Ride Review: Kawasaki Z900RS
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- Опубліковано 1 жов 2024
- The Blue Marble Rider Rides and Reviews the Kawasaki Z900RS. Is it all it's cracked up to be? How does it compare with the Yamaha XSR900 or Husqvarna's Vitpilen? Grab a brew and go back to the future with this retro UJB bike review.
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Whether riding enduro or street, The Blue Marble Rider will regularly bring you more than just the cliched “What’s up?” By taking you on a journey, reviewing a product, bike, or even a movie, I’ll try to combine my wit with my enjoyment of photography to bring you a high quality product that I hope conveys the essence of riding with some nuggets of humour, new experiences and, at times, maybe, a hard-learned pearl of wisdom. I ask nothing of you, but the chance to share experiences. Thanks for reading. Please subscribe, share, like and chuckle where appropriate.
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My first bike and I mean the first motorcycle I ever road and owned was a KZ 900 Kawi back in 1976 yes I bought the baddest motorcycle at the time I practiced in the parking lot and drove it to work that night at Coors brewery got blasted at the bar after work drove home (repeat). never dumped her ever and I used to race her on the weekends at the 1/4 mile track I will never love a bike like that again.
Great job on the video. I purchased the 2022 z900rs in the candy blue on new years eve. Two weeks later it's snowing so I'm left watching videos and dreaming. I'm 56 and grew up riding all the old bikes from the 70's. I raced motocross through the 80's and cherished both my Yz's and my Kx's. I'm not a harley fan. Love all bikes but never been interested in owning a twin. The Kawasaki Eliminator was my favorite cruiser but it was a twin. Now finally these new bikes from Kawasaki have breathed new life into my love for riding. About 4 weeks until riding weather. Until then I'm going to make a couple of cosmetic changes. The front fender bracket is an easy swap with the cafe version and it's black. Radiator side covers as well. The brushed aluminum just doesn't go well with beautiful gold stripe on the candy blue tank. Happy cycling everyone. Be safe and go slow. 😜
The 4 into 1 exhaust system was about the most common modification on those 4 cylinder super bikes back in the 70's, I was there.
Just bought mine today..pick it up Thursday after the new yr. I too rode a early Z with 4 into 1’s. At 61 yrs old I feel like time has turned back for me. Last new bike I bought was the ZRX 1200R in 2001....still have it. Life is good.
I concur with that statement
This is one of the most honest and comprehensive reviews I have seen on this motorcycle. A lot of reviewers and like oh it's not as fast as such and such or it's not as good on the track as so and so. Man, you did a great review and said exactly why this is an amazing bike. I demoed so many bikes recently and this Z900RS was the most fun to me. Beautiful connected feeling to the bike. Tight, instant response from everything. It just has "the right stuff" to put a huge smile on my face. I wish I could buy one!!!! By the way, you mentioned the XSR. I hated the XSR. It was so clunky and twitchy and didn't feel like one peice of machinery. However, the Tracer 900 GT did put a smile on my face. Another fantastic engine in that bike.
Thanks for the feed back, sir. Haven't ridden a tracer, but will be in about a month or so for a few days - based on what you said, I'm looking forward to it.Cheers.
Ive had my 2018 in root beer for almost exactly two years now - I still LOVE it! Its been reliable as hell and never fails to excite!
I am getting my Z900RS Cafe delivered tomorrow morning. My test ride was enlightening to say the least. What a lovely, lovely little beauty this bike is. I fell in love with it after the third gear change! A nailed-on future classic inspired by a historic classic!
Your review is exactly spot on. I just bought this bike in green and yellow, a 2020 model. I agree with the fuel gauge and the temperature gauge.
I just have 250 miles on her, but every time I ride it I love it more. I have a 2018 Road Glide Special, and this bike is more fun to ride. I am so happy that I pulled the trigger on this machine
90percent of the people who reviewed this bike..they all liked it.
...and once you ride it, it's hard not to like - I tried.
Khris Giunto What the fucks wrong with the 10% who didn’t like it . God it’s stunning .
@@jamesbatten6609 Later... less than 1.6% disliked.
@@jamesbatten6609 MFP. Miserable Fng People. Critical dickwads who have never designed/built anything of note in their lives. Actual designers/engineers/builders never cop that attitude because they know how challenging is it.
watching it in 2020, may be 90% of those who are binge watching z900 also want it. looks and sounds awesome
I have this bike...I love it and think this review is one of the best one out there! I will say the rear brake isn't great and does feel "wooden". Also I changed the front sprocket to a taller 16 tooth which really made the bike more versatile and pull like a freight train! Its not a perfect bike but I LOVE it and well worth the $11k or so!
@Consensus Consensus Start going harder than you should and it will, at some unpredictable and random moment, wobble, shimmy and scare the heck out of you... for a sec; then all the extra "holly crap!! Gonna die!!" fluids your body made, will kick in and you'll be walking/riding with an imbecile's smile for the week. Not sure that's a problem, though
@@joselillo1754 My 1975 Z!B did the same thing, at about 85mph the frame would throw you into a wicked shake if you were leaning into a curve, they fixed that the next year and a lot of riders complained, go figure.
Does changing the front sprocket change the speedometer?
@@joselillo1754 This sounds like a death trap. Can you please expand? What kind of road surface? How many miles on the bike? Stock tires? Was the front tire heavily worn from excessive braking? I know tires wear out pretty fast on motorcycles, and the tires can cause a wobble.
@@Ritalie Thats a good question. Sorry I don't know for sure but if it does change its so minimal Ive never noticed.
I'm looking at a new 2018 model at my local dealer for nearly 30% off MSRP.........At that price I believe a Z900RS may soon be gracing MY buttocks!, and I don't even need another bike!
Excellent review I have this bike I love.Thank you .👍👍😊🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
🏍
Yes. loved the bike, despite trying to love the XSR more...couldn't do it. I did shoot another vid with the Z900RS before returning the bike in the late fall early winter...out next week sometime. Thanks for the feedback. I have finally purchased another bike, although the weather here is making it very hard to shoot a reveal...Spring time - if it ever arrives - I hope!
BlueMarbleRider Hello BMR,
Can we please have a look of that “another video of Z900rs before returning it”?
I can’t wait.
Thanks :)
I’ve had one since March, the “Jaffa” which you apparently dislike! The Jaffa is the only RS available in Australia (apart from the Cafe of course), because Kawasaki Australia correctly read what we want. The throttle: the earlier ones like mine definitely was “twitchy”, however the Booster Plug I bought from the manufacturer in Denmark has fixed that and it’s now perfect.
The RS in Australia is close to $18,000 on the road, the $AUD is about the same as the $CDN, so....
You’re right about how hard it is to keep the bike in check, I just want to wrap it on all the time and I need my license. I just love the bike all round and I’m so glad I bought it. I’ve got a Harley I’ve owned for over 20 years and the Kawasaki makes it look like a tractor, in fact I hardly ever ride the HD now, poor thing just sits in the shed except for the occasional blast.
Jaffa is growing on me :-) I struck out twice with you, once with the jaffa jibe and once with my HD jibe. Great bike though (the RS) - enjoy your ride (s)....
Yes sir I've got a '18 Fat Boy 114 and I like my RS enough to sell the Harley. I feel you get way more bike in the z900rs than the Harley.
No lie .... this is by far the best test ride Video I've ever seen ..... I've been laughing the whole time ..... I told my wife this guy is going to by this bike just watch ...... I told her F it I'm buying one as well 😂😂😂😂😂 you sold me Brother 🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
And I did! The bike sells itself...:-)
This bike will be gracing my buttocks this morning...I'm off out for a run around the Scottish Highlands.
I"m very envious - I hope you, your buttocks and your bike have splendid time carving that gorgeous scenery up. Cheers.
Excellent review, very informative.
shiiiiiiiittttttt....
this will be my dream bike....
the perfect style of a big bike I've been lookinh for a long time
Julimer Yecla Agree totally ,stunning bike ,got to have one , I think one of the best looking bikes on the market and what a sound. 😀🇬🇧🏍
Agree
CHiPs. All I’m hearing. Great review.
Love this bike, I have it too !!! But in orange and root beer. Rides awesome.
Mate, excellent review.... enjoyed it thoroughly. Just bought the bike this morning
Enjoy:)
I like mine, no regrets. It is always fun to ride, the traction cintrol and abs help on a rainy day. I would have liked some old school turn signals instead of the futuristis looking bug eyes on a retro bike.
"Motorcycle erotica...." HA! I get it. I saw one of these in the showroom the other day - indeed a sweet looking bike.
I saw some Renthal black handlebars for z900rs today.. just saying 👍 Givi makes a few things for touring comfort.. panniers and top case items. Windshield and the likes.
Yes, just picked up some black LSL bars...
End all be all...
26k miles of glorious on my 2018.
Yes, motorcycle erotica
I have been lusting for this beauty
Beautiful roads
👍
Friggin great review my friend. I'm considering buying this bike. You gave me very good information. Thank you!
I owned a 1973 Z1 900 (green like the color you like) that I bought from my father. Great bike with a Wind Jammer full fairing. But I never knew what handling was until I bought a FJ 1200 years later. But this RS...I hope I can buy one for my 70th birthday this year!
You'll find the handling much improved...
I was SET on getting the yamaha xsr 700 or 900. I went to several demo days only to ride them over... and over... and over. My mind was made up. Until randomly, the day before heading to my local dealership to buy one, I came across your video and instantly fell in love with the bike. I went to the dealership the next week and without riding one I bought the z900rs in black. The most influential reason for my decision was the look of the bike, the second most influential reason for my decision was your video. That was May of this year and 5000 miles later I have no regrets. Thanks from America!
Glad you're loving it! Thanks for the feedback.
This is the best review I’ve seen of the Z900RS! Very detailed. I ride a Kawasaki Versys 650, But I always loved the Z900RS since it came out. How do you think the bike is for longer rides? Let’s say daytrips of 300-500km? Cheers!
That might be pushing it - unless you got a screen on it. The bike is smooth and comfortable, and for scratching around back roads for a few hundred km, it would be fine. But for 100kmh+ and long distance highway miles, there are better choices out there. There are some great aftermarket accessories that might make the bike better suited to long distance (small headlight fairings, bags, tank bags and fender extensions...but they also change the spirit of the bike.) Still, lots of people take Thruxtons, Monsters etc. on long trips, so why not? Cheers and thanks for the comment.
I had a ZX-6R and the temp would be 165F and then at a stoplight, in heavy traffic, it would get up to 223 F and the fan would run on and off, constantly. It never overheated, it was just always like that. I guess they allow a wider variation in coolant temperature. It certainly never hurt the engine. As soon as you are actually driving the temp drops. It could be the location of the coolant sensor.
I’m in the middle of buying this bike.. I’m 6’4 though so I just don’t know even after sitting on the bike.. sucks because the black one is freaking sweet looking. Not much of a alien 👽 bike person ( street bikes)
Sammie’s World wonder if you can’t get a custom raised seat? Good luck and have fun.
BlueMarbleRider exactly I would already change exhaust got my eye on a couple but definitely would change seat height if I can..
Im 5ft 9in and i can reach the ground with my feet flat. It is a tall bike tho
Phil albion thanks !! I purchased the Z900RS about 2 weeks ago and love it !! I got just fine on it actually 🤷🏽♂️👍🏽
Glad you like it. I love it. Better than any plastic rocket. Its not all about speed. The rs is quick enough. How fast do you wanna go? :)
Hello my friend, great video! I m 1.88cm (6.1f) I think! 😂 . Is this great bike for my height? Thank you in advance
I'm the same height. Fits like a glove. Cheers.
Greetings from Germany in good old Europe! Thanx for this Review! Eventually I will buy a Z900RS or a Z900RS Cafe this year. Actual I drive Moto Guzzi V7II that I will not sell. The Z900RS is a perfect second Bike.
Really like the Guzzis, although very different feeling. They should compliment each other well.
Update: I baught a Honda CB1100RS. I will own my Guzzi further on 👍🏻
Jens Weyrich Great bike, Jens, enjoy. 👍
I really wanted to buy a sofia vergara but theres only one in the world and i couldnt afford it so i bought an rs900 instead. Think of the money i saved!! Hahaha
I think Sofia brings in money but there is only one... unless you get one of those Colombia Soccer Cheerleaders with the Coltish legs. LOL!
@@exexpat11 colombian cheerleaders... now theres a thought lol
only harleys were flying today...too funny!
fantastic review. erotic sensation. fruitful overture of gorgosity (sp). enjoyed the information, all relevant. enjoyed your honest opinion. sound from new camera is fine. thanks for the good wok
i owned the old z1e 900 man it was scarry if i booted it talk about frames with hinges be bordering on understated im sure these new ones are better behaved
Yes the new ones are on rails; I had several 70s Kawasakis KH triples and they were the same - flexi frame widow makers. Great engines though! Cheers.
I bought a Z-1B 1975and I sold it 2006 98% original (4 into one Hooker) and when I saw one of these last year it blew me away. I am huge fan of retro revivals where you get that sweet old bike , but with modern chassis engine, brakes and lights . I'm in heaven!
Really got a good sense of the bike from this review, delivered from Canada in a middle-class English accent. :) Just a point on equipment: you're right, GoPros do not do justice to perspective or audio fidelity. Both suffer from too much distortion. You're probably better off using your phone when walking around the bike.
Terrific review, not getting too bogged down in facts and figures but telling us about the riding experience and sensations,lovely stuff
This is the best review I have seen on this bike. You made me a subscriber. Your honest comments can be heard and shown on this video. I remember riding an old Honda nighthawk. It was a similar stylized bike. But not as good looking as this bike. I love those classic looks and style.
Kawasaki specifically tuned the bike to sound as great as it does. Great review!
Great review thanks for the effort
Brilliant looking retro beauty. Absolutely love the looks of this Zed 900 rs. Not liking the other naked bikes as they remind me of insects. Can’t beat the retro look if you’re into these bikes.
I was keen on this bike until I sat on it. Don't the rider foot pegs dig into your legs when you stop ? I absolutely hate this. I can't put my legs down in any comfortable position. It's the same on the BMW 9t. Bloody awful positioning.
bluesy1234 valuable feedback. Not sure of your inseam - would a lower saddle enable you to plant your feet further forward on bikes like this?
@@BlueMarbleRider My 30" inseam let's me flatfoot this bike, which is good. The pegs are right in line with my legs. I guess the pegs are behind your legs. A Triumph T120 for example has the pegs well in front of my legs, which is very comfortable.
Here I am watching what is basically a random review of a sweet bike, and then I notice you're riding on Cedar! Hello from up island!
Hi SuperDR: good to know there is a fellow islander watching. Cheers.
I think a 6 bar temperature gauge that has a meaningful full range with separate overheating indicator makes more sense than a 6 bar gauge that is only good in the middle. It's more something that one should get used to than let one get worried. Regarding the fuel gauges, I've yet to come across a bike where it makes sense. My little Honda's will start blinking and complaining when you have 1.2 gallon remaining in the tank.
You tube suddenly deemed fit to include your channel in my suggestions list. Subbed; excellent, comprehensive review
Are you a berg owner. That could be why;)
Awesome bike. Gotta relocate that sperm sample cup though. It’s an eye sore.
That’s a lot of sperm....
Not on the Café it looks better.
Great video...thanks for posting!! From the date of the post I assume it was a 2018 you were test riding but please confirm. I also suggest adding the model year to the video title so it's clear for your viewers.
As you say, it's a 2018, although there are no updates that I am aware of to the 2019. Good suggestion on the title. Cheers.
Enjoying my 2019. Still breaking it in, sweet ride, feels so smooth, and handles great. A head turner, definitely gets some stares.
Congrats, Mark. I'm just about to start adding some small custom changes to mine in the next couple of months. Stay tuned...
Enjoyed the video immensely. I need one of these bikes~~~~
Get it over 6k RPM and it sounds phenomenon :) EDIT: like at 12:35min *WORSHIP*
The only think that actually does annoy me quite a bit is the high RPM during warm-up phase (first few mins..)
Ya there's just something about those Kawi I-4's in sound and performance that's unique. Missing my old top-gun GPZ900...
Love the bike
Hate the rear fender
Great review, vinous bike
May you do some vids on night driving the z900rs please. Would like to see how good is its lighting, looking at things such as length of beam, width of beam and brightness of beam. Should a person add auxiliary lights to complement lighting.
Hi, Russel: I intend to do a long-term review of this bike on a future vid - spring/summer. I will cover that for sure. On picking up the loaner bike from the dealer for a ride prior to the filming of the initial review video, I rode home at night in a terrible wind/rainstorm. My impressions - for what they were while trying to stay alive in 40+mph side winds - were good. I live on an unlit country road, and if my memory serves me correctly, the light was more than adequate - but a more in-depth review will cover that detail for you later. Cheers.
Cool thanks. Look forward to the review
Have had mine since last May. Love everything about it, except the headlight. It's useless. Very dim. All the reviews claim it's great. I might have gotten a bad one. I avoided riding at night and will be replacing it before next riding season.
@@msbav8r I'm going to do a headlight check this spring. I'll get back to you via vid and let you know what it's like for me. Thanks for the comment.
@@BlueMarbleRider Wow, that would be cool thanks!
btw- I got the black model, too
I also think it's the best looking.
Great review I test rode one I'm 6.4 didn't feel cramped awesome power opened my eyes has I ride a triumph america
Hi...which comfortable seat position....RS or RS cafe (edition) ? Thank
The RS is more comfortable as it is more upright, but the RS Cafe isn't particularly uncomfortable for me. The RS cafe has lower bars - can't remember if the pegs are further back, so it is more of lean forward posture, but not as extreme as some. Good luck.
@@BlueMarbleRider thank you bro
Strongly disagree about throttle; it is less than smooth and IS rather snatchy or binary. While you may have had a different experience the throttle issue is well documented. Source: own bike in the “Jaffa” colour scheme you dislike. Beyond that, I enjoyed the review. Thanks.
Hi, Robert: thanks for the reply. I guess we'll have to disagree on the "binary" feel of the throttle. I certainly respect your perspective, I'm sure from your experience you're right. I have 3 bikes in my stable, all are fuel injected and the Z was much less "twitchy" than them. I believe the throttle is cabled; not electronic. I have had many carbed bikes in the past, and there's no doubt they're a more mellow twist than the fuel injected bikes, but compared to a modern MTO9.XSR900 or dirt bike, the Z is a kitten IMHO. As for the well documented throttle issue: I'd have to say it comes down to those who are used to more immediate feel of modern bikes as compared to the gentler nature of the throttle response on older carbed or more sedate touring bikes. Many of the buyers of the Z900RS will be middle-aged and less familiar with the modern sport bike throttle response. Cheers for the comment. And enjoy your bike: I am very envious.:-)
Thanks for your thoughtful and considered reply. It’s appreciated. The issue I’m familiar with is under constant discussion on message boards. A near general consensus is that the issue is related to E4 emission regulations. There are products designed for this issue such as the G2 Ergonomics “Throttle Tamer”. Others have suggested the Booster Plug has been helpful. Others still buy PowerCommanders and get the bike “tuned” on a dyno. The point being there is a body of people who find the problem does exist and are willing to use their hard-earned cash to address the issue.
What does seem to happen for the many is we quickly adjust our throttle and clutch actions to compensate; develop muscle memories for this bike. Our adaptations doesn’t mean there is not an issue.
I do not have a stable of bikes. I’m not that lucky. :( But the last two bikes were fuel injected and did not exhibit this issue. For disclosure one was a v-twin and the other a v-4.
Once again, with all of that said, I really did enjoy the review. Keep them coming 👍🏻 as I’ve subscribed!
@@robertcampbell5260 Cheers, Robert.
Not had this problem on mine. Seems to be variable.
You sure you can change the clocks from mph to kph ? They are analogue not digital.
Hi, Rich: I was wrong. The Kaw dealer led me to believe it was possible, but on review, I think he was talking about the digital read out. When picking up the bike, I had to wait for an hour or so, while he consulted another dealer to figure out how to change the digital distance/econ etc into kmh. I have never tried it, and don't know if it's possible without a dealer flash etc. Cheers.
Oh right. Thanks for reply. You can change the computer so the odometer, trip and fuel consumption computer will read in KM or M, imperial or metric values . The analogue dials are set of course, the UK model has MPH predominantly marked. One of the reasons I like the RS is the old style clocks. Good review!
Z9 and Tiggily Wiggily bits ,bliss,it’s gorgetastic mate,
Please do more reviews, it was very informative and very well done ,ride safe 😀🇬🇧🏍
I’m in Oz & one of my best mates wanted one of these since launch some 2 years ago. Well just over a week ago he picked his up! Root beer/orange!😍🤪🤣 Each to their own but it’s absolutely gorgeous! Worst part is here now we have winter so he’s salivating just looking at it in his shed. Another 4 weeks or so & it’s game on!!!😈🏍👍🏼😎 Very informative review!!!
Poor guy - look but don't touch is always hard! Thanks for the feed back. No doubt your mate will be seventh heaven soon enough. Cheers.
Enjoyed your review very well down, one question about your JACKET who makes it and is still available. I live in the USA. Thanks
Hi Peter: the jacket is over 15 years old: it’s made by Teknic. Can’t find the model and don’t know if they still make this exact one. Got it in California. Removable liner, fully vented and armoured (removable). It is very heavy, but makes you feel safe. Cheers.
Thanks for the reply, I’ll maybe look for one on eBay, & I am know a subscriber.
I enjoyed your review. I fit nicely on this bike at six foot. It did not feel top heavy on the showroom floor. I think this is a winner. I would put on a windscreen and some soft bags, call it a day.
I’ve ridden lots of bikes since and this one still haunts me.
I enjoyed every second of it
That bulbous gas tank though looks disproportionate for the overall size of the bike. Waiting for the new 2019-2020(?) Z400RS...
I guess it's a matter of perspective: the triumph tanks look too skinny to me. Look from the side and the Z900 tank looks perfect. Look from behind, and the shortening effect of perspective makes it looks huge. I hear that a Z650RS might be appearing soon...
Just found your channel, looking at the 900RS. You convinced me. Great, great video man.
Welcome aboard!
I bought the xsr 700 but regret every day not getting this bike 😫
Trade it....you can catch up.
I wanted to buy the same, but I went for MT07. I am very happy I made this choice. Now I consider buying this one TOO, but love the MT07 so much I would never evem think of selling it. So if I decide positive on the Kawa, I'm just gonna keep them both. :)
I bought a new 2019 today (31 Dec 19). Dealership stated that they’ve only had 3 of these since they came out in 2018. I feel lucky to have found one close to home.
Happy new decade!
Congrats, what a beautiful machine. New bike day is always a good day. Let us know your thoughts on the bike.
Dennis GasparZ will do... I’m excited to pick it up....Service needs to do their thing before I can ride out. I bought a 2001 ZRX1200R from the same dealer in July 2001. Still have that beast too. I grew up with the 750 fours and the H1’s and the Z’s so at 61 yrs old retro is all I care about .
@@keithdaniels5918 I know exactly what you mean, good luck with your new toy. I just returned to riding after 25 year absence, been looking at these and the Bonnies
Great review.....after watching a bunch of reviews from around the world regarding this bike and everyone of you guys had only good things to say about it, I had to get one and I did.....my dealer should have it ready to pick it up by tomorrow.
Man you must be excited. Congrats-you've got yourself a lovely bike. I've just taken delivery of one myself. Cheers.
Fair play go and enjoy ,beautiful bike ride safe bros 😀🇬🇧🏍
@@jamesbatten6609 Thanks man, and as all of you guys said this bike is awesome....only thing I can say is that the seat is killing me on long rides, guess it will soften by time.
tik4su 😂 That beauty can make my buttocks sore anytime it likes, far better looking than the wife ,😂 the seat sophens after about 3000k. apparently lol buy a pair of cycling undies come with built in padding takes the edge off a hard seat.
How would this be as a touring bike? With a shield maybe? And no way to add cruise control I imagine..
While obviously this isn't a touring bike, I suppose you can convert any bike into something that is more comfortable over long distances. For me, that is not its forte, and if you are considering touring as your primary focus, I would move on. There are plenty of bikes better suited to touring than the RS. The Z900RS has a growing list of accessories for it, but I'm not sure there is a large enough aftermarket windshield/fairing for long distance touring or big enough bags yet. While it is smooth and comfortable, I wouldn't tour on it - it lacks an "overdrive" to bring the RPM down for long distances. Still, I have seen Older MTO1's turned into touring capable bikes....To each his own :-)
They get hot because of the way it’s fuelled . The dealer is just spoofing
What a great bike ! A "modern" interpretation of the old Z1...well done Kawasaki !
But I´m sorry: If we say "sound", we mean an old 4 cylinder air-cooled engine and his 4 carburators.
If You compare the Z900 RS "sound mapping" with the music of an old Z1 engine, You could also compare a Daihatsu Cuore with a Boeing 747. The Z900RS is a very good looking...toy. 40 years ago riding a motor bike had a lot do to with "work" - which is the rather opposite of "comfort". I prefer work. :-)
Yes a great bike. Having owned a good few 70s UJB bikes on two continents and having ridden the Z900RS I can appreciate the "work" it is to get a GT, CB, GS, H2 round a fast bend at 90+mph and not swan into oncoming traffic given the awful frame geometry, brakes and suspension. The Z900RS is an evolution of those bikes, sharing a lot of the good and discarding the bad. There are some great examples of Z900RSs out there with modded exhausts that sound the part. Thanks for the comment.
Closed my eyes , and listening to your review, perfect. Amongst many cinematic reviewers , you were very practical and realistic.
I have the same model. Absolutely fantastic bike that performs as good as it looks! It appears that you have the optional lower seat. Seems to have a much more bow to it than mine. Did it come like that or did you order it?
I'm pretty sure the test bike had a standard seat - the Go Pro tends to bow/distort everything-it's set to superview rather than linear. cheers.
Great video. Do you know if they make a luggage rack for a topbox. I have a GIVI 52 liter box on my Honda cruiser and would like to move it to this Z900RS if I purchased this model. By the way did you ever test ride their 2020 Z900. I saw it and it has a nice display. But the back of it slopes up too much for my liking.
Hi, John. I have seen RSs out there with top boxes on them, so I'm assuming someone does make a kit. Try the Z900RS world wide forum - they will know who, where and how much. As for the z900, I 've not ridden it, and like you, am not a fan of some of the styling cues on it. Cheers.
Might be the best motorcycle review I've seen/heard. Only thing missing was seat comfort. I'm sold on the green color scheme which is similar to my 1975 Z1. In the spring, I might pick up the 2021 for my usual steal of a price.
I was a fan of the blue and yellow z1b as a nipper.
“A baby’s bottom of softness.” I wouldn’t put it that way, but ok, well said. 👶🏻
Yes got to be careful these days! Doesn’t mean what it used to, unfortunately👍
It’s a nice looking bike to ride around Brooklyn New York dominated by triumph riders
...and I bet, like me, you get more than your fair share of envious looks from those trumpet owners (although they'll never admit it;)
Be interested in what you think of the new triumph speed twin. Pity the instrument covers weren’t in chrome, would add a touch of class.
Haven't tried the new speed twin. Suspect it would be a lovely bike. From what I've seen the RS has an accent package you can add to the clocks to make it more retro... Do like the mono shock and the 4 cylinder on it too - already have a twin. Cheers for the comment.
Your remarks on this motorcycle makes my mouth watering. 🤤
Thanks again BMR! I went and looked at that bike and it was sweet. I haven't pulled the trigger yet but definitely will. The ECU flash he had done took care of the so called " sensitive throttle" issue and also he said it took care of the reported issue of running hot especially in hot weather. It was flawless! this guy kept all his vehicles in top shape. And yes, he had a spreadsheet with everything he has done to the bike including fueling stops and average mileage he had been getting. The only thing I would do fairly quickly is install the Fairing you got. Same color of yours.
Really pleased for you, Puttswell. That's a great deal, and the ECU flash and mods are a real bonus. Well spotted. Cheers.
Good review. I'm looking at this, the xsr900 or ktm790. Which one to choose.
Tought choice - I wish you luck - but whichever you choose, you will have an excellent bike! If you're asking me, I think the KTM with lean sensitive abs/tc and less weight shades it performance wise, but the XSR has the looks. Good luck choosing :-)
You can't go wrong with any of those bikes. I love my XSR900 but this Kawasaki is sweet. They had a Root Beer colored Z900RS at my local dealer and it is beautiful in person too. It's a little big and heavy compared to the XSR900, and has less power (111 vs 115hp), but more torque (77 vs 65 ft lbs). XSR900 is 430 lbs (mine weighs 425 lbs with exhaust and full tank), Z900RS is 472 lbs.
So the XSR is sportier and lighter weight with higher power to weight ratio, but overall the Z900RS is more premium in many ways. Z900RS fork has adjustable preload, compression, and rebound while XSR only has rebound and preload. I'm not sure there's enough there to warrant the extra money though. I got my XSR for $8950 brand new. I put on a $750 Yoshi pipe which you wouldn't have to do with the Z900RS so there's that.
I couldn't test drive them at my small local dealer, but I wish I had been able to. Still looking at all the reviews I think I made the right choice especially with how much more the Z900RS costs. I'd still like to own a Z900RS someday but I wouldn't give up my XSR900 to own it.
There are so many great bikes to choose from out there, you can hardly make a bad decision! I do lust after the Kawasaki though.. such a great looking machine!
Thanks for info guys planning on test riddng them all this year.
All the best from England and apologies for only viewing and commentng now on great video. Thank you for the very detailed, succinct (and I know you are trying very hard to be subjective but it looks and performs too good to ignore) review. Its on my short list but I cant see, hear or test at the moment. How did you record the exhaust sound? I havent heard many vlogs of this bike with such a difinitive, almost accentuate that gorgeous tune and bring it to the foreground. Have you added it later as it isnt prevalent all the time through the video?
Hi, Jim: the recording was done both from my chin mount and my hadlebar mount. No special tricks, although I do try to blend the noise when possible so it isn't too much of one or the other. I love the bike, and the sound is one reason. It's tough all over right now; we're not in a lockdown, but going out is frowned apon unless for work, school or bubble/couples only. My mum lives in Surrey is feeling the crunch as well. All the best. BMR.
It's my absolute dream bike, tried to buy one last year but all the dealerships I talked to were either sold out or never got any....
Gues I should hurry up and finish my 75 H1 and sell off all the 69 h1 parts I have to fund a z900rs
Good luck. H1 was a lovely bike too...should be a great prize once you've finished her. Cheers.
@@BlueMarbleRider she needs a lot of work having sat out in the saskatchewan bush for 30 years. Loved the review, you definitely sold me on a z900rs totally.
Great video! Beautiful bike. Question though and I don't know if this was brought up by anyone else - have you ever ridden the Speed Twin? I'm really struggling to decide. I live in an area where i get a health dose of highway, city, and backroadish riding. Thanks again and safe riding.
I've only ridden an older speed twin. I'm aware the new one is substantially better than the older 900 model. The engines are quite different - the speed twin will give more torque down low, whereas the Z will be significantly quicker in the mid range to top. It comes down to personal preference. If all else is equal, then it comes down to your preference on looks. They're both gorgeous looking bikes - but which one will catch your eye more as you glance at it from the cafe? Tough choice! Good luck - you're going to love either one.
@@BlueMarbleRider Thank you. I can't wait
Decided to buy, but can’t decide which colour; black, red or the dark green accents?
That's a decision only you can make. Lots of google image searches should clear it up :-) Good luck and enjoy. Cheers BMR
I think V twin has the cylinder configuration superior to spread heat compared to parallel twin. My Vulcan S, the same engine of ninja 650 parallel twin, does the same, the engine always very hot which I observed from riding, the vibration more from engine and metal scratch found from my oil pan bottom when I changed oil. Those things are NOT expected from my Vulcan S with as high as 37,000km mileage. What I do is change the user manual recommended engine lubricant 10W40 to 15W50. The engine immediately is back to normal, the engine becomes as smooth as before. All solved. The higher grade engine lubricant stay much thinker at the same high temperature than 10W40.
Great looking bike, nice review. That's the (expensive) Kawasaki accessory seat , not the standard one by the way. Wondering why both mirrors were not showing what was behind you the entire time you rode it? If the bike and the accessory seat were more reasonably priced, I'd have bought one, instead, I bought a 2016 new leftover Suzuki Bandit 1250S. And yes, I owned a new Kawasaki KZ1000 in 1977 so this bike really appeals to me.
Does the engine actually feel super hot when riding in summer? My Bonneville T120 could double as a griddle.
No: it doesn’t feel that warm, but the eng temp gauge is alarmist. The engine does run warmer than it needs to tho- as it is lean for euro4/5 compliance. Since my reflash, even on 30c+ days, the bike runs 3 or 4/6 instead of 4 or 5/6.
On the temperature gauge, my BMW F800GT doesn't have one. I asked about this and the dealer's response was pretty much what you said here - why alarm the rider? I also noted the point about the fuel gauge. On the BMWs I'm used to a slow drop then the reserve light comes on as I hit the last block. The Kwaka drops quickly then spends ages on that last notch. And, yes, the black is by far the best colour.
What a fantastic review. Very comprehensive. So informative. Thanks for your time and insightful comments. The raw passion came through. As soon as I set eyes on the Z900RS I knew it was special. Your review confirms everything I suspected. Good onya mate.
Spectacular review...you’ve covered everything I was curious about, Thanks!
Thanks, Jool. A real peach of a bike.
What accent is this I thought you was British then I noticed you was driving on the wrong side of the road are you an Expat , no worries I just checked your channel description 😎
Yep British ex-pat. You?
@@BlueMarbleRider England Essex , I'm still riding a 125 CC but I like this bike looks cool
@@Dan-fd8pd I started on a Suzuki GT125 twin two-stroke in Surrey. Loved that thing. Essex-must be a West Ham fan?:-)
One of the best review friend! Thanks
Appreciate the feedback. Cheers.
As an owner of a 1992 Kawasaki Zephyr, this bike looked too plasticky for me. I did not have the chance of testing it though . Mechanics and its ergonomics seem to be it's strengths and not just the look. Nice review.
AitonaPaco
Huh? What does plastic look like?
How does painted plastic look different to painted metal?
@@larjkok1184 I mean that the perceived quality is lower than in other retro models such as the Honda CB1100. The Z900RS looks like a modern bike disguised as an old one.
It is just my personal perception. Undoubtedly ts is mechanically superior in every single aspect to my 27 years old bike :)
@@AitonaPaco Then definitely don't look at the Yamaha equivalent. It does not retro enough and more plastic. CB1100 looks big and heavy.
@@exexpat11 I have just bought a 20 year old Yamaha XJR 1200 instead :)
@@AitonaPaco Well, they run forever if looked after.
Thanks for no music and thanks for an excellent professional adult review. Your camera picked up the engine great. What a nice bike. The Spitfire of bikes. I was 20 yrs old in 1973 and purchased a new Z1-900. Man was I king of the road. Great memories. Now I ride a Kawasaki Versas 1000 which is pretty much the same engine.
Thanks - appreciate the feedback on the review! Loved the original and was planning on finding one and doing one up until the new one came out. Not quite the same, but saved me a lot of bother in the end. Cheers.
I have this bike and love it for everything except maybe highway.
Why not highway?