Kawasaki Z900RS | First Rides | Motorcyclenews.com

[@gm16v149]

After thinking about it for a long time I finally bought one 2 weeks ago and I’ve already done 2000 kms on it so it’s run in. It’s awesome, it’s got all the power you need for the real world and it looks stunning in real life. I’ve owned lots of bikes, Triumph, Norton, Yamaha, Ducati, HD, and this is the best bike I’ve ever owned. It pulls hard from 2000 rpm and goes real hard from around 7000. It feels light, brakes and handling are excellent, sounds nice when you’re riding it without being too loud, and looks a million dollars. What more do you want when you’ve finally had it with uncomfortable sport bikes and noisy Harleys.

[@BikesVansandThings]

Good for a newbie?

[@TommyAngelo1337]

@@BikesVansandThings No.

[@elzarbiman9657]

Hi gm16v149 I agree with . I have had a lot of bikes and this has got all the qualities that the other haven't got. When you ride it for the first time you have the feeling to know it for a long time. You can ride slowly at low torque or faster with the same pleasure . If you have a custom or a sport bike it is impossible you have no choice. For the first one you will never ride fastly and for the sport bike if you ride slowly it is annoying. Try z900rs and you will adopt it .

[@rufus1346]

I know you posted this comment a long time ago. Have you still got it and if so has she stood the test of time? I am looking at one of these beautiful machines as my next purchase. I already have my old Rocket 111, which I love and will never sell, bought that bike when it was first launched in 04'. And also my XDiavel, both of which I will keep for different reasons. What I am now looking for is a small around town every day traffic filtering bike, this is about as small as I can go being 6 foot 2 ish and 17 stone. Test rode one yesterday and first impressions were great but it would be really helpful for a long term review. Cheers mate :-)

[@gm16v149]

@@rufus1346 Still got it, great bike. Done 24,000 kms. Only problem is, snatchy throttle, a Booster Plug fixed it but a ECU flash is better which I’ll be doing soon.

[@stratolestele7611]

I've got a 2023 café that I bought new 1/23, so being 9/24 I've had mine for over a year and a half. Man, I think I keep liking it each time I ride it. It's just such a great bike. Zero complaints. I just got a new compliment on it this morning. Absolutely fantastic bike, and in 40 years of riding all brands (though all HD for about 20 years), this is easily my favorite bike yet. I don't see me ever selling it. I'd only consider adding to the stable.

[@Yeahbuddylightweigh]

Best looking retro bike

[@ubayyd]

Kawasaki Z900RS >Triumph Street Twin > Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

[@mebeasensei]

@@ubayyd New W800 is out now. at 52hp half this power but looks great. Now with front and rear discs.

[@kasimshaikh3750]

Interceptor 650 looks better.

[@24james]

Ubayd Triumph too slow....Royal poorly made. Kawasaki will be running long after those two are in the trash heap

[@Nifilheimur]

went to a kawasaki dealer to look at a new ninja 650 and saw this bike and was just smitten. totally in love with it. looks much better in person also. almost forgot to look at the ninja 650:p Gorgeous machine!

[@glenncallow1454]

I wanted one of these bad boys 40 years ago when I was an apprentice - I loved it - couldn't afford it.....but now perhaps !! This is VERY clever of Kawasaki......retro at its best. They've kept the famous ducktail, seat ribbing, the battery cover styling - even same paint jobbie !! But they they've bought it bang up to date with all the goodies. The only thing I'm not sold on - the new 4 into 1 exhaust.......Bring back the 4 into 4 !! Well done kwaka.

[@marcgatto9675]

I'm watching this in Dec. 2024. And considering buying one in 2025. Such a classic machine. Love it ❤

[@kiwiandyt123]

Great video of an awesome looking bike. IMHO Kawasaki have nailed the retro look perfectly - it evokes its legendary forebear without compromising modern safety and performance.

[@01cissy]

The driveline "snatch" he is referring to (@ about 13:15) can be controlled with gentle use of the clutch and throttle when coming back into the power. Found this to be true on my '73 Z1.

[@filthymcnastyazz]

BB gun Spo Wa. Shouldve moved on as much as brakes etc in the last 45 years

[@macushlamarsh2390]

Hi there, Having owned in the 70/80s a Z1000 A2 followed by a Z1R I am familiar with the concept that Kawasaki are trying to re introduce. For me the design/styling of this bike is great picking up the design queues from the earlier bikes. Whilst it lacks a few important features of the 70s models like no main stand no grab rail for the pillion and a ridiculously tiny front mudguard that would need a masive fender extender to be effective , the main problem is the bikes small size. Because this bike is based on the 2017 Z900 it's no surprise that this model is under sized too. I have ridden the 2017 Z900 and whilst this is a great bike to ride ,I think it is best suited for solo riding only with a very poor attempt at a pillion seat. Basically this bike is undersized being about 1"(25mm) shorter in the wheelbase than a Z1,like a scaled down version really. If you actually see two people on this bike you will see just how small it is. Its a pity that Kawasaki based it on the Z900 frame. Hope it goes well for Kawasaki best of luck

[@kildareman051]

It's a hat tip to the original Z. It's 40 years since that. Tech has moved on so use it. 10 out of 10. Exhaust reminds me of a Motad 4 into 1. Lovely.

[@ridermak4111]

I was a teenager in the ‘70’s. Drooled through high school over the “bigZ”. The body lines of this new one nailed it. Drooling again, but not gonna trade my Concours 14. Old men need our wind protection.

[@christianmeyer5353]

Very nice Retro style. Bring good memories of my '73 Z1

[@uvwevwevweonyetenyeubemuge4036]

My uncle has this bike z900rs and cb400 super 4 hyper vtec and i can say the bike sounds pretty good i cant even see difference of the because how beautiful the bike is.

[@NurburgringBikerBlog]

Great Video MCN! ☺👍

[@Idmc12]

Just ordered mine TODAY.. ! trading in an MT09... hopefully collect Jan'18

[@Dubaiinit]

Good stuff Michael, love your reviews pal, cheers

[@TwoHawksHunting]

I never believed in reincarnation until now. I remember the all powerful Kaw 900. The bike offered unheard of performance back in the mid 70s. All of the other manufacturers took a while to catch up to the Kaw 900.

[@RumblestripDotNet]

I like this interview style of review, more of this style, please.

[@kristianehussenmaratas2369]

I wish to own a Z900rs but sad I couldn't afford one. It's so retro and nice for rural and urban travels. Sports bike are good for racing and other long running travels, too. But the Z900rs looks so smooth and cool for everything. I can imagine myself driving it with fancy denim or leather jacket over a checkered cowboy dress shirt, leather boots, and wearing an aviator sun glasses. Is it not awesome. How I wish...

[@daberider]

Z900RS was best seller in japan on 2019.Easy ride and fantastic exhaust sound. How is popularity in other countries?

[@jackorear2536]

Jim Goose ( Mad Max ) would be proud! I love everything about it

[@erLLOSU2]

for fun factor and comfort - your opinion the Ducati Streetfighter 2022 v2 Or the Kawasaki Z900rs please? thank you am 60 and have been riding 40 years and plan on 40 more. -)

[@stevemaggers4900]

I want one. I can't afford to drop 10+ grand on an original Z1 only for it to sit in the garage not getting used, albeit appreciating in value. I would drop 10 grand on one of these though because it would get used. Is the Akrapovic an option? I don't see it as an option for this bike on the Kawasaki web site.

[@michaelmarshall1713]

Kawasaki will do well from this as retro is King!

[@bruschmidt9943]

Forget Akrapovic. Where's my CORRECT Four chrome pipes?

[@WindFireAllThatKindOfThing]

The rumble to scream ratio exhaust note of that 4 into 1 factory pipe shows the wisdom of Kawasaki's design choice.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

It's a good choice since the Z1000, Ninja1000, ZX-14R, Cocours14 all have GROSS exhaust designs that weigh a metric ton.

[@smibru]

I really like this bike, but I bought the XSR900 last year. Can't wait to see the comparison video next year.

[@threethrushes]

Same here. And I spent a few more hours speccing up the ride and looks. Still, nice to see other bikes. Now, repeat after me "I already own my dream bike!"

[@smibru]

Gerhard Symons Lol. You know you can never have enough bikes.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

I think the triple engine has that extra spice that most i-4 engines lack, however, the styling on the ZRS is SO WELL organized and fluid, and tasteful. Yamaha's design looks like a bunch of parts that don't work well together.

[@daithilacha1]

I love the Yamaha triples, and plan to buy a nice used one in 2018. For retro, I own a lovely 2002 ZRX1200, all souped up of course, and a `08 R1 for when I feel the need for speed.!!!!

[@smibru]

I hear you. I have a '04 R1 for my speed and track duties! Even though a lot of new bikes with more power and electronics have been created I still haven't found the need to replace my '04.

[@Riso-Musik]

It looks like my old Z900 B (1976 model) and I'd love it as long as it still howls at the ton :) My dad could hear me coming home from work at night (and he hated bikes supposedly)

[@patthewoodboy]

its not retro . its what a modern 4 cylinder unfaired bike should look like... love it

[@Ritalie]

Really good review. I still don't understand why motorcycle reviews are done by people who are racers, who can ride better than 99.999% of the population. I read a review back in 2002, and it called the ZX-6R a lumbering "couch" of a motorcycle, with the slowest handling of all the other sportbikes. I immediately went and bought that "couch" of a motorcycle, because I knew I wanted to be comfortable, more than being able to win a race on a track. Engine smoothness, comfort, aesthetics, sound, color, seat design, gear ratios. These are the only things that really matter. Handling is last on the list now, with modern bikes, and modern tires. Most people won't ever be able to use the full capacity of the handling, unless they are intentionally buying the bike to race it. People who want the best cornering speed, will be the first to have their bike impounded.

[@torqueofthedevil8145]

Did you interrupt Neeves when he was half way through some wallpapering?

[@nicholaschin7733]

Kawasaki’s W800 has to be the best looking retro... This thing looks almost as good...

[@disekjoumoer]

He's right that the snatchy throttle, a problem on almost all FI bikes, can be fixed with a Power Commander or a Booster Plug etc, but the additional costs involved, especially with regards to certification, are often just not worth it.

[@MissMan666]

even better, change the ECU instead of adding PC V etc. Often there are more ways of adjusting in the ECU than a powercommander can. Etc the MT09 is better tuned with the ECU than a power commander. Power commanders and alike are great, but dont add them if its possible to do better with the ECU. Ofcourse its worth it, in some cases it completly transforms the ridding experience, it has to be one of the best things you can do for many modern bikes.

[@repsol6198]

You would think when your paying for a new bike the fueling throttle problems would have been resolved before releasing

[@WyreForestBiker]

There are brands that get the fueling right on all the bikes they produce ...Triumph being one.

[@greenbow7888]

I can't believe this bike has been out for three-and-a-half years.. It feels like eighteen months at the absolute most.

[@jtjones717]

I've got a 82 kz750, I wish they would bring back at least a shaft driven just for the low maintenance

[@daithilacha1]

Modern chains require little maintenance so its not much if any of an issue nowadays, unless perhaps you want a dedicated Tourer. I still own a fully restored Yamaha Seca 750 from `82, which is a shaftie.

[@manan1352]

I currently own an F800R, 4 years with it and still feel I do not fit perfectly on it,... but this Kawa looks it is tailor-made for me.

[@Coupydog]

Wait. Retro Four into ONE? Kawasaki, you're killing me ... and this bike!

[@Sleepy_Alligator]

Exactly.

[@ndperson1]

It would be really interesting to have a comparison of the gsx s1000, the new gsx-s750, the mt 09, xsr 900, z900, and the z900rs. I know they aren’t all exactly in the same class, but they are all fun, affordable, and comfortable sport bikes. I am a big fan of more affordable comfy sport bikes that the mt 09 helped to popularize. The retro nakeds also add some variety and a different take on some of these newer naked sport bikes

[@TechReviewInsider]

Most underrated channel

[@roadwarrior8560]

bolox

[@Yonex333]

5:44 can you please say what fork protectors are those please?

[@DearMajesty]

Digging the video quality on this channel now. Quite the improvement from even several months ago. It seems like all the negative comments finally got taken seriously! Sexy bike, sexy video!

[@johna6968]

It's bloody lovely in the brown orange but you just know everyone will be rocking up on that one. ps the 4 into 1 was the better decision

[@MachOverspeedsPlace]

American here... The "Eddie Lawson green" bike is the one to have. But that's just me. 8^) MachOverspeed

[@daithilacha1]

I agree, and I plan to keep my green Kawa ZRX1200 till I croak !!! Kawas are best in green !!

[@badger4361]

Nice bike I hope they do well with it. I do hear lots of people complaining about snatchy throttle on efi bikes, my SD 990 was renowned for it, I've never found it a problem, in fact I was disappointed when they made it less snatchy after a service. Horses for courses I guess.

[@onyabikejoe7643]

Yeah, love the z9, drool over it every time I’m at the local Kwaka dealership.

[@iancalvert2716]

At 7:30 he starts to comment on the tyres which he considers cheap and not as good as original GPR300 tyres, and then at 8:45 having had this reiterted to him the interviewer adds the poor suspension ( not forgetting the fuelling glitch ) and asks ; "what is it like to ride"? He comments " these are minor things, The best thing about the bike is the way it looks " WTF is this guy on !!!??? £10,200 for a bike that hasnt got the fuelling sorted , has mediocre /budget tyres ,a pretty much inferior suspension set up . I love kawasaki but they are joking , surely . This fuelling glitch could be cured with a power commander unit , currently retailing @ £300+ . Then another £140 + for a decent set of tyres. And thats without looking at several more 100s 0f £s for a decent shock. I feel that these things shoul have been sorted out before it got out of the factory . I choose to save my 10 grand, wait a year and either buy one that has been sorted ,as happened with similar issues on the MT07s first attempt or, buy the bike mart and find a nice little second hand one with a few thousand miles on it for half the price :)

[@Agwings1960]

They need to do an LTD version of the bike, like the 70s, best looking bike Ive ever seen. If they do put out an LTD model, Im getting back into motorcycles.

[@Pillokun]

Some times I get confused when people talk about the character of the engine. Do they talk about how much the engine rattles, vibrates, if it is clunky at low revs or do they talk how the engines feels and behaves through out its revs? Because for me a straight 4 has a very exciting characteristics especially when it wakes up and pulls you by your collar and it seems as the pull never ends. Then we have the grunty mt09 engine that lifts the front wheel to let you know it wants to play. And of course we have the 1290r engine but it revs out to quickly just like other twins. So how would you describe an engine with character?

[@joby602]

Agree, I think the way the sound changes through the revs on a 4 cyclinder makes it more involving than most twins and singles. Maybe even more than the triumph triples, which don't quite have the top end howl of a nice 4.

[@KingOath]

One of the things I love the most about my MT07 is the engine character. For a small inline twin the character is incredible. Its like having three different bikes, the bottom end feels like an old thumpy 500cc single dirtbike, the midrange is loud, snappy and responsive with just enough vibration to feel like your at one with the engine, but then the top end takes you by surprise, the bike doesn’t “want” for high rpm and doesn’t need it to get moving quickly so you tend to assume it isn’t there, but it certainly is. On the rare occasion you need to take it to redline it’s like this nice little surprise you forgot all about. It might not have sportsbike top end power but boy does it howl up top for a little twin. The sound changes from the thumpy grumbly low and midrange to a beautiful harmonious hollow buzz. Like two small steel hammers being hit against a block of wood 9000 times per minute. It’s a lot of fun for a cheap simple machine

[@travelinben1966]

Definitely on my short list of bikes to test ride.

[@MarkR973]

Wondering why they put a mono shock in it. Yamaha came out with those on their dirt bikes back then. Shoulda put dial shocks I think.

[@MsDenver2]

Why oh why didn’t they do a nice exhaust either side that would gorgeous

[@eastbaymauiboy]

To me its closest competitor is very obviously the xsr900 and not as much the r9t

[@daithilacha1]

You nailed it !!

[@exothermal.sprocket]

A bit surprised about the comments of snatchy fueling. I have the Z900 (non-abs) and the fueling is perfect. With the 1-point reduction in compression ratio and probably modified intake cam, they fueling went from seamless to less than perfect?

[@jbivvy420]

I have a 2023 version and when I am at low speed doing slow maneuvers it seems the front wants to slip out or just feels not as stable as when going a little faster.

[@stratolestele7611]

I hope you still have it and that you've gotten past that odd sensation. In the hundreds of reviews, videos, and comments I've read, I've not once heard anyone mention that.

[@jbivvy420]

@@stratolestele7611 I have it still but with Michelin Road 6 tires which is way better feeling.

[@thrustvector]

do we get a review of the table?

[@moonphaser3304]

Good effort and review guys

[@0141star]

I've been looking at triumphs and royal Enfield new and old im absolutely blown away with this bike 109 hp did I hear you say with lc engine and those looks im sold in this before any bonnie

[@shanehodge5180]

You do great reviews

[@simonfoster3546]

I plan on test riding the new 1100 Scrambler, new CB1000r and the Z900rs..I dont have a preference yet but whichever is the lightest and comfiest will be being added to my stable next year

[@filthymcnastyazz]

Simon Foster and?

[@Coupydog]

Is there any indication Kawi has fixed the overdrive problem in this bike? Their other big Fours (Z1000's) have 6 speed transmissions, running 6th gear barely a step down from the racy 5th. On highway rides, the pointless revving, buzzing & suffering fuel range are apparent. If they keep it this way, I don't see the point in having a 6 speed? In that regard, Honda got it right with the CB11000 Series. Get your revs out in 5 gears, but give me a relaxed overdrive!

[@KingOath]

Coupydog I realise this is an old post, but for the viewers watching this now which might be wondering the same thing, yes, it has been fixed. Longer 6th and also a longer final drive on this bike 👍🏻

[@retrokz]

The Akropovic system gives it a nice growl, but for looks and an era-correct sound it should have been fitted with either a Kerker or Bassani 4-into-1 system.Just my $0.02 worth.

[@daithilacha1]

I think they are are long gone exhaust companies, and sure that would drive up the price and not meet Emission and noise regs anyways !!! The Akra is a modern and road legal set up in most places, though probably not in nutty California.

[@bruschmidt9943]

For full retro, Four into Fours (pipes) are a must. The aftermarket can worry about weight reduction systems, as they're already widely available. You just can't go out & buy Four into Four "proper" chrome pipes! The Honda CB1100 fails the "retro" theme in same way. What are 70'0s retro "Fours" bikes without the right pipes?

[@vincebautista4849]

Whats wrong with the bike, As for a bike virgin like me its perfect. Dont hurt me.

[@willlewis77]

@@vincebautista4849 Over 100 hp for a first bike? that's a lot

[@vincebautista4849]

@@willlewis77 Tho i have a little driving experience of driving 155 cc bikes.

[@vincebautista4849]

@@willlewis77 With Fuel injection.

[@vincebautista4849]

@@willlewis77 Hope you can reply....

[@Gra-bk4dr]

very nice bike! now all we need to see is SUKI to come out with a remake of 1980 gxs 1100

[@adamperkins3125]

I’m completely torn between this or the Triumph Speed Twin 😫

[@houseofcheung]

We are in Nov 2018?

[@Death666wish]

Time flies.

[@brianturner8747]

indeed we are.

[@paulk9188]

We are in Nov 2019

[@ronanrogers4127]

So basically compared to my 1977 Z900 it’s goy 34% more horsepower and 35% more torque, and weighs 15 kg less. I’m guessing the main improvement over the last 40 years will be the chassis, suspension and braking...all of which should make this a fun retro naked to ride.

[@daithilacha1]

My guess would be that a `77 KZ probably has about 62-65 RWP, whereas the new bike probably has at least 105 rwp, even in its slightly reduced form. That is a huge difference, and the 15 KG you mention sounds a bit off. Are you sure there is only a 15g difference. ??? The dry weight of a KZ900 has to be about 500 lbs, or even a bit more.

[@gm16v149]

I still would have liked to see it with twin shocks and 4 into 4s if they're going full retro even if it is a bit more weight, but nice bike all the same.

[@hvymtal8566]

It comes off as more of a factory restomod than a full retro. And of course full retro is a rather open-ended term, you could just as well be talking about a bike that is air/oil cooled with supplementary radiator, drum rear and two-piston front discs, tubed spoke wheels with 1977 rubber, and carburetors. I think they've done the right amount of retro without sacrificing the modern comforts. I'm probably in the minority but a special run of faired GPz models with the higher spec components but retaining the versatile pre-gixxer ergonomics would be right up my alley

[@michaelmarshall1713]

No it is a tip of the hat with some new gear that makes it more liveable for today.

[@kotimoto]

gm16v149 the question was asked to the engineer who designed the bike, he said they wanted handling, hence skipped dual shock

[@daithilacha1]

Properly set up, a twin shock bike can handle very well indeed. I own one !! But I agree that a Monoshock was the right way to go for this bike.

[@repsol6198]

I strongly agree, twin shocks and 4 into 4s

[@strix2035]

Do you know if it had the holes in the rear for spools?

[@Sleepy_Alligator]

Yep. Mine does.

[@smckirk]

Kawasaki late to retro?? What about the W650 and W800?

[@nicolasfilsdejean]

Nice review. You had me buying one until you mentioned the "snatchy throttle" bit which I've been runnig away from since they introduced fuel injection on bikes.... It's a shame there are barley any bikes out there coming with fuel injection that do behave correctly at slow speeds and low rpm. I sold my GS1200 ADV from 2014 because it compounded the snatchy throttle with the effect of the numerous transmission bits, and other than the Triumph Bonneville and most Ducati's, I can't find one that behaves properly at low rpm... I was spoiled as being almost 50 now, I learn't and had a lot of fun with carburated bikes.... unfortunate though...... Can't they fix that once and for all directly from factory?? Do we really want to spend some more hard earned money to get a bike to function properly??

[@m.geisel]

The ZX14r has a great throttle feel and control. Stock it is great.

[@MrSlowestD16]

I'm only 30, and nearly all my experience is with EFI, but I agree, this snatchy throttle bullshit with EFI bikes (and more typically fly by wire bikes) is completely unacceptable. I'm interested that you had the problem with your R1200, I rented one for a vacation in AK for 2 weeks (I believe it was a 2015 or 2016) and I didn't suffer from snatchy throttle too badly. On the contrary, I just sold my Tiger 1200 Explorer and one of the major reasons was because the throttle was completely unacceptable. It just felt like an electrical switch, it felt terrible to ride and b/c of that I'd wind up with a death grip on it trying to control it so perfectly as to not get snatchy and my arm kept going numb. Very shitty. On Ducatis, I haven't ridden a lot of them, but the scrambler was HORRIFIC. The fueling was so bad down low I just wanted to stop the test ride before I even got out of the parking lot. Utterly horrific, I could never live with that. It's a real big shame that these companies can't get the EFI fueling at low load right to save their lives, and throttle by wire / fly by wire is only making this about 100 times worse because now they're just glorified rheostats and they don't put any effort in to make it feel like you're moving a throttle, my Tiger had ZERO feedback in the throttle, I hated it. I really like this bike, looks really good, but if the throttle is snatchy that's a deal breaker for me. Some bikes got really bad with the EFI, and many got 100x worse with fly by wire. Unacceptable on something I'm paying 10k for. I do agree with the bonneville, was a joy to ride. EDIT: And I feel like this only bothers me for the most part - half the journalists don't even mention this type of stuff..

[@MrSlowestD16]

The Jap sports bikes seemed to have handled this quite a bit better - at least the cable throttle ones. CBR600 and R1 both had perfectly good fueling/throttle feel. I think it's less of an issue with EFI and more of an issue with fly by wire, though some of the companies can't iron out the EFI to save their lives, either.

[@jazzysaravana]

nicolas FILSDEJEAN The new Street Triple 765 RS has the most accurate throttle response right now in the industry. You must have a test ride to get have a feel of it. I absolutely loved the silky smooth throttle!

[@Land-Shark]

@sleeperfox302x I'll second that emotion. The throttle on my 2016 ZX-14R is spot on, with no nasty surprises. :)

[@hinterseerherold]

Looks refreshing in today's lineup, but of course it doesn't compare to the original Z (or the first retro wave ZR/Zephyr) in the looks department.

[@mondenoutdoorcamp2556]

Good evening! Kawasaki z900rs It is a very good motorcycle! The motorcycle best!

[@xclent1975]

How are there only 2 thumbs up

[@findvoltage]

Nothing will come close to the old school Z's. Id rather spend 20k on a 73. They are just soo cool. If you watch a video of the evolution of the kawaski Zeds, it pretty much sums up the ideal of an era when pushing the envolope was a new thing and gone were the days of boring old bikes that would be lucky to have pushed past the 100mph mark, when we were daredevils and done crazy half assed stunts like riding home 2am so stoned you might have found yourself on the wrong side of the road.

[@iodineclip]

what does engine character means? what do you means when you said "in-line 4s are not characterful" ?

[@daithilacha1]

Means they can feel bland to ride. Kind of a sewing machine effect. Smooth with generally a very linear power delivery. Very different to Twins and Triples.

[@iodineclip]

i see, basically engine that feels rough gives out more character then. i guess it depends on the rider, each prefer different kinds of feeling.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Ride other engine types and find out. I've ridden a bunch of twin cylinder configurations, a triple a few i-4 engines. Haven't ridden a V4 yet. There are distinctly different sounds, feels, and torque curves. I do prefer a big sporty Vtwin honestly. Just wish Japan would get something along those lines again, since the TL, SV, RC51 are no more. KTM and Ducati seem to be the only ones doing this.

[@stephensiddall5679]

i had an original z900 and that had plenty of fucking character

[@daithilacha1]

I agree, but I think the reference is to modern high powered 4 cylinder engines that tend to run very smooth, and you barely realize how fast you are going. I had the original Z1 back in 1972 and some nice memories.. .

[@nicholasarceri6613]

Really want to see a z600rs follow up if it is a sales success.

[@martinfpss]

How can you work at a motorcycle magazine and not know Kawasaki produced the W800 (clearly a retro) and the ZRX.... so no, they weren't late to the party!

[@neevesybikes]

martin hodgson both great bikes, Martin. We’ve tested them many times. I was more talking about Kawasaki being the first with the Zephyr and last of the current crop of retros, now that W600/800 and ZRX have been dropped. Thanks for your comment. Neevesy MCN

[@martinfpss]

neevesybikes fair point, understand what you mean now. My Kawasaki defence might have been too quick off the mark. Appreciate the videos and honest reviews. Cheers, Martin

[@bruschmidt9943]

"Retro" means more than an old looking bike. It symbolizes what Kawasaki created in the past & should be done in right way. FOUR chrome pipes & all, not ONE!

[@stratolestele7611]

​@@bruschmidt9943 don't know if you're still around, but maybe some other chap will happen along and read this. Today I just felt like watching a few z900rs videos because I like "talking about my bike" and in watching this and commenting, I get that feeling. There are no "rules" when it comes to to producing a retro-themed bike. Heck, one look at the Yamaha MT-09 will tell you that. For that matter, I'm surprised you didn't mention it not having the same style rear shocks or the presence of a radiator. At the end of the day, they're not "reproducing" the Z1, they're building z900rs' in a way that's an homage to the OG. You want 4 exhaust tips? Buy a set! However, most people want modern performance and practically, and manufacturers want to make money and sell a lot of bikes - which Kawasaki is as the #1 selling manufacturer. As our friend said here, back in the day, lots of people were getting rid of the stock exhaust and putting performance 4-1 exhausts on their Z1s, so this gets that 'modded' look that so many of us remember. I first fell in love with the Z1 when I saw "Mad Max". They were lots of Z1s, in fact I think more of them than any other bike. All of 'em had 4-1 pipes and café or larger, fairings on them. It's the #1 reason I chose the café. And if it came with 4-4, I'd have immediately put a 4-1 on it, because that's the look that makes me feel nostalgic. Anyway, it's been a fantastic 20 months of owing mine. Utterly amazing motorcycle.

[@wozg83]

Love this bike 👌👌

[@MarkFeaGuitar]

As a Kawasaki fan and rider since 1984, with lord knows how many Kwackers since then - and including 3 ZRXs, this bike to me looks everything that I would have always wanted as that young lad... but can anyone explain why in this day and age of incredible electronic engineering we still have to suffer that low-down fueling / throttle glitch? It used to be that these were a by-product of emissions laws and a way to meet legislation, by making the fuel curve work in a certain way - but that wasn't alluded to in the discussion and in fact, it was simply glossed over with a shrug... Surely manufacturers can solve this by now? Apart from that, who wouldn't want one of these!

[@sportglidejim9001]

Beautiful bike!

[@bertito43]

This bike or Bonneville T120?

[@WyreForestBiker]

Completely unacceptable to use the excuse that the poor fueling is the FAULT of the stringent emissions regulations, It may be the REASON , but its the job of the manufacturer to produce a product that works properly despite it. Manufacturers are taking riders for absolute mugs expecting them to have work done on a brand new machine to make it run properly , and the press should be calling them out on it rather than going along with the corporate B/S.

[@tbirdsteve1]

Can't wait to have one. I hope someone is sensible enough to develop replica indicator lamps and stalks in chrome. Led circles in the lamps would be very nice.

[@yogiguitar1]

thats gota be the best bike you can get right now

[@gkbike7002]

Go get it. You only live once.

[@yogiguitar1]

@@gkbike7002 dude i just missed bagging an '80's Z1000 in bits for a grand! im going to go for something like that as theres more satisfaction bolting it all together and getting it to run right plus originality

[@rockinginafreeworld3256]

What about the Kawasaki w800. That was a classic looking bike.

[@-DC-]

Really good looking machine hope it does well.

[@nizzmo100]

When Is It coming to the states ??

[@bruschmidt9943]

In US Dealers now.

[@werners5191]

Kawasaki lets the good times roll!

[@redrighthand9455]

what about the retro zrx 1100 need to do a bit bit more background research

[@bretwomack4143]

And I have a '99 Vulcan Drifter, about as retro as you can get...

[@michaelmarshall1713]

Finally a Japanese Manufacturer not making the all sports ( hard to live with ) Retro Bike . Good on Kawasaki and here it is folks retro is what we want as all the so called new ideas are not working . Honda must get back to a V4 1000 and this looks cool.

[@Sutton822]

Anyone know why this is $10,999 in the US, but £10,199 in the UK. Exchange rate is 1.35 dollars to the GBP, so should be circa £8,135.

[@fyorbane]

We in the Uk have always been ripped off by the importers.

[@stopper90004]

VAT Value Added Tax (sales tax) is about 20-25% in Europe. In America they don't add this to MSRP since some states don't have a sales tax.

[@AnAussieinNorway]

Why UK?

[@riffsontwowheels]

I rode the R9T and was oddly underwhelmed. It looks the part. Suspension was constantly choppy over little pavement imperfections. Power was ok. It just didn't excite me. There is something about an inline that's more exciting to rev up.

[@joby602]

I agree. I think a lot depends on what bike you rode as a youngster. I started out on a zx6r and the sound of that bike revving out will never leave me. Twins, singles or even triples are just not the same.

[@goneburger2731]

I think a Honda cb650r or triumph 660 street triple would blow this away even been 948cc bike with more bhp than the other 2 bikes

[@vladimator1842]

Yo...can you elaborate on this claim? I'm kinda torn right now between choosing on the Z900Rs which I've only heard of it last week lol, and the 2020 or 2021 Cb650R which I've known of for 2 so years. I've owned a 2015 Yamaha Fz-07 up until 2018 when I sold the baby, and haven't owned a motorcycle since. But now, im starting to get the itch of getting back into my groove and passion for 2 wheels, and im stuck between these 2 sexy ladies as of now!! I had my eyes set on the cb650r until now, but after seeing this z900rs, idk man!! Love that its a little bigger engine, and still an in-line 4 which im very picky on!! Can you describe in detail about your opinion??

[@lr937]

Let me start by saying the bike is gorgeous,no doubt about it, BUT... I went yesterday 09/12 to try the Z900rs in black color .... was in my wish list and had to give it a try so I did...didnt like the riding style of the bike, by that I mean from my point of view, bike is a bit jerky for a everyday city driving, handlebars have a not so easy to get use position, seat is not comfortable at all (and I ride a cbr1000) there is no doubt the bike has the power and torque for a spirit riding but is not definitely a commute bike, too harsh, too jerky, and the brakes u have to squeeze them hard all the time to stop the bike, so to wrap it up, I like the looks of the bike, but ridding just didn't make the cut for me

[@markusmclaren6084]

A new review format? An interview?!?

[@wordreet]

No. It definitely needs twin shocks at the back. I can't stand that huge fender gap 'off roader' look that the monoshock gives it. And why not have twin horns and twin exhausts? Sorry Kwak, it's not for me.

[@davidlucas442]

They tested it with twin shocks but was not exceptable compaired to mono...me id of ridden the bollocks off it with piggy back twins..lol

[@wordreet]

Travis Donald Stanley If I had the money I would have a Thruxton right now! And I would have an original Z1 !!! :-)

[@ralfybaby]

This is a terrific hommage. And like its ancient predecessor probably a lot more practical than the hyper bikes of today. Now they need to bring out a blue one and a green one ....

[@MultiDonard]

It is a pity that this bike will join the list as a non seller due to its expensive price and lack of interest, I have a Kawasaki zx9r early model 1994 and it was a non seller as well because it was to heavy for a sports bike but a good bike.

[@pauladdison9978]

I had zx9r but not for long as it wouldn't drop into corners it just wanted to go in straight ahead so put it back in for a Fireblade. ...a milion times better handling.

[@roverchap]

Kawasaki late to the retro bike scene? What about the W650 and W800?

[@cgln8760]

whats with the weird rear wheel clearance ???

[@UncleWally3]

The retro bikes, properly, build in a few mechanical and aesthetic differences from their original inspirations. So, why not get rid of the tank’s pinch-weld? For some, it’s the first thing that pops out . . . and, it should be left in the past.