Assuming the motorcycle is in good working order 90% or more of motorcycle accidents are rider error . I've had a few humbling accidents in my many years of riding all types of motorcycle in all types of weather . Usually there's a period after an accident where our egos want to blame the bike for some mechanical issue, feature of the bike or weather condition or an inattentive car driver but if we're completely honest with ourselves it's usually rider error . You mentioned a twitchy throttle but this again is where the onus lies on the operator to learn to adjust and subtly feather since each bikes throttle response is different . I whole heartedly agree with not relying on technology such as ABS brakes etc.. ABS is a fantastic feature but every rider especially new riders should know how to emergency brake without ABS with a "Minimum" of stopping 25 ' at 20 mph . Another technique which is not taught in basic MSF is trail braking around corners, they're still teaching " slow , look , press and roll " which is pretty antiquated imo . Safe travels 🙏..
Hi Stephen! Thank you so much for your feedback. I definitely will look into trail braking around corners. I also agree that this accident could have been avoided, and I want to point out to you that the point of this video was not to blame the bike, so I'm sorry if it came out that way. I blame myself more than anything. In hindsight, I could have avoided it...by simply not leaning. Or at the very least, I could have counter steered. I just was caught off guard. I put in the bike over a 1,000 miles prior to the accident, trying to get a feel for it, but to no avail. Again, thanks for sharing your thoughts. I value them very much, as should any rider.
I have a '22 900 RS and have over 6K miles on it. Have ridden many times in the rain. Stock tires aren't optimum for wet weather . Have been changed to Metzelers. Never had twitchy throttle syndrome. Extremely smooth. Quality machine, no complaints. Will be with me for a long time.
Hi Frank! Thanks for stopping by. I’m very glad you like yours. Yes, I agree. Everything about it screams quality, really. Enjoy it and ride safely. Lately I’ve been having not so great a luck with bikes, and I think it must be me 🤦♂️.
I’ve read a lot of good things about the Dunlop roadsmert 4 tires. Apparently they are similar to the Q3 tires but with a slightly harder center compound and are designed to keep the sharp turn in throughout their life. I’ll probably finish the summer off with the stock Dunlops and am leaning to the RS4’s for the next set I run.
WHEN IT RAINS…..the first hour is the MOST dangerous. The oils on the road get released by the water and cause it to be EXTREMELY slippery and dangerous. After it rains for a while, the oils get washed to the side and road becomes “stickier”
I have had my Z900RS for 4 plus years now and have never experienced the back tire slipping. I live in San Diego and the roads can get very slick from the overnight fog, but no issues so far. I love the bike and it will likely be the last bike I ever own. Thanks for sharing your accident as it does give pause for thought and makes me want to be a better rider than I currently am.
Hi @michaelhartman5485 ! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Yes, that was the point of my video: to raise awareness. Hope it helped. Be well and ride safely!
I have been riding since wheel was invented. If I make a video for every crash I will be a featured film. We don’t have control of road conditions so dress for the slide not the ride. Was it a low side? There are damages on both sides that indicates the bike had flipped at one time after one side touches the ground makes me wonder. I also noticed the snapping throttle response when I first took delivery especially when the idle was high, I always engage lower gear before the lean so the shifting does not upset the chasis at lean. Cheers.
Hi there! Thanks for the comment. No, it was not a low side, but it had just started to rain. I was also informed later that that part of the road floods a lot.
Hey RB! It's been over a year now with no new uploads, I guess you've finished posting your MC adventures. Here's hoping you're in good health and still riding. Thanks for the always interesting content and perspectives.. best wishes from the PNW. 👍👍
Hi @sscbkr48! Thank you for reaching out, and I'm sorry for not having replied sooner. I am very well, but life got in the way, and I had to sell my bikes and focus on some other aspects of my life that needed attention. I obviously have not given up on bikes; I merely took a break, and I am hoping that I will return with more videos this summer. I do hope you are well and that life is treating you well!
In a new light rain, you were braking while leaning via a downshift from 3rd to 2nd ? That can definitely make a rear tire squirrelly. Especially if you didn’t try to rev-match on the downshift … though the Z has a slipper clutch too and should assist with that. Is yours a 2018? I’ve got a 2023 and I don’t get the abrupt twitchiness you and others have described … highly responsive? yes. negatively twitchy? no. Maybe I’m just “riding around” the issue so it doesn’t seem like an issue? But I wonder if they smoothed it out a bit over the years? I definitely don’t “lurch” anywhere. I mean I can turn circles in parking lots by feathering the clutch in 1st without problems. I’m sorry that you were shaken but glad that you’re okay!
Why would you be pulling in clutch and preparing to shift down while entering the curve.?? Should be in the gear you need before entering curve this is why you crashed.. IMO Doesn't matter if you hit back brake to hard doesn't matter if you gave it throttle thats after the fact of not slowing down and getting in lower gear (if need be) before curve not while entering it. You can up shift through a curve you shouldn't down shift for the most part, though you can get away with it most of the time. Crashing always sucks but its wasn't the bikes fault it was yours.. Thanks for the videos good job showing you mistakes we all make them ..
That was the point of this video: to enable others to learn from possible mistakes I might have made or raise concerns on the possible issues with the bike. My goal for this channel has always been to help my fellow riders, as well as educate myself in the process. Learning never stops. Thank you.
Got a 2018 Z900rs last year, 1800 mi on it then, 6,000 on it now. The stock suspension is soft. Adjusting the rear pre load, and adding a couple clicks to front compression helped. The stock tires are not the best. I’ve had traction problems with both front and rear. Adjusting the suspension helped considerably, but a set of Metzler M9 RR’s helped even more. The twitchy throttle is annoying, but it can be fixed several ways, doesn’t have to be expensive.
Hi San! I totally agree with all your statements. I’m glad you seem to have a good understanding of your Z900RS. I tried, but was unable to successfully understand mine, and thus paid a heavy price. Please enjoy, have fun, and ride safely. Thank you for stopping by!
Great information. Although I've wanted one a long time I still have safety reservations due to my novice riding abilities. Probably best I stick will my mild mannered CB500X.
Thanks 🙂! And you made a great choice in sharing your bike experience. I'm proof the information you shared helped others. Although I hate it for you with the stress and money part. But you came out wiser and moved on 👍
Glad you’re okay! I haven’t had my z900rs very long but I agree that the throttle is twitchy. However, I’ve gotten used to it. I also ride between 7,000’ and 10,000’ elevation which saps a considerable amount of power. That said, I’m comfortable pushing the bike pretty hard in corners even on the stock tires. On a couple of occasions I’ve had the rear tire slip a bit but only in very sharp corners with the bike laid over to peg grinding angles. Of course, I’d never ride that aggressively in wet conditions. I absolutely love this bike and feel very comfortable on it. I’ve read lots of negative reviews about the stock tires in wet conditions and I’m wondering if that is the largest factor in your accident. Of course it’s always a host of contributing elements but my experience with the bike is that you’d have to be at high RPMS for an accidental blip of the twitchy throttle to break you loose and it didn’t sound as though you were coming into the corner extremely hot. Regardless, I’m glad you walked away but sorry you had such a negative experience with a bike that I personally love.
Hi Wyo! Thank you so much for such wonderful feedback. I think you are right when you say that the stock tires in wet conditions might have been a factor in my accident. Now that you mention it, I did read a one or two reviews where the owners complained of the stock tires in wet conditions. I probably should have taken them more seriously. And I do believe that, given the circumstances, the tires might have played a crucial factor. I also wanted to love the bike; in fact, I smiled every time I rode it. I just loved the way it looked, but it did not love me back 😀. That's life! Thanks again for stopping by and for your feedback. Be well and ride safely.
Hi mexifry222! Thanks, bro! Yes, you’re right. Most owners recommend to flash the ecu immediately, and I thought of doing it, but the very idea of messing with the factory design made me feel disappointed at Kawasaki. Thanks for stopping by and safe riding!
Traction control works by sensing a difference in rotational speed between the front and rear wheel. It sounds like you went down before it had a chance to work. That's a cautionary tale reminding all of us to be vigilant. I very much dislike sensitive throttles, and I changed the throttle on my Moto Guzzi V9 with something called a throttle tamer, basically a cammed throttle that slows down the first half of the throttle engagement. Works wonderfully.
I own a z900rs and tho i agree the throttle is a bit snatchy i cant help but notice the way you ride. You constantly yanking the throttle open and close, even midcorner or riding a straight line behind other traffic. U need to be a tad more sensitive....i guess that would help and probably the way you ride in this video is the main reason you lost control. Blame yourselve instead of the bike. U will crash every bike eventually if you keep doing this.
Don't ride in wet weather with those Dunlop stock tires! There is not much grip with those tires and when the road surface first starts getting wet is the most dangerous time to be driving any vehicle.
I haven’t used TC2. I’ve had it spin up in the wet a time or two. I think the low down torque can catch you out. I learnt to be smooth with the throttle on a 97 Suzuki TL1000. I don’t find the throttle too bad on the RS, but I’ve heard many complaints, and an ECU flash seems to be the fix. Glad you’re ok but, shame about the bike.
"the low down torque can catch you out." --I absolutely agree, Saddlebags 73! And I think that's definitely what caught me in this case--in addition to other stuff. I'm glad you have managed to cope with yours, and yes, it is an absolute shame about the bike. I have never denied it: It is an absolutely beautiful, state-of-the-art machine! Gorgeous is many ways. Enjoy yours and ride safely. Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment. Hope your summer is going well.
Always remember traction control doesn’t stop a wheel skidding sideways . It just measures the front and rear wheel speeds 👍. Sounds like a slippery road to me
Operator error, pure and simple. Neither the bike nor the road was out to get you. You are missing one of the greatest riding lessons if you continue to blame the bike or the conditions.
You do make a valid point, and I am not going to try to argue otherwise. It definitely was an experience that caused me to reflect on my riding skills, yet I have ridden in such conditions--and even more challenging conditions !--on other bikes without ever feeling that my life was in danger.
Thank you for sharing! I am SO glad you are okay, I have been thinking of you as I am on week 4 of owning my Z900RS. LIGHT RAIN, ugh...so deadly, and often under-estimated. The other day I got caught in the same, and was remembering JUST how dangerous it is, having many years ago laid down a bike in such. Remembering that accident and (definitely) not feeling comfortable, I noticed I tried my best to keep the bike dead level...I was on a straight away for the most part, and I don't think I would have ridden on any twisties until it dried out? I think lean angle is the death knell in this condition, although I know some riders (probably much better than I) can manage it. I hadn't even thought to put the bike in rider mode 2...I have never had a bike with such technology, and bought the Zed because it is old school naked without the many gadgets so common these days (nothing wrong with them, I just hadn't even considered them as I am just returning to biking after 25 years). As to the hundred videos on the Z900RS I'm sure we have both watched, the 2 main complaints against her (& I think the only 2 stopping her from being an almost PERFECT bike...I AM biased, haha), are the OEM tires (I switched these for Road Pilot 5's) and the snatchy throttle. The throttle can be mapped out (ECU flash) for about $200, and is a must-ish, I think...I intend on doing mine at summer's end...can't part with her for even a week, at this point, haha. I also was nervous with the throttle day one, and realized how easy it would be to succumb to the dreaded 'whiskey-throttle', with this bike (that was my guess when speaking with my Wife after I heard you had crashed, glad I was wrong!). I find it is manageable after a few weeks of riding with it...I have learned to ride around it so to speak, but it definitely can be un-nerving. I would imagine that light rain, lean angle, and IF you DID hit the throttle AT ALL, would probably explain the crash, but maybe I'm wrong...I just think that such sudden power to the back wheel would wash you out? Lastly, I remember you saying on the FIRST video after getting the Zed, something like the bike was 'not your nature' (or something like that)...that it was very unlike YOU. That really struck me, and while I was excited for you, I was also uneasy...I also have made this mistake in my life, and I have always learned the same hard lessons. I think a real challenge (& part of the real joy) or riding is finding / discovering the bike / ride that matches who you are and how you (really) ride. As we both know (I have heard you speak of such), EGO is the REAL killer, when it comes to biking and when it comes to life (as if there is a difference, haha). SO glad you are back riding, my friend!! Thank you for the humility to share the difficult truths that others like myself can now bear in mind to ride more safely. You are doing great work: RIDE SAFE, brother!!
Just to say...it WAS application of REAR BRAKE that was my demise in light rain, back in the day. With lean angle, yes, but thinking back, it was almost definitely rear brake. All the best...
Lane position is the only other thing I can think of: if you were anywhere near the center of the lane, and hit that newly-loosened oil in the slick, there is no way to survive that without a crash.
Hi Mark! Thank you so much for stopping by and for your wonderful feedback. I always appreciate it. Yes, I think I was near the center of the lane, and yes, I think your explanation makes total sense. I just think that I lowered my guard for a moment. Will not do so again soon, I tell you! No, it was not cold at all. The reason I remember that is that I spent almost 4 hours by the side of the road waiting for my road assistance. That took forever! I hope you are enjoying your Z900RS, but please be careful on it. It's an absolutely beautiful bike, but a bit unforgiving, so take care when riding it. Thanks again for checking in and enjoy this splendid summer! We'll stay in touch.
ABS would do nothing in the situation you described. Quite likely there was something on the road. Gravel, coolant, diesel or oil are all possible and common on corners. In the wet this is made 10x worse.
Hi Tom! Yes, I’ve come to realize that. Honestly I should have been more prudent. I have since had another close call in a similar situation with my current bike going 5 miles an hour. It’s definitely me. I have never have experienced anything close to the mishaps I have been through this year in terms of close calls when riding in rain. I think I moved too soon to bigger bikes 🤦♂️. Thank you for your feedback and be well and ride safely.
A theory? It wasn't a roll on of the throttle, but rather a roll off. The Z900RS has aggressive engine braking. For that reason and in the conditions that you described, I would have attempted that corner in 4th or maybe even 5th gear, even at only 25mph. So, my theory is that you were a victim of engine braking that caused the rear tire to lose traction as you rolled off the throttle just before fully disengaging the clutch. I'm a rider with over thirty years' experience and I currently own 4 motorcycles, two of those are Honda DCTs, along with a Z900RS Cafe. I've learned a lot from riding the DCT automatics. For instance, in ECON riding mode, my Goldwing will shift into 4th gear by 15 mph under normal acceleration and it is also perfectly happy cornering in the higher gears because it has plenty of torque to do so. The same is true for the Z900RS. I only use 1st and 2nd gear when leaving from a dead stop and quickly up shift to the higher gears, under normal acceleration. Turning onto a new street without coming to a complete stop, left/right turns, I typically do in 3rd gear, unless I'm carrying a bit more speed, then I will use 4th gear. The bike is perfectly happy using the higher gears; above 45 mph and I'm in 6th already. And I agree with what has already been said about the stock tires, complete garbage. Best of luck on your riding adventures. -Matt
Matt, thank you so much for sharing such great insight. I'm sorry for not replying sooner. I have been very busy at work. Frankly I have not had much time for biking, but I do hope soon I'll get back on it. Hope life is good. Be well.
Hi Mario! Yes, it might have been. There might have been some residual oil on the road, which would definitely explain the unexpected slip. And yes, I absolutely continue to enjoy riding. In fact, I bought a bike two weeks later :). Thanks for stopping by.
There are two motorcycle riders. One who has crashed and one who is going to crash. Now on to blaming it he traction control for not doing its job. There are two types of traction control. Reactive control that relies on wheel spin and predictive that relies on many sensors such as bank angle, gyroscope, throttle position, gear and vehicle speed to limit wheel spin before it happens. As such, reactive which I believe the Kawasaki and most cheaper bikes have, aren’t great for much of anything other than riding in a straight line. Any time the reactive traction control relies on wheel spin in a corner with any speed or lean angle it’s most likely going to end in a crash. It’s no different than your brain telling your wrists and body what to do when riding the bike and getting feedback before you react. There is only so much you can do to prevent a crash. Being extra alert in adverse conditions is all you can really do which is essentially the same thing predictive traction control is doing. I hope this makes sense and have a good day.
Hi there! Yes, totally agree with you that the best thing to do in such adverse circumstances is to be extra careful, something that I think I need to continue working on. Thanks for commenting! All the best!
Personally, I never shift in a curve or turn, and the only throttle is a slow roll. I usually downshift before the curve, then upshift after successfully navigating the turn
@@ReluctantBikerNYCfor me, all of it. I don't own a motorcycle and haven't for 40yrs.....but I'm getting a Z900RS at years end. I ride and race mtn and road bicycles and they have the same problems you described. In your case, tyres may have been ordinary but absolutely a slippery patch on the road. It's the only thing that will drop someone that quickly. That was a great video. I sincerely hope you can get back on a bike again and enjoy it. Fwiw, I've had a broken femur, pelvis, collarbone, 3 ribs in each of those accidents. I'm mindful getting back on but it does go away. I'm 66yo btw and LOVE my bikes.
Thank you, Matthew! Yes, I was actually warned about the tires, but I didn’t have the budget to change them , and to the untrained eye they looked okay.
It's those accursed GPR300s. Light showers made them feel like they were plastic. I swapped to Dunlop Mutants and now I can glide through wet roads no problem.
@@ReluctantBikerNYC I live in Washington state and I go out riding in the rain a lot. I would never trust stock tires in the rain. I know the stock tires on larger cc bikes are often of a higher quality (I only have a 300) but I also know theres sometimes... I don't want to call them knock-offs, they are name brand. But the manufacturer has to fill a huge order when a new bike gets made with a tire thats not in supply. If you have to make a bunch a tires in a rush, well... And if a new bike happens to get fitted with those old tires by chance. Sorry, this is getting long. But I would also put on some sliders from a reputible brand (like T-rex or R&G) and just throw it around in a wet parking lot. You can push it as far as you can just to get a feel for the limit. A let of sliders will probably run you about as much as that front fender. Plus they are easy to remove later if you dont like the look of them. As long as I keep my speed down the Rosso 3s can be pushed pretty far, at low speeds ofcourse. But I really want to try the Angel GTs. Glad your safe. I hope this doesnt dissuade you from enjoying a nice rain ride!
Those shit euro regulations make bikes unsafe due to mapping. Fantic Scrambler 500 was also the same in terms of jerkyness.. My H2 SX 2020 does not seem to have that issue tho.. at least I dont pay attention to it.. even with all electronics I still dont change (usually) after Ive entered the curb.. take care!
Hi Mika! Hope all is well. Sorry for the late reply. I have been away. Yes, the Euro regulations definitely have had a somewhat negative effect on this particular bike. One has to get used to it, but I honestly was unable to do it. The twitchy throttle made me nervous every time I rode it. Thanks for sharing, brother! Hope all is well.
The throttle is simply horrible. I haven't had a problem with the rear tire but the front end is so light I've almost dumped it once. It's a ok bike but I'm not going to keep it. I have a 1978 kz1000 basically the real version of the z900rs and I can tell you I like my old school KZ a lot better.
Yes, horrible throttle! Whatever you choose to do, just be careful when riding. Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you're having a great summer so far!
After watching your video, I don’t think you’re an experienced rider to ride a semi sport bike with high power, so many unnecessary dramatic weaves. And shifting down on a rainy condition results in engine braking! Sorry
I might have bit more than I could chew. It's a possibility. Yet this bike, in my opinion, was fraught with issues. But I do see your point. Thank you.
Assuming the motorcycle is in good working order 90% or more of motorcycle accidents are rider error . I've had a few humbling accidents in my many years of riding all types of motorcycle in all types of weather . Usually there's a period after an accident where our egos want to blame the bike for some mechanical issue, feature of the bike or weather condition or an inattentive car driver but if we're completely honest with ourselves it's usually rider error . You mentioned a twitchy throttle but this again is where the onus lies on the operator to learn to adjust and subtly feather since each bikes throttle response is different . I whole heartedly agree with not relying on technology such as ABS brakes etc.. ABS is a fantastic feature but every rider especially new riders should know how to emergency brake without ABS with a "Minimum" of stopping 25 ' at 20 mph . Another technique which is not taught in basic MSF is trail braking around corners, they're still teaching " slow , look , press and roll " which is pretty antiquated imo . Safe travels 🙏..
Hi Stephen! Thank you so much for your feedback. I definitely will look into trail braking around corners. I also agree that this accident could have been avoided, and I want to point out to you that the point of this video was not to blame the bike, so I'm sorry if it came out that way. I blame myself more than anything. In hindsight, I could have avoided it...by simply not leaning. Or at the very least, I could have counter steered. I just was caught off guard. I put in the bike over a 1,000 miles prior to the accident, trying to get a feel for it, but to no avail. Again, thanks for sharing your thoughts. I value them very much, as should any rider.
I have a '22 900 RS and have over 6K miles on it. Have ridden many times in the rain. Stock tires aren't optimum for wet weather . Have been changed to Metzelers. Never had twitchy throttle syndrome. Extremely smooth. Quality machine, no complaints. Will be with me for a long time.
Hi Frank! Thanks for stopping by. I’m very glad you like yours. Yes, I agree. Everything about it screams quality, really. Enjoy it and ride safely. Lately I’ve been having not so great a luck with bikes, and I think it must be me 🤦♂️.
I’ve read a lot of good things about the Dunlop roadsmert 4 tires. Apparently they are similar to the Q3 tires but with a slightly harder center compound and are designed to keep the sharp turn in throughout their life. I’ll probably finish the summer off with the stock Dunlops and am leaning to the RS4’s for the next set I run.
WHEN IT RAINS…..the first hour is the MOST dangerous. The oils on the road get released by the water and cause it to be EXTREMELY slippery and dangerous. After it rains for a while, the oils get washed to the side and road becomes “stickier”
Absolutely true! Thanks for the feedback.
I have had my Z900RS for 4 plus years now and have never experienced the back tire slipping. I live in San Diego and the roads can get very slick from the overnight fog, but no issues so far. I love the bike and it will likely be the last bike I ever own. Thanks for sharing your accident as it does give pause for thought and makes me want to be a better rider than I currently am.
Hi @michaelhartman5485 ! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Yes, that was the point of my video: to raise awareness. Hope it helped. Be well and ride safely!
I have been riding since wheel was invented. If I make a video for every crash I will be a featured film. We don’t have control of road conditions so dress for the slide not the ride. Was it a low side? There are damages on both sides that indicates the bike had flipped at one time after one side touches the ground makes me wonder. I also noticed the snapping throttle response when I first took delivery especially when the idle was high, I always engage lower gear before the lean so the shifting does not upset the chasis at lean. Cheers.
Hi there! Thanks for the comment. No, it was not a low side, but it had just started to rain. I was also informed later that that part of the road floods a lot.
Hey RB! It's been over a year now with no new uploads, I guess you've finished posting your MC adventures. Here's hoping you're in good health and still riding. Thanks for the always interesting content and perspectives.. best wishes from the PNW. 👍👍
Hi @sscbkr48! Thank you for reaching out, and I'm sorry for not having replied sooner. I am very well, but life got in the way, and I had to sell my bikes and focus on some other aspects of my life that needed attention. I obviously have not given up on bikes; I merely took a break, and I am hoping that I will return with more videos this summer. I do hope you are well and that life is treating you well!
Stock Dulops, snatchy throttle, wet road, breaking while leaning, now let me think about that.
😀. Okay, point taken.
In a new light rain, you were braking while leaning via a downshift from 3rd to 2nd ? That can definitely make a rear tire squirrelly. Especially if you didn’t try to rev-match on the downshift … though the Z has a slipper clutch too and should assist with that. Is yours a 2018? I’ve got a 2023 and I don’t get the abrupt twitchiness you and others have described … highly responsive? yes. negatively twitchy? no. Maybe I’m just “riding around” the issue so it doesn’t seem like an issue? But I wonder if they smoothed it out a bit over the years? I definitely don’t “lurch” anywhere. I mean I can turn circles in parking lots by feathering the clutch in 1st without problems. I’m sorry that you were shaken but glad that you’re okay!
Thank you for the comments. Much appreciated.
Why would you be pulling in clutch and preparing to shift down while entering the curve.?? Should be in the gear you need before entering curve this is why you crashed.. IMO Doesn't matter if you hit back brake to hard doesn't matter if you gave it throttle thats after the fact of not slowing down and getting in lower gear (if need be) before curve not while entering it. You can up shift through a curve you shouldn't down shift for the most part, though you can get away with it most of the time. Crashing always sucks but its wasn't the bikes fault it was yours.. Thanks for the videos good job showing you mistakes we all make them ..
That was the point of this video: to enable others to learn from possible mistakes I might have made or raise concerns on the possible issues with the bike. My goal for this channel has always been to help my fellow riders, as well as educate myself in the process. Learning never stops. Thank you.
Got a 2018 Z900rs last year, 1800 mi on it then, 6,000 on it now. The stock suspension is soft. Adjusting the rear pre load, and adding a couple clicks to front compression helped.
The stock tires are not the best. I’ve had traction problems with both front and rear. Adjusting the suspension helped considerably, but a set of Metzler M9 RR’s helped even more.
The twitchy throttle is annoying, but it can be fixed several ways, doesn’t have to be expensive.
Hi San! I totally agree with all your statements. I’m glad you seem to have a good understanding of your Z900RS. I tried, but was unable to successfully understand mine, and thus paid a heavy price. Please enjoy, have fun, and ride safely. Thank you for stopping by!
Great information. Although I've wanted one a long time I still have safety reservations due to my novice riding abilities. Probably best I stick will my mild mannered CB500X.
Hi there, FN! I think that’s such a wise choice!!! I would stick with the CB500X. I have been making some very unwise decisions lately.
Thanks 🙂! And you made a great choice in sharing your bike experience. I'm proof the information you shared helped others. Although I hate it for you with the stress and money part. But you came out wiser and moved on 👍
Glad you’re okay! I haven’t had my z900rs very long but I agree that the throttle is twitchy. However, I’ve gotten used to it. I also ride between 7,000’ and 10,000’ elevation which saps a considerable amount of power. That said, I’m comfortable pushing the bike pretty hard in corners even on the stock tires. On a couple of occasions I’ve had the rear tire slip a bit but only in very sharp corners with the bike laid over to peg grinding angles. Of course, I’d never ride that aggressively in wet conditions. I absolutely love this bike and feel very comfortable on it. I’ve read lots of negative reviews about the stock tires in wet conditions and I’m wondering if that is the largest factor in your accident. Of course it’s always a host of contributing elements but my experience with the bike is that you’d have to be at high RPMS for an accidental blip of the twitchy throttle to break you loose and it didn’t sound as though you were coming into the corner extremely hot. Regardless, I’m glad you walked away but sorry you had such a negative experience with a bike that I personally love.
Hi Wyo! Thank you so much for such wonderful feedback. I think you are right when you say that the stock tires in wet conditions might have been a factor in my accident. Now that you mention it, I did read a one or two reviews where the owners complained of the stock tires in wet conditions. I probably should have taken them more seriously. And I do believe that, given the circumstances, the tires might have played a crucial factor.
I also wanted to love the bike; in fact, I smiled every time I rode it. I just loved the way it looked, but it did not love me back 😀. That's life!
Thanks again for stopping by and for your feedback. Be well and ride safely.
I see a lot of people say getting the ecu reflashed solves the twitchy throttle. Removing the jerkiness. Glad to hear you're okay dude.
Hi mexifry222! Thanks, bro! Yes, you’re right. Most owners recommend to flash the ecu immediately, and I thought of doing it, but the very idea of messing with the factory design made me feel disappointed at Kawasaki. Thanks for stopping by and safe riding!
Traction control works by sensing a difference in rotational speed between the front and rear wheel. It sounds like you went down before it had a chance to work. That's a cautionary tale reminding all of us to be vigilant. I very much dislike sensitive throttles, and I changed the throttle on my Moto Guzzi V9 with something called a throttle tamer, basically a cammed throttle that slows down the first half of the throttle engagement. Works wonderfully.
Definitely a cautionary tale! Thanks, John.
It does sound like you shifted down a gear too many leave it in a higher gear use the low down torque. This helps with snatch throttle
You might have a point!
I own a z900rs and tho i agree the throttle is a bit snatchy i cant help but notice the way you ride. You constantly yanking the throttle open and close, even midcorner or riding a straight line behind other traffic. U need to be a tad more sensitive....i guess that would help and probably the way you ride in this video is the main reason you lost control. Blame yourselve instead of the bike. U will crash every bike eventually if you keep doing this.
Interesting observation. Never had an issue with any of my other bikes, and I have been riding for a while.
Don't ride in wet weather with those Dunlop stock tires! There is not much grip with those tires and when the road surface first starts getting wet is the most dangerous time to be driving any vehicle.
Hi Kevin! Thanks, lesson learned-twice over, unfortunately. Thank you for the feedback. Be well and ride safely.
I haven’t used TC2. I’ve had it spin up in the wet a time or two. I think the low down torque can catch you out. I learnt to be smooth with the throttle on a 97 Suzuki TL1000. I don’t find the throttle too bad on the RS, but I’ve heard many complaints, and an ECU flash seems to be the fix.
Glad you’re ok but, shame about the bike.
"the low down torque can catch you out." --I absolutely agree, Saddlebags 73! And I think that's definitely what caught me in this case--in addition to other stuff. I'm glad you have managed to cope with yours, and yes, it is an absolute shame about the bike. I have never denied it: It is an absolutely beautiful, state-of-the-art machine! Gorgeous is many ways. Enjoy yours and ride safely. Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment. Hope your summer is going well.
Thank you! Yes summer has just got started, at last. You take care 🙂👍🏼
Always remember traction control doesn’t stop a wheel skidding sideways . It just measures the front and rear wheel speeds 👍. Sounds like a slippery road to me
Very true! Thank you.
Operator error, pure and simple. Neither the bike nor the road was out to get you. You are missing one of the greatest riding lessons if you continue to blame the bike or the conditions.
You do make a valid point, and I am not going to try to argue otherwise. It definitely was an experience that caused me to reflect on my riding skills, yet I have ridden in such conditions--and even more challenging conditions !--on other bikes without ever feeling that my life was in danger.
Thank you for sharing!
I am SO glad you are okay, I have been thinking of you as I am on week 4 of owning my Z900RS.
LIGHT RAIN, ugh...so deadly, and often under-estimated.
The other day I got caught in the same, and was remembering JUST how dangerous it is, having many years ago laid down a bike in such.
Remembering that accident and (definitely) not feeling comfortable, I noticed I tried my best to keep the bike dead level...I was on a straight away for the most part, and I don't think I would have ridden on any twisties until it dried out?
I think lean angle is the death knell in this condition, although I know some riders (probably much better than I) can manage it.
I hadn't even thought to put the bike in rider mode 2...I have never had a bike with such technology, and bought the Zed because it is old school naked without the many gadgets so common these days (nothing wrong with them, I just hadn't even considered them as I am just returning to biking after 25 years).
As to the hundred videos on the Z900RS I'm sure we have both watched, the 2 main complaints against her (& I think the only 2 stopping her from being an almost PERFECT bike...I AM biased, haha), are the OEM tires (I switched these for Road Pilot 5's) and the snatchy throttle.
The throttle can be mapped out (ECU flash) for about $200, and is a must-ish, I think...I intend on doing mine at summer's end...can't part with her for even a week, at this point, haha.
I also was nervous with the throttle day one, and realized how easy it would be to succumb to the dreaded 'whiskey-throttle', with this bike (that was my guess when speaking with my Wife after I heard you had crashed, glad I was wrong!).
I find it is manageable after a few weeks of riding with it...I have learned to ride around it so to speak, but it definitely can be un-nerving.
I would imagine that light rain, lean angle, and IF you DID hit the throttle AT ALL, would probably explain the crash, but maybe I'm wrong...I just think that such sudden power to the back wheel would wash you out?
Lastly, I remember you saying on the FIRST video after getting the Zed, something like the bike was 'not your nature' (or something like that)...that it was very unlike YOU.
That really struck me, and while I was excited for you, I was also uneasy...I also have made this mistake in my life, and I have always learned the same hard lessons.
I think a real challenge (& part of the real joy) or riding is finding / discovering the bike / ride that matches who you are and how you (really) ride.
As we both know (I have heard you speak of such), EGO is the REAL killer, when it comes to biking and when it comes to life (as if there is a difference, haha).
SO glad you are back riding, my friend!!
Thank you for the humility to share the difficult truths that others like myself can now bear in mind to ride more safely.
You are doing great work: RIDE SAFE, brother!!
Just watching the video again, I hear you said light rain at dusk...East Coast, right?
Me, too.
Any chance it was cold enough to get slick?
Just to say...it WAS application of REAR BRAKE that was my demise in light rain, back in the day.
With lean angle, yes, but thinking back, it was almost definitely rear brake.
All the best...
Lane position is the only other thing I can think of: if you were anywhere near the center of the lane, and hit that newly-loosened oil in the slick, there is no way to survive that without a crash.
Hi Mark! Thank you so much for stopping by and for your wonderful feedback. I always appreciate it. Yes, I think I was near the center of the lane, and yes, I think your explanation makes total sense. I just think that I lowered my guard for a moment. Will not do so again soon, I tell you!
No, it was not cold at all. The reason I remember that is that I spent almost 4 hours by the side of the road waiting for my road assistance. That took forever!
I hope you are enjoying your Z900RS, but please be careful on it. It's an absolutely beautiful bike, but a bit unforgiving, so take care when riding it.
Thanks again for checking in and enjoy this splendid summer! We'll stay in touch.
The stock tyres on this z900 are the worst one... I changed to Michelin road 6.. works brilliantly
Thanks for letting us know. Hope all is well.
ABS would do nothing in the situation you described. Quite likely there was something on the road. Gravel, coolant, diesel or oil are all possible and common on corners. In the wet this is made 10x worse.
Hi Tom! Yes, I’ve come to realize that. Honestly I should have been more prudent. I have since had another close call in a similar situation with my current bike going 5 miles an hour. It’s definitely me. I have never have experienced anything close to the mishaps I have been through this year in terms of close calls when riding in rain. I think I moved too soon to bigger bikes 🤦♂️. Thank you for your feedback and be well and ride safely.
A theory? It wasn't a roll on of the throttle, but rather a roll off. The Z900RS has aggressive engine braking. For that reason and in the conditions that you described, I would have attempted that corner in 4th or maybe even 5th gear, even at only 25mph. So, my theory is that you were a victim of engine braking that caused the rear tire to lose traction as you rolled off the throttle just before fully disengaging the clutch.
I'm a rider with over thirty years' experience and I currently own 4 motorcycles, two of those are Honda DCTs, along with a Z900RS Cafe. I've learned a lot from riding the DCT automatics. For instance, in ECON riding mode, my Goldwing will shift into 4th gear by 15 mph under normal acceleration and it is also perfectly happy cornering in the higher gears because it has plenty of torque to do so. The same is true for the Z900RS. I only use 1st and 2nd gear when leaving from a dead stop and quickly up shift to the higher gears, under normal acceleration. Turning onto a new street without coming to a complete stop, left/right turns, I typically do in 3rd gear, unless I'm carrying a bit more speed, then I will use 4th gear. The bike is perfectly happy using the higher gears; above 45 mph and I'm in 6th already.
And I agree with what has already been said about the stock tires, complete garbage.
Best of luck on your riding adventures.
-Matt
Matt, thank you so much for sharing such great insight. I'm sorry for not replying sooner. I have been very busy at work. Frankly I have not had much time for biking, but I do hope soon I'll get back on it. Hope life is good. Be well.
If you have the original Dunlop tyres, that was your problem.
Couldn't it simply have been some oil on the road?
Hope you can still enjoy your riding a lot and also a lot of riding. Thanks for sharing
Hi Mario! Yes, it might have been. There might have been some residual oil on the road, which would definitely explain the unexpected slip. And yes, I absolutely continue to enjoy riding. In fact, I bought a bike two weeks later :). Thanks for stopping by.
You should have stayed in 3rd gear , you changing down to 2 is what caused the problem. Glad you ok tho
Thank you!
There are two motorcycle riders. One who has crashed and one who is going to crash.
Now on to blaming it he traction control for not doing its job. There are two types of traction control. Reactive control that relies on wheel spin and predictive that relies on many sensors such as bank angle, gyroscope, throttle position, gear and vehicle speed to limit wheel spin before it happens. As such, reactive which I believe the Kawasaki and most cheaper bikes have, aren’t great for much of anything other than riding in a straight line. Any time the reactive traction control relies on wheel spin in a corner with any speed or lean angle it’s most likely going to end in a crash. It’s no different than your brain telling your wrists and body what to do when riding the bike and getting feedback before you react. There is only so much you can do to prevent a crash. Being extra alert in adverse conditions is all you can really do which is essentially the same thing predictive traction control is doing. I hope this makes sense and have a good day.
Hi there! Yes, totally agree with you that the best thing to do in such adverse circumstances is to be extra careful, something that I think I need to continue working on. Thanks for commenting! All the best!
Plenty of riders, the vast majority in fact, get through their riding careers with no fails.
Personally, I never shift in a curve or turn, and the only throttle is a slow roll. I usually downshift before the curve, then upshift after successfully navigating the turn
Your advice here has great validity! Thank you for sharing.
Great vlogg,
Thanks, Ting! Appreciate it. Is there anything in particular that you liked?
@@ReluctantBikerNYCfor me, all of it. I don't own a motorcycle and haven't for 40yrs.....but I'm getting a Z900RS at years end. I ride and race mtn and road bicycles and they have the same problems you described. In your case, tyres may have been ordinary but absolutely a slippery patch on the road. It's the only thing that will drop someone that quickly. That was a great video. I sincerely hope you can get back on a bike again and enjoy it. Fwiw, I've had a broken femur, pelvis, collarbone, 3 ribs in each of those accidents. I'm mindful getting back on but it does go away. I'm 66yo btw and LOVE my bikes.
Stock tires are horrible that maybe why…
Throttle is fine you get use to it. Coming from the first gen Mt09 this bike is far safer.
Glad you’re ok
Thank you, Matthew! Yes, I was actually warned about the tires, but I didn’t have the budget to change them , and to the untrained eye they looked okay.
It's those accursed GPR300s. Light showers made them feel like they were plastic. I swapped to Dunlop Mutants and now I can glide through wet roads no problem.
Hi Arch Magus! I now wish I had done that! Thanks for sharing. I hope all is well and you're having a good time on your bike!
Best lessons are the bought ones.
You said it, Rich! Absolutely true.
What happen in your case ,must be some oil in the curve, and you didn' t see it, always check in curves if you see wet liquids.
That is a very strong possibility! Thanks for the feedback.
The stock tires on the Z900RS are not the greatest. Will be changing mine out soon for something better.
Yes, I probably should have done that as well.
@@ReluctantBikerNYC I live in Washington state and I go out riding in the rain a lot. I would never trust stock tires in the rain. I know the stock tires on larger cc bikes are often of a higher quality (I only have a 300) but I also know theres sometimes... I don't want to call them knock-offs, they are name brand. But the manufacturer has to fill a huge order when a new bike gets made with a tire thats not in supply. If you have to make a bunch a tires in a rush, well... And if a new bike happens to get fitted with those old tires by chance.
Sorry, this is getting long. But I would also put on some sliders from a reputible brand (like T-rex or R&G) and just throw it around in a wet parking lot. You can push it as far as you can just to get a feel for the limit. A let of sliders will probably run you about as much as that front fender. Plus they are easy to remove later if you dont like the look of them.
As long as I keep my speed down the Rosso 3s can be pushed pretty far, at low speeds ofcourse. But I really want to try the Angel GTs.
Glad your safe.
I hope this doesnt dissuade you from enjoying a nice rain ride!
Those shit euro regulations make bikes unsafe due to mapping. Fantic Scrambler 500 was also the same in terms of jerkyness.. My H2 SX 2020 does not seem to have that issue tho.. at least I dont pay attention to it.. even with all electronics I still dont change (usually) after Ive entered the curb.. take care!
Hi Mika! Hope all is well. Sorry for the late reply. I have been away. Yes, the Euro regulations definitely have had a somewhat negative effect on this particular bike. One has to get used to it, but I honestly was unable to do it. The twitchy throttle made me nervous every time I rode it. Thanks for sharing, brother! Hope all is well.
Maybe a diesel spill?
Quite possibly 👍
Agree
tweaking the throttle did it. don't sell your bic, own it
Too late. The bike was done in. Beautiful bike, though.
The throttle is simply horrible. I haven't had a problem with the rear tire but the front end is so light I've almost dumped it once. It's a ok bike but I'm not going to keep it. I have a 1978 kz1000 basically the real version of the z900rs and I can tell you I like my old school KZ a lot better.
Yes, horrible throttle! Whatever you choose to do, just be careful when riding. Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you're having a great summer so far!
remap asap
Good point.
After watching your video, I don’t think you’re an experienced rider to ride a semi sport bike with high power, so many unnecessary dramatic weaves. And shifting down on a rainy condition results in engine braking! Sorry
I might have bit more than I could chew. It's a possibility. Yet this bike, in my opinion, was fraught with issues. But I do see your point. Thank you.
☹️
Yes, I know, Samantha :)