Kawasaki Z900RS SE: Why You Should and Should Not Buy it in 2025!

[@nolancannedy6482]

BUT, the Z900 looks like a goofy grasshopper transformer, and the RS looks like a sexy muscle bike. Then again, I'm an old dude. Beautiful RS SE!!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Haha. I’m not arguing with you! I love the looks of mine. But the updated Z900 is a feature full bike for a very reasonable price!

[@jamesmegill]

Absolutely agree

[@cbellatrix]

Exactly!

[@sjk8273]

When I purchased mine in '21 it was 100% due to it's looks. It spoke to me like no other bike had in decades. I'm now loving life on 2 wheels again ... something I wasn't sure was possible after my glory days of biking in the 80's (GSX1100ET, GPZ900R A2)

[@findingneutral]

Your one of the first to say 'bought it for it's looks'. I've asked myself why I want one so bad and same here... it looks absolutely amazing. Can you tell me if it feels and rides as good as it looks now that you've had it a while? Still happy with your decision? Thanks for any insight to a prospective buyer.

[@sjk8273]

@@findingneutral Absolutely happy with my decision! I use it for nothing but joy rides and have put over 14K miles on it since April '21. The seat is a tad hard at first, but I was out on it yesterday for over 3 hours (155 miles) and I only got off it once to take a pic. You'll read a lot about the 'snatchy throttle' but I've never found it to be an issue. Also people moan and groan about the stock tyres, but they lasted me 6,700 miles with absolutely no drama. That said, I do not ride in the rain .. I put in my hard miles in the 80's. Cruising at motorway/highway speeds can get a bit tiresome but that's to be expected. It sounds brilliant too, so there's no need to replace the can with some expensive exotica. I added a grab rail to enhance the retro look, but apart from that it's just a tail tidy, sliders, rad guard and a some grip puppies as I found the stock too small. Enjoy!

[@findingneutral]

@sjk8273 This is probably the best bit of z900rs ownership knowledge I've received. You covered essentially everything I was curious about. The thought of buying an expensive bike just to immediately throw money at it to make it not act oem wasn't what I wanted to do. I just want to but it and ride it as is. Man, the SE is just beautiful. Truly is my bucket list bike. So with your longterm review being so positive it just makes me want to get the finances in line with making it happen. Thank you again for your honest shared insight. You covered all my concerns. Much appreciated.

[@sjk8273]

@@findingneutral Glad to help. One last thing .. fit a Speedo Angel ASAP as the LED area between the 2 gauges is easily scratched.

[@findingneutral]

@sjk8273 Oh yeah, I recall hearing about that. Same thing on my CB500X. Speedo Angel cuts down glare too. I appreciate the follow up tip 👍

[@zelcpavle5494]

This is the best retro looking bike !!

[@paulforrest2549]

Thank you Peter for your multiple videos highlighting this incredible machine. Two points: 1: The Z900 RS and RS SE (like your bike) are manufactured in Kawasaki’s Akashi Japan plant. The less expensive Z900 is manufactured in Kawasaki’s Thailand plant. That might account for some of the cost differential. Also, the RS has several special features missing on the Z900, such as the specifically tuned exhaust to replicate the sound of the original Z1. Plus the speedo and tach faces are also designed to replicate the Z1. Little things like the turn signal indicator on the dash are a higher quality vs the Z900. The “pride of ownership” factor is very high on the RS models. 2: It appears you have the “low” seat option on your RS. The version sold in the United States has a higher seat, providing a significantly more comfortable ride at the expense of a bit longer reach to touch the ground. If you haven’t tried the higher seat, it’s worth the expense.

[@phil4986]

Thanks for the z900 info. I can pass on Thailand manufacturing.

[@PeterLoweOne]

This is the standard seat in Canada.

[@John-jw8rx]

My '24 standard edition Z900, was manufactured in Japan. UK btw.

[@duanestiles4821]

Back in 1974 my first street bike was a Kawasaki three fifty three cylinder bike was blue with black and yellow stripes on it i loved that bike and was a seventh grader and your bike reminds me of that thanks Peter

[@login1226]

The trouble is the Z900 looks a bit ‘Optimus Prime’ compared to a great looking retro. You can add cruise control aftermarket , but in Uk with our roads and traffic we never get to ‘cruise’ much anyway !

[@datglasstho]

I just recently inherited an '18 Cafe, which is supplementing my first bike, an old FZ6. I've ridden it a few times prior to having it in my own garage, and absolutely love how it's sufficiently modern with adjustable suspension, radial brakes, and ABS/TCS for basic safety but is still genuinely a proper retro bike. Features like rider modes and BT connectivity don't fit a bike that has analog dials. Quick shifter and cruise are unnecessary fluff that don't quite match up here either, with the light pull on the slipper clutch and a solid shifting box. Just like you said with the bike's character, I can't think of when I'd want to bother with cruise control. XSR has a great engine but the aesthetics are a mess in the details. As for the Z900, that loses out to the Street Triple to me.

[@victormcadam2240]

Hello, I have the 24 yellow ball edition, I would like to see a video on adding bags, I have the Puig windscreen on it, would be great to have your input on the bags

[@PeterLoweOne]

I’ll try to film that soon!

[@chrisk1084]

I have exactly this model, from 2024. I picked it out in June, in the middle of summer here in Sweden. Since winter was late this year, I was able to drive right up until mid-November. It was a total of 5,324 km (3,308 miles). I am completely sold on this bike. Comfortable and easy to drive, especially in urban environments. Haven't had a single problem other than that I can't bear to drag it up to the bedroom. You know some have teddy bears, so ........ !😎

[@PeterLoweOne]

Haha. Yeah, that is a problem. Have you considered sleeping in the garage?

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

I had a Z900 in the 1970s. Great bike. I could enjoy the modern version.

[@rosshanley8398]

Great review. I really liked your information. I’m in the midst of placing an order, and this information isn’t being provided by sellers. When I say “in the midst”, I mean, as we speak. You’ve given me information that may change the direction I go. Thanks for that.

[@rickjones507]

emotional connection is real...and sometimes its costs more. kawi knows it too.

[@jimgordon3468]

Comparison is the thief of joy. The styling of the RS is brilliant. I have 4 bikes. Goldwing DCT. Rebel 1100dct, triumph scrambler 400x and a 83 Suzuki gr650 tempter. Love them all. They all have a different styles, they all have different purposes. But they all bring me joy. In their own way.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I'd love to have multiple bikes. I'd probably keep this bike. Add something for off-road/on-road use. Add a lightweight small displacement sport bike, and maybe something fun to tour with. So many choices! But you're right, comparison really is the thief of joy! I'm enjoying this bike a lot, no need to dream of what I don't have when I'm on this!

[@originalkontrol]

I have an '18 Orange/Root beer RS. It is my 8th bike. It is hands down my favorite. Others included a pair of sportbikes, a dual sport, Street Triple, FJ -09, and the first year Versys 650 among them. You make many good points, the lack of cruise is absurd on any TBW bike (though this bike still has a throttle cable). But MOST bikes still don't have it. Or IMU's. And I'm ok with that. In my opinion, the RS strikes the perfect balance of neo and retro. I will get another bike, but you'll pry this one from my cold dead hands, lol! Nice review sir.

[@mrfq_abg]

I really, really, REALLY like the style.

[@herrtomas6729]

Hi Peter. Must say that looks striking in those colours.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I do love the look of my bike!

[@ComfyDadShoes]

Originally, I fell in love with the cafe version. If I secretly won the lottery, I would buy it. However, now I’d actually go for the standard model 900. I think your choice to go Versys is a wise one. The suspension is absolutely an ace!

[@barrykrakovsky756]

I've been riding since the 70's and remember wishing I could afford the Z1. In 2021 I was in the market for a new motorcycle, and this bike was on my radar. However, I ultimately went with the Yamaha tracer 9 gt because, knowing myself as I do, I favor function over form. Over 20,000 miles later I still think I made the right decision.

[@cybermind4158]

I bought my ‘24 Z900rs (yellowball edition) 2 months ago and I can’t get enough of it. I had done my research and looked at a lot of bikes before choosing this one. Nothing came close to the styling, performance and quality of the bike for the price. When you talk about the Z900 as an option to this, I think you’re comparing apples and oranges. It’s like comparing an Apple Iwatch to a fine Swiss-made mechanical time piece. Yes, the Iwatch will do everything better and have loads of more features. But, no one who’s looking for a fine timepiece would even consider an Iwatch. The two bikes are made for completely different buyers.

[@XaeroIFBB]

Did you also thinking about Speed twin 1200? Because I think and yes.. must say still prefer z900RS SE

[@cybermind4158]

@ Yes, I did consider a Speedtwin 1200 and the Z900rs still came out on top for me. Firstly, it was about $3k more expensive (zero Triumph discount). Secondly, I still felt I was getting more bike with the Z as far as engine performance, handling and looks were concerned regardless of price. Just comparing the paint quality on the tank convinced me.

[@Am0Am0]

YES I wanna se what luggage solution you are looking at! Great video, thanks!!

[@OCOAT]

Nice video. I really enjoyed this informative breakdown. Thank you. I am in the UK. 4.5l per 100km equates to 62.7 mpg (UK) and that is an awesome set of figures.

[@xclent1975]

Love my 2022 z900rs … added oem heated grips , and Japan built painted to match bullet fairing . I ride it around town and nice short trips for the longer ones I am lucky to have a 2015 ninja 1000sx with matching oem luggage /side luggage Sargent heated seat and heated grips :)

[@PeterLoweOne]

Sounds awesome!

[@defsonic2884]

Great summary👍bought mine 6 months ago, like you don’t want to fiddle with the looks. Since buying a Versys x300 I haven’t got it out the garage. Wondering if I needed all that power but fell for the looks

[@zuhaibkhan5261]

I own one 2024 Z900 RS SE. Really really like the styling. Caution: its a serious head turner on the roads.

[@justthe2letters]

I have a 2019 cafe, the Kawasaki green one. I think its great. Im over 40, and can ride it for hours. Feels good and stable at speed limit...🎉 bimini fairing gives me a good size wind deflection spot. Easy to ride in town traffic, and every car/truck that has challenged me has given up before I got to the top of 2nd gear, including a Z06-I think it was a Z06. No modifications except the turn signals because they are plastic crap and broke in wind storm under bike cover.

[@anuworldorder]

Such an awesome looking bike!! 👍🤙🤙🤙🤙

[@PeterLoweOne]

I think so too!

[@Lyfeel]

I've seen this exact same bike around Moncton this summer. Sounds and looks pretty good.

[@PeterLoweOne]

There are a few of them around!

[@logangodofcandy]

Get the SE. If you are a rider, you absolutely will notice the difference in suspension. Looks great, plenty of power. Only issue is seat height for little people.

[@Lacehairwigs]

I have the 2024 z650rs in green. I plan to upgrade in a couple of years to the z900rs

[@fredericxicluna2036]

I have the 2019 Café version so price wasn't an issue for me and you're right besides the SE version and colors, nothing really changed on the RS/RS café since they were launched. I used to ride an FJR and there are big differences between generations. As others mentioned before you usually choose an RS over a Z for the look and design, not performances and frankly for most experienced riders having around 120/130 hp (especially on a naked roadster) is more than enough except if you want to race and then the RS isn't a great choice for you. The thing is there a lot of technical evolutions that i'm not really sure i need but i may be too old 🙂 To be honest i'm still not sure what traction control is really doing 🙂 -A TFT screen would be awful on this bike i think we'll all agree on that. -Quick shifter, why not ? But not a game changer if you're not racing -Cruise control could be useful i agree, i'm not really doing a lot of kilometers on this bike but still it serves a purpose. -One thing i could really use is heated grips, especially here in Canada. -Some luggage options would be nice too, i found a couple of those that seem to agree with the retro line but haven't tried them yet. I still think that this bike is great for what i do which is mostly commuting these days and again Z or MT looks are a no go for me and i'd rather have a good motorcycle that appeals to my eyes than a Transformer full of (more or less useful) technology. For a day-to-day bike she really does the job, powerful enough but also easy enough to control, some youtubers/bikes journalists like more raw bikes but you're right using it every day to commute is way different than testing it on the road for a couple of hours. Long story short i don't think i would change it for the time being or, to be precise, i don't see any recent alternatives that appeal more to me. Last, if i could have 2 bikes i would probably keep an RS (cafe or not) for the day to day and most likely a post 2016 FJR (maybe a Tracer GT not sure) for duo and travelling. And yes i would be interesting in watching a video showing your luggage options

[@jdesmo1]

The Z900 SE is just another me-too ugly transformer bike. This RS SE is a jewel.

[@DaytonaImages]

Keeping my SE, love the looks and that most of the inputs are unsanitised. Never ridden with a quick-shifter but there's nothing like a descent gear change with the clutch of passing a cager, pulling in the clutch and revving the beast! I do wonder if all the rider aids are a stepping stone to the lack of rider control before the electrification of personal transport and the control that will allow.

[@Jeffslayzos]

I’ve been considering trading my triumph speed twin 900 in for a z900rs sometime after the new year (I picked up a Bonneville t120 and the speed twin feels redundant). I really like the black and yellow color scheme of the SE from previous years, so I think I may keep an eye out for a smoking deal on a low-mileage used 2022/23ish SE. That said - have there been any considerable updates to the z900rs SE between 2022-2025?

[@alank8266]

I just traded my Bonnie for a Z900RS SE (2025) totaly different bike. The 2021 Z900RS I had did not have a very good suspension, even after adjusting it as much as I could it still tended to wallow in the curves if the road surface wan't perfect and was harsh on rough roads. The 2025 Z900RS SE has a fantastic suspension. It's not as harsh as the std. and is fully planted in the curves, much much better.

[@Jeffslayzos]

@ awesome! Thank you for the info. The new SE looks awesome. I imagine it’s going to be a great ride for years to come. Or at least until the next trade up lol

[@AAKhanivore]

Share the luggage solution please.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Here you go… How to Choose the Right Luggage SYSTEM for Your Motorcycle (and you!) - Kawasaki Z900RS SE & Kriega kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXqbe6iefZuCkMk

[@davidmacphee3549]

What is the weight? The Original Zed One was 542 pounds wet. King at the time. (not zee just glee)

[@CraigSmith568]

I like the looks of the RS, but the cruise control is a huge factor for me. My hand goes numb after 10 minutes without cruise. The horsepower is more of a different tune than any change in the engine.

[@tjordulf]

Tough, I'm buying one really soon, it's a very low mileage '24 plate RS SE. But that's because I'm not a faddy teenager! The RS and RS SE, are great bikes. If I want a Paris Dakar tourer, I'll buy one, if I want a Road Racer, I'll get an Aprilia or Ducati. I just want a flickable, sexy slightly Retro Muscle bike, that's why I'm getting this.

[@orange42]

4:04 900cc or 948cc? Your yellow one is pretty much the best looking bike I can imagine.

[@PeterLoweOne]

It’s named a 900, but it’s a 948cc officially.

[@malsmith9099]

couldn't afford the 900rs so bought the 650rs in green . I don't think I've had so many compliments about the looks of a bike. Suits me it's light and got a decent amount of grunt and a sound from the engine on acceleration. 900 could be my next buy maybe used though.

[@ezarun36]

In 10 yrs time the z900 will age, the rs wont

[@PeterLoweOne]

I agree with that.

[@paulthomas8986]

I agree with you that the price is a bit high for the spec you get. I wonder if it has to do with a lower production number. But it is very competitive to the triumph offerings and you get better suspension. Have you ever ridden one of the triumphs? I’m looking at getting a bike of this style and shopping between the two.

[@enricohagn]

It's not a bad price for "Made in Japan", though.

[@langhamp8912]

A lot of videos review the Yamaha XSR900 alongside the Z900RS, which, on paper, is faster, lighter, more powerful, lower insurance, has cruise control, has lean sensitive TC/ABS, longer and simpler maintenance, an aluminum frame, and comes at a lower price point. I own an XSR900, and after replacing the suspension with track-ready suspension, does have that unpleasant "hardness" that you alluded to.

[@enricohagn]

Did you ever ride more than 1,300 km in one day on your XSR900 and, after reaching your destination, still being without "behind" aches ?

[@chrisrutledge9330]

Posters have noted the attraction of bikes that don't look like Optimus Prime. The angry insect look the designers are fixated on - how many sharp angles can you create on each piece of the bike. Wonder if we will see a return to the smooth fairing curves of some of the mid 80's sports bikes.

[@farooqkhan3729]

Hi Pete - great video - can you help me decide - this vs. Speed Twin 1200; i'm going crazy between these two. Would love any of your thoughts. 🙏

[@loneRider3910]

Go for the “Kwaka 9”. An in-line 4 easily beats a twin for classic style.

[@jimh2061]

You should ride that speed twin. Lots of character. I love the look of the Kawasaki 900 but rode it and it's clutch was like on or off. When shifting gears it was jerky. It was my friends bike and I rode it twice. Same both times.

[@rogerzhang2335]

It will probably takes 1 or 2 years for Kawasaki to refresh the RS, until then.

[@jonnyslater9942]

This bike should never have had any rider modes/aids of any kind, totally against the spirit of the 1970's. Radiator kills it too.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I wouldn’t have considered this bike if it was too retro. I wanted a fully modern bike but loved the retro look. At 45, I’m way too young to remember the original, and I think Kawasaki was smart to do things the way that they did, because bringing out a bike solely for people who remember the original would be a much smaller market than bringing a fully modern bike that appeals to a younger generation who want a modern performance bike with a look that is more timeless than the other modern bikes out there.

[@nicholasjarrold8649]

Morning well I love them bikes not seen the new 25 model but I’m sure it will be a great bike I love the ohlins stuff even if they are expensive but there history speaks for itself I love the yellow ball I think they call it i will look at them around January February see what prices are might get a good deal I am looking at the Suzuki gs800 r/s but I’ll see that 7 year warranty is a 5stars for Suzuki I’m from uk and ride a triumph rocket 3gt 2023 chrome edition and I’m keeping that for ever but want a smaller lighter bike for those dry winter days and a few bike nights meet ups following your channel now take care ride safe

[@Am_Brew]

This is my dream bike but it's a damn shame it doesn't come with cruse control and quick shifter :(

[@enricohagn]

I'm not missing anything, though. 6. is fine from 50 - 200+ kmh, QS is irrelevant 🤷

[@BlackArroToons]

Very nice Z900RS. The new Z900 2025 looks cool too. The black and yellow/gold look good. Peter, how is the fuel's best MPG miles per gallon/liter? 4.5 liters per 100 km is good. Best average I can get on my '21 Ninja 650 is practically 60 mpg. Going downhill automatically takes it way above that. Longest range so far on 4.0 gallons tank was 233 miles range before refueling. Enjoy!

[@PeterLoweOne]

I can definitely get worse MPG than I do, but I think this engine just doesn't have to work when you're cruising back roads. When I get into the throttle, this bike drinks a bunch more, but even then it's better than I expected it to be.

[@BlackArroToons]

@@PeterLoweOne Thanks. Yes, going easy on the throttle/acceleration really makes a huge difference for range, and can be just as fun taking in all the great back roads scenery and forests/hills. But I know what you mean when you want to accelerate to get the most out of the bike for a fun change of pace. Enjoy!

[@hakankillberg6043]

Yes you are right if you only talking about tech. For me the z900 is a great bike but what dull colors for 2025. Its strange that on the pictures of the Z the standard model looks better than the SE. And it seems only one color for the SE. Is it silver or grey looks strange to an better/more costly SE model. The 900 RS SE (your bike) has always had better colors but now for 2025 the standard RS seems to come in some lilac color looks great. But its hard to see from the pictures. Some picture seems it to be more lighter lilac/purple color but in other pictures it seems more brown and that color is not for me. Wish they bring back the blue/gold version think it was 2019 model.

[@tonyrollman3991]

But i like riding wheelies

[@flatcapcaferacer]

Hmmm "driving" motorcycles? Pretty nice review except referencing driving a motorcycle a few times. I have a 2024 Z900RS SE too, my seat looks a bit thicker in the front. The bike is quick enough in the quarter mile but don't find the bike particularly tempting to ride fast.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I reviewed cars for many years. Sometimes I mix up that word. I think people know what I mean.

[@flatcapcaferacer]

​@@PeterLoweOne Thanks that makes sense.

[@ralfybaby]

​@@PeterLoweOne I lived in England for 4 years. People "drove" their motorcycle there ..

[@KonstantinosAnagnostopoulo-d3l]

Do you really need phone connectivity or lcd screen….think about because that bike is unique and in 10-20 years will remain unique.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I wouldn’t mind a great quick shifter, and cruise control. But I agree with what you say.

[@user-hf8ie8mf3n]

Because of my age, I really like what Kawasaki did with this bike. Takes me back. 👍🤪🏳️‍🌈

[@robbikebob]

I'd rather go for the 650RS. The 900RS is too much of a sportsbike in a retro jacket. If you like the style then you probably aren't interested in speed, I'm not. It's the same feeling I got on the triumph speed twin 1200. Nice bike, but to ride it just felt like a supernaked... that's not what I was after! I want to enjoy the whole retro experience at 30-70mph... not interested in any more. To get 100+bhp and sportsbike parts would be a complete waste!

[@PeterLoweOne]

I hear you. The reason that you didn’t buy it is the reason that I did. I like the upright riding position, I love the looks, but I’ve always wanted a Kawasaki sport bike with great power, suspension, and brakes. This bike has (just about) everything that I was looking for in my motorcycle shopping.

[@danielthatcher5345]

It's not a 900 cc bike, its 949cc's

[@unorthodoxstu4084]

948cc actually.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah. Sometimes I round to the name of the bike. 🤷‍♂️

[@robertkollath8929]

Yea, but the z900 still looks like a z900. No it would in no way tempt me away from the beautiful rs.

[@adrianwaters-p7p]

You drive a car but ride a bike!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah, I mix up those words all the time. It's from a decade of doing car videos before motorcycle videos. I think people get what I mean.

[@jerrylags]

You ARE getting old.

[@CZ65]

The biggest problem aside from all the extra tech crap, is the z900 is absolutely fugly.

[@RodeoRides]

With the updates to the 2025 Yamaha XSR 900 it blows this away, why Kawasaki didn't give this the updates that the Z 900 received, plus this bike is overpriced.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I will say that the XSR does ride well, and it has more features. But I prefer the look and ride of this bike. It's getting harder to justify the price though... I agree with that. When the same company that makes this can make the 2025 Z900 SE with ALL of its features, and price it under the base model of this bike... It's a problem for me.

[@timaston3638]

I bought a yellow ball a few months ago and absolutely love it. The only thing that lets it down is the dog shit head lamp.

[@rikbond1960]

Just It Is " The Bike"......