolutely no

[@vikac7818]

Is the seat confortable for trip ? Or it just for short rides ? Thanks in advance.

[@ianriggs]

I would say it is in between. To me the seat is comfortable for rides up to an hour or two. Then it starts to get a little annoying. It is most likely somewhere in between a fully faired sportbike and a touring bike. If you are tall your legs will be pretty scrunched up too. It's perfect for shorter people. Hope this helps!

[@robertkinrag5940]

Thanks for your response, I will check the website .

[@jayfernz245]

How did u get the bar end mirrors on?. If you could post a video of installation...it would be awesome

[@ianriggs]

I will do that asap! But they are rhino moto bar ends and they are made with a slot to mount the bar end mirrors to

[@Craigs-corner]

Here is how I did mine. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aImqYZSem6akrNk

[@robertkinrag5940]

Hi Ian. I happen to see your review on Z900. Decided to get this bike as well. I wonder where you get the engine cage bar. This is a bike that I will take care of. Thanks in advance for the info.

[@ianriggs]

Congrats! I think I got those crash bars from madhornets.com

[@IDontSmokz]

Where can i find that slip on ? anybody have a link ?

[@ianriggs]

www.pro-race.co.uk/#!/KAWASAKI-Z900-2017-2019-GP-S1-Slash/p/278403807/category=24156726

[@IDontSmokz]

@@ianriggs Thanks :) ordered

[@ianriggs]

@@IDontSmokz let me know if u make a video with yours once u install it. I hope u like it, I loved mine but at the time I thought it was a little too quiet so I got a full akrapovic system headers and all and now it's almost too loud lol

[@ianriggs]

@@IDontSmokz the bike is also dyno tuned now with the full akra exhaust so it hauls ass but it can be really loud like almost too loud sometimes lol. I'm thinking about getting the slightly bigger muffler

[@IDontSmokz]

@@ianriggs the one I ordered was slightly different but same company so I'll see when it comes lol loud pipes save life's ! Yeah I think I'll proberbly get the pipes too eventually .. and try a tooth or 2 extra on the rear 🤔

[@carlosberrios241]

Do you have a link for the slip on exhaust set up? I really like that sound it was putting out and dont want to do a full system. Is it 2 pieces or just one solid piece? Great looking machine and great review. Thanks in advance

[@ianriggs]

It was just a solid pipe (one piece) with a clamp that went onto the catalytic converter. Was a pretty good setup but I now have a full akrapovic system, headers and muffler. Its loud as hell tho. I think I have a newer video after the akra if u want to look. Keep in mind that the picture they have of it doesnt look exactly right as u can see from this video that's what it really looks like. You can also get different material options and mesh on the outlet if you want. But here is the link to that Slip-on: www.pro-race.co.uk/#!/KAWASAKI-Z900-A2-2017-2019-GP-SLASH-CUT-GP-S1/p/120724025/category=24156726

[@outd00rphoto]

Where did you buy the short windshield? Nice bike btw.

[@ianriggs]

Thanks! That is actually the OEM windshield that came on the bike. I just put some stickers on it. I actually have a little bigger of a windscreen on it now to help with the wind at high speeds

[@outd00rphoto]

@@ianriggs ahh okay. Thx bud. 👍

[@CiminoDj]

auto_awesome how do you feel with the engine guards?

[@thehypingbee9947]

Hey mate. May I know your Height? I’m a short person too and I’m still thinking of which bike should I buy. Thank beforehand

[@ianriggs]

I'm about 5' 6" or so. It is very short person friendly for a 950cc naked bike

[@ryanoliver9131]

I’m 5’4” with about a 28 inch inseam could I get balls of feet down on this bike?

[@ahmethuremovic8649]

What exhaust is that? Someone might have already asked but I’m no scrolling through 300 comments😅

[@ianriggs]

That was a Pro Race gp-s1 slip on made for the z900. That bike now has a full akrapovic exhaust and has been dyno tuned 😁 it is really f-ing loud now I feel bad for my neighbors everytime I cold start it

[@ahmethuremovic8649]

@@ianriggs thank you!! That’s fine, all my vehicles are loud and I’m pretty sure my whole neighborhood hates me

[@ianriggs]

@@ahmethuremovic8649 lol nice. The gp-s1 I had in that video was just a slip on and wasn't too loud but sounded great. It still had the stock headers and catalytic converter

[@ianriggs]

@@ahmethuremovic8649 sometimes I wish I had just left it that way but I do love the full akrapovic system I have now. The tune made a big difference too

[@ahmethuremovic8649]

@@ianriggs is it making more power with the tune and full exhaust?

[@AT1Tan]

Ive tried the Suzuki gsxs750 and next week I will try one of these bikes. The Suzuki felt great being a 6'4 guy. If this fits me it will be a hard decision.

[@ianriggs]

Some tall people feel a little cramped on the z u will just have to see

[@AT1Tan]

They both feel the same when sittning on them. Though I like that the Suzuki has traction control.

[@ianriggs]

@@AT1Tan very tru. I've heard from people that the seat to peg distance is a little small for tall people. And yes the tc is a nice feature but the z900 honestly doesnt need it at all

[@AT1Tan]

@@ianriggs no, but I need it. Had my licence for about a year and Im now on a cruiser. My wife doesn't like that i ride motorcycles. I think I could convince her that a light bike with abs and tc is better than a heavy cruiser that lacs both abs and tc.

[@ianriggs]

@@AT1Tan oh ok lol. I see. I have abs on mine but I've never felt like I wished it had TC. The fueling is perfect it doesnt go crazy unless u really twist the throttle. Not at all like the mt09

[@Eagleable]

how tall are you bother? Wanna know if itd be good for me

[@ianriggs]

I am pretty short I'm probably about 5'6" or so. And it fits me well and it's nice that for a near 1000cc bike it really doesn't weigh much

[@Eagleable]

@@ianriggs thanks so much for the reply man. But great me too, been the main factor in all my bike choices lol. Z900 seems so perfect now for the long term bike. So excited

[@waitwho3074]

I was thinking about this but the actual name should be 2018 Kawasaki Z950 since the real cc is 948cc so why they named z900? Is it purely for marketing purpose? I guess we could all call these bikes z950 and it wouldn,t be a mistake

[@pomajzsolt4363]

What crash bar is that please?

[@ianriggs]

Came from madhornets.com I think. It's been a while. I'll post a link if I can find it

[@pomajzsolt4363]

@@ianriggs Thanks

[@ianriggs]

I found the link. They are actually using my pictures from when I first installed them on their website 🤣. I start looking at the pictures they have under the crash bars and start seeing my bike lol. www.madhornets.com/engine-guards-set-frame-sliders-protector-crash-bars-kawasaki-z900-2017-black/?sku=CBP-034-Black&gclid=CjwKCAjwjJmIBhA4EiwAQdCbxlR_AQOF2zkCuJZeIzY7kq3pdF51JaXikgkKyuXpA5JTuceS9aIjVRoCLSMQAvD_BwE

[@pomajzsolt4363]

@@ianriggs Hahahahah lol Thank you :D

[@ianriggs]

@@pomajzsolt4363 no problem!

[@vinitkarande7837]

Which exhaust

[@ianriggs]

That was a GP-S1 slip on from a company in the U.K. called Pro-Race

[@ianriggs]

That bike now has a full akrapovic header system with the titanium akrapovic race can and it's also been tuned. Video coming soon!

[@gosoku2771]

What kind of oil do you use in this bike? Thanks

[@ianriggs]

kawasaki semi synthetic

[@gosoku2771]

Cool thanks!

[@jsprite123]

Nice bike, are those engine protection bars from Kawasaki? or 3rd party?

[@sunilangadi605]

Hai. A very good review.! Have you ever done touring on this bike. . If so wats ur opinion on comfort of z900 for touring?

[@garry1220able]

Was that motor cage protector an added or part of it when you bought new?

[@ianriggs]

I added the crash protection bars. They came from madhornets.com just search 2018 z900 crash bars

[@ianriggs]

Someone else asked where I got them in the comments further down so if u go look there you will see my reply where I gave more detail and the link to get them

[@garry1220able]

Thanks a lot. Nice review on z900 and soon to have it next month

[@Grimexperience62]

This review covered some very important key points. I didn't feel like you were shouting at me and you focused on what many riders like myself want to know. Thank! Did the slip on change the sound much? I like the way it looks.

[@ianriggs]

Yes it changes the sound significantly because it is just an open pipe off the catalytic converter it does no muffling at all. I'm going to do a video shortly where I put the stock exhaust back on and record how that sounds, record how the gp s1 slip on that I hav on there now sounds, and then record how the akrapovic slip on sounds when I get it installed in a few days so people can compare all three. Hit the bell so u see when that video goes live!

[@Mr1997106]

Very nice video! Thank you for being so detailed!

[@richieoftampa994]

I have a 34 Inseam and I can flat foot it. If you want to know if you can flat foot a bike compare your inseam to the seat Height.

[@ianriggs]

I'm about a 30 inseam and I can barely get both toes firmly down. If I put one foot down and lean just a bit to that side I can put that foot flat

[@richieoftampa994]

@@ianriggs Oh, the seat Height (Kawasaki web site) 31.3. I sat on it in the show room floor I didn't have much wiggle room. My feet were flat though.

[@hjkhhjkh3635]

I’m quite torn between this and the mt09. I haven’t had a chance to ride an mt09 as of yet. Many people have told me it’s a very dangerous bike to ride due to its power zone sitting low in the revs. What would be your opinion on this?

[@ianriggs]

The mt09 is definitely a very twitchy and intimidating bike. The z900 really is not I had no problem going from a ninja 300 to the z900

[@hjkhhjkh3635]

ianriggs ok pal, thank you! Which exhaust would you recommend for a low growl kinda sound?

[@ianriggs]

@@hjkhhjkh3635 an exhaust for the z? Well it has a big catalytic converter in the factory headers so u really need to get a full exhaust to make it sound a whole lot different but the slip on i have was the best sounding slip on I could find

[@hjkhhjkh3635]

ianriggs yep. I was thinking the arrow gp2, would I have to actually get the whole exhaust system? Fuck 😂

[@johannjacobs6401]

Nice vlog, regards from rsa,

[@ianriggs]

Thanks!!! Glad you enjoyed it. RSA?

[@multiapp101]

I’m 5”3, what do you think can I ride this one? How tall are you?

[@魔王69R]

its got a super low seat,dont worry bro just have a try,the seat height of this bike just around 795mm,even a 152cm tall girl also can easily handle this bike in my city,so what else affraid haha ride and enjoy

[@chefandy-f5z]

Nice video dude... If you make more I'll watch.

[@wilhelmheinzerling5341]

How does this compare to zx6r??

[@ianriggs]

It's a totally different animal. More upright seating position that makes it much more comfortable than a zx6r and the engine has a lot of torque down low instead of making all of its power up top. The suspension isnt quite as good but it's fine for most conditions. I will be changing out to heavier fork oil at some point soon that really helps on these bikes

[@wilhelmheinzerling5341]

@@ianriggs im thinking of transitioning to a z900 for commuting. I dont ride track so I don't really need a super sport

[@ianriggs]

@@wilhelmheinzerling5341 you will be very happy with it for that purpose

[@yassim0008]

Dope bike. Was considering your bike and the Mt09. Went with the XSR900. With a lot of these bikes nowadays you can’t really lose🤷🏾‍♂️

[@ianriggs]

Nice I love the look and style of the xsr 900 but I wasnt a fan of the riding position. Like I said I prefer a more sporty position. R u liking it so far? How long have u had it?

[@yassim0008]

ianriggs since March 18 and I put about 11000 miles on her. Love it! The power delivery on that triple is awesome and I like it bc it’s mines, don’t see many other XSR900’s out here. I like the riding position but aesthetically I think the bars look too wide. Thinking about clip on

[@tamirtamir5170]

does this bike has any mods? i didn't see any buttons

[@hrcubil]

Not a thing...

[@gingerbiscuit7102]

I work for pro-race exhaust systems, great video

[@ianriggs]

Nice what do you do there? Tell them they should send me something cuz I'm pretty sure this video has gotten a few people to buy the slip on I have 🤣

[@andyl344]

@@ianriggs count me as one of them!

[@Aggace]

bought my 2017 z900 in Aug 2018. New rider to motorcycles too.

[@ianriggs]

Awesome that's one crazy first bike! Stay safe out there, ride like no one can see you

[@ricardomartinez915]

Great video! 🔝🤜🏼🤛🏼❤️

[@ianriggs]

Thank you! I'll have more coming soon

[@davidhinzman1778]

How expensive is insurance on the z900?

[@nickweltikol4772]

I’m 29 years old and been riding for a year now. My 2017 Z900 costs me 225 a year and that’s full coverage insurance.

[@davidhinzman1778]

@@nickweltikol4772 Thanks for the reply. That is a good rate. I thought it would be a lot more.

[@nickweltikol4772]

You’re welcome, I know everyone’s situation is different and I’m from North Dakota. Our rates seem to be cheaper compared to other places. My first bike was a CBR500R and that ran me 200 a year. So going from 200-225 was crazy I thought lol. The Z900 is a great bike if your looking to purchase one!!

[@sidhumoose-d6t]

Is it economical to drive daily?

[@ianriggs]

For a near 1000cc sportbike, I would say yes. But compared to small bike not really

[@infectedplus1]

Triumph jacket for a rider with a Kawasaki bike :D. Have you ever considered buying Triumph's Triple S?

[@ianriggs]

I definitely love triumphs and would love to have a street triple at some point but it was a little out of my price range

[@krausriggentropp1970]

Good review!

[@bubbsanftw]

great video!!! the bike is beautiful!!

[@CitizenCycle925]

Good info thanks

[@davidharrison3395]

Great informative video you made! Great bike also!

[@mominbatt2586]

How much did it cost on road

[@ianriggs]

It's a little confusing because I also traded my first bike in but I would say I paid around 9400 out the door sticker on them is 8999 for an abs model plus some taxes and dealer fees

[@johnloyola8726]

how much is this kind of bike?!

[@ianriggs]

MSRP is 8999.99 for the ABS model in the US

[@Sam-w9des]

im havin a hard time between this or the Harley iron

[@ianriggs]

I know which one I would choose. The only harleys I've ridden that I like were the fxdr and the fat bob both of which r expensive as hell

[@8OneOfTheNobodies8]

The thing you said about the bike not running lean is not true, it is true that Kawasaki states that if you do lets say a full akra system (like I have) the bike do not NEED a tune but it sure as hell benefits from one, my bike was all over the place in the fueling and it made a huge diffrence when I got a custom map put on the bike .. so if you do a full system make sure to get it tuned right for the bike :)

[@ianriggs]

ok thanks for the input, good to know. I was referring to the fact that Kawi states that you can run a full system like an akra without changing fueling. Most bikes benefit from a tune especially with different exhaust or other mods. But this bike from my understanding will not run lean to the point of hurting anything just from adding a full system unlike certain other bikes. Is that true?

[@8OneOfTheNobodies8]

@@ianriggs Im sure that the bike will not run so lean that it makes damage to the bike, but I will say that you can hear and feel the bike not running as well as it should when you put on a full system, it will not hurt the bike to ride it with no tune and full system but I personally will not run the bike like that for the rest of the bikes life.. I would make a tune for it :)

[@Champion2Manager]

OneOfTheNobodies did you install a ecu flash mapping ? What was the cost ?

[@startmeup5156]

Nice bike! I like your engine guard.

[@brunocro1821]

So can i ride it with A2 ?

[@ianriggs]

I'm pretty sure they make an a2 version of the z900. I'm in the US so we only get one version but I've heard of a2 models in other countries

[@brunocro1821]

@@ianriggs thank you i live in Croatia but now im in Germany so thats why im asking😁

[@ianriggs]

@@brunocro1821 wow! Awesome I've never been out of the US. I need to travel 🤣

[@brunocro1821]

@@ianriggs if you ever get to the europe go visit zadar in croatia il give you a ride on my bike and a tour trough the city😁

[@robertkacala]

Austin Racing sounds awesome !!!

[@cmochi6999]

can i ask what your height is, im pretty short so i dont know how ill fit on it

[@ianriggs]

I am short too, about 5'5" without shoes on. So I'm slightly taller than that with riding boots on. I can't flat foot my Z as you can see in the video but I can comfortably get both feet to the ground. If I stop with one foot down and just lean the bike a tiny bit to that side I can get that foot flat on the ground. Best thing to do is sit on one multiple times at a dealership before you get one

[@cmochi6999]

@@ianriggs oh okay, im about 5'6'' so thats cool then

[@ripmax333]

Check cycle ergo.com and check with your inseam.

[@Ramses19912]

@ianriggs nice video, exactly the type of video that i were looking for! I do have a question for you tho. Currently i own the naked version of your previous bike it seems, the z300, i've been riding it nearly every day since i had my drivers license last december (in Europe). After riding it this long and also riding it with my girlfriend in the weekends i feel like i could use a bike with some more power, so I'm currently considering purchasing a z900 in about half a year or such. Would you think this is a bad idea considering my experience, or do you think the z900 is forgiving enough? i'm not that crazy of a driver btw, i don't do wheelies etc. but i do from time to time pull the throttle :p. How did you make the change from a 300 to the 900 btw?

[@ianriggs]

Thanks a lot I'm glad you got some useful info from the video. I would say you would be fine if u have a good head on your shoulders and some self control. The z900 is a very forgiving bike for the level of power. The biggest difference u will notice right away is the weight. If you are short like me, really sit on one and make sure you can get your feet down in a comfortable way. For me the seat is just low enough but I cant walk it backwards up a hill. The 900 really doesn't give you the power unless you ask for it. It has a very intuitive throttle and clutch. It was a fairly small learning curve coming from my ninja 300. I've never ridden a z300 cuz I dont think they were sold here in the states but I would think u will have it even easier than me since the ergonomics r very similar throughout the Z line. You could also consider the z650, also an amazing bike :-) ride safe out there

[@Ramses19912]

ianriggs thanks for your helpfull response! I did sat on the red z900 once that you mentioned in your video, but that was on a motorcycle exposition?/fair? and i did indeed really really liked the seat position! compared to my z300 the z900 felt like you sat inside the bike rather than on top of it. Unfortunately i never rode one yet but with your response i might look for a test drive at a dealership with more confidence than before, knowing it is a forgiving bike and doesn’t have a nervous throttle response. I have looked into the z650, but i find the current price difference in my country between the used z650 and used z900 too close that i rather have the better looking z900, in my opinion. By the way, since you rode the ninja 300 you must have remembered the seat was pretty hard, i mean my ass feels like a piece of wood riding it for 2+hours, hows that with the z900? Same hardness or a little more comfortable?

[@ianriggs]

@@Ramses19912 I would say it is more comfortable. I remember that about my ninja 300 too, I haven't had any complaints on long rides with the stock seat. But yes it is not a touchy throttle at all its reall nice to use actually

[@N0t4v41l4ble]

@@Ramses19912 Just go for it. If you are lucky you'll stay alive for a while. But let me tell you, the Z900 can make you do stupid things, very stupid. I have a couple of riding the Z videos if you wanna check (none of them contain the craziest things I have done with the bike, even if I had the videos I would not publish them, too ashamed of the stupidity of my actions...).

[@RobertOrtiz1015]

Great review! I love my z900 as well! Such a great bike

[@ianriggs]

Thanks! Mine has been pretty awesome. I just looked at ur page u have a full delkevic exhaust? Sounds pretty mean

[@RobertOrtiz1015]

ianriggs at first was a tad too loud hahaha! But i went for a nice 300 mile ride with some harley friends and some ninjas and I realized that its just right! Love the sound! I need to make a flyby video on it

[@ianriggs]

@@RobertOrtiz1015 is your bike tuned for the full system or does it run fine with just the headers and pipe installed and no tuning?

[@RobertOrtiz1015]

ianriggs no tuning as of yet! Feels great as of now and its running same temperature.... i want to tune it but ive heard mixed things about it. A guy at the forums said that if you look and the tune sheet from dyno vision and the stock... you will see that fuel/ratio is almost identical... meaning the tune does very little... So... i will probably tune it just to be in the safe side anyways... looking for a tuner now that i moved to Vegas.

[@ianriggs]

@@RobertOrtiz1015 oh ok gotcha. Ya I've heard the same thing as far as fueling that the afr's remain ok with a full system installed. But the tune can change timing and other things that's where the big benefit comes in. But in my opinion manufacturers spend millions on R&D so it's hard for me to believe that some tuning company knows better than Kawasaki lol