Just purchased the Z900RS in candy blue on new years eve. She had 0 miles. Brought her home took her for a ride up the street and put her in the garage. Now due to winter weather all I can do is sit on her and dream of sunny days to come. I can't frickin wait.
I do like the Yellow paint job; bike looks sharp. As a young new rider at the time I distinctly recall when the Z900 first came out. One motorcycle magazine editor, in comparing it to the CB750, described grabbing a handful of throttle as feeling "like being kicked in the backside by a mule". It was the most potent bike of its day. The evolution of motorcycles over the last 50 years is quite astounding.
Yeah almost there,... I had a Honda CB750 back in 1974 which was a nice looking bike, but the green Z2 900 was just gorgeous, the 4 X upswept exhaust pipes made it move when standing still. The 50th anniversary model needs at least 2X upswept exhausts to balance the look.
Like you say, it would be nice to see dual shocks and 4 upswept exhausts on the next iteration of this bike, calling it the Z1 and painting it red and gold like the Z1B would be a nice touch too...
I have a 1975 KZ 400. The paint is definitely reminiscent of the bikes of that time. I'm into long haul cruisers but if I wanted a retro I would definitely be in.
I had a 1980 Z1000 B-4 What a bike, the only thing about the new Z900RS is the water cooled engine. The new style makes me what it anyway, I'm 67 I may own one so.
Not a headache for me, I’ve just picked up my 50th anniversary model. First bike I have ever bought just based on looks. I hadn’t even sat on one before I picked it up. And it’s awesome
Yes, but a pain to clean and to keep them clean, especially over here in good old England when you are an all year round rider. They love to cover the roads with salt or seasoning as I call it for the obvious reasons, but sometimes they just seem to put loads of the stuff on the road just for the sake of it. Now that is not very good for our beloved two wheelers, surely not for the old chrome spoked ones. :(
That was interesting. I would have preferred that they made exact copies of the originals rather than what they are selling. For the Z1. e.g the same 4 exhaust pipes, dual shocks and engine etc. Also - where is the H2 750 2 stroke? So many people would love to buy a new one of those.
Ah, the performance wars of that era were amazing! The manufacturers were tripping over themselves to give us the hottest and most modern bikes!! Nice to see them honored today.
A Dymag UP7X wheelset is on order for my candytone green / yellow 2020 Z900RS. Instead of flashy gold wheels I went with satin black, an understated approach which won't conflict with the bike's gorgeous paint.
When i was young my neighbor had a z1 classic it was black and chrome and also fuel injected. Sure did like that bike... I also had a 2000, 1100 zrx liked that one also...
Just brought the pearl blue 900rs and absolutely love the paint quality specialy tank etc and frame and swing arm that are clear over base. Are keeping my triumph street triple r for riding to work. Best of both worlds 👍😉❤
I have a 2020 900RS Cafe and I absolutely love it. I can't help but wonder why they didn't do the suspension and brake upgrades on the cafe version. I only paid 10K for mine brand new. The brakes seem just fine to me. I can always add an Olin rear shock. But they're $1,000 so I doubt I'll spend the money on it. I'm 60 years old and don't ride nearly as aggressively as I used to. I like the fairly quiet exhaust on it. The only upgrades I've done on it are to protect the bike if I tip it over.
Agree, they seem to have left the cafe out in the cold. I'm not sure why the paint schemes of late have all been so drab, and why the bikes haven't got the same access to tech upgrades on new models that the regular RS gets.
I think the color issue can be sold to have the bike wrapped in any color combination you want. My problem is I bought a Z900 RS last year but now I want the 50 year anniversary addition.
The good thing is that when you are riding it, the colour doesn't matter. But yes, it would be nice to have colour options. Might be cheaper to get the bike painted in the long term. Cheers.
Had the 2018 z900rs and now i've got the 2022 z900rs green color.Love this bike more than any other. I don't really like gold wheels,and in my opinion as you said would look great on the pearl blue color cause it has gold strips on the tank.But in the other colors as the SE version would prefer black wheels and black forks. I consider myself as an Z900rs addicted.
Love the jaffa paint but cannot stomach the gold wheels . I do not know what is "old school retro" about gold mags. Bought the blue model , completely happy with the overall look.
Love the look of my new green 650rs but should have chrome bars n mirrors. I’ve gone for the classic KAWASAKI tank badge and grab rail which is a great addition…but the badge is a no brainer. It was in caps on the zeds in the seventys !! so shoulda been the same now!
Looks are subjective, but the green 650 is obvious to anyone who knows Zs that it’s a tribute to the first 77 B model. I don’t quite get what’s cheep looking about green and gold either.
I’m an owner of a 2019 commonly known in the uk as a “Jaffa” and absolutely love my choice of colour. What a massive shame Kawasaki lost a great opportunity to not upgrade the new fireball edition to mark its 50th anniversary. Why couldn’t they have put the original retro tank emblems on? Why couldn’t they have given it a new suspension setup? Or a 4 into 4 exhaust system as they did in the 70’s? I’m afraid it’s really not good enough as a 50th anniversary model. I’ll definitely be keeping my 2019 complete with the bits and pieces I.e. grab rail, my 1970’s retro tank emblems to name a few. Kawasaki? You should of tried harder. Thanks for your review BMR.
Totally agree with your comments about not going far enough with the retro looks. I also have a "Jaffa" and managed to source and fit a set of retro style indicators. Have had white badges fitted onto the tank, grab rail fitted and a colour matched rear hugger. I see that Dekelvic do a chrome 4/4 system but at £1800 GBP thats a bit steep so am saving up for these. The reason that so many original Z1's had 4 into 1 exhausts was that the original 4 / 4 system was made for poor materials and rotted very quickly. I used to own a Suzuki GS750 db (1976 model) and the original exhausts did not last that long and were replaced with a 4 into 1 as this was much, much cheaper then buying originals. Keep safe. Old Bloke.
I bought the fireball 50th and it is a beautiful piece of machinery I wanted a yellow ball but as fate would have it I got the rootbeer float and I love it. .
I really like the retro trend as I remember the originals well. Iconic Bikes ! Although I'm not a fan of yellow, I did like what the Yellowball had to offer as upgrades. The new paint schemes look great on both the 900RS and 650RS but to my eye the regular (non retro) Z's need more than paint to be pretty. I LOVED the retro colours shown on the latest ZX10R (green, white, blue & red, white, black) but my days of lusting after 1000cc super sports are done. There's just no place to enjoy the performance they offer and I wouldn't put a brand new sport bike on the track. Back to the Zeds, I'm hoping a Z1R tribute will become available complete with "coffin" tank and silvery blue paint. What do you think ?
The Goose; the ugliest of the pretty. Stil better than most of today eye-bouncing multi-plane surfaces coleoptera's headlight bikes. My personal opinion though.
There are a few differences in the brakes and suspension. Not sure if the tank on the Z is all metal? But in essence, you're right: they know the RS appeals to the heartstrings of the older rider...and likely more financially affluent; whereas, the Z is younger person's bike - likely less cash and a short term bike. It doesn't make it right, but, I guess Kawasaki know they're on to a good thing. Cheers.
Quite unrelated and six days after this video posted, I picked up the black & silver cafe bike over the blue and gold. I did, however, spend an hour walking the floor trying to reach that decision.
It would be nice to see the brake and suspension mods on all the models. I like the gold forks and rims and would like to see that option on all of them. I basically like them all and would like to buy one next year so if nothing changes, I would choose the yellow ball because it has the upgrades, but it seems they're already sold out in the UK so far. It would be nice if Kawasaki would offer hard luggage options as well, as I would like to tour and so far there doesn't seem to be much choice on the market.
Check out the worldwide z900rs forum for luggage suggestions - there are so many choices out there now. The yellowball parts can be retro fitted to any Z900RS, but that will be cash intensive...Thanks for the feedback!
I have 2 of the original Z1s , and I have to say the new ones really do look the part. And I would love 1. But I'm afraid I'm not going to sell 1 of my old girls, to get a new one. I'll just after keep doing the lottery.
I remember the first z900 I ever saw-at the TT in the ‘70’s. Most beautiful motorcycle art ever created-with the possible exception of the cbX, but then, the the Z900 was first. This retro here is missing something. Its the rear end. It needs old school twin shocks-does’nt it ?
id love to hear your take on crash protection (just in case i fall off) already have both axles, the top front posts, case savers on both sides and a pipe saver post, the part i cant think of and i think is a legitimately vulnerable area is the rear center middle or at least the footpegs and shift linkage (i know too much kawasakis am i right?) but thats the spot im worried about, any thoughts?
Hi BMR. Agree on the comments re manufacturers missing the opportunity to upgrade their normally dull paint jobs to highlight their production models as something different. However, I don't think the 50th anniversary models really reflect much different to the offering in 2018-19-20 in terms of the paint job or other aspects (grab rail which has just been added as standard rather than being an accessory). As you know, my maroon model was painted specifically to copy the original z1 colour. I think the investment here (about A$2000) was the better option. However, I do love the yellow model recently released. You can't own them all obviously. Bringing out so many variations that seem to be trying to top one another also risks the buyers who bought in the first couple of years feeling a bit cheated potentially if you get my drift. It's a risk they should be careful of.
Definitely some potential for current owners to feel a little aggrieved; but I'm taking it as an opportunity to study the various colours in the flesh with a view to eventually deciding which one to have my current ZRS painted. Just waiting for the red and gold to emerge next year...
@@BlueMarbleRider Just have yours painted in the red and gold. I think there's one been done here on youtube with an Australian bike dealer who regularly custom paints their bikes. It looks great. I personally like all the colours but I do like the 2022 blue colour a bit more and the yellowball SE model really stands out. They are great bikes and I am seriously looking at buying [The 900] one this spring.
Oddly enough I bought a 2008 CB 250 a few years ago to sightsee closer to home for two pennies a mile. I thought the retro swoop was too deep and the seat was too thin. Wanted a 1970s CB 360 style seat. I modified the seat (a tall guy) with upholstery adding two inches (5 cm) and ended up with a finished design that looks nearly identical to these two. If they're design geniuses...then I'm happy to just make mine functional. I'll be happy when these sell well enough to roll them down to the 320 to 400cc for 5k. If Yamaha took the MT03 41hp and reworked the seat and tank without upping the price...bingo
@@BlueMarbleRider I'm just an Old School Guy I guess my opinion of a Retro style is the look of the Originals :) Look at my Videos I like the older 70's Early 80's Look! :)
nice vid! I have the green z650rs waiting for me in the local shop , all 5 we got here were immediately sold. I have the grab bar on its way, too. If the availability of this bikes would be better I'd propably switch to the anniversary red/brown model but I can't be sure because of the covid and everything so I'll stick with the green one. Plus I think in our climate (nordics) the green will be just fine with the light we have. The colours are not the same here than let's say in Spain for example were the light outside is much brighter. Let's see when I get to see the 50th anniversary version in person. Really looks amazing in the pics.
No, the functionality is exactly the same. It's paint, decals, wheels and grab rail - which does save some money, as the grab rail is ~200 US alone (and is out of stock)...
9K for a 650? That seems steep. I never did like the four into four exhausts on the 70s bikes. Most other people didn't either. That's why most people had Kerker 4 into 1's on theirs. Much cleaner look.
100%. Not sure about the 50th anniv version. Likely there will be very limited examples of that available and a deposit will be necessary before they arrive to hold one. Cheers.
I like everything about them except the grab rail that looks completely out of place and takes away from the beautiful lines of that retro tail section. I don't buy a bike for passengers and if I do have a pastor I want them to hang on to me anyway not the grab rail
Lovely new colours and the gold wheels look fantastic. They have upgraded the brakes to Brembos but we will have to wait and see if the fueling has been improved.
The brakes/lines on the Fireball are the same as standard; can't tell you if they've done any fueling tweaks - there was rumour that they had partially smoothed the fueling on the 21+ models, but I haven't had a chance to ride one of those yet...Cheers
That can't be a Z650, it hasn't got enough cylinders.. 😏 Z900 yellow ball still looks stellar, and would/will be my choice in the not too distant future. I never liked the looks of the 80's red bikes, think the first one I saw was the original GPZ900.. too angular, no character etc.. the 70's bikes were far nicer.
Agree - loved the curves of the 70s too. Must say though, if you're going to produce an angular bike, then the GPZ wasn't bad, particularly with that paint. Cheers.
Who at Kaw forgot to give the Cafe bike a fireball treatment? WTF, boring black on black with a tan seat? Give me a break. I'm wanting one, but year after year the paint is crap.
Agree: the cafe is in need of a paint upgrade. One option is to buy the RS and put on LSL bars and a Chic Designs Road Comet fairing - they're painted to match. Cheers.
We already know the weight and hp (from my previous 2 video on the Z900RS). This is the same bike; therefore, I focused on the differences. Check out the previous videos...
Nope, still a dud, still to super swoopy 'modern' and boring. Make it TOTALLY early 70's retro look, like their W800. Go back to spokes, upswept 4 into 4's, knock off the liquid cooling/radiator. get rid of blacked out engine/return with brushed aluminum. Full analog gauges, FIVE SPEEDS (more than enough gears) Robert at 67
Had a w650, loved it. It would be interesting if they could a create a rs in your spec, although I'm sure it would cost a bundle and require a radiator. I don't think there's anyway you can create a big 4cy without a radiator with the same level of power as a Z1 now, due to emissions.
Mark Schafer, you do not get out much. It's "Zed" where the English language originated--and every other country in the world except where English has been butchered, like where you are from.
I'll take the original please. lots of the new stuff, pipes etc, still suck badly. I can very well remember those days, and the new bikes are just trying to catch a look by copying specific details, there was a style those days that is just plain missing, and that is the difference. I can afford a new one, but would pay double for a bona fide original, if it were up to me, no contest, none at all.
That 900 seat is wrong; that pipe also, is not right. That cooler's botch... After having givien birth to aestethic monsters (tìoday bikes) latest gen designer, grown up watching Transformers, manage to spoil what where once pleasing to the eye bikes. You name it, Honda Africa Twin, Ducati Scrambler, Fantic Motor Caballero...?!
Just purchased the Z900RS in candy blue on new years eve. She had 0 miles. Brought her home took her for a ride up the street and put her in the garage. Now due to winter weather all I can do is sit on her and dream of sunny days to come. I can't frickin wait.
Gorgeous bike!
I do like the Yellow paint job; bike looks sharp. As a young new rider at the time I distinctly recall when the Z900 first came out. One motorcycle magazine editor, in comparing it to the CB750, described grabbing a handful of throttle as feeling "like being kicked in the backside by a mule". It was the most potent bike of its day. The evolution of motorcycles over the last 50 years is quite astounding.
Yep, it was THE beast back then in the '70s.
The German Motor Journalists baptized the Z1/Z900: Frankenstein' s Daughter...
The 50th Anniversary Z900's paint really does recall the fabulous GPz series…AWESOME!
i think kawasaki has the best looking retro bikes on the market, as far as looking like originals.
Just watched your video and have pre ordered an anniversary Z900 RS all within 30 minutes. I owe you one 👍
Wow - first: congrats! I'm sure you're going to love it. Cheers.
I OWN A 1973 Z1 900. THESE NEW BIKE'S DO JUSTICE TO THE ORIGINAL BIKE'S FROM THE PAST. VERY NEAT. LET THE GOOD TIME'S ROLL
Nice to hear, Jake. What lovely bike that Z1 is. Cheers.
Just brought the z650 50th Anniversary and in soo hyped to Ride it!!
Congrats! It will be a blast, I'm sure. Cheers.
Any update on your 650?
Selling mine . 2k miles. Many factory options. Centerstand/ cover , exhaust. 10000 in next 24 hrs b4 trade in. A steal. Hardcover book incl.
Yeah almost there,... I had a Honda CB750 back in 1974 which was a nice looking bike, but the green Z2 900 was just gorgeous, the 4 X upswept exhaust pipes made it move when standing still. The 50th anniversary model needs at least 2X upswept exhausts to balance the look.
Like you say, it would be nice to see dual shocks and 4 upswept exhausts on the next iteration of this bike, calling it the Z1 and painting it red and gold like the Z1B would be a nice touch too...
I have a 1975 KZ 400. The paint is definitely reminiscent of the bikes of that time. I'm into long haul cruisers but if I wanted a retro I would definitely be in.
Love that red Zed
Completely agree.... the new paint options are great....
I had a 1980 Z1000 B-4 What a bike, the only thing about the new Z900RS is the water cooled engine. The new style makes me what it anyway, I'm 67 I may own one so.
You're so right about the transformative power of paint. Especially for the z650RS.
Not a headache for me, I’ve just picked up my 50th anniversary model. First bike I have ever bought just based on looks. I hadn’t even sat on one before I picked it up. And it’s awesome
Do like the anniversary model - have fun! Cheers.
Nice! Very nice. I would love to have the option of the chrome spoked wheels like the early models. Nothing more gorgeous than chrome spoked wheels
Yes, but a pain to clean and to keep them clean, especially over here in good old England when you are an all year round rider. They love to cover the roads with salt or seasoning as I call it for the obvious reasons, but sometimes they just seem to put loads of the stuff on the road just for the sake of it. Now that is not very good for our beloved two wheelers, surely not for the old chrome spoked ones. :(
Chrome front fender also
That was interesting.
I would have preferred that they made exact copies of the originals rather
than what they are selling.
For the Z1.
e.g the same 4 exhaust pipes, dual shocks and engine etc.
Also - where is the H2 750 2 stroke?
So many people would love to buy a new one of those.
The SE gold accents would have suited the '75 blue paintwork.
Ah, the performance wars of that era were amazing! The manufacturers were tripping over themselves to give us the hottest and most modern bikes!! Nice to see them honored today.
Couldn't agree more. If you like the UJ superbike era, part of the vid coming out Friday should interest you...Cheers.
A Dymag UP7X wheelset is on order for my candytone green / yellow 2020 Z900RS. Instead of flashy gold wheels I went with satin black, an understated approach which won't conflict with the bike's gorgeous paint.
One of the better looking bikes on the marked
When i was young my neighbor had a z1 classic it was black and chrome and also fuel injected. Sure did like that bike... I also had a 2000, 1100 zrx liked that one also...
Just brought the pearl blue 900rs and absolutely love the paint quality specialy tank etc and frame and swing arm that are clear over base. Are keeping my triumph street triple r for riding to work. Best of both worlds 👍😉❤
Very nice!
Jealous!! Where are you that you were able to lay hands on one?
@@VanD-Dam Brisbane Australia
I got the 900 rs 50th red thank u
Slightly envious! Enjoy. Cheers.
I have a 2020 900RS Cafe and I absolutely love it. I can't help but wonder why they didn't do the suspension and brake upgrades on the cafe version. I only paid 10K for mine brand new. The brakes seem just fine to me. I can always add an Olin rear shock. But they're $1,000 so I doubt I'll spend the money on it. I'm 60 years old and don't ride nearly as aggressively as I used to. I like the fairly quiet exhaust on it. The only upgrades I've done on it are to protect the bike if I tip it over.
Agree, they seem to have left the cafe out in the cold. I'm not sure why the paint schemes of late have all been so drab, and why the bikes haven't got the same access to tech upgrades on new models that the regular RS gets.
I think the color issue can be sold to have the bike wrapped in any color combination you want.
My problem is I bought a Z900 RS last year but now I want the 50 year anniversary addition.
The good thing is that when you are riding it, the colour doesn't matter. But yes, it would be nice to have colour options. Might be cheaper to get the bike painted in the long term. Cheers.
Another sign I’m getting old, I was 25 when I bought my 73 Z1 in the fall of 72.
Not old; just experienced ;-)
I have a black one with blue and Grey pin stripes and still prefer the colour of it over all the new ones.
Delicious. Nice to see Firecracker Red back again - reminds me of my GPz 550 Unitrack in the late 80s.
Loved those bikes!
Anything is an improvement on the Kawasaki green. When my son bought a Ninja 400 all the left overs were green. Every other colour was sold out.
Had the 2018 z900rs and now i've got the 2022 z900rs green color.Love this bike more than any other. I don't really like gold wheels,and in my opinion as you said would look great on the pearl blue color cause it has gold strips on the tank.But in the other colors as the SE version would prefer black wheels and black forks.
I consider myself as an Z900rs addicted.
Great feedback, Stefan. Yes, it would be great to see those gold wheels on the blue bike.
Great review, I agree with everything you said. I love the Blue one better but wish it had the specs of the Yellow one.
the 650 should be a 4 cylinder engine.......id buy one then, i had one in 1978 and i loved it......
Love the jaffa paint but cannot stomach the gold wheels .
I do not know what is "old school retro" about gold mags.
Bought the blue model , completely happy with the overall look.
Really like the blue and yellow colour. Congrats!
I would certainly have any of the 900RS coloured bikes. The standout though is definitely the 50th Anniversary colour. Cheers mate, stay safe.
Love the look of my new green 650rs but should have chrome bars n mirrors. I’ve gone for the classic KAWASAKI tank badge and grab rail which is a great addition…but the badge is a no brainer. It was in caps on the zeds in the seventys !! so shoulda been the same now!
Looks are subjective, but the green 650 is obvious to anyone who knows Zs that it’s a tribute to the first 77 B model. I don’t quite get what’s cheep looking about green and gold either.
I’m an owner of a 2019 commonly known in the uk as a “Jaffa” and absolutely love my choice of colour. What a massive shame Kawasaki lost a great opportunity to not upgrade the new fireball edition to mark its 50th anniversary. Why couldn’t they have put the original retro tank emblems on? Why couldn’t they have given it a new suspension setup? Or a 4 into 4 exhaust system as they did in the 70’s? I’m afraid it’s really not good enough as a 50th anniversary model. I’ll definitely be keeping my 2019 complete with the bits and pieces I.e. grab rail, my 1970’s retro tank emblems to name a few. Kawasaki? You should of tried harder. Thanks for your review BMR.
Totally agree with your comments about not going far enough with the retro looks. I also have a "Jaffa" and managed to source and fit a set of retro style indicators. Have had white badges fitted onto the tank, grab rail fitted and a colour matched rear hugger. I see that Dekelvic do a chrome 4/4 system but at £1800 GBP thats a bit steep so am saving up for these. The reason that so many original Z1's had 4 into 1 exhausts was that the original 4 / 4 system was made for poor materials and rotted very quickly. I used to own a Suzuki GS750 db (1976 model) and the original exhausts did not last that long and were replaced with a 4 into 1 as this was much, much cheaper then buying originals. Keep safe. Old Bloke.
I bought the fireball 50th and it is a beautiful piece of machinery I wanted a yellow ball but as fate would have it I got the rootbeer float and I love it.
.
I really like the retro trend as I remember the originals well. Iconic Bikes ! Although I'm not a fan of yellow, I did like what the Yellowball had to offer as upgrades. The new paint schemes look great on both the 900RS and 650RS but to my eye the regular (non retro) Z's need more than paint to be pretty.
I LOVED the retro colours shown on the latest ZX10R (green, white, blue & red, white, black) but my days of lusting after 1000cc super sports are done. There's just no place to enjoy the performance they offer and I wouldn't put a brand new sport bike on the track.
Back to the Zeds, I'm hoping a Z1R tribute will become available complete with "coffin" tank and silvery blue paint. What do you think ?
I haven't heard of any of the Z1000 squarer tanked versions in the pipeline, but that doesn't mean it won't happen at some point. Cheers.
The Goose; the ugliest of the pretty. Stil better than most of today eye-bouncing multi-plane surfaces coleoptera's headlight bikes. My personal opinion though.
Yeah these are beautiful bikes period
Nice job Kawasaki, they all look fantastic 👍
I went in to buy a cafe model, but left with a last year-2022 ZX14R...my 3rd ZX14R.
Also a nice bike!
@@BlueMarbleRider Thanks.
I love the 900RS, especially with the chrome grab rail. But I don't understand why the RS is so much more than the regular Z. Still, I'm tempted.
There are a few differences in the brakes and suspension. Not sure if the tank on the Z is all metal? But in essence, you're right: they know the RS appeals to the heartstrings of the older rider...and likely more financially affluent; whereas, the Z is younger person's bike - likely less cash and a short term bike. It doesn't make it right, but, I guess Kawasaki know they're on to a good thing. Cheers.
I'm getting the rs se in July. I can't wait.
Slightly envious! :-)
Quite unrelated and six days after this video posted, I picked up the black & silver cafe bike over the blue and gold. I did, however, spend an hour walking the floor trying to reach that decision.
As long as you like it, that's all that counts. It's a tough choice though! Coingratulations.
@@BlueMarbleRider I really love the blue paint though! Ride on then.
I have the 2019 rs cafe in Kawi green- THE BEST COLOR!!!!
Yeah yellow and red don’t do it for me. I’d like that Kawi green or the cement colored model
It would be nice to see the brake and suspension mods on all the models. I like the gold forks and rims and would like to see that option on all of them. I basically like them all and would like to buy one next year so if nothing changes, I would choose the yellow ball because it has the upgrades, but it seems they're already sold out in the UK so far.
It would be nice if Kawasaki would offer hard luggage options as well, as I would like to tour and so far there doesn't seem to be much choice on the market.
Check out the worldwide z900rs forum for luggage suggestions - there are so many choices out there now. The yellowball parts can be retro fitted to any Z900RS, but that will be cash intensive...Thanks for the feedback!
@@BlueMarbleRider Thanks so much. Good idea! 😃👍
I have 2 of the original Z1s , and I have to say the new ones really do look the part.
And I would love 1. But I'm afraid I'm not going to sell 1 of my old girls, to get a new one.
I'll just after keep doing the lottery.
You're a lucky man! Keep the old girls - they are classics.
Good job Kawasaki! 👍
The fireball really jumps out to me.
i had the first GPZ 550 it was nice and im still alive
I remember the first z900 I ever saw-at the TT in the ‘70’s. Most beautiful motorcycle art ever created-with the possible exception of the cbX, but then, the the Z900 was first.
This retro here is missing something. Its the rear end.
It needs old school twin shocks-does’nt it ?
Or is it just OCD me ?
That would be a great addition - there is a guy in Japan who has retro fitted some and it very much looks the part.
YES !! The rear is just not right without twin shock,s.
The Barbie Doll colour does it for me, as they did on one model of their K bikes.
id love to hear your take on crash protection (just in case i fall off) already have both axles, the top front posts, case savers on both sides and a pipe saver post, the part i cant think of and i think is a legitimately vulnerable area is the rear center middle or at least the footpegs and shift linkage (i know too much kawasakis am i right?) but thats the spot im worried about, any thoughts?
The only idea I can come up with for protection back there, is side cases... Not sure you want to go that route. Other than that - don't crash :-)
Excellent review 👍
Straight out of the HD marketing trick book imho
Gonna do them strokers aswell? It won't be only a sold out, but KHI looking for bigger manifacturing premises, to keep up.
Hi BMR. Agree on the comments re manufacturers missing the opportunity to upgrade their normally dull paint jobs to highlight their production models as something different. However, I don't think the 50th anniversary models really reflect much different to the offering in 2018-19-20 in terms of the paint job or other aspects (grab rail which has just been added as standard rather than being an accessory). As you know, my maroon model was painted specifically to copy the original z1 colour. I think the investment here (about A$2000) was the better option. However, I do love the yellow model recently released. You can't own them all obviously. Bringing out so many variations that seem to be trying to top one another also risks the buyers who bought in the first couple of years feeling a bit cheated potentially if you get my drift. It's a risk they should be careful of.
Definitely some potential for current owners to feel a little aggrieved; but I'm taking it as an opportunity to study the various colours in the flesh with a view to eventually deciding which one to have my current ZRS painted. Just waiting for the red and gold to emerge next year...
@@BlueMarbleRider Just have yours painted in the red and gold. I think there's one been done here on youtube with an Australian bike dealer who regularly custom paints their bikes. It looks great. I personally like all the colours but I do like the 2022 blue colour a bit more and the yellowball SE model really stands out. They are great bikes and I am seriously looking at buying [The 900] one this spring.
Oddly enough I bought a 2008 CB 250 a few years ago to sightsee closer to home for two pennies a mile. I thought the retro swoop was too deep and the seat was too thin. Wanted a 1970s CB 360 style seat.
I modified the seat (a tall guy) with upholstery adding two inches (5 cm) and ended up with a finished design that looks nearly identical to these two.
If they're design geniuses...then I'm happy to just make mine functional.
I'll be happy when these sell well enough to roll them down to the 320 to 400cc for 5k. If Yamaha took the MT03 41hp and reworked the seat and tank without upping the price...bingo
Kawasaki Drops the ball...Again,, I'll keep my old school bikes! The New bikes have no Class!
There is certainly some real charm around some of those older originals. What would you like to have seen on the new one?
@@BlueMarbleRider I'm just an Old School Guy I guess my opinion of a Retro style is the look of the Originals :) Look at my Videos I like the older 70's Early 80's Look! :)
I'd of liked to see the firecracker red gpz paint on the Cafe. (2021 z900rs owner btw)
Agree that would be a stunning look. They haven't really worked on the cafe much since the launch...it's due. Cheers.
Gorgeous
nice vid! I have the green z650rs waiting for me in the local shop , all 5 we got here were immediately sold. I have the grab bar on its way, too. If the availability of this bikes would be better I'd propably switch to the anniversary red/brown model but I can't be sure because of the covid and everything so I'll stick with the green one. Plus I think in our climate (nordics) the green will be just fine with the light we have. The colours are not the same here than let's say in Spain for example were the light outside is much brighter. Let's see when I get to see the 50th anniversary version in person. Really looks amazing in the pics.
Thanks, Mika - and congrats on your Z650RS - from all reports is will be a sweet ride. Cheers.
I considered buying one. Test ride…great bike. Too bad about that unsightly radiator, deal breaker
I have a Z900SE on order-- they should have put the 50th logo on all 22 models
Congrats, Kevin: it's a beautiful bike. Cheers.
@@BlueMarbleRider thanks BlueMarbleRider it just came in today-- I hope to pick it up next week-- she’s BEAUTIFUL!!!
Don't like the big void between rear wheel and seat on 650 and 9.
Otherwise real lookers.
Keep trying Kawasaki, one day you'll match the symmetry of the original Z1
Nice paint; anything new about functionality?
No, the functionality is exactly the same. It's paint, decals, wheels and grab rail - which does save some money, as the grab rail is ~200 US alone (and is out of stock)...
9K for a 650? That seems steep. I never did like the four into four exhausts on the 70s bikes. Most other people didn't either. That's why most people had Kerker 4 into 1's on theirs. Much cleaner look.
Ur wrong
Is the 650rs available in Australia?
100%. Not sure about the 50th anniv version. Likely there will be very limited examples of that available and a deposit will be necessary before they arrive to hold one. Cheers.
Great, so great. I love challenging my mind
Hi blm just discovered your channel absolutely love it really good work dude 👍.
Chas uk.
Ps.
I'm picking up my yellow ball in March.
Sorry bmr.
Congrats, Charles! Great looking bike and bound to be a great investment as well as attention grabber. Cheers.
I like everything about them except the grab rail that looks completely out of place and takes away from the beautiful lines of that retro tail section. I don't buy a bike for passengers and if I do have a pastor I want them to hang on to me anyway not the grab rail
Zed is where it's at , lol .
Lovely new colours and the gold wheels look fantastic. They have upgraded the brakes to Brembos but we will have to wait and see if the fueling has been improved.
The brakes/lines on the Fireball are the same as standard; can't tell you if they've done any fueling tweaks - there was rumour that they had partially smoothed the fueling on the 21+ models, but I haven't had a chance to ride one of those yet...Cheers
W 800. Special edition ? ?
Yes that would be nice. Loved my W650. Would like to see a w800 scrambler. Cheers.
Yep…unfortunately, Spider-Man’s Green Goblin look doesn’t do it for me
That can't be a Z650, it hasn't got enough cylinders.. 😏 Z900 yellow ball still looks stellar, and would/will be my choice in the not too distant future. I never liked the looks of the 80's red bikes, think the first one I saw was the original GPZ900.. too angular, no character etc.. the 70's bikes were far nicer.
Agree - loved the curves of the 70s too. Must say though, if you're going to produce an angular bike, then the GPZ wasn't bad, particularly with that paint. Cheers.
Yellowball for me all day long.
Yes, like the specs for sure. Very lustrous colour.
How am I gonna afford one of each color?
Same as me - Lottery :-)
Great video. Good info. Audio needs help. Sounds like you recorded it in the bathroom.
Working on it...
Who at Kaw forgot to give the Cafe bike a fireball treatment? WTF, boring black on black with a tan seat? Give me a break. I'm wanting one, but year after year the paint is crap.
Agree: the cafe is in need of a paint upgrade. One option is to buy the RS and put on LSL bars and a Chic Designs Road Comet fairing - they're painted to match. Cheers.
How can you believe your competent at reviewing motorcycles while not touching on weight and hp?
We already know the weight and hp (from my previous 2 video on the Z900RS). This is the same bike; therefore, I focused on the differences. Check out the previous videos...
4 pipe please in name the God!!!!
Is this bike available in all 50 States. After watching this video, NO IT'S NOT. And it's a retro=NO SALE. I do not want a damn retro bike.
Nope, still a dud, still to super swoopy 'modern' and boring. Make it TOTALLY early 70's retro look, like their W800. Go back to spokes, upswept 4 into 4's, knock off the liquid cooling/radiator. get rid of blacked out engine/return with brushed aluminum. Full analog gauges, FIVE SPEEDS (more than enough gears) Robert at 67
Had a w650, loved it. It would be interesting if they could a create a rs in your spec, although I'm sure it would cost a bundle and require a radiator. I don't think there's anyway you can create a big 4cy without a radiator with the same level of power as a Z1 now, due to emissions.
Very tasty....
Its Z not Zed....that sounds dumb
Mark Schafer, you do not get out much. It's "Zed" where the English language originated--and every other country in the world except where English has been butchered, like where you are from.
@@ccahill2322 its Z not zed
@@markschafer8275 Wrong. It's pronounced zed. It's the English language. End of.
Yellow ball!
Blue ball :-)
Zeeeee!
All for $30,000
Not ZED
THE LETTER is properly pronounced as
.... ZEE
Wrong. It's zed. It's English. Learn your history.
I'll take the original please. lots of the new stuff, pipes etc, still suck badly. I can very well remember those days, and the new bikes are just trying to catch a look by copying specific details, there was a style those days that is just plain missing, and that is the difference.
I can afford a new one, but would pay double for a bona fide original, if it were up to me, no contest, none at all.
Z . Say it with me Z not zed. Z
That 900 seat is wrong; that pipe also, is not right. That cooler's botch... After having givien birth to aestethic monsters (tìoday bikes) latest gen designer, grown up watching Transformers, manage to spoil what where once pleasing to the eye bikes. You name it, Honda Africa Twin, Ducati Scrambler, Fantic Motor Caballero...?!