Bike Files: Kawasaki Z900RS

Kawasaki’s popular retro evokes memories of classic Z1 superbike

So what’s the story with the Kawasaki Z900RS?

Kawasaki call it ‘A truly authentic Modern Classic bike. The visceral spirit of a 1970s legend – Kawasaki's original king of cool Z1 – finds expression in the Z900RS’ and we agree. First introduced in 2017 it does an amazing job of faithfully recreating the lines and colours of Kawasaki’s iconic 1970s superbikes – and it rides well too.

But those old superbikes were notorious for their bad handling and terrible brakes…

Not so here. The Z900RS might look traditional but it’s thoroughly modern, without having too much tech. It’s based around the Z900 platform, which is a feisty rival to the likes of the Triumph Street Triple and KTM Duke, and you get modern brakes and suspension. It handles really well and, because it’s a four-cylinder, has character no other retro can match.

So it’s just a modern bike in a retro frock?

No, that’s a bit unfair. Sure it’s a modern bike, but it feels a lot more analogue than most. You get traction control, but that’s really it in terms of rider aids, The big twin clocks are a proper throwback and the four cylinder engine oozes Kawasaki DNA. We’d say it’s one of the most authentic modern classics out there.

What’s the Z900RS like to ride?

Really good. It hits a sweet spot between being sporty but not too aggressive and we like it. Handling is really reassuring and the brakes are also well up to the job. The 948cc engine is shared with the Z900, but has been detuned from 125bhp to 110bhp. To be honest, that’s plenty. It’s still one of the most powerful retros on the market, and the retune has given it a really sweet mid-range.

Add in the fact that it’s not complicated by loads of electronics and you get a really old-school in-line four roadster that handles well and looks the business. It sounds great too, with Kawasaki going out of its way to ‘tune’ the exhaust note. Overall though it’s a very modern and easy to ride bike, with the light clutch and gearbox action making it a real pleasure around town as well.

Is it popular?

Yes, it’s sold well since being launched in 2017 and because it has barely been updated since then, early ones have held their value well. Kawasaki did such a good job that you rarely see them modified, although we did briefly see a ‘café’ version, which dropped out of the range after a few years.

The unfaired Z900RS is, in our opinion, much more representative of Kawasaki and its history anyway, so it’s no wonder it proved more popular. In addition to the standard version, there’s an SE model with upgraded suspension and gold coloured wheels. There’s also a Z650RS, although that’s a completely different motorcycle based around the Z650 parallel twin platform.

So is it just for old guys trying to recapture their youth?

Not at all. In fact, one of the best things about the Z900RS is just how it appeals to so many riders. Sure there will be some fellas who had one back in the day, but it’s a cool looking bike which appeals to younger riders too. And because it’s easy to ride and fairly accessible, with good comfort and a reasonable seat height, it can be ridden by a diverse bunch of riders. Classic’s classic, and the Z900RS is as classic a design as it gets.

What else is out there like it?

There are loads of retro bikes on the market, but the Z900RS is the only four-cylinder we can think of.

In terms of performance, Yamaha’s XSR900 is the closest, and there’s also the quirky Husqvarna Svartpilen 801. They are both a bit more modern in their technology but arguably not as authentic to the brand as the Kawasaki is. Otherwise there are loads of traditionally styled bikes out there, from BMWs, through to Ducatis, Harleys, Triumphs and Guzzis, retros are still very popular.

Why should I buy the Kawasaki Z900RS?

You want a traditionally styled motorbike but don’t want to compromise performance.