Better than a Speed Twin? 2022 Kawasaki Z900RS Review Revisited 4K
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- Опубликовано: 7 сен 2024
- Better than a Speed Twin? 2022 Kawasaki Z900RS Review Revisited: I last rode the Z900RS some 4 years ago and at the time was mightily impressed with the bike. Since then I purchased a Triumph Speed Twin but in my mind I've always wondered whether the Z900RS would have been a better option, in this video I ponder that thought some more....
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It has been 4 years since I got my Z900RS...your video at the time helped me make that decision. It is my daily commuter, weekend tourer, and an occasional hooligan when the mood strikes me. I still smile every time I open my garage door.
Nice one Michael!
It's a bike that makes u feel good
Every time I get on it 🧝⚡🏴☠️🌴🌟🪶🧚
One thing Kawasaki kept very retro pure is the air induction sound. This bike sounds just like my 1977 Z1000. I could tell whenever a Kawasaki drove by without ever looking, the sound. Kudos Kawasaki. Thanks for the blast from my past, would love to get my hands on one of these 900s.
Andy, this review could not be timelier for me! I saw a green one in a dealer showroom two weeks ago, and I can't get it out of my mind! I'm seriously considering replacing my BMW R1200RT with the Z900. I love retro bikes and this one is clicking all the boxes for me!
I have owned the green one for a year and a half. It looks great sounds great and the roll on power is available in almost every gear at every speed. Amazing torque and power. I have never ridden a speed twin but of the 12 bikes I have owned. This is the best one.
There were 2 green versions. A green with yellow/gold stripes and a later darker met green with silver stripes. Both look great.
I had a go on the cafe racer variant when my bike was in for a service (shout out to P&H motorcycles!) and really enjoyed the engine. The position was horrible on that variant of the bike, but the bike as whole...wow! I needed something with more faring for commuting, but for a fun bike I can't imagine it gets much better than this.
Your first review was a catalyst causing me to buy my Zrs over 3 years ago, since then I’ve put 62,000 km on it and still love it every time I ride it.
Cool!
Have a Z900RS is my garage for two months now. Best bike ever owned! Great review!
Hi Andy. Looks like, as of a couple of days ago, they're back in full production of the Z900RS SE version. They're taking pr-orders now, for delivery end of September in UK. Price has crept upto £13k though. It's not a green version, though that was the regular model, it's the metallic black and yellow "Yellowball" paint scheme from the old z1. Also, looks like you had the scooped out lowered seat option Mate.
I really hope September is realistic, however, I'm aware that many 2012 orders are yet to be delivered, so they will obviously prioritise those customers. My local Kawasaki dealer has advised (read...warned) me that it could be 2nd quarter 2023 before I get my hands on one.
@@nickthurston2299 yes I've been told pretty much that as well, bikes have come into stock for the 2022 pre-orders as of this week so it may well be 2023 but then again that would work for me as September/ October bikes get less ridden as head into autumn.
Yes, I was about to point out the low seat.
I lowered the front suspension hardened back sospensione thhe bike responds better. I would improve the gearbox
I wonder if the SE version is only available in black and yellow to steal a few sales away from Honda with their Hornet 750 model coming soon. I know that just because it's called "Hornet" doesn't mean it'll be available in black and yellow, but it would be a little odd not to offer this colour option.
The best modern retro style bike i have ever had. Awesome 4 cylinder engine and a brilliant all rounder. I binned the Dunlops it came with (19 plate) after 700 miles and put Road Pilot 5's on, what a difference they made to the handling.
Always bin the dunlops, unless you never ride in the rain or like to spice up your wet weather riding.
Did the same & totally agree! Transforms the ride & handling! 👍
What is point of a retro bike? For me it is bringing back memories of 'my' youth. Like the Raleigh Chopper I never got because my dad couldn't afford one, or the Kawasaki 900 Z1 other lads had, who were a bit older and had more money at the time, that 'I' lusted over in my youth. I am 64 and the Kawasaki 900 Z1 was part of my nostalgia of a time I can remember. Retro bikes like from Royal Enfield, Triumph, Norton etc. were all bikes that were before my time and I am getting on a bit, so to speak and are not in the realm of 'my' experience. That is why, this time, I have put a deposit down on a new Z900RSSE in yellow ball as my retro bike, to complement my Honda sports bike. It is getting the kawasaki rad silver grill cover and the grab bars as well to add to it's look. I have even managed to get a reg plate with K900 following with my initials for it, can't wait.
I have the 2021 and I absolutely love it. It does everything, I have toured on it, can scratch it on a Sunday with the lads on their Bandits and can commute year round. The fun zone is 6-8.5k revs where it will scream like any other il-4, you don't appear to want to explore that on your video or maybe you edit it in order to keep your licence. It's a keeper, so much so it has a private reg plate which is the first in over 30 years of road bikes.
He's a tad timid.
@@TK-cl1jm When the camera is off, the fun starts.
TMF is not exactly a sportive rider. Rarely goes past 5k RPM on his rides, which is unfortunate.
@@sv650nyc7 To be fair, if I was filming for YT and had 232,000 subscribers, I don't think I'd use all the performance until the incriminating camera was switched off. Andy's not daft!
I've had my candytone blue one for about 4 months now and I absolutely love it. I was comparing it with the speed twin before buying and this one just put a bigger grin on my face. It still does. Definitely a keeper. 👌🏼
Cool…
A wonderful machine. How long can you resist on the seat?
1200 twin vs 948 in-line 4...
How different is the experience in reality?
I'm genuinely torn between the 2 bikes. Something swaying me towards the twin is that TTS performance offer a supercharger kit for it. A bit expensive but not ridiculous. It's nice and neat too. Makes me wonder why Kawasaki opted for a steel trellis frame for their H2 models!? The supercharger kit for a Fireblade or Hayabusa don't require a new frame.
@@RRRRefuelRideRace the firm (but wide) seat is actually not that bad on long rides.
Did a few 500-700 km stints, my backside rather liked it better than a cozy GW sofa 😊
@@kwakithailand This is impressive if it is so. :) Thanks for sharing it. You can check my content if you feel so.
Its not very often a stock bike looks great straight out of the crate, but the 900Rs really does! I always have to personalise my bikes, and tinker, but theres not much i would change on this. Sounds glorious too. 👌
Yes agreed all round!
i have one for a year now and the sound is perfect for me. the bike still grows on me, i like it more and more.
Good morning England 🏴 👋👋👋 from Canada 🇨🇦
Good Morning Canada from a very tired England! 🍁❤️
Good morning! Are you on a late Friday night or very early Saturday morning?
Good evening Canada from New Zealand
@@FrankFurther good morning to you all in Canada 🍁 from a very hot south coast of England 🏴
Good morning Canada 🍁 from a vert hot south coast of England 🏴
It’s my favourite motorcycle that pushed me to go and get my motorcycle licence done. I will start my riding with CRF300L Rally and learn to ride but later on I have to have the Z900RS. It’s just perfect. Never ridden it but been to the shop and sat on it at least 10 times 😂
Hi Andy, I have owned one for two years now and absolutely love it and would recommend one to anyone. Go on treat yourself.
Ist ride on a kawi 900 “as we called them in Australia” was in 1979, I owned a Yamaha rd350 2stroke at that time and friend said let’s go for a ride. He was on the kwaka. He offered me a ride so we swapped and remembering at that time they were the most powerful bike around. I must say I can clearly remember how top heavy it felt and really nerve wracking leaning into corners. Really handled poorly. I’ve never stopped riding and at 65yrs old it’s amazing how far bikes have come. This retro new version is an absolute pleasure to ride 🎉
Yes it is very easy and forgiving to ride, nothing difficult or scary about it.....
Owned a Z900RS for 18mths. Loved the hooligan nature of it, although the 1st gear was very short. Often set off in 2nd to get a less jerky, chilled start (however, not able to engage 2nd from neutral when stationary). Many forums suggest changing the front cog for one with an extra tooth.
Recently tried to buy another Z900, but they had gone up so much I bought a 2nd hand Thruxton instead - must say I prefer the more laid back delivery & twin torque (must be getting old).
My first road bike was the Z1R. Such a great engine and gearbox. Toured all over on it; commuted on it, the thing pulled like a train, massively reliable and handled surprisingly well with decent tyres on it. A straight-4 would be a good variation to your garage……there’s too many twins in it! Have a good weekend Andy!
straights are getting rare this days...its rainbows fault!
Spot on Steve. Just added another comment along the same line....
Hi Andy.
Just to let you know that the bike you are riding has the lowered seat option, rear grab rail and centre stand. I know this as it’s my demo from the Leicester branch of Wheels Motorcycles.
You are welcome and thanks for the great review. Darren.
Cheers Darren!
I fell in love with these the day I saw them, being relative inexperienced rider I bought a Z650 RS to gain more experience. However I PX’d that a few weeks ago for the 900 . It was your reviews that influenced me to make the decision . Not rode it yet but I can’t wait. I might see you around as live fairly close to you.
I'll keep a look out for you Greg, looking forward to getting back on mine....
I remember your review from 2018, I’d already bought my “Jaffa” and I made a comment. Still got the bike and still love it. It looks like the 2022 model has got rid of the bad throttle snatch on the earlier bikes as you don’t mention it. An ECU flash totally fixed mine. As you say, the candy tone colours are better even though they cost more. If you buy one, I’d get the Kawasaki genuine heated grips, centre stand, radiator guard and rear grab rail to make it the perfect bike.
Thanks for the tips!
Kawasaki have done a tremendous job on the RS and RS-SE ,they've really captured the essence of the Z1 and made it more powerful and lighter than the original.
Up until this morning, I was 100% set on the Triumph Speed Twin 1200, but the more I see the z900, especially the Café, the more I feel the Mad Max vibe that I've always craved. After 40 years of Harleys, I'm so done, it's not funny.
I recently bought the 50th anniversary version of the Z900 RS and I absolutely love it. A bit like you I have quite a few bikes including a beloved GS, but I have to say the RS is the most fun bike I’ve had in long time. I can’t believe it’s over 200KG it certainly doesn’t feel like it.
Agreed - actually feels like a light bike….
Your productions are second to none. In fact, partly on the strength of your views, I have just purchased a Z900RS. Thank you...
Congratulations on the new bike! Awesome machine….and thanks for the kind words!
Yes I would live to have one in the garage. The original orange ish color so close to the Z1 original. I was in that generation. Several buds had one and we terrorized San Diego winding these things up on the southern Ca roads In 1976.
These RS’s are a lovely all round retro bike. I absolutely love mine. So much you can do to personalise to your own taste. Just go get one. You’ll definitely not regret it. All the things you say in your review are spot on. Well worth the money. Oh! The yellowball SE version that came into the country last year is coming back again this year, a shame really because those that bought one bought one for there exclusively. Kawasaki knows they will sell like hot cakes.
It does wonders for nostalgia. I had a 70s Z1 in the eighties.
They've done a great job on the looks . I just wish it had twin shocks to complete the package . But overall it's a great modern take on a classic .
Peace and love brother ✌️ 💚
I agree completely. I do love mine, but would vastly prefer dual shocks.
Great review, had mine 18 months now. Had it decated using the stock silencer & a re flash. Amazing difference, gets rid of that annoying snatch which is the bike completely shutting off fuel on a closed throttle. A must do for any owner
same things I did and approaching 9k miles it gets better very day. Truly a daily commuter, longer distance tourer and hooligans' bike all in one!!!!
Having seriously considered this bike, I bought a BMW R9T in January 2019, but had to part with it the following October due to being made redundant. However, I was able to buy another bike last year and this time I went for a Z900RS Cafe. Both really great bikes, but the Kawasaki is so much more comfortable and easier to get the best from it imho. I also think it’s better looking in Cafe trim and now I have done the O2 sensor delete, the well known on off throttle problem has greatly improved and I love it to bits. I test rode a speed twin having seen yours Andy, again lovely bike, but the Kawasaki shades it for me. Keep up the good work!
Excellent review , I had a test ride a on a Z900RS a couple of months ago and loved it ,you hit the nail on the head with your comments, its looks and sounds awesome , it isn't loaded with crazy electronics and rides beautifully , I decided I wanted a 22 model year SE version however as you pointed out they are all sold out which was a shame, I did read recently that a new SE version is on the cards in 2023 , if that is indeed true then I will getting my wallet out next spring.
Had one at age 17 in 1977..... brown with orange stripes, with 2 into 2 Jardini headers that ran down each side..... and it sounded really good. We all knew it was a bad assed bike back then.
I like the new one but bought a 2019 CB1000R instead. I just love the look, electronics, single sided swing arm, brakes, suspension, and LED lighting. I also own a 2015 VFR800DLX.
I think Kawasaki did a nice job on this bike. As a former owner of the original they pretty much nailed it with the modern tech.
Cheers from Lynden, WA. USA
I’ve had the little brother (I say brother as the kids have named him Kevin) the Z650RS for a month now and it’s a cracking bike for a mid size twin. So much fun and the dials etc are the same. The 900RS may be on the list to upgrade in a few years time. Thanks for the review.
Have a '22 Z900 and '22 Z900RS.candytone blue. Both excellent machines. Tons of torque, Go into a 15 mph corner and motor out in 4th. Both different, yet both have wonderful similarities. Definitely wouldn't trade the RS for a Speed Twin. They say 4 bangers don't have character. Come on. The guy saying it may not. But these beauties surely do.
A bit late to chime in and comment on this video but here goes anyway. I used to own a 2021 Z900RS in Candytone Green, wonderful machine, but then, for one reason or another, I decided I couldn't really get used to the character of that 4-cylinder engine, having ridden only 2-cylinder bikes before (Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and Suzuki V-Strom 650) and replaced the RS with a KTM Superduke GT. Love it to bits, it's an amazing machine, bags of power and torque, and a very smooth ride. And still, I find myself missing the Z900RS. I was at my dealership recently (KTM, Kawasaki and Ducati) and he had a new 2023 Z900RS in the showroom with a colour scheme to die for (Metallic Diablo Black/Imperial Red) and I fell in love all over again. My heart skipped a beat but then my head kicked in... I admit, even though it has a completely different character and I prefer 2-cylinder bikes, I actually really miss not having that RS anymore.
Nevertheless, I have a problem now. I briefly thought about selling the GT and getting back that RS but I would most likely find myself regretting that and start missing the GT again after some time, because I really enjoy every minute of riding it. I could just keep the KTM and buy the RS anyway but then again, I hardly have the time to ride the one bike regularly, let alone two.
Sigh... Maybe it's the first sign of sunny days that's playing with my head, or it's that midlife crisis that just won't go away 😉
What would you do ? Simply buying the RS as well would solve my 'dilemma' but on the other hand, I'd have to divide the little time I have between two bikes. I've had the Superduke GT since November 2021 and it's only has 1650 km (1025 miles if my math is correct) on the clock. Would be nice to look at the two bikes in my garage, but at the same time heartbreaking knowing they suffer technically from not being ridden often enough.
First world problems, I know. But you already have a rather substantial collection of bikes. How do you divide your time and attention between the different machines ? Or is that a question that's impossible to answer? 😊
You are right - it os very difficult! A good problem to have though!
A teacher at my primary school had an original Z900 parked at school every day.
This is what a saw and envied and inspired my love for bikes.
The Ducati Darmah down the road too.
I just picked up a new candytone blue one here in the States a couple of weeks ago and could not be happier. The power is perfect for the road, the sound is awesome and the paint is incredible. There are about three different shades of blue in the paint depending on what type of light is hitting it. The only problem I can find with the bike (other than the big indicators and a helmet lock they put on the US version that prevents mounting of some of the available luggage systems) is I'm often wasting time staring at it rather than riding it!
Welcome to my world!
Took me 3 goes but I managed to pause the video and read the disclaimer. Made me smile. Keep making your videos and fly and ride safe.
Well done!
Hi yer thanks for another great review, my wife put a deposit on the se model last September, and kawasaki have just told me that it will be arriving either late autumn or early next year!!!! Can't wait, roll on the winner
So not much hope for us poor souls who are just putting deposit's on for the 2023 model. Shame, hopefully they will crack on with the production now the supply issue is resolved.
My most favorite bike of all! My first bike I ever rode on was a 1970s something original z900! It kicked the brains out the back of my head as it was so fast! That bike got me into riding. The new SE version will be my next purchase next year! I'm 61 now and will finally own one. I wish I could get one in the dark green and yellow they had back then. About 10 more loan payments left on my current bike and I'll buy one new.
Nice one - since this video I bought myself a new SE in yellow and black….lovely bike!
I bought a 2021 Z900RS based in part on its appearance in your top 5 bike list. 10,400 miles later, I'm still thrilled and delighted. For me, I do not believe there is a better bike at any price.
It is a great bike isn’t it - I need to make room for one!
We have the same taste in bikes, Andy. I have an RE650 Interceptor, Z900RS, VFR800fi & Yamaha FJR1300.
Great to see you revisit this amazing machine!
PS. There is another batch of SE models going to the UK in 2023...
You are obviously a sensible person who believes the correct number of motorcycles is n+1.
So I hear!
Hi Andy.
Great review as always. I truly believe that the this and the 650 version is easily in the top 3 best looking retro bikes and possible top 10 of any bikes. Stunning fit and finish
I'm also surprised they didn't put the famous 1043cc in this and call it a z1. Would of been some machine.
Yep, the new Z1000 engine would be a good fit, indeed, mate 👍
However, wasn't the original Z1 a 900something engine, though ?
The Z900rs is an eye-catcher from the day it came out. Wonderful bike. Keep up.
Gorgeous bike for sure! I had a Z1000 years ago and I still miss it. The only thing about this bike is the radiator. It seems Kawasaki could have streamlined it and painted it black or something to make it look better. Best!
The se version has the rad all blacked out and it looks better. You do not notice it as much.
Kawasaki did a good job on this bike. By far the best looking of all the retros. Certainty much better than the horrible Katana offering from Suzuki
Very true!
Before selling my 2014 Mt09 I was looking at your old reviews on the Z900rs and the Speed twin and both on them were on top of my list but when I saw the 22 Z900rs café at the dealership I bought it immediately and I don’t regret it at all…on day I’ll buy the speed twin and have both 😁
Glad you’re making back reviews on it most the motorcycle journalists don’t reviewed them even the new models. They’re too focus on hyper sport, ADV and naked and bikes we can barely afford lol.
@@jimblackwell9913 well it’s different the Mt09 has more grunt cause it’s lighter and more agile and the CP3 engine is very good the Z900rs is not slow, it’s smoother so you’ll not feel the punch like the Mt09 that wants to wheelie all the time but the Z is not slow you still can do 0 to 60 in 3.5 s like the Mt.
You should test ride one for me the bike is very good and feel like how motorcycle should be: simple, fast, sporty and beautiful to look at…😁
I have my 2020 model repainted in the original red/tan scheme and have put on 4into4 delkevic exhausts (needed a custom remap after) and the original style indicators. Everywhere I stop it gets attraction particularity from those who remember the original. It certainly has fooled a few.
Have a pearl blue z900rs which I really love the finish off. Frame and swing arm are clear coated. 👌 . Superb paint work. Attracts a lot of attention when parked .
When I see this bike I remember my gpz900r ninja that i bought in 1991 ...my first "big bike" it was a wonderful machine...
Great review! I bought a Candy Blue one in April. Not often I keep a bike for long, but this one is not going anywhere - ever! Absolutely love it. Best bike of the 44 I’ve owned since I was 16! (63 now.) 😁👍 No jerky throttle for you then Andy? A common moan but I've mastered it!
Wow 44 bikes! That’s some recommendation then JLO! I saw the SE in my local dealer (a sold bike unfortunately) and it’s a real looker.
@@alanbarnes2920 Yep. It's taken me 47 years to find my perfect bike. 🙄🤣 It rides like no other and has a certain something I just can't put into words. Some moan about jerky throttle, but it's just a matter of concentration to keep it smooth - which is no bad thing.
I’m similar age to you..started on FS1E, then to Kwaks..KH250 then Z650..then to Hondas…ending on a Blackbird before a long gap back to Kwak..Versys 650 ..really tempted by this Z900 though..
@@alanbarnes2920 Yes I was a fizzie 16 year old as well!
@@alanbarnes2920 as someone whom has owned a couple of kawi's 650s and now a proud owner of a z900(regular not the rs), all I can say is go for it. The z900 is a big step up in just about every way from the 650s. You won't regret it.
Get your order in for the 2023 in black and gold your favourite colour scheme if I do recall Andy! 👍
Hiya, I recently bought a pre loved 2020 Z900RS cafe racer in Kawasaki racing green with 4k miles on the clock! It is a fantastic ride & seems to get better every time I take it out! Very smooth engine with plenty of torque & more power than you’ll ever need on public roads! One thing I’ve done since buying it is put new Michelin Pilot Road 5 tyres on front & back to replace the original Dunlops that had squared off with wear! Simple, wow & has transformed the great ride to an awesome one! Highly recommended replacement rubber to a great machine! And get a radiator guard too!
Glad you like it!
I had been lusting after one of these since the early reviews, including yours. Finally traded in my FJ09 on an ‘18about a month ago, and fell in love. If I only have 1 bike, this is the one for me. 2k miles and absolutely love it still. As a side note, you mention the seat being bit hard, I noticed it looks like the factory low seat. Mine initially came with that and I had the same thought, as well as thinking the bike felt low… fortunately the previous owner had left the standard seat as well, about 35 mm higher… and softer. Perfect. As always love the reviews and keep up the stellar work!
Thank you Erik - will do!
Personally I think a coffin style brake reservoir would have looked much nicer, that thing they put on there looks really odd jutting out the front of the bike! and I wish they could have made the front radiator a bit smaller, you can see the cap from a seated position! bloody awesome bike though all the same 😁
Agreed!
It’s pai full on the eyes that break reservoir. I replaced it with one from Rizoma
Absolute winner in my book.Thanks.
The z900rs was a bullseye for Kawasaki.Haven't ridden one yet,but I'm more than confident I'll be trading for one.Beautiful bike in every way.I'm sure your loving yours.Thanks Andy.👍👍
I just got the SE in Canada about a month ago. the SE, has electronic throttle valves which make rolling onto the throttle from 0 much smoother (similar to what Yamaha has, dealer said). At least that's what the dealer told me when I asked why the SE had different throttle valves. The base and anniversary versions have standard dual throttle valves. Seems like a pretty important difference that is often missed on top of the brembos and ohlins. The jerky throttle when coming from off throttle is the biggest complaint for the z900rs online. Though I suspect that issue is also maybe people putting in the wrong fuel? Mine requires 90+ from factory.
Great video! Surprised I own one of these every time I go for a ride, one of my favourite bikes for sure.
Many reviews complain about the snatchy throttle on the Z900RS. Odd how TMF makes no comment other than it’s fine?
@@wakajawaka44 The original release of the Z900RS had a snatchy throttle. In 2019+ I believe they changed the fueling which fixed most of the snatchyness that a lot of reviewers felt on the earlier models.
@@ZroDemise would love if more reviewers highlighted this as this complaint is still present in some popular reviews from a few months ago. Love that they fixed it!
@@wakajawaka44 he also has a speed twin. He may be used to jerky bikes. I tested a speed twin and found it jerkier than my mt09.
@@ZroDemise no they haven't I've got a 2022 it's still there
Can I just say, the prettiest thumbnail you’ve ever shown! Some effort gone into that.
Thank you!
Yellowball all the way. Been watching these since they appeared. Great looks.
My pal has that exact bike & colour scheme, it’s such a great looking bike & I think Kawasaki have absolutely nailed it. I’ve just swapped my GSXR in for its twin the Z900 performance & happy to report after 400 mile in a week absolutely no shoulder ,knee & wrist pain ( must be getting old ) ha ha. Great review Andy 👍
In the same position as you. Have a speed twin. Had to originally choose between the twin and the z900. Chose the twin. Had the speed twin for 2 years now and have been thinking to trade in for a z900. Took a z900 out for a test ride and surprised myself in that I didn’t like it. The triumph has far more character. It’s much more fun to ride. So I walked away from the deal. Keeping the triumph. But still love the style on the z900.
Holy cow Jack. I made a very similar comment between the two rides back in 2019. Drove the two back to back one day, and to me, the Speed Twin just felt wayyyy better to ride as a whole. I enjoyed the looks of the Z900RS but the Speed Twin won me over. I still have it as well.
@@shaglioni Yeah I can see why you chose the twin. I had lusted after the z900rs since it came out, and was surprised by my reaction to it. I fully expected to love it. That's why we test ride though. lol
I took a test ride on the Z900rs and the Triumph 1200 speed twin. I was certain that the Speed Twin would take my money but I was disappointed by the ride by wire feel of the throttle on the Triumph. Ultimately I bought a mint condition used Z900rs and I'm quite happy with the purchase. The only changes I would make to the Kawasaki are better brake pads (HH sintered) and a softer seat. I really loved the look and finish on both the Triumph and Kawasaki. Ultimately I'm sure you can't go wrong either way. ( I do love the passenger accommodations on the Z900rs)
I so nearly bought one of these. My test ride took me on a road overlooking Botany Bay, against a blue sky watching the aircraft land at Kingsford Smith Airport. The Tracer just pipped it for practicality, that was not an easy decision. For sure it’s still a bike of interest, though wasted in the city. So many bikes!
I absolutely love the Z900RS one question I have is, you said the seat seems a little hard, to me it looks like it has the low seat option on it. Could be the camera but looks like it compared to others I've seen.
Definitely the low seat
I think so too
Yep it's definitely the lower seat version. I bought the lower seat as I have short legs, but am back using the normal seat now as it's more comfortable to sit on and looks better.
Great review. I'm a new rider and now that I've improved my riding skills, I've just put a deposit down on a Z900RS SE, due to be collected in March. Can't wait for it to arrive!
Excellent choice!
Your bike appears to have the lower “scooped”seat height option. The seat that comes standard in the U.S. is taller, and is all-day comfortable. And yes, this bike has a different engine tune vs the Z900: The Z900 has about 122 horsepower, and this Z900 RS has 111, making the low-end and mid-range stronger on the RS. Your Z900 RS paint scheme is the same one Jonathan Rea chose for his Z900RS, his first road bike (there is a RUclips video available from JR about the bike).
I’ve got 9 bikes in the garage, including a Ducati Streetfighter V4S, and a Yamaha MT10. Yet this bike is my favorite…the sound, the looks, the power, the all-day comfort. The admiring glances and questions at gas stations. You can’t go wrong TMF adding this bike to your collection. Maybe move the tread mill out of the garage, and you’ve got room!!
I second the low seat observation. There’s no way the standard seat would be considered hard.
Hi Andy. This was what i thought you had under the 'sheet' of your recent 'new-bike reveal' video. I was mistaken then but pleased to hear that this is still itching away as i recall you gushing about it when you tested it before. Thought then that it would make a nice '4-cyl' addition to your garage. Got me thinking too... Enjoy.
Nice review Andy, looking at your collection, personally I'd trade the Triumph in for the Kawasaki in a heartbeat. After all, you've got a parallel twin in the Enfield.
Listening to your review, I think you've come to the same conclusion??😁😁
Hi I have a new z900rs and changed the tyres straight away for Michelin road 6 makes it even better also I have the low seat aswell which is what you had on your review I put the standard seat on for long journeys its more comfortable mine is Candytone blue
A real treat to get a second review on the bike that secured my return to biking. My thanks to you and LCR for tempting me back. Finally I opted for the Ninja 1000sx,as it covers more options for me but I would still buy this as a second bike if I could really justify it. Thanks once again.
"the done that got away" - for me it was the blue Kawasaki Z650, spoke wheels. I opted for a black Honda CB750F2 with alloy wheels and although it was reliable it never had the character associated with the Kawasakis back in the late 70's.
Andy they are such a great looking bike for a retro i have always fancied one myself . i remember the original ones when i was growing up kawasaki have done a great job with the 900 RS but i think they have dropped a bollock with the 650RSthat should have been a four pot engine not a twin liked your review .you never know one day i might have one 57 now but never too old to enjoy biking 👍
Nearly bought one just before I got my Interceptor 650. Lovely bike. Thankfully my garage is full or otherwise....
17.10 Pink & Lily pub. Great name.
I very nearly bought the RS, but went with ST12, just recently....Very different bikes in character!!! I can understand the your attraction to both.
I had a Z1 back in the day and the looks of the 2022 Z900, is probably, one of the best retro styled bikes, up there with my ST12. Fabulous fit and finish on both bikes, colour choice goes to Kawasaki
Stay safe and well.
I sold my my19 Z900rs cafe end of last year , and kind of now regret it , what a great bike !!!!! only upside, I sold it for what I paid after 5000k on it ... they really hold there value here , That new blue / gold paint has me tempted though , how beautiful is it a real head turner !!
Love the follow up! Just rode one for the first time and am in love. Appreciate the detailed reviews, I watched both.
Ended up with the 50th Anniversary model, have had it nearly 2 months. Definitely go for the SE!
the looks and the sound... it definitely has that classic, glorious, kawasaki sound. i've always been a honda man, but had kawasaki z11 engines in my race cars back in the day, dwarf cars like a legend but way faster with sport bike 1100 engines vs 1200 air cooled cruiser, cooler and no fenders. and those engines just never let me down. even ran over half a season with all 4 cylinders cracked and leaking water. just changed the oil every race after it got good and milky, but turned out they'd given me an older used engine when it was suposed to be brand new. always wanted a kawasaki, had tons of honda dirtbikes and quads over the years, and one or two yamahas, really don't care for them... and a suzuki that i also didn't care for. now i'm wanting a liter, or close to it, naked sporty bike. looking at these or a honda cb1000 or 900. these are just so damn cool, and i love the analog gauges. that seat, and everything really is just like the old z1 and just absolutely awesome. that was before my time, but always loved the cb750 and kawasakis from the 70s and 80s.
Thinking right now in the Spring to sell my HD Street Bob and go with this (had a KZ750 LTD for years) or ironically a Speed Twin 1200. I think I need to ride both. Thank you! 🙂
When you are talking colour schemes you are definitely in love, great bike and review, thanks Andy 🌟👍
Lovely looking bike, my one concern would be some kid pinching the radiator cap.
I sold a Z900RS for my R18. Big regrets (read my other comment on your R18 review). It’s a fabulous bike. Feels really sporty and quick, comfortable and in my ownership I had zero issues or mechanical problems. The only thing really annoying about the Z900RS for me would be that radiator. I’m he bars and paint and everything looks lovely, but from the seat you can see that god awful radiator cap. Much prefer Triumph solution to the radiator. But it’s still a fabulous machine.
Lovely bike but the edges on the radiator would look better if they were black. The silver edges highlight it’s presence. Not a deal breaker, I still want one.
Hi thanks for all your reviews amd the channel. I own a z900RS cafe and love it now. The little screen does help a lot if you need the motorway now and again. The other thing that transforms the bike is ditching the stock tires. Also need to re map it because of the registrations it’s way to lean. Gets rid of the snatchy throttle at low revs. It comes out the box way to soft on the front. Deffinatly buy the akro package keep up the good work.
If you want a smooth easy to ride not full on large capacity retro this is it. That engine turbine effect is addictive. Lurrrvly
Great to see you review this bike and your enthusiasm for it shines through, it is such a gorgeous motorcycle because I am like you in the respect that I have got to like the looks of the bike. I would never tire looking at those chrome handle bars and dials. Unfortunately, I already had my fingers burnt from the local dealer and will never give them another penny so maybe one day a second hand one maybe the way to go.
I have to agree Andy that is a great looking and sounding bike . As a side note hear more of the exhaust on acceleration which is nice but the narrations are clear 👍
So good am on my second one (due to a car running the back of my first one). A few minutes with rattle can blacking out the rad trims works wonders. As for the weight that's only 2kgs more than the new bsa 650.
Good point!
Garage space and funds always seem to hamper our dreams. Proper scenery always enhances how I feel on a bike. 👍👍🏍🏍🏍🙋♂️
hi Andy, great bike 👍😉....z900 one of my personal favourite bikes... if I didn't have my disability would love one. Hope you get to love this over your time testing it. Have fun 👋
I love this bike, inline-four engine, color schemes, looks, quality, brand, chrome parts... my only complain is pricing: three grand more than a Z900 is too much. Enjoy!
Great video, got myself a new SE model last week, Kawasaki have released limited numbers again for this year 👍🏍.
Nice! Congratulations on your new bike!
Not that I'm in the market to buy a motorbike, but having owned a Z9 in the late 1970's, I find the front half of this new model excellent, until one gets to the seat. It's too high, sticks too far up in the air, obviously to appease the modern trend for bike-ugliness, and is simply too small, if you want a pillion passenger.
The original Kawasaki 900s had a big, comfortable seat, on the same level for rider and pillion, and it was also big enough to strap some luggage onto.
The Kawasaki 900 was a great all-rounder, easy around the city, effortless and comfortable if you had a passenger, and ideally suited for long-distance rides.
Mine also had a small fairing, which also made things more comfortable.
Bike constructors these days tend to forget about practicalities. The bikes are too specialized for a particular market, and lack the versatility they once had.
The RS SE would fit in retro wise in my garage with my Thruxton R and BMW R9T. Slightly different riding positions and riding experience while maintaining the styling I prefer.
It’s a lovely looking bike with some really nice touches. Same motor (more or less) as the Z900, Z1000, Z1000SX, Versys etc but it was a great motor originally found in the ZX9R
That appears to be the "low" seat. The standard seat may be much more comfortable. That is actually the least padded of the 3 seats that will fit this bike. The Cafe seat is a bit taller and the standard seat is taller and more padded yet.
I finally mastered my "pausing" skill 😆.
Thank you for your vids, I really enjoy them.
Cheers!
Thank you for watching!
I rode one earlier in the year, and although looks wise it’s gorgeous, I found the fuelling a bit on off and the suspension like a pogo stick on bumpy roads. These things would be easily sorted, but for me I prefer the twin cylinder of the Speed.
Fair enough!
You should tell someone to have that bike looked over by a mechanic. Mine handles better than my Honda CB750F and the fueling is perfect.
6 time world superbike champion johnathan rea bought one of these, he has a video on RUclips. Only did his test last year or maybe 2020. Friend of mine has one and love it. I think kawasaki have really got it right with this bike just like triumph.
Hey Andy, So enjoy your perspective. One thing that really bothered me was the view from the ssddle where I kept seeing the cap for the radiator. Sort of ruins the feel of a retro, Too bad they couldn’t relocate it to an unseen place.