Kawasaki Z900RS Installed HEATED Grips and a NEW Windshield! Best TOURING Bike EVER!

I installed a National Cycle Street Shield EX windshield onto my Kawasaki Z900RS. I also installed a set of Oxford heated handle bar grips! These additions have made a great improvement on the touring ability of this motorbike! I am planning on much more touring in the near future and I will be traveling in much more comfort than I have in the past with these new accessories. As always thanks for watching!
Previous Z900RS Videos:
• Road Trip buying a Z90...
@kentuckyyankee
#z900rs #kawasaki #windshield

[@davidklementis5913]

I really love the old standard looking motorcycle style and their versatility. I'm not a big fan of the look of windshields on them, but as you said at my age I don't really care about what others think and since my motorcycle is my primary daily transportation utility and comfort wins over looks hands down. The big Givi trunk I have on my FZ6 is dorky, but the best mod I've ever made to it.

[@leviefrauim1425]

Dude, you're a scream- really enjoying your adventures as I'm considering a Z900RS too. Thanks for the experiences and videos.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks! they're good bikes

[@michaellowery928]

Great install with great instruction on the grip heaters. Looks like a sturdy and well designed mounting for the windshield. Glad everything worked as designed. Us seasoned gentlemen know the value of functionality over form. Thanks for another quality video and entertaining dialog. Cool is getting your money's worth. I could hear the satisfaction in your voice. Well done sir!

[@kentuckyyankee]

You're right about us seasoned gentlemen, we are build for comfort lol! I am looking forward to a trip soon with these new addons, thanks for watching!

[@tombailey6342]

Great video, I think we all gone through the same fitting these! I took the easy route and put my heat control sticking up and on its side. Now i seen your job, i know what i am doing tomorrow... Thank you

[@kentuckyyankee]

Good deal I like the location of the controller, and impressed with the Oxford grips

[@yusufeaston8541]

Instablaster.

[@stratolestele7611]

Speaking of windshields, I just got my new café. So I now have a windshield! Lol - No, it's not much of a windshield - at all, but hey, that's what my helmet is for. Also, I count on the wind to push my torso and ease the weight on my hands and wrists. On another note - After years of riding with 'lids', on my Harleys, my Shoei RF1400 is a new world for me. It's sound deadening, aerodynamics, and tightly sealed shield are absolutely amazing for me. I've only had one other full face, and it was an HJC from the early 90s, and I don't recall it being their best model, but regardless the experience is night and day.

[@stuart369hammond6]

Brilliant video, great walk through and some wonderful tips and advice, the compressed air trick was brilliant. My Kawasaki dealership always recommends Daytona heated grips with integrated switch on left grip thus avoiding the control box and like Oxford half the price of Kawasaki oem. I fitted them to my Z900rs and like you I'm very happy with result. You have made a super helpful video which will help other owners well done sir.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you!

[@phillipturner959]

All you need now is a cruise control and it is a perfect old school touring machine.

[@kentuckyyankee]

I know I thought about that!

[@vintagetrk]

I have a 2019 Z900rs Cafe I’ve been riding to work in 20 degree temps in the morning in leather gear. It’s not horrible the leathers help a lot. I love watching you make this bike your own. I love my Cafe it takes me back to the good old days.

[@kentuckyyankee]

There is no bad weather just bad cloths lol! Thanks for watching they are great bikes!

[@1buckola]

Like others, I'm not a fan of windshields but I have to admit the Z looks pretty good with it.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks! I think if I have to have one this is the best looking one that I have found so far.

[@paulcrocker818]

RIGHTEOUSLY A MUST , THE WINDSHIELD!! IT IS GREAT!!!

[@kentuckyyankee]

It had been great so far!

[@johns9329]

Mate well done great reviews... I had a Vulcan 1600 cc Kwaka cruiser now seriously thinking about this lovely bike... I actually rode a real 70's Kwaka 900 for a while back then,,, Kawasaki has done a great job with this little grunter.... Thank you for the add-on reviews = GREAT..as I am looking at all of them, especially the luggage and heated grips. Now 64 yrs young keep up the good reviews and this 900 gem suits my kind of touring when I'll need to. As for those young bucks ---Everyone to their own mate --- who cares !!! Keep well and best wishes from John - Canberra Australia ----Love your review style keep it coming. :)

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you!! You won't be disappointed if you get this bike they really are great!! Ride safe!

[@strshooter7399]

Nice, very good video, thank you.

[@friedpork_owl]

Ultimate touring machine! Love it🔥

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you! I totally agree for me it's perfect!

[@vincentdavidson755]

Yes when your on the freeway all day the windshield is very nice to Bring alot more comfort🧝⚡💤

[@kentuckyyankee]

Made a Huuuuge difference!!

[@briantouchette8073]

Warm hands and feet make a world of difference in these temps. Rock on. I could not do it but fun watching your vids.

[@kentuckyyankee]

These grips and windshield do make a world of difference, looking forward to a trip soon!

[@kentuckyyankee]

Btw I tried some thermacell heated insoles and they did not work, they are complete junk! Long story short I still have cold feet. lol!

[@mikemcclernon5784]

Hey... Did you know hepco&Becker make hard bags for this beauty... Tour to another level! 44k miles on my 2018!!!! Flawless

[@subrven1]

Excellent mods. Love the windshield. I was in 2 minds but looking at yours I am in. Will try this shield

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks! Haven't been on a long trip yet but seems ok

[@tik4su]

Thanks man...I've been trying to get proper visor (windshield) for my Z900RS and this one looks awesome.

[@kentuckyyankee]

It worked out pretty good fits the bike in my opinion

[@mr.kenney536]

Love your mods and love your enthusiasm!! Keep you vids coming!

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you! I will do my best!

[@Dankyjrthethird]

great review, thanks for the info i might pick myself up one of these windscreens

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks! I ended up adding a wind deflector to it

[@richculham9399]

Hey buddy, just fitted my heated grips today....you're vid was well useful. Love your no nonsense style, makes me chuckle!

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks! Heated grips are great you'll love them.

[@seniorrider9337]

Like your progress. Two comments. I have changed out a number of handlebar grips, never had to apply any kind of glue. Now yours are permanent. To remove grips not glued, a shot of wd-40 between the grip and bar, a thin screwdriver can be used to make room for the wd-40 nozzle, twist a bit and pull off. Put the new ones on after cleaning bar with alcohol by pushing from the outside end onto bar. Try it next time.The windshield looks way too high as compared to their website pics. But, it is for your comfort. I would have installed it closer to the cut out fitting close to the headlight, mainly just for looks.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks for the info on the grips, I agree with you about the windshield but it is comfortable at that height also I think it reduces buffeting by allowing air underneath it, that said it would look much better near the headlight, instructions call for 1 to 3 inches clearance I have 4

[@1219magnum]

Windshield looks great sir! Guys with no windshields, 20-25 miles and are beat up. Us guys with, 100-200-300, no problemo!! keep up the great work. I want a z900rs, with a NC plexistar.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks!! You need a z900rs with a NC Plexistar! lol!

[@1219magnum]

So, I'm getting a '23 Triumph T120 and am gonna install this very shield to it. I know I'm gonna be happy with it judging by your road test elation ;-) Seriously, I have been using National Cycle windscreens for over 40 years. Excellent product. Ride safe sir!

[@nigelpender8834]

Thanks for your video, I have the same bike and fitted the same grips and a Givi A210 screen. Appreciated your tip on the positioning of the controller for the grips, worked well on a ride last weekend.

[@mikecatherwood7806]

Good job showing adaptions and mistakes. These two mods could get me back on one of these beautiful new Zs.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks, you need to get back on one!

[@shanec4441]

10:20 “yo-ink those off” 😄 Love the enthusiasm

[@brockett]

Well done KY good choices

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you! I will know for sure after I put a few miles on.

[@steveo4253]

I bought a new SE this July. I think my first mods will be a new exhaust and ecu flash. A speed shifter would be nice too

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

The National Cycle Plexistar is a good shield..I used them on 3 bikes since the 80s. Plexistar or plexifairing has the coverage for hands and extends down on the sides more.

[@findingneutral]

Excellent parts tutorial, install, and review 👌

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you!!

[@johfu4705]

Much appreciated!

[@petertaylor2148]

Dam you're a capable man !! 🤣🤣🤣

[@beepbop6697]

Love everything you are doing to the bike to customize it to suit you. I bet that seat is comfy!

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks! Yeah the seat is nice

[@Spicersvanlife]

Keep up the good work. What a nice fella

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you!

[@oceanlancer]

What a positive man ! Greetings from Ukraine =)

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks!!!

[@farouk6564]

You can just add some rubber washers to the end of the grip. Good video as always

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks, might do that, I am a little disappointed I didn't pay closer attention when I installed them

[@PsGetSid_]

keep up good work! great video

[@sidecar7714]

Acetone cleans up super glue

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks I ended up getting it clean but it was a mess 😂

[@pauljason2039]

Great video. Screen is cool. Good job well done.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you!

[@stuartdanielle6408]

Great videos mate, really helpful.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you!

[@mikeyb6737]

I had the same make of screen on my old Yamaha - it was awesome

[@kentuckyyankee]

So far so good I like it

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

Good job

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you!

[@Open_Throttle55]

sweet man! lets ride! planning a weekend trip in the next two weeks if your interested in going!

[@williamfoster4268]

You can use hairspray instead of super glue, easier to get off in the future.

[@Rounder50]

I'll be taking the Kawasaki wind deflector off of mine and getting one of these shields, I might even try the larger plexistar model shield, great video, I'm learning a lot about mine.

[@kentuckyyankee]

I considered the plexistar model but I don't think it was much taller, and it also guards your hands which I didn't want, if you do get one let me know how it works out

[@franciscovillanueva9984]

felicitaciones , eres un crak genial , es la moto de mis sueños y con los accesorios que yo también le pondría, me interesa y me gusta lo que haces. ✌✌👍

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thank you! I love this bike! Where are you from?

[@franciscovillanueva9984]

@@kentuckyyankee de Valencia, España

[@kentuckyyankee]

Nice!

[@sjk8273]

My 2021 is being prepped for pick up on Saturday. I enjoy your enthusiasm, but mine will stay standard apart from some sliders. (PS: Hairspray on the grips is a great non-permanent option )

[@lancelemay6971]

Sure wish it hugged the headlight better. This motorcycle doesn’t seem to have a functional perfect fit windscreen though.

[@BrianDeWayneHale]

I really think you need to take another look at that windshield mounting location. It seems way too high. But it is all about the comfort of 5he rider so if having that high is better then so be it but I would at least try getting it lower and closer to the headlight.

[@kentuckyyankee]

I can try it, I still need to play around with the position of it fine tuning takes time and multiple trips

[@BrianDeWayneHale]

@@kentuckyyankee All that testing and fine tuning will be fun because it all required a test ride. Enjoy. By the way I really enjoy your show.

[@kentuckyyankee]

@@BrianDeWayneHale Thank you!

[@organichemone]

Function over form any day.

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

😂 the smell of new grips 👍nice job on grips. Was you going to get a throttle cruise control lock? Could you cut off a couple threads on the bar end weight to make it flush again? Close the gap? I did same thing on my shield brackets. Put inner tube or foam sticky back inside clamps to tighten up. I think 20"-21" is the height I get

[@mr2scroll538]

I have been wanting to get some

[@kentuckyyankee]

They are prices right and good quality go for it!

[@johnhaworth2770]

I too was wondering what type of shield to put on my Z900RS. The installs look good to me.

[@kentuckyyankee]

Haven't tried it on a long g trip yet but seems good so far

[@daveotterness4919]

I have the same windshield on my gt750 suzuki 1975, changing the angle keeps the buffeting down. Too far back is worse, keep angle of forks with windshield. Happy travels.

[@kentuckyyankee]

I like this windshield, I am still going to play around with the position to get it in the best spot, buffeting isn't terrible, I'm thankful for that just a little noise, I can live with that. Thanks for watching!

[@Speedytrip]

Nice video. Really hard to find windscreen that don't generate buffeting, it usually requires a huge one, and adjustability. Otherwise I just prefer naked, you get more wind, but it's clean wind.

[@kentuckyyankee]

I agree and I am still adjusting. Prefer to ride naked except on long trips

[@Speedytrip]

@@kentuckyyankee What do you think about the suspensions? I feel like so many bikes these days are so harsh on less than perfect roads. If you had to give them a rating of 1 to 10 in terms of comfort? 10 being a Goldwing, 1 being an R1. Thanks!

[@kentuckyyankee]

@@SpeedytripWell ....... not a Goldwing and not an R1 My opinion it is kinda sporty but not terribly firm 😐

[@Speedytrip]

@@kentuckyyankee Cool thanks :)

[@Ringer1982]

I'm glad I put the original heated grips :D Nice handlebar risers, did you do anything with the length of cables after installing the risers?

[@kentuckyyankee]

I had to reposition the cables, was a tight fit with the risers, I have a video of the installation. Thanks for watching!

[@vincentdavidson755]

With the windshield be careful at over hundred u may experience a wobble on the front

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thanks, I agree need to be careful with a windshield at higher speeds

[@jimpollock4896]

Just curious if the wind coverage is as good if you move it down closer to the headlight. Looks like it’s designed to go around the light.

[@kentuckyyankee]

The instructions say it can be 1 to 3 inches above the headlight, It is currently 4 inches on my bike I am afraid if I lower it that the wind would hit me right on my face, but idk may experiment with it, also I think the gap on the bottom is helping turbulence by letting air through

[@jimpollock4896]

@@kentuckyyankee I’ve got the identical bike and love it. looking for something like that that I can easily remove when not needed.

[@kentuckyyankee]

@@jimpollock4896 This one will come off easy, I'm sure I will still keep looking in case something better comes up

[@mr2scroll538]

Lexington here

[@kentuckyyankee]

You're up North

[@mr2scroll538]

@@kentuckyyankee ya buddy. Kentucky rocks some of the best riding roads in east cost

[@kentuckyyankee]

@@mr2scroll538 Yep I agree!

[@vincentdavidson755]

Always know the roads because if Theirs ice of any kind on the road Forget it unless u want to take a big chance of fish tailing and dropping your bike get some sliders for extra protection sometimes theirs ice on the mountain passes and not on the road . Never get to relax I been Driving bikes for over 50 years and u have to always be alert🧝⚡💤

[@nbrider7235]

If it's functional and it improves your riding experience then that makes it "cool", how it looks is largely irrelevant to me. Good job. One questions, what is your line of sight in regards to the windshield - are you looking over it or through it. Your videos have become part of my Sunday routine, you're an entertaining dude. Thanks.

[@kentuckyyankee]

I look over it clearly, and the wind hits right above my lens, thank you for watching!

[@SirSpinalColumn]

what crack are you smoking saying the oxford kit looks better than OEM? The OEM has a single button on the grip and plugs directly into the harness. You may as well have used zip ties.

[@edmalts]

What size is it and website ??? I want one

[@harleydrew7100]

😮

[@jackrutherford-1]

Seat warmer next?

[@kentuckyyankee]

Thought about it but no, I'm pretty happy with this setup, cruise ........maybe someday

[@okiefreemen]

can you ride highway with face shield open?

[@kentuckyyankee]

No

[@thekingsservant1104]

Nice bike. Bet just like every other bike it's to small for this 6'7 350 country boy😭

[@kentuckyyankee]

Dang! You're a big fella, I think your knees would be up by your chin when riding, but when just standing with the bike, perfect size, far as power no problem

[@thekingsservant1104]

@@kentuckyyankee lol figures. Bro I have been shopping and researching bike for 4 months, new bikes and there is almost nothing that I don't look like a circus bear on! Up until a few yrs ago, new big bikes were everywhere but now it's small to mid size. I even look big on a full dress Harley! Sucks to...what I want I look stupid on and what I look ok on is not my style😭😭😭😡

[@kentuckyyankee]

@@thekingsservant1104 Completely understand for me everything is too tall, I'm on my Tippi toes

[@jerryaduvall]

What happened to the other windsheild you had on that was green?

[@kentuckyyankee]

I have it

[@jerryaduvall]

@@kentuckyyankee why did you take it off? Didn't see it in your moto camp video. Then watched the install of bigger one. Just for more wind protection?

[@kentuckyyankee]

@@jerryaduvall Yes it wasn't enough for me, I like the taller one better, I'm gonna sell it $150

[@jerryaduvall]

@@kentuckyyankee mine is a small Puig, it isn't much when it gets cold. Perfect 3/4 of the year though. If it was a quicker disconnect, I wouldn't mind getting a take one for when it's cold. Stay safe in the ice. It's covered where I'm at in KY

[@DavidSmith-jj5pr]

>trusting a cheap electronic module to shut off the battery drain instead of a mechanical switch good luck

[@kentuckyyankee]

I'm going to give it a try they have great reviews but if it doesn't work out I could always hard wire it in, but so far I haven't had to test it, I have made a habit of turning them off. Thanks for watching!

[@stimgaze]

Fuggin ugly. But it works!

[@jadethompson5269]

🤢🤮

[@vincentdavidson755]

The windshield is nice for traveling across country gives u a break but be careful if u get up to a 100 mph or more u may experience a front wobble from the air wiping in. And in the winter time it helps alot. Make Shure u don't ware any head gear that can come down over your eyes inside your helmet I once had that happen to me and I was on the freeway and was not able to see one bit luckey I felt my way over to the side boy was that close because I had on gloves and was not able to push the head gear out of my eyes ,I was a le to keep my cool it was almost the end I learn my lesson about wearing any warm headgear in my halmet never ever never ever again🧝