Kawasaki Z900 RS Review | The Perfect Retro?

[@kirkdog4788]

Those of us who road those type of bike in the 70’s absolutely loved them and manufactures were selling more than they could make. It was such an exciting time, we loved to ride because of style and comfort. And than they lost us, abandoned would be more like it, thinking horsepower and low bars were what we wanted and sales suffered. Thanks Kawasaki for listening before it’s too late.

[@796andy2]

gpz's forever !♥

[@raybrensike42]

Back when you could get a new 1000 Kaw for less than $2000.00 my friend wanted me to buy one with 3 others at the same time to see if the price could come down even more, but the dealer had trouble getting any more.

[@tref1013]

Well said.

[@TheCrabCoreKing]

I'm 33 years old. And in a retro lover haha. Dosent have to live in those years to feel the nostalgia and be flabbergasted by the beauty of this bike 😊

[@vernonspady555]

You are right about the throttle issue...but after a thousand miles, you get used to it, and in another thousand miles, you LOVE it. Honest.

[@andrewprice1189]

I have had mine since last Feb. One of the best looking bikes ever & so good to ride & this is coming from someone who has a 2020 Ducati Streetfighter. Half the power def doesnt mean half the fun. Probably the only new inline four that you are not thinking about a slip on. Agree somewhat with your opinion of the throttle, over sensitive but ive learned to ride round it. Gets better when the kms build up. Kawasaki have hit the ball out of the park. Great Review. Love your work. AU

[@derekwaddell3463]

Can't say I have a problem with the throttle, all I did was tighten up the cables so that there was minimal free play, after 7500mls don''t think about it at all. Did some twiddling with the suspension, but the best mod is to put decent tyres on it, Michelin road5's completely transform the bike as the originals are just horrible things especially if it's wet or even slightly damp. Great bikes and definitely get a lot of comments how it looks when you park up.

[@timpilbeam9549]

Booster plug sorted the fueling in mine and now rides beautifully.

[@topprovider8769]

the sound is mesmerizing. got mine last monday

[@michaeldolan9812]

My old man's just brought one Always been a 1700 1800 cruiser bloke Got this and absolutely loves it Great review as always chopsie,I'll show him this video All the best mate 👍

[@soulrebelno1]

I had a look at the Kawasaki Z900RS last week when I bought my current bike. I was blown away with the overall quality of the bike and its looks. The Candy Tone Blue with the gold stripe was my favourite colourway, it looked stunning; the Metallic Dark Green with the silver stripe is nice, as well. I'm 6' 2" and when I sat on the bike I immediately felt extremely comfortable; it's the most comfortable I've ever felt sitting on a bike in a dealership. It's hard to explain, but was like taking a new suit off a hanger in a clothes shop, trying it on, and finding out it fits perfectly! Even though the bike weighs in at 215kgs, it felt very light because all of the weight is low down. The Triumph Speed Twin was also a bike I was looking at, but this bike is a real contender. Yes, it's expensive, but it's one I'll definitely be looking at again in the future, in fact, if I could, I'd take one now - it's that good!

[@bobwilkins3406]

I own a 2018 z900 and found the throttle snatchy from new. After adjusting the play out of the throttle cable it seems absolutely fine now. The usual 3-4mm of play at the grip doesn’t seem to work well on this bike. I’m not saying this is the problem that all owners are encountering but it could be a simple fix for some. I love this bike!

[@karlbratby4349]

exactly what I did and made such a difference, even the dealer said as much when tested after 1st service, now they do this to there demo and all that they sell.

[@williamwintemberg]

By the way Lamb chop, the need for speed is never going to leave you so just accept it. With age you will just become more careful when and where you decide to fill the need.

[@farmoboy83]

Exactly! With age comes some wisdom to decide where is acceptable and safe enough to get the bike to full power mode. Sadly, with modern roads filled with speed traps is not the same as used to be

[@volt8684]

Perfect quote. Thats exactly me just more wise

[@karlbratby4349]

@@farmoboy83 yep gone are the days we could go out on the M1 late at night on a CBR1000 and see if we can get to 160 LOL.. reaching 50 Yrs old I also no longer have the balls to even try.

[@Twinpot1962]

Love your real world reviews, no matter what bike you’re on. You do an awesome job, keep it up.

[@gm16v149]

So it looks like they still haven’t fixed the throttle snatch. It was bad on my 2018 Z900RS Jaffa (the best color) when I bought it new, but the Booster Plug made in Denmark, which fools the ECU, fixed it pretty well. Dyno run and ECU flash coming up shortly when we’re out of lockdown here in Melbourne. No need to change the exhaust, it’s perfect in my opinion. Not too quiet, not too noisy, and it looks great.

[@johnridesadv2512]

What's odd is that I own a 2019 Z900RS Cafe model here in the US, and I was pleased with how smooth the on/off throttle was in stock form. I guess the 2018 model here in the US had an issue with that, but for 2019 they must have fixed it because mine is pretty good.

[@gm16v149]

@@johnridesadv2512 From what I can gather on the various Z900RS forums, it was the luck of the draw if the fuelling was acceptable or not. I’m surprised Chop’s was bad, I thought they would have fixed it by now. The Booster Plug which I fitted to my bike fixed the problem, but apparently on other bikes it didn’t make much difference. The only real way out is a ECU reflash, which is easy enough and $200 -350 if you send the ECU away without a dyno run. It’s going to cost me about $800 AUD for my flash and dyno run, although to be honest I’m pretty happy the way the bike is.

[@coastalhillbilly3419]

I got lucky, the 72 year old man that sold me my brand new used Jaffa had it remapped to perfection

[@ianezy0828]

Hi Mate, good video. As a Z900RS owner since Feb2021 I have to say that the throttle is not an issue with me. As you say, the finesse does become second nature. My honest opinion is that, for me, no change is necessary. Many have remapped theirs. It is a personal choice. Cheers.

[@YouMotorcycle]

Agreed. Feels fine to me

[@davidlutton4560]

I know your vlog on the Z900RS is possibly a 1+ old, but having just watched it, it was, as always, truly entertaining and factually spot on. Definitely the best reviews available. Thank you

[@LambChopRides]

Much appreciated!

[@Shinysideup]

I love the look of this bike, I’m seriously considering adding to my collection I had the original z900 from 1976 really should of kept it. I know what your saying about age and owning a retro. Love back to basics riding.

[@ccahill2322]

Ian, The "original" Z1900 is from 1972, orange and brown in colour. I have one in my garage for the past 29 years.

[@cornishreptiles]

I have one in Candytone Green and it’s easily the best bike I’ve ever owned. It’s fast if you need it to be, comfortable, frugal, well built, sounds great, looks great and draws attention wherever I go. Nothing complicated about the electronics, I absolutely love it. Throttle snatch for me I don’t find so bad, but I traded a Ducati Supersport S for it and compared to that it’s smooth as butter 😂.

[@blueyondermoto]

I really like the look of this bike and I'm very tempted to move in to the whole modern retro scene for my daily ride (I must be getting old!). I think this one could be the best of the bunch.

[@stevezodiac491]

I have just bought a Z900 RSSE and you are right, the throttle is snatchy. My first ride i thought, what have I bought but the second ride was 60% better and the next even better still. Like everything, practice makes perfect and you develop better muscle control to overcome the problem and after a while your brain demotes the new action you are using to automatic instead of thinking about every movement of your hand, because it is still in the learning process. In comparison my 600 Honda throttle was smooth and progrogressive from the the outset and there was a noticeable difference between the two. It would have been better if the Kawasaki was the same but I have accepted it now. Because of this and the bags of low down grunt the bike has, I have nick named it ' Pepperami ' because ' it is a bit of an animal '. It is definitely not a just passed your test bike to buy ! The ohlins on the SE and the enhanced strengthened frame has made the suspension great on mine.

[@michaeljkasnter]

Never miss an LCR video!!!! 4k is sick, we appreciate your time to upload 4k, that speaks volumes!!!!

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks Michael 👍

[@iansians6703]

Forgot to say, you can fix the snatchy throttle easily, just get it remapped (potentially an Akro or other exhaust as well), it fixes it and also allows it to run richers which solves the high engine temp issues you get with the standard (i.e. it runs lean and hot normally).

[@ribalderr6052]

all bikes come tuned lean from the factory. throttles not snatchy u babys, thats a I4 with two brand new metal throttle CABLES, and theyll get much better after a few rompings on it. so get out there and do it. ur poking along thru town crying oh its snatchy its snatchy, its a pathetic criticism.

[@iansians6703]

@@ribalderr6052 Too tight to get it fixed eh?

[@ribalderr6052]

@@iansians6703 fix what?

[@gryphongryph]

The throttle is said to be a easy fix. Revisiting the next year Z900rs SE model when it arrives would be interesting, better suspension and brakes plus refinements should make this bike even better for people with more aggressive riding style.

[@coastalhillbilly3419]

“It’s not that type of bike” Japan should make that type of bike, no reason why a modern cafe racer can’t have street fighter H/P, handling and driver aids

[@amandadavis9348]

I love this bike and really need to try one. IMHO this has tonnes more authenticity than something like the Triumph T120. I'd say it's a Z900 for the modern world, rather than the T120 being a modern bike pretending to be aged. Kawasaki hit the nail on the head.

[@redleadervfr-v4906]

Great reviews Chops I like your honesty buddy and yes I like the Z900RS too. Thanks buddy

[@benh1467]

The Candytone Green they had on the 2021 model almost made me not buy a ZH2. That color is stunning. Easily top 5 colors ever put on a production vehicle.

[@captaincrunch72]

candy tone green (which is my fave fucking color) IS available in 2022. for the Z900rs. Sadly not the SE..2022. I hate gold the color.. can't it.. BUT the 2022 rs se look delish !

[@s4m130]

and you might be able to use most of the power

[@69FOSTER]

I like the "root beer" and orange color best and am looking forward to the new blue color.

[@thinkingimpaired5663]

@@captaincrunch72 I rad thinking the same thing, buy the bike and have to change the wheel color or maybe spring for carbon fiber wheels. After spending all that money I should just buy a different bike.

[@coastalhillbilly3419]

@@69FOSTER Got me some brand new used rootbeer last summer, under 2k miles. Older gentleman I bought it from had it remapped, perfect fueling

[@abhidhoundiyal]

Still can't believe that it's the sound of stock exhaust, really amazing

[@tinyredgiant9915]

The look of that bike at 13:55 is stunning! Thanks for the review.

[@broc2727]

I have the 2018 model year. I did an ECU flash, airbox mod, replaced front & rear suspension with K-tech brand, Michelin pilot power 5's and its an awesome bike in the twisties. I have an awesome looking bike that also performs quit well.

[@loathing138]

On the throttle --- I slapped a G2 Throttle Tamer tube on mine, and now it's perfect. No more snatchy throttle at low speeds.

[@brucekendall52]

One of the nicest looking motor cycles of any type.Cheers

[@joshharrison2657]

You don’t need a remap to correct the snatchy throttle; I fixed the problem adequately on my z900rs by installing a D2 Throttle Tamer.

[@garybrown4854]

Listening to your voice I get the image of Greg Davis the comedian jump into my head LOL . Aren't euro 5 bikes sealed so you can't tinker with them ? Great review Chops as always

[@arryt3912]

I was thinking more Julian Ryder #justsayin 😊

[@geoffpoole1972]

Great real world review as always Chops. I've got a 2019 Cafe RS900 (same bike but with the cowl, as I'm sure you know!) I've fitted the o2 eliminator sensor (£15) which helps with the throttle response, although I never found it too bad.... I've fitted a full akro system to mine recently. The sound is awesome! Nevertheless, to get the bike running at its best; a PCV or flash is needed. The suspension is a bit budget, but as always a professional set up helps hugely :) Cheers Geoff

[@erLLOSU2]

sound and fun is number one and 2 is riding position. Thank you again for another super video!

[@audieolson1203]

I'm glad to hear, you follow up with the z900. I had that bike for three years and respected the throttle. Snatchy or twitchy apply. But one knows that. I have the 2023 rs in blue, and you can't overstate, the painting! I find the rs calmer in the throttle, but it still demands respect. Thanks for a lovely review!

[@dubdario120]

Great review,fitted mine with a Booster plug,easy installation,snatchy throttle problem solved .

[@garybrown4854]

Is yours a euro 5 though , aren't they sealed so you cant tinker ?

[@gm16v149]

Booster Plug fixed mine as well, it was terrible before. You’d think Kawasaki would have fixed it by now because it’s a well known problem.

[@dubdario120]

@@garybrown4854 No just take the tank off,each plug has tailored simple instructions for your bike.One of the best upgrades I've done yet on it.Makes the bike silky smooth

[@bakedbeanzontoast9078]

Thank God you didn't fit fit it with a butt plug instead.........😉👍

[@MarmiteTheDog]

Yep. Mine too. A 10 quid fix.

[@iansians6703]

Had one of these for nearly three years now and agree with all your observations, on the whole a good review. Only thing I disagree with is the comfy seat and footpeg position comments. My experience is the complete opposite, the footpegs are in the wrong position, need to be lower and further forward or back depending on your size and preference, but they are basically in the wrong position for comfort in terms of the bars and upright position. Had to have the seat remade as it continually pushed me forward uncomfortably. It is strange that such a great bike in all other respects is just so uncomfortable to ride as a tourer. I think Kawasaki got most things right but sacrificed the positioning of the rider in order to satisfy the retro requirements.

[@pjeng1]

For those people who are taller than 6 feet they will probably dislike the riding position as you've described here. Also, this bike is not good for long distance touring but perfect for short distance city riding.

[@rufus1346]

I test rode one yesterday and found the same thing with the feet position. I'm 6 foot 2 and was thinking if I do get one I would have to sacrifice the pillion seat and make it into a single seater sitting further back. To be fair my knees are shot so I do need my feet in front of my hips though. Very nice bike over all.

[@marklloyd9472]

I love the look of them kawa retro I had a z1000 in 1978 just the business. 👍👍👍 I dont know if its an age thing or just when you been racing around most of the month you now just want to relax and ride, I just love its looks , great video

[@MuscleBandit]

As a Gen1 1200 Bandit owner this bike is right up my street. Fun simple and gorgeous looking. Winner 👌

[@benn1181]

Thanks for the close up shots it really is a beautiful bike.

[@philipjames3526]

As someone how went from nearby buying an R1, then a Speed 1200. To finally buying a Thruxton RS - I regret not one bit - these type of retro classics are brilliant :-) All the warm fussy feeling of a cool retro design, but with modern reliability.

[@coastalhillbilly3419]

Now we just need 🇯🇵 and or 🇬🇧 to make a 160H/P modern Cafe racer

[@boldstar69]

@@coastalhillbilly3419 looks like your prayers have been answered with the new speed triple RR

[@thedandybiker684]

I'm glad you said about the throttle. I saw the Z900RS SE and was going to put my name down, but that throttle action put me off when I test rode the stock bike. Shouldn't come from the factory like that. It also seemed to surge once past that snatchyness?

[@marcjohnson7734]

I'm sold ...I've come here for all the reasons you mentioned looking for a sensible bike that' has a class look ,I'll be giving the adventure bikes up and moving towards this now I think perfect for a 50 plus person 😊

[@craigmason6656]

Chopsie on a retro? There's only one I could picture you on and that's a Thruxton RS. Great work buddy. Cheers from Melbourne 👍

[@WideAppeal]

I have a 2019 Jaffa. Throttle is fine. The one thing I did have to change was the rear shock... a K-Tech razor R sorted the bounciness issue. Great bike all around. Thanks for a great review.

[@scaff3450]

Now I know I’m old I bought one from Pete at Bournmouth Kawasaki today 🏍🤦‍♂️

[@The9meister]

Chrome or black rear fender is available on ebay, look simular to original Z1. I like the candy tone green colour, nice.

[@deanharris9331]

I took one of these out for a test ride a couple of years ago and was pleasantly surprised how nice it was . I also rode the Z900 naked and found that the motor in that bike was really smooth which is strange as it's essentially same motor. Great review again Chops 👍😊

[@clivers55]

I'm told its the gearing which is different on the RS that causes the problem,

[@SteveBlancoMusicianWarrior]

I love Kawasaki motos. Fit and finish incredible. Positive neutral. The sounds. And they are so nice to ride.

[@threepot]

My son has one. Lovely bike. If I wasn't into triumph,I'd have one.

[@Dius765RS]

My dad really loves this bike, even I have to admit its beautiful if not a little too retro for my tasty... She is stunning...

[@andyblackburn2068]

A bit late to the Z900rs party but good review non the less . Owned mine since early ‘18 spent far too much on it . But with new suspension tyres wheels a remap . It’s nearly a sports bike ;-) A sorted Z900rs RS is a different animal all together …. Keep up the good work

[@gryphongryph]

What suspension and tires did you go with ?

[@lr937]

Other thing about this bike is that feels like u riding way high, not tucked in the bike, it might have a retro looking and looks inviting till u seat on it and then u realize it feels like riding a motocross bike

[@tracktime1196]

FINALLY!!! Been a long time coming Chopsy, I love the look of this bike I've been so close to owning one but never taken the plunge (yet) I also like the look of the z900 it will be interesting to see your verdict on that too. Keep up the good work and look forward to your next vid 👍

[@stephenchapman8344]

Great looking bike. Can’t see you going without your track days. 😂

[@Nickbaldeagle02]

I went to Preston Motorcycles to check this bike out today. It looks stunning and it's much larger in real life than Chopsy makes it look.

[@aleksanderszymanowski6631]

Had mine since 2019. Wonderful bike. Changed the Dunlop Sportmax for Michelins, greatly improved stability. Other than that no complains apart from the twitchy throttle. Excellent review.

[@1bruv1962]

Hi Chops I couldn't agree more with everything that you said, I sold mine late October 21 just because of the aggressive throttle. Its a real shame as everything else about the bike feels premium and the induction roar and exhaust does take you back. A young at heart 60 years old the Z900rs was very smooth but also still a little too soft and boring at times, I tried various fixes but that throttle response ruined the owner experience for me. Try before you buy. Cheers

[@GeraldGarcia]

13:25 "hoho, that's straight up to... sixty plus" 😂 Thanks for the review. Placed an order on one (in 2022!) despite the snatchy throttle reputation. I hope I learn to "finesse the throttle" and live with it.

[@williamclarke2020]

Lovely machine. Beautiful country side. It's a hard job but someone needs to do it. Where in the UK is this video? Nice presentation.

[@fredmaldonado9204]

It is Gorgeous. I was waiting for years for someone to come out with a retro modern bike like this. The first bike I rode was an old Honda Nighthawk 650. it looked exactly like this bike in styling.

[@sleepindragon179]

Jonathan Rea has just bought one as his 1st road bike! Great choice for your first road bike. Even if you are a WSB Champion!

[@oslorider48]

That's enough for me to consider one as well 👍

[@sleepindragon179]

@@oslorider48 For sure

[@Shinysideup]

I saw that if it’s good enough for Jonathan Rea then is good enough for me, I’m sure he knows a man who can fix the fuelling issue

[@sleepindragon179]

@@Shinysideup You can't get a better recommendation than from a works Kawazaki WSB Champion. Even though he's only just passed his test!

[@happyjalapeno9397]

I was torn between this and the normal z900. I ended up getting the normal one, but i absolute love these!

[@salsamancer]

I can understand why some people like the Triumph styling better, but for my money this is THE BEST LOOKING retro on the market, by head and shoulders

[@redjacc7581]

simply the best modern retro out there.

[@pete8163]

ECU rewrite …fixes high rpm cold start and rev limiter ….all goood 😎

[@SquireSCA]

Lots of good mods for this bike... I cover a lot of them on my channel. You can take what is already a great bike, and turn it into a street and even track weapon, without sacrificing all the cool things that make it so good to begin with... ECU flash and tune, deCAT, suspension, tires...

[@matmiller5256]

Damn, what a beautiful / handsome bike ! Well done Kawasaki !

[@DrewBloo]

Chopsy, Great vid, I’m salivating.. Wheels must love you because I feel like going down there after every vid you do.. Have you been on the XSR 900 too? I want that perspective before I get out my ‘hard earned’. Cheers and keep up the good work

[@niceviewoverthere4463]

I was attracted to those but the dealer didn't have one to try. Went to Triumph and ended up with a Speed twin which is fantastic - except for the snappy throttle! It has lots of low/mid range pull and lopes along at 70mph for the transit distances with a burble - which I doubt a 4 could match. Sad to hear the new 900 is still snatchy - certainly a thing of beauty.

[@SocalMotoRx]

I did the Ivan’s performance map on mine and it fixed it. I did a review on my page after I did the Ivan’s ECU flash and Akra headers.

[@Raymaciver]

Chopsie, give yersel a shake man! I’m 58 next month & still loving my Gen 3 SDR! Ur a long time dead, enjoy it while u can. 👌

[@apexslider1]

I was sold just based on looks, but that sound…oh that sound. That thing will sound savage with a pipe. I love your reviews, and I’m hoping Wheels just gives you carte blanche on all their bikes to review!

[@williamwintemberg]

The only thing missing is the chrome rear fender. Other than that it's pure retro. I love the twin clocks and prefer them!

[@captainamerica9353]

If it were pure retro, it would have twin shocks, wouldn't it?

[@williamwintemberg]

@@captainamerica9353 You are correct. For me, I'm not as worried about the shocks as I am the fenders. They look like sh**!

[@captainamerica9353]

@@williamwintemberg , yes, the fenders area bit too modern for the rest of the bike. They could be changed but you can't easily make it a twin shock, and that is the deal breaker for me. Pity as it would appear to be a fun ride.

[@williamwintemberg]

@@captainamerica9353 Yes. There's always room to pick away at bikes that are sold as retro. Problem is, if they were true replicas most wouldn't want them as they would be seen as inferior by today's standards. If memory serves me correctly, Honda made a good stab at it a couple of years ago and it didn't sell. I'm old and very much enjoyed the bikes of the past. As it seems, there's always a rub.

[@captainamerica9353]

@@williamwintemberg , I have a ZRX1100 and it's a great bike. If I didn't have it, I'd prolly have a 1200 Bandit. My only real gripes about the Z900 and Ducati Scrambler are the Mono-Shocks. Might as well just have a late model sport bike. That's why I like the CB1100 and W800; they look "right" to me.

[@davexs]

Excellent review as usual. Love the look of the bike but the throttle would be very annoying for any rider, be interesting to read the comments on the throttle. I have been tempted with this bike, having once had the original Z900 many moons ago. After watching your video I don't think I will bother, at 61 (not 50), I'm not ready for cafe runs!!! As a further note to age I still do track days regularly and the quickest man on track is 74 and trashes everyone on his Aprilia 2 stroke 250!!! Your not ready for the slippers yet old son!!!! I sure can see the attraction though, what a beauty.

[@markbaker5221]

Hi Chops I think I have the solution as you said you would have one if it was more refined etc. There is a Kawasaki Z900rs se coming out in 2022 looks great in the yellow ball colour and comes with: Gold Spoke Wheels Ohlins S46 Shock with Remote Pre Load Adjuster Brembo Brakes Assist & slipper clutch This has you all over it eh! At least you will have to grab one to do a review against the Rs model you have just reviewed. Just a thought mate👍🏻

[@kurtisklein2682]

Throw this up against the Yamaha version, the XSR? Get Gregorio back and have a retro naked Versus vid? Amsome stuff as always Chops!

[@philiplines6429]

I’ve read a lot about this issue and many owners have tried a Booster Plug and have had great results. I get my bike very soon and will fit one as I noticed the problem on my test rides. I’ll let you know how it goes.

[@philturner5385]

A throttle tamer fixes the snappy throttle, work perfect.

[@RE650NZGraeme]

The retro styles of the engine casings - it looks the same contrasts and setup as my 1976 Yam 750 2D Shaft Drive Triple. Agree with you totally. Had a metallic silver tank with deep blue flash. I loved that bike!! Thanks for the honest review - love the exhausts and chrome, black wheels and machined spokes and rim!

[@danielbailey818]

Nice video..... having never ridden any other bike (apart from training bikes) it seems from your video that I made a wise choice for once! Passed my test in November 2019 (age 47). The Z900RS was and still is my first bike (apart from a Duke 125). I bought it new on a 20 plate in Candytone Green. I constantly live in fear of scratching the tank to the extent it lives under a double duvet when not being used. I bought this type of retro bike so wouldn't be under pressure to incrementally increase my speed as I gain confidence. I am quite happy to keep within the speed limit and I believe this type of bike looks better ridden at a slower and more conservative pace. But fun can still be had if requested. The bike is great and I have never been disappointed with either the bike or with the Kawasaki dealer/service network. Alas, I have had nothing to compare it to being a newbie with limited knowledge of differnet bikes. But...... as you say the first gear is terrible and needs to be tamed somewhat. I wish Kawasaki would provide a ECU flash to correct this. I negotiated a four year warranty when I bought the bike as I intend to keep it, but I believe I void the warranty if I have it flashed by a third party. I am not sure if there is a work around for this? I have sort of gotten use to it, but it can catch you out on occasions. Happy to keep the bike as stock, but would like to improve first gear.

[@LambChopRides]

Great feedback thanks 👍

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Thanks, Chopsy for the review. Like most, I have flashed the RS and the change is amazing - much softer on the throttle, with more power throughout the range. It's just something you have to do - budget for it ($200) - more power too. The tires are dreadful and power 5s on it are a massive improvement. The rear shock needs replacing if you want to ride spiritedly. Love the bike. Cheers.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Need you to test the Z900 SE that's being released.

[@damienpeckham2834]

A rather splendid review here of the 900RS sir 👌 great to see that you enjoyed it

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks Damien 👍 😊

[@OM-sb2bd]

Got a 2023. Diablo Black/Imperial Red. Not snatchy - responsive with buttery power- a velvet hammer! But maybe one man’s snatchy is another man’s responsive? As you mentioned, some do an ECU flash - but so far I’m darn happy with its stock fueling. Did Kawasaki tweak the newer ones perhaps? It’s one hell of a machine. 🔥☮️

[@imlostalot7702]

Put a Booster Plug on my MT07 and it fixed the off idle lean condition, smoothed the power delivery throughout the rev range. Purchased a 2018 Z900RS today also ordered a Booster Plug.$ 170 bucks.

[@FabulousWanderers]

Fantastic review Lamb Chops, now I'm definitely going to get one 👍❤️

[@MrSantacruz48]

I love mine! I reflashed the ECU and the throttle is like butter, soo smooth. It completes the bike and gives you back some horsepower as well. Nice review you capture the essence of it. Old school Japanese muscle!

[@snellen46]

Same here. Ivan tune

[@karlbratby4349]

can i ask where did you get a reflash ? presuming your UK based that is LOL

[@pietervandyk9390]

I use the bike for commuting and travel around Switzerland. My garage fixed the throttle response easily by fine tuning the electronics. Absolutely no issue. I can drive it for 7 hours a day. If you replace the the original tyres it transforms the handling

[@-thirteen]

Fine tuning the electronics?

[@-thirteen]

@@ultimatepu5h right

[@allanmoger1838]

The throttle was worse than my old TL1000R so I did a Power Commander V and an Akrapovic can which worked great. I got an itch and did a full Akrapovic system and K&N with Dynojet’s Autotune. It’s now as smooth as a well carbureted bike. It’s well worth it. Brembo brakes with the master cylinder gave it quite a bit of extra confidence inspiring feel too - that was a worthwhile mod. I know lots of people get an ECU re-flash from Ivan as the budget option and that works great too, but obviously only for one configuration at a time.

[@williambarringer6513]

I got a booster plug which helps but im gonna get it tuned this winter, the problem is when you close the throttle it shuts the bike off which makes it throw you over the bars, its actually dangerous from the factory like a bucking bronco I almost whiskey throttle into a guardrail the first time I rode it, the booster plug really helped for now till I can get it tuned

[@MJ-yx5tq]

Great job Chopsy, re “snatchy” throttle. We have done a quite a few trial & error mods, forget booster plugs u need an ECU remap & mods if u want the best results…we used custom flash+ Akro headers+link decat, stacks+air box mods =Dynojet @ 121 hp & 76torques. Std bike is 102 & 68 approx. Kwaka’s ECU cuts injector power on decel + other emissions garbage.

[@LambChopRides]

Great info MJ 👍👍

[@talkingrock7011]

Chops I past 50 fifteen years ago and still love to ride even though it’s on a CVO Harley-Davidson Street Glide , when are we going to see the Ducati project bike again

[@kmac5849]

Waiting for the SE next year as the upgrades sound spot on, judging from the comments only the throttle , sprocket and tyres are left to fiddle with 👍

[@johnridesadv2512]

Ya, that SE looks awesome! Wish we were getting it here in the States, but so far no news on that. I am looking forward to what Yamaha will do with the XSR900... it's due for an update now that the MT-09 was updated. Can't wait to see what they do with it!!

[@micmac8171]

Already there?

[@silvanopisano4791]

To fix snatchy throttle ... l changed the headers for an aftermarket set thus also eliminating the cat, changed the air filter for a high performance one & got a remap. Kept the original exhaust . This transforms the throttle response completely. Absolutely delighted with result , added 9hp and shed quite a bit of weight...win,win situation... would highly recommend anyone else to do the same.. bear in mind will make the exhaust note a bit louder but not too much in my opinion

[@lynsmith1096]

Good review Lamb Chop. As a Retro bike it should have twin exhausts.

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks Lyn 👍

[@infinitydreamzz]

I love the look, my only regret is that a top box would look awful on it and I need to have a top box on by bikes. What a shame

[@HalfdeadRider]

I like a good snatchy throttle, instant torque is the best! Top end is just something you try to do when you first get a new bike, accelerating very quick is much more fun to do the rest of the time.

[@-thirteen]

Its a bit scary in slow maneuvers. I've been messy with that throttle turning it around in traffic

[@HalfdeadRider]

@@-thirteen I find it makes it easier, you hardly need to touch the throttle and just ride the clutch as usual.

[@-thirteen]

@@HalfdeadRider yes, but still gets me jumpy when things are tight.

[@davesharp4659]

Nice to see some kawasaki reviews

[@shiloh1943]

super super review! thank you Lamb Chop!

[@ticthedog9413]

👍 Nice review but I think your underselling this bike and if you had spent 30 minutes setting up the suspension and wheel alignment I don't think the bike would be a limiting factor on the hill climb Turning off the traction control or unplugging the 02 sensor will cure the throttle response