Good evening & thanks very much for your comments - they are much appreciated. The Z900RS is a fabulous machine indeed, one of the best I’ve owned. All the best and thank you too, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for such great bike reviews. Although in my 50s and new to the wonderful world of bikes, you have nailed for me what this wonderful past time is all about. Gorgeous countryside which epitomises what biking is all about for me. Keep up the great work mate.
Hey Ryan, thanks for stopping by. And yes, isn’t it all about the places it takes you? I remember the feeling of going from push-bike to motorbike and the fact it opened up so many places and at the same time actually allowed you to feel the environment around you. Brilliant machines 😀 More coming soon & hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Best intro I've seen yet for a YT motorcycle video. And I enjoyed looking at the bike from your unique perspective. I hadn't previously considered what type of biscuit it would be! Thank you.
Hey Rick, how are you doing? Many thanks for your kind comments - glad you enjoyed the video and the intro! Choice of biscuit comparison to a motorcycle is obviously controversial but I personally think it’s more insightful than say comparing weight or power. After all if you know your biscuits, you know your bikes 😀 Hope all is well where you are Rick and thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Thanks Niel, great to know the work is appreciated. To be honest I don’t really work at getting subscribers and I prefer being low key. Imagine going viral! Arghhhh! Anyway thanks for watching and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Nice to see an update. Z900RS has quickly risen up my list to be the next motorbike I'll buy. Colour options for second hand are a bit lacking in my country but I'll wait and see. The looks are just too good.
Morning! Thanks for stopping by, yes, the Z900RS is a fabulous machine, goes well, rides well, very useful and looks absolutely delicious. Definitely worth a test ride. Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Today i booked my 2024 Z900 RS Standard, and I'm not planning to add anything to it, I love motorcycles, or cars the way they were intended to be from the factory engineers. Ny first motorcycle " when I got my license in 2004" was a Honda Magna V4 750. Then through the years I moved to Harleys and I been riding them till today that I walked into the Kawasaki dealer and booked the Z900. Can't wait to ride it! thanks again for the amazing videos, I just subscribed! :)
Hey, thanks for stopping by and I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the videos. The Z900RS is a brilliant bike and I’m sure you’ll love it - let me know what you think when it arrives. Like you, I don’t tend to change or add much to my bikes and to be honest the Z900RS is pretty much spot on as delivered. Enjoy and all the best, Phil.
Hey Brian, thanks for stopping by and I couldn’t agree more. I also can’t believe how well they are wearing! Amazing tyres! Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Nice update, thank you. Picked up my my '21 z900rs café in April. 5500 miles in and I think It's a totally brilliant motorcycle. It's everything I wanted my '01 zrx1200r to be. I spun the risers around 180 and with 28mm spacers the café is now perfectly comfortable for me. I added an SW Motech street rack, SLC mounts, and legend bags, along with a Givi bungee net and some Evotech bits and bobs, it's all kitted out for combat commuting. This bike is such a keeper that I'm already planning on buying another '21 in a few years as a back-up. Considering I spent all that money on kit, I'm still riding on the stock tires. I was thinking about Dunlop Mutants, but I look forward to hearing about your experience with the Michelins. Thanks again!
Hey Charlie, combat commuting…I like it! Sounds like you’ve got it just how you want it. And to consider getting another as “backup” says a lot! Yeah, I’m so enjoying mine. It even managed to make a gruelling slog to the EuroTunnel (420 miles for me) not so bad. So I’ve done around 2500 miles on the Michelin’s and…what a tyre! They have lightened the handling up, very confidence inspiring and wear so far seems minimal - recommended! Overall, it’s gotta be one of the top 2 or 3 road bikes I’ve owned. I’m keeping it! Anyway thanks for watching, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Good evening, thanks for stopping by and yes, it’s a gorgeous bike both to look at and to ride. Every ride is a blast and it just does exactly what I want. It’s brilliant. I’m hooked! Sounds like you maybe also! Hope all is well with you and thanks for taking the comment, cheers, Phil.
Catching up on YT, delighted to spot yr latest. Always a soft spot for the Big K in-line fours.. had a Z750E back in the early 80s and rode lots of mates Z1s. There’s something about the smooth oomph that lives between 3500 and 7000rpm, makes these bikes compelling . However getting them around corners at speed was not for the anxious. The trick was to fit the widest bars you could find and pray to the gods of leverage and friction to be gentle with you. I’m not really in to retro, but the RS is such an improvement mechanically over earlier UJMs and at least it doesn’t look like the other 900. Good choice, and as always great video.
Hey Christian, how are you doing? Good to have you stopping again. The “smooth oomph” is a great description and on this one it’s 3000 to 8000, plus, having just spent the day hooning around some little balcony roads south of Chambery, I can say it is, completely compelling. And, yes, the bars are very wide and it flies round corners😀 Like you, I’m not really into the retro vibe, I just wanted something quick, with plush suspension (unlike the XSR) for the bumpy Northumberland roads, neutral handling, bulletproof and good looks. It’s easy to ride quick or slow, it satisfies my need for bungees on the back seat and sounds lovely, even burbling on the over run. I could be smitten! Anyway, time for a beer, hope you’re well, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for the updates. The Road 5s are brilliant tires, indeed. Have them on two of my bikes, and I'm sure you've found them to be almost magical in the wet. Been ruminating over this bike and one of the newer sports tourers (1000SX, 1000GT, 9 GT), all in about the same price category. But this one always pulls me back with one look. In the 11th hour, will have to ride these back-to-back.
Morning John, my pleasure and thanks for stopping by. I totally love the Road 5’s - aside from the grip and feel I can’t quite believe how well they are wearing. By necessity I had to do a lot of motorway riding on my trip to Europe, yet they don’t seem to have squared off at all. They still look like new, it’s amazing. As for the bike itself, of course the other machines you mention are more suited to distance work and faster, but as you say there’s only one real looker! Good luck choosing! Hope all is good where you are and thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
I completely agree with you on the Michelin Road 5 tyres. I rode through torrential rain for 2 days straight from Metz to Toulon last year on my Aprilia Caponord and never had any slides or problems. They even work on my Street Triple R!
Hello! Yes, they are something special. In the last two hours I’ve just been on very wet roads in France, with overbanding that resembles a spiders webs and they’ve been spot on.I used to always love Dunlop Roadsmarts, but these are amazing. From a dry grip and feel perspective, anything more would be wasted on me. They are also the first set of tyres I’ve fitted where the acclimatisation took like 3 seconds. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
I've been missing your great video footage and am sad to hear it was due to an accident. Luckily you are making it through it seems. Hope for positive recovery days in the future. Looking forward to seeing your next video but take it easy, we can wait. Cheers mate.
Good morning and many thanks for your note and encouragement, it all really helps I can tell you. The recovery is going well thanks and I’ll be getting some videos up shortly using footage I’ve already got so keep an eye out for those. All the best, cheers, Phil.
I said the same thing regarding keeping it stock! 2 years later and of course I have the full exhaust and a fuel controller. If you like the sound of the engine the akrapovic headers with their slip-on sounds amazing. Combined with the rapid bike fuel controller and its phenomenal.
Hey Brian, ha ha I’m determined to keep it stock…I’ve run out of money now anyway 😀 I’ll get back to you if I ignore my own advice though. Thanks for watching and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Got mine with less than 2k miles a few months ago from a 70+ year old man ECU already flashed and had set up for touring, windscreen, grab rail, center stand, sliders all over. I removed everything possible, blacked out trim and bolts and put clip on bars and it’s glorious, definitely not saving this bike for the next owner
Good afternoon and thanks for stopping by. Many thanks for the subscription and great to know you enjoyed the video. The Z900RS is a brilliant bike so the videos come easy 😊 Hope all is ok where you are and best wishes for Christmas, cheers, Phil.
Hello, thanks for stopping by. Glad you enjoyed the video and yeah, when the weather is good it’s a blast! Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews be great to meet up for ride n checkout youre Z900 but im in Aust lol. What a fantastic bike. The Japanese got it absolutely spot on. Look forward to some more updates to do with the Z. Luv the go pro footage great stuff 👍
Hello again! More updates coming in a bit once I pull my finger out. Must admit I thought I’d got over 4 cylinder bikes but they really hit the mark with this one. It’s a belter! Thanks again for your kind comments and greetings from the UK, cheers, Phil.
Hey William, ha ha yeah, my guiding principle is to never ride behind a vehicle carrying sheets of plate glass 😀 might have to watch the movie again now. Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
Hey Ian, thanks a lot - really means a lot to have the work appreciated. And the bike is just fabulous! Hope all is well is 🇦🇺, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Hello Phil,just thought I would say hello.After a life change which I won't go into on here your videos are really chearing me up.The content,humour and filmography are excellent. I'm currently looking for a new bike but find myself torn between a retro classic or an adventure bike although I particularly like the Z900RS or the Bonneville T120 ! I look forward to your next video's touring on the Kawasaki Z900RS...Best regards Stuart ..The mad Yorkshireman!
Hey Stuart, great to hear from you! As I’m assuming you’re a professional Yorkshireman, I shouldn’t really be speaking to you of course (I hail from the other side of the Pennines) but that’s a very kind and generous comment, so I guess you don’t follow the G.Boycott trend 😀 Well, I’ve had big trailies (as they used to be called) and did the ADV thing many years ago with an 1150GS followed by a 1200. I got rid about 10 years ago as my wife stopped riding pillion and the size (and I admit ubiquity) was starting to get a little old. I love (solo) trail riding so was always on the lookout for the perfect combo bike - and ended up with Triumph 1200 Scrambler. Which was like having a sandwich toaster strapped to your leg and while very able off road, was too heavy for solo riding - I.e. dropping it was not an option! Anyway, I’m currently on the homeward leg of my Euro trip on the Z900RS, 2400 miles on the trip and 4500 in total. Blimey, great bike! Super smooth, easy to use, brilliant compliant handling and it provides so much confidence. Plus it just whooshes along. Now you will see elsewhere that the throttle is a bit binary. It’s got that super lean vibe but I’ve been riding bikes for 35 years, evil 2 strokes and the like and I just ride round it. For me it’s not a problem but perhaps for folk who were somehow born after 2000 and are allowed to ride bikes (surely they are 2 years old?) it could be. The bike runs cool, does an easy 160 miles to a tank and looks totally brilliant. So…I’m hooked! Hope that helps. If you are genuinely mad though, I may have to block you 😀 Cheers (from France), Phil.
@@80eightReviews I know yor from Manchester ,I'm making allowances 🤐..seriously though I'm waiting to see what the new Triumph Tiger 1200's like then I will make my decision but im very keen on the Z Phil...when you have time check out Jordans bikes video on you tube Kawasaki Z900RS remapping, I think you will find it interesting ,thanks for the reply Phil , you sound like a guy I could have several pints with,i reckon you have some interesting stories to tell ,me too probably..Just got back from Whitby( heaving it were lol) enjoy the rest of your trip Phil can't wait for the video.. p.s I'm 58 so can remember most of the original Japanese bikes...cheers Stuart..aka The mad Yorkshireman
Mine's just had its first MoT, so I've had it three years. I junked the OEM tyres in favour of Michelins within the first few hundred miles. The suspension wasn't quite right, so I took it to a specialist. Cost me £50 to set it up and it made all the difference.
Morning Mark, thanks for stopping by. £50 for the suspension - presumably tweaks from someone who know what they’re doing? I might see who’s in my area next year and do the same. Thanks for the suggestion, hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews yes. These bikes come out of the factory with the suspension set soft. People replace the units, but before doing that take it to a specialist and get them to set it up properly. He will sit you on the bike and measure the sag. Mine cost £50 for a bit of tweaking, but it made a world of difference to the handling.
Hello Phil , You find the best shots of Northumberland, northern England and southern Scotland. The shot in the water with light at the end of the tunnel is optimism itself unchained. I agree; even a Honda 125 trail bike would be a joy sitting there. When I think of my favorite suspension it would still be the 1961 R69s BMW with the Earles front end... I know modern riders would find that spongy but I knew what it would do in a curve and it was always on it's line and kept my back from breaking in the potholes. Announcing a bike is a "Keeper" just puts it into a higher category of being a joy maker worth holding onto. There should be a special column in the classifieds for bikes we want to keep but may not have room for with the three other keepers we also have ... I will have to go to my local gourmet bakery to find this cooky of yours ... :)
Evening Guy, how are you doing? As you know this area (like yours) has many a quietly beautiful place around every corner. Although, I must say when I saw the tunnel with the stream pooling in front of it, it did feel really special. So tranquil and perfect, I could have spent a whole day there doing not terribly much. Aside from eating biscuits of course. I’ve never tried an Earles front end, but you describe the action and feeling perfectly and like you like say, sudden jolts due to road imperfections are not that much fun. Plus, it’s much better in the wet. As for the “keeper” well, I might live to regret that! However, I’ve got a feeling this time as it ticks all the practical and lust for speed and handling boxes, while at the same time it’s doesn’t make me go completely mad (like the Ducati) plus it’s got the aesthetics. And while I never buy into a relationship with a particular marque, back when I had long hair my Gpz550 and subsequent GPZ900 provided much fun, so it’s nice to link back to that history. Three keepers though, yes, that’s absolutely right! Now, the important stuff…Biscuits/Cookies…I think the closest US equivalent to a Bourbon biscuit is maybe the Oreo with a dark chocolate filling? So to be completely honest, these days the Bourbon is quite an everyday, utilitarian (and perhaps unfashionable) biscuit but back in the 1970’s when biscuits were rare at home, anything with a cream filling was very special. And to be honest, I scoffed four during the video and had a sugar rush 😀 so, er, I wouldn’t hurry to find them, the comparison was less about taste and more about the biscuit evocation of earlier times. Like Proust with cookies and motorbikes 😀 These days, I prefer crackers 😀 Hope all is well in CT and the pottery, hope you had a good summer, cheers, Phil.
Owned many bikes over the years and I’ve found tire differences often make little real world difference. That said, the Michelin Road 5’s transformed my VFR as well. Which leads me to a question: Why do some tires make such a significant difference and others barely make a difference at all?
Hey Walter, that’s a great question and putting aside all the chemical technology involved in a tyre, these days, I think what a rider likes and has confidence in has a big part to play. Some folk like quick steering / steep profiles, others not. If you get the ‘wrong’ profile, that’s makes a big difference. Oddly, despite them being top manufacturers, I’ve never liked Pirelli’s. Ever. Now, if I ever have a bike with them fitted is it an emotional lack of confidence that skews my judgment? Dunno. When I used to ride with friends a lot we’d always kick each other’s tyres and “don’t like the look of that”. And it’s amazing how much a little doubt can impact confidence. Not an answer Walter, aside from its the tyre + rider combination that perhaps determines the difference. Thanks for stopping by, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Great Vid Sir. If you could please, which size Power Bronze screen do you have? They have 3 different sizes for the "Lite Screen" 225mm, 285mm, and 290mm. Also, any overly annoying helmet buffeting at highway speeds? I love my RS but I really need a screen for the highway rides and yours really looks good w/o taking away from the bike.
Hey Jon - thanks for stopping by, it's great to know you enjoyed the video. As for the screen, it's the light 290mm screen : www.powerbronze.co.uk/kawasaki-z900rs-18-21-290-mm-430-u272.html There was no noticeable buffeting - but it does (like all flyscreens) increase the wind noise - so earplugs are an absolute necessity. It's pretty good quality, easy to fit and a good price. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Got a new kawasaki z 900 RS SE in yellow ball colourway ordered, arriving shortly , to go on the road March 1st. Accessories - grab rail, kawasaki silver radiator grill and kawasaki tank protector. DVLA private reg bought beginning K900 with my initials as the last three letters. Bargain price for a reg plate as well at £250 including assignment fee of £80. Can't wait !
Steve Zodiac! So first question, are you Colonel Steve Zodiac or the even more legendary guitarist from 1980's rock band Vardis? If neither, no worries :-) Love the yellow ball Z900 RS-SE!! What a cracking machine and those are some very nice accessories I have to say + a personal plate. I can't wait either! I can only hope the weather, grit and grime is better wherever you are in the UK. Let me know how you get on with the bike and I'd love to see some photo's at some point. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Good video, it is the ergonomics of rs that is makes it perfect, fast engine with adventure touring ergonomics. It is the higher handlebar, the sweep, the rise that make a bike more enjoyable to ride. I have a Suzuki inline four but the ergonomics is sporty, although the engine sounds and feel same as Rs but not as comfortable, only 45 minutes riding before you have to stop and get off the seat.
Good evening, spot on with the adventure touring ergonomics - combined with low to the street dynamics of a road bike it’s really quite lovely. I can easily do four/five hours on it and still feel “up for the ride” as opposed to wanting it over, which has to be a good thing. Good to hear from you, thanks for taking the time to comment and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
I'm so far I South America and It seems to be in a Z900RS movie when watching your videos. I like the soft suspension setting in my Kawasaki, please let me know how many turns on your bike for the 3 in front forks and the rear one. Thanks
Hey Sergio, thanks for your comments and hope all is well in South America! At the moment I haven’t made any changes to the standard suspension settings so whatever they came out of the factory with, that’s what I’ve got. The bike is in storage at the moment so I can’t check the settings I’m afraid. Sorry! Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Thanks! I love a good bourbon, really takes me back to a simpler time and the Z900 kinda does that also. Must admit I had to give the packet away as I scoffed about five at one sitting, got a sugar rush and needed a lie down. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Morning, thanks for stopping by. Yes, the SE is quite a thing and adding it to your collection would add a certain perfect symmetry. H2….wow! I can almost smell the fumes from here. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Hey Nasi, thanks for stopping by. That’s a shame but it will be worth the wait. As for the Road 6’s as soon as my Road 5’s wear out I’ll be putting a pair on. If they improve on the already amazing 5’s they will be incredible! Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
I did a 93 mile, mixed speed jaunt this afternoon in the rolling Kansas countryside and my arse was toast. But, I'm back in the saddle after a looong time away, so there's probably more of an issue with me than the seat. BTW, Evotech do a nice rad' guard for the '21 model. I also have their tail tidy but am yet to fit it .. going for a ride instead won the day. Stay safe!
Good afternoon. Yes, comfort on any bike is very much backside dependant, so er, it’s highly personal hence the caveat 😀 I think I’ve got the R&G radiator guard, I didn’t video it as it wasn’t very interesting to be honest! And yes, fitting a tail tidy or going for a ride…Right choice every time. Hope all is well is Kansas and thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Morning Bilal and greetings from the UK, hope you’re doing well. Well, if I were to buy again and assuming I didn’t need the admitted versatility of the XE, I would always choose the Z900. Reasons being it’s so much better on the road, the engine, in my opinion, despite being a flat four is so much more fun and involving to use than the XE. Then there’s the usability of the Z900 - bigger tank, virtually no engine heat, much better clocks and none of the keyless hassle. I think the XE in Colorado could quite easily get very overwhelming from a heat perspective. Of course the XE gives you dual sport capability, which the Z900 doesn’t, however I found again, because of the heat, it was compromised doing low speed off tarmac trails. I’ve just got back from a 2500 trip to Europe on the Z900 and I can say it coped brilliantly, fun all the way, comfortable and more importantly, looks amazing. I’d say the finish between the two bikes is just as good also. Still, that’s my opinion of course…Hope that helps! Cheers, Phil.
Ah! Is it a cake or a biscuit? It’s dangerous ground once you start talking cake…But yes, that would have been more appropriate I guess…but er, I don’t really like them to be honest - for some reason they remind me of hospitals 😬 Anyway, that’s a debate that could go on forever…. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
That makes the Z900RS SE a chocolate Hobnob then - exotic & desirable, you know you shouldn't, but you're helpless in its power. Look forward to the European grand tour report, Phil.
Thanks Hugh, chocolate hobnob, hmmm you’re upping the ante there….Helpless in the power of a desirable biscuit…I think you could be right. Let me see what I can find in France though, I suspect my head may get turned by something sweet and fancy….And yeah, I can’t wait myself 😀 Thanks for stopping by again, cheers, Phil.
What is the fuelling like at low revs? I've a friend who loves the bike and is currently riding a demo 2018 one...but, it does have a fuelling issue at low revs, which is a little dangerous when pulling out of slow bends, or pulling off in general. I read that others have had the issue too, and get the ECU "flashed", but is that needed on the newer models?
Good afternoon - thanks for stopping by. To be honest, I never really had a problem with the fuelling on my particular bike. It did run super lean which manifested itself as being a little jerky in lower gears but to be honest I simply learnt to ride around it after 10 minutes. And by that I mean feathering the clutch if needed / selecting a higher gear occasionally. In no way was it dangerous and compared to some bikes I've owned it was brilliant! Now whether my later (2021) bike had better fuelling than earlier bikes I can't really say - though as you suggest re-mapping seems to be a common thing to do. From my perspective I never felt the need to do it but I'm sure the right map would have an impact. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Lovely bike and great video. Given you’ve added the small fairing, weren’t you tempted to get the z900rs cafe version with an OEM fairing all included? I think the cafe version is a dark chocolate club biscuit.
Good afternoon, thanks for stopping by and glad you enjoyed the video. As for the Z900RS Cafe….Well, being a shrinking violet I preferred the more subtle colour scheme of the standard RS and I think the bars are a little lower on the Cafe? I’ve got dodgy (twice broken) wrists so need all the upright help I can get. It still a gorgeous bike though. Hmmmm…Dark chocolate club biscuit….Good choice, you are a man of taste…Great choice I have to say 😀 What about the one with the raisins? Anyway, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Good evening - the overlay is done through the GoPro Quik app - edit the footage, add gauges, then export. It’s a bit fiddly but looks good. I think any GoPro from the Hero 6 or 5 onwards has GPS so just need to make sure that’s been switched on in the camera. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Hello, well, I’ve just spent some time navigating (and getting lost) through a couple of French cities in some incredible heat and found it to be a stress free and quite enjoyable experience. You’re sat upright on the bike, there’s loads of leverage through the bars and the engine is super smooth (and cool running), while the clutch is super light. Then you’ve got plush, comfortable suspension so it works rather well. Oh and no vibes…I get white finger really bad but in this….nothing. Great mirrors also. Some folk say the throttle response is jerky…and while I can sense it is, now I’ve acclimatised to it, it’s no big deal. I’ve not ridden a T120, although I had a 1200 scrambler for a year, good bike but I found the engine quite dull and it was like someone strapping a sandwich toaster to my leg. Hope that helps, thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Just subscribed to your channel, as I like your bike taste & your film production is very unique, with an interesting artistic & landscape prospective! I primarily saw your videos, as I am seriously considering purchasing a Kawasaki Z900RS & like to get some reviews from “real world” owners before parting with my cash? Thanks for your opinions & recommendations on the bike, which help enormously in making my decision! Safe riding out there! 😎👍
Afternoon Paul, thanks for the sub and great to know you appreciate the reviews. They are more an exercise is aesthetics in many ways, as that’s what owning a bike for me, is all about - getting you to places and being very enjoyable on route. The Z is a lovely, lovely bike, fast enough without being insane, very nice handling and a load of real world usability, plus, of course, it is very nice to look at! Sounds amazing also! Anyway, hope all is well where you are, good luck with the bike decision and likewise with your riding also, cheers, Phil.
Hi again Phil, I just bought a 2020 Z900RS cafe racer in Kawasaki Green with 4,500 miles on the clock! I rode both versions, but liked the lower riding position & small colour coordinated fairing! Great ride & powerful silky smooth engine! Thanks again! Happy, safe riding out there! 👍😎
Hey Paul, great to hear from you again and congratulations on your new purchase! Silky smooth…that’s the one! The cafe is a brilliant looking bike and of course just as brilliant as the RS…You’re going to have a blast! Normally I’d sign of by saying “hope all is well “…But I think you’ll be doing just fine 😀 Cheers, Phil.
Evening Nick, the screen is made by Powerbronze, easy to fit, looks ok and I was probably a little unfair about it as it does the job perfectly. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Nice update - thank you. A quick question regarding luggage if I may. Obviously you can't spoil this bike's lovely lines with panniers, etc., however I recall seeing a red cargo net in your previous video at 4 mins 14 secs. In the absence of a grab rail, are there anchor points available for the net, or did you have to run straps underneath the rear tailpiece somehow? Cheers.
Thanks for stopping by, great to know you enjoyed the video. In answer to your question, yes, there’s a bobbin on each side, near the passenger foot peg hanger, and towards the rear there’s a little bracket on each side which is also used to hold the rear / side reflectors (which I’ve removed). So you’ve got four anchor points and no need to directly hook onto the bodywork or under the seat / tailpiece. I’m currently in France and have chucked on my old throw over panniers, and they’re working just fine! Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
SW Motech do soft luggage to fit this bike. The frames are small enough to not spoil the looks of the bike. I've also put a Hepco & Becker rack on it. Again, it's discreet enough not to spoil the bike. Besides which, it can come off easily enough between trips.
Evening, well, there’s a close up of the back tyre, a close up of the screen in profile while riding and er, the radiator cover was so uninteresting I didn’t bother 😀 If you’re interested though it’s a R&G cover. Oh and bike closeups we’re done in the first video so I didn’t bother this time….Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Morning Dave, that’s a cruel and fiendish moral dilemma of a question! I’ll need to think very carefully about it….I’ll get back to you! Thanks for stopping by ( I think!) Cheers, Phil.
Yeah, it’s gotta be. Bourbons are vaguely nostalgic and classic but still have so much to offer in this digital age. As for the tour…Me too! Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Hey Luke, yeah...You can also tell they are UK gulls as their diet of chips, burgers and pizza crusts doesn't half make a mess. We've got seagulls nesting on our roof...if they weren't protected I'd be taking some measures....
Nice scenery but not sure about the review, don't get the comparison to biscuits ? most people who own these talk about the snatchy throttle, the cold idle speed being too high for too long, rock hard seat, its a great bike once you tweak it a bit... oh and btw they are nothing like the original 1970 Z bikes
Hey Bob, I’m really glad they’re nothing like the original! I hated the seventies, bad hair, awful food, nothing on the telly and wet Sundays were totally grim. Or at least it was here. Plus I was trying to learn coding on an Apple II so that probably didn’t help. As for the biscuits, well, it’s all about trying to combine the things I love, so bikes and biscuits are right up there. I would disagree with the rock hard seat, I reckon it’s just fine and as for the throttle, I don’t know if the 2021 is better than earlier models but it’s so easy to get used to and ride around, it’s no problem at all. 2500 miles in a week earlier on this year and zero complaints! Thanks for stopping by, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Excellent work, as always. Love your work. The Z900RS looks absolutely beautiful. I currently ride a Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone, and while I respect the bike, I just haven't connected with it as much as I would like. The Z900RS seems a good alternative, if I decide to part with my Guzzi. Keep up the great work.
Good evening, thanks for your kind comments - great to know the work is appreciated. Well, as a V7III rider myself (which I totally adore) I’m finding the Z900RS while similar from a genre perspective, is a totally different proposition and for me, gorgeous looks aside, it’s doesn’t “overlap” with the Guzzi from a speed, sporty or handling perspective. The V7 is properly trad and that’s why I love it. The Z900RS looks trad but is modern yet super simple , easy to ride and very effective across all sorts of riding. Worth a look! Hope that helps and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Good evening….Well, personally, I’m aware that it can be snatchy and I have experienced it myself, however, I now just ride round it which is basically knowing how it responds and when, and taking steps to smooth my use of the throttle….So I choose a higher gear than I would normally use around town (the bike can easily pull fifth gear at 30 mph) and keep my hand on the clutch to feather it when needed. In 99 % of my riding it doesn’t manifest itself and in the other 1% I deal with it. But that’s just me, different riding gear conditions may make it more of a hassle I guess. I grew up on dodgy fuelling, gutless 2 strokes, worn out carbs etc, so everything these days feels brilliant! Probably doesn’t help so worth a (long) test ride as we’re all different! Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Afternoon Vladimir…Good question…For me and the riding and the roads I have locally, the Z900 is much the better proposition. Suspension wise it’s much plusher which means not only is it more comfortable but much less nervous feeling. On smooth roads I found the XSR brilliant - but I don’t have many of those round here! The XSR engine aces the Z900 in some respects, it feels more powerful and spins up like a mad two stroke. The Z900 is just as fast but the delivery is much more linear. Both sound amazing. For me, on unfamiliar bumpy roads I have much more confidence in the neutrality of the Z, while some folk would prefer the more flighty nature of the XSR. The Z is sensible/fast/neutral while the XSR is mad/quicker/flighty…Does that help at all? Both great bikes though and having just back from Europe, the comfort and bigger tank of the Z made for a really good trip….I think it would have been much more challenging on the XSR. Thanks for stopping by and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Thank you for taking your time to answer. It does help to know your opinion. Will we see bits of your euro-trip? Would be great to know what routes you chose Thank you one more time
Its a solid bike, but needs some upgrades. The stock tires are crap, the shock is awful and 6th gear is way to tall... The new SE model will address those shortcomings... I have done a lot of mods, and even tracked mine... It's a brilliant bike once you get it set up right...
Yeah, I know…However, I’ve still got the Guzzi and still totally adore it…It’s brilliant! Glad you enjoyed the review and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Hmmm…Perhaps there were tell tail crumbs stuck to my face? I came close to choosing the Peek Freans iced biscuit to be honest, but couldn’t find them anywhere. And then, I found out Peek Freans had invented the original Bourbon biscuit and also the Garibaldi! As Alexei Sayle famously pointed out, there’s something about revolutionary biscuits 😀 I’ll stop now. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Kudos for all the work that went into making this video. This bike must really be something that deserved such a lovely piece of work. Thank you.
Good evening & thanks very much for your comments - they are much appreciated. The Z900RS is a fabulous machine indeed, one of the best I’ve owned.
All the best and thank you too, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for such great bike reviews. Although in my 50s and new to the wonderful world of bikes, you have nailed for me what this wonderful past time is all about. Gorgeous countryside which epitomises what biking is all about for me. Keep up the great work mate.
Hey Ryan, thanks for stopping by. And yes, isn’t it all about the places it takes you? I remember the feeling of going from push-bike to motorbike and the fact it opened up so many places and at the same time actually allowed you to feel the environment around you.
Brilliant machines 😀 More coming soon & hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Best intro I've seen yet for a YT motorcycle video. And I enjoyed looking at the bike from your unique perspective. I hadn't previously considered what type of biscuit it would be! Thank you.
Hey Rick, how are you doing? Many thanks for your kind comments - glad you enjoyed the video and the intro! Choice of biscuit comparison to a motorcycle is obviously controversial but I personally think it’s more insightful than say comparing weight or power. After all if you know your biscuits, you know your bikes 😀
Hope all is well where you are Rick and thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Sir you deserve more subscribers. The quality of your video is insane.
Thanks Niel, great to know the work is appreciated. To be honest I don’t really work at getting subscribers and I prefer being low key. Imagine going viral! Arghhhh!
Anyway thanks for watching and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Really cool shots in this video
Thanks very much Mike, great to know the work is appreciated, cheers, Phil.
Nice to see an update. Z900RS has quickly risen up my list to be the next motorbike I'll buy. Colour options for second hand are a bit lacking in my country but I'll wait and see. The looks are just too good.
Morning! Thanks for stopping by, yes, the Z900RS is a fabulous machine, goes well, rides well, very useful and looks absolutely delicious. Definitely worth a test ride. Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Very pleasant short video regarding a motorcycle of interest.
Thanks Pete, glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Today i booked my 2024 Z900 RS Standard, and I'm not planning to add anything to it, I love motorcycles, or cars the way they were intended to be from the factory engineers. Ny first motorcycle " when I got my license in 2004" was a Honda Magna V4 750. Then through the years I moved to Harleys and I been riding them till today that I walked into the Kawasaki dealer and booked the Z900. Can't wait to ride it! thanks again for the amazing videos, I just subscribed! :)
Hey, thanks for stopping by and I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the videos. The Z900RS is a brilliant bike and I’m sure you’ll love it - let me know what you think when it arrives.
Like you, I don’t tend to change or add much to my bikes and to be honest the Z900RS is pretty much spot on as delivered.
Enjoy and all the best, Phil.
I’m with you on the Michelin’s road 5s. I put those on my Z900rs and what a wonderful difference.
Hey Brian, thanks for stopping by and I couldn’t agree more. I also can’t believe how well they are wearing! Amazing tyres! Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Nice update, thank you. Picked up my my '21 z900rs café in April. 5500 miles in and I think It's a totally brilliant motorcycle. It's everything I wanted my '01 zrx1200r to be. I spun the risers around 180 and with 28mm spacers the café is now perfectly comfortable for me. I added an SW Motech street rack, SLC mounts, and legend bags, along with a Givi bungee net and some Evotech bits and bobs, it's all kitted out for combat commuting.
This bike is such a keeper that I'm already planning on buying another '21 in a few years as a back-up.
Considering I spent all that money on kit, I'm still riding on the stock tires. I was thinking about Dunlop Mutants, but I look forward to hearing about your experience with the Michelins. Thanks again!
Hey Charlie, combat commuting…I like it! Sounds like you’ve got it just how you want it. And to consider getting another as “backup” says a lot! Yeah, I’m so enjoying mine. It even managed to make a gruelling slog to the EuroTunnel (420 miles for me) not so bad.
So I’ve done around 2500 miles on the Michelin’s and…what a tyre! They have lightened the handling up, very confidence inspiring and wear so far seems minimal - recommended!
Overall, it’s gotta be one of the top 2 or 3 road bikes I’ve owned. I’m keeping it!
Anyway thanks for watching, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Beautiful intro, beautiful bike, I have over 5000 on my 2018 just put fresh Q3 Plus Tires on it. I love this machine.
Good evening, thanks for stopping by and yes, it’s a gorgeous bike both to look at and to ride. Every ride is a blast and it just does exactly what I want. It’s brilliant. I’m hooked! Sounds like you maybe also! Hope all is well with you and thanks for taking the comment, cheers, Phil.
Catching up on YT, delighted to spot yr latest.
Always a soft spot for the Big K in-line fours.. had a Z750E back in the early 80s and rode lots of mates Z1s. There’s something about the smooth oomph that lives between 3500 and 7000rpm, makes these bikes compelling . However getting them around corners at speed was not for the anxious. The trick was to fit the widest bars you could find and pray to the gods of leverage and friction to be gentle with you.
I’m not really in to retro, but the RS is such an improvement mechanically over earlier UJMs and at least it doesn’t look like the other 900. Good choice, and as always great video.
Hey Christian, how are you doing? Good to have you stopping again. The “smooth oomph” is a great description and on this one it’s 3000 to 8000, plus, having just spent the day hooning around some little balcony roads south of Chambery, I can say it is, completely compelling. And, yes, the bars are very wide and it flies round corners😀
Like you, I’m not really into the retro vibe, I just wanted something quick, with plush suspension (unlike the XSR) for the bumpy Northumberland roads, neutral handling, bulletproof and good looks. It’s easy to ride quick or slow, it satisfies my need for bungees on the back seat and sounds lovely, even burbling on the over run. I could be smitten!
Anyway, time for a beer, hope you’re well, cheers, Phil.
Thanks for the updates. The Road 5s are brilliant tires, indeed. Have them on two of my bikes, and I'm sure you've found them to be almost magical in the wet. Been ruminating over this bike and one of the newer sports tourers (1000SX, 1000GT, 9 GT), all in about the same price category. But this one always pulls me back with one look. In the 11th hour, will have to ride these back-to-back.
Morning John, my pleasure and thanks for stopping by. I totally love the Road 5’s - aside from the grip and feel I can’t quite believe how well they are wearing. By necessity I had to do a lot of motorway riding on my trip to Europe, yet they don’t seem to have squared off at all. They still look like new, it’s amazing. As for the bike itself, of course the other machines you mention are more suited to distance work and faster, but as you say there’s only one real looker!
Good luck choosing! Hope all is good where you are and thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
I completely agree with you on the Michelin Road 5 tyres. I rode through torrential rain for 2 days straight from Metz to Toulon last year on my Aprilia Caponord and never had any slides or problems. They even work on my Street Triple R!
Hello! Yes, they are something special. In the last two hours I’ve just been on very wet roads in France, with overbanding that resembles a spiders webs and they’ve been spot on.I used to always love Dunlop Roadsmarts, but these are amazing. From a dry grip and feel perspective, anything more would be wasted on me. They are also the first set of tyres I’ve fitted where the acclimatisation took like 3 seconds.
Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
I've been missing your great video footage and am sad to hear it was due to an accident. Luckily you are making it through it seems. Hope for positive recovery days in the future. Looking forward to seeing your next video but take it easy, we can wait. Cheers mate.
Good morning and many thanks for your note and encouragement, it all really helps I can tell you. The recovery is going well thanks and I’ll be getting some videos up shortly using footage I’ve already got so keep an eye out for those. All the best, cheers, Phil.
I said the same thing regarding keeping it stock! 2 years later and of course I have the full exhaust and a fuel controller. If you like the sound of the engine the akrapovic headers with their slip-on sounds amazing. Combined with the rapid bike fuel controller and its phenomenal.
Hey Brian, ha ha I’m determined to keep it stock…I’ve run out of money now anyway 😀 I’ll get back to you if I ignore my own advice though. Thanks for watching and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Got mine with less than 2k miles a few months ago from a 70+ year old man ECU already flashed and had set up for touring, windscreen, grab rail, center stand, sliders all over. I removed everything possible, blacked out trim and bolts and put clip on bars and it’s glorious, definitely not saving this bike for the next owner
Love your videos mate, they are art
Thank you so much - it means a lot to have the work appreciated…Especially for a boring old bike review! Thanks again, cheers, Phil.
Nice presentation as always. Missed the moon this time!
Thanks Rob, the moon will be making a comeback soon 😀 Thanks for stopping by and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
First seconds in, Instant subscription. Thank you for this well sorted out video and Bike report. Awesome!
Good afternoon and thanks for stopping by. Many thanks for the subscription and great to know you enjoyed the video. The Z900RS is a brilliant bike so the videos come easy 😊
Hope all is ok where you are and best wishes for Christmas, cheers, Phil.
Excellent as always. Looking forward to the touring update.
Thanks very much! Me neither! Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Luved the update, not in the UK but luv bikes, great scenery, great MC territory 👍
Hello, thanks for stopping by. Glad you enjoyed the video and yeah, when the weather is good it’s a blast! Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews be great to meet up for ride n checkout youre Z900 but im in Aust lol. What a fantastic bike. The Japanese got it absolutely spot on. Look forward to some more updates to do with the Z. Luv the go pro footage great stuff 👍
Hello again! More updates coming in a bit once I pull my finger out. Must admit I thought I’d got over 4 cylinder bikes but they really hit the mark with this one. It’s a belter! Thanks again for your kind comments and greetings from the UK, cheers, Phil.
I have a 2019 cafe. Yeah the front forks was too soft for me. I adjusted it a little stiffer and now it’s to my liking.
Thanks for the info, I might try that when I’m back on the road in a few months time, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
" some Omen style accident . . . " that is the best line I've heard in bit; made me laugh out loud.
Hey William, ha ha yeah, my guiding principle is to never ride behind a vehicle carrying sheets of plate glass 😀 might have to watch the movie again now. Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
Brilliant photography. Best on youtube i reckon. Glad you are liking the bike. Cheers from aussieland.
Hey Ian, thanks a lot - really means a lot to have the work appreciated. And the bike is just fabulous! Hope all is well is 🇦🇺, thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Hello Phil,just thought I would say hello.After a life change which I won't go into on here your videos are really chearing me up.The content,humour and filmography are excellent. I'm currently looking for a new bike but find myself torn between a retro classic or an adventure bike although I particularly like the Z900RS or the Bonneville T120 ! I look forward to your next video's touring on the Kawasaki Z900RS...Best regards Stuart ..The mad Yorkshireman!
Hey Stuart, great to hear from you! As I’m assuming you’re a professional Yorkshireman, I shouldn’t really be speaking to you of course (I hail from the other side of the Pennines) but that’s a very kind and generous comment, so I guess you don’t follow the G.Boycott trend 😀
Well, I’ve had big trailies (as they used to be called) and did the ADV thing many years ago with an 1150GS followed by a 1200. I got rid about 10 years ago as my wife stopped riding pillion and the size (and I admit ubiquity) was starting to get a little old. I love (solo) trail riding so was always on the lookout for the perfect combo bike - and ended up with Triumph 1200 Scrambler. Which was like having a sandwich toaster strapped to your leg and while very able off road, was too heavy for solo riding - I.e. dropping it was not an option!
Anyway, I’m currently on the homeward leg of my Euro trip on the Z900RS, 2400 miles on the trip and 4500 in total. Blimey, great bike! Super smooth, easy to use, brilliant compliant handling and it provides so much confidence. Plus it just whooshes along. Now you will see elsewhere that the throttle is a bit binary. It’s got that super lean vibe but I’ve been riding bikes for 35 years, evil 2 strokes and the like and I just ride round it. For me it’s not a problem but perhaps for folk who were somehow born after 2000 and are allowed to ride bikes (surely they are 2 years old?) it could be. The bike runs cool, does an easy 160 miles to a tank and looks totally brilliant. So…I’m hooked!
Hope that helps. If you are genuinely mad though, I may have to block you 😀
Cheers (from France),
Phil.
@@80eightReviews I know yor from Manchester ,I'm making allowances 🤐..seriously though I'm waiting to see what the new Triumph Tiger 1200's like then I will make my decision but im very keen on the Z Phil...when you have time check out Jordans bikes video on you tube Kawasaki Z900RS remapping, I think you will find it interesting ,thanks for the reply Phil , you sound like a guy I could have several pints with,i reckon you have some interesting stories to tell ,me too probably..Just got back from Whitby( heaving it were lol) enjoy the rest of your trip Phil can't wait for the video.. p.s I'm 58 so can remember most of the original Japanese bikes...cheers Stuart..aka The mad Yorkshireman
Mine's just had its first MoT, so I've had it three years. I junked the OEM tyres in favour of Michelins within the first few hundred miles. The suspension wasn't quite right, so I took it to a specialist. Cost me £50 to set it up and it made all the difference.
Morning Mark, thanks for stopping by. £50 for the suspension - presumably tweaks from someone who know what they’re doing? I might see who’s in my area next year and do the same. Thanks for the suggestion, hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews yes. These bikes come out of the factory with the suspension set soft. People replace the units, but before doing that take it to a specialist and get them to set it up properly. He will sit you on the bike and measure the sag. Mine cost £50 for a bit of tweaking, but it made a world of difference to the handling.
Phillips hurry up with these tour videos will you I'm desperate to see them lol can't wait mate ,,Stuart The Mad Yorkshireman
Morning Stuart, ha ha…Part 1 this weekend I hope! Don’t set your expectations too high though 😃 cheers, Phil.
Hello Phil , You find the best shots of Northumberland, northern England and southern Scotland. The shot in the water with light at the end of the tunnel is optimism itself unchained. I agree; even a Honda 125 trail bike would be a joy sitting there. When I think of my favorite suspension it would still be the 1961 R69s BMW with the Earles front end... I know modern riders would find that spongy but I knew what it would do in a curve and it was always on it's line and kept my back from breaking in the potholes. Announcing a bike is a "Keeper" just puts it into a higher category of being a joy maker worth holding onto. There should be a special column in the classifieds for bikes we want to keep but may not have room for with the three other keepers we also have ... I will have to go to my local gourmet bakery to find this cooky of yours ... :)
Evening Guy, how are you doing? As you know this area (like yours) has many a quietly beautiful place around every corner. Although, I must say when I saw the tunnel with the stream pooling in front of it, it did feel really special. So tranquil and perfect, I could have spent a whole day there doing not terribly much. Aside from eating biscuits of course.
I’ve never tried an Earles front end, but you describe the action and feeling perfectly and like you like say, sudden jolts due to road imperfections are not that much fun. Plus, it’s much better in the wet.
As for the “keeper” well, I might live to regret that! However, I’ve got a feeling this time as it ticks all the practical and lust for speed and handling boxes, while at the same time it’s doesn’t make me go completely mad (like the Ducati) plus it’s got the aesthetics. And while I never buy into a relationship with a particular marque, back when I had long hair my Gpz550 and subsequent GPZ900 provided much fun, so it’s nice to link back to that history. Three keepers though, yes, that’s absolutely right!
Now, the important stuff…Biscuits/Cookies…I think the closest US equivalent to a Bourbon biscuit is maybe the Oreo with a dark chocolate filling? So to be completely honest, these days the Bourbon is quite an everyday, utilitarian (and perhaps unfashionable) biscuit but back in the 1970’s when biscuits were rare at home, anything with a cream filling was very special. And to be honest, I scoffed four during the video and had a sugar rush 😀 so, er, I wouldn’t hurry to find them, the comparison was less about taste and more about the biscuit evocation of earlier times. Like Proust with cookies and motorbikes 😀
These days, I prefer crackers 😀
Hope all is well in CT and the pottery, hope you had a good summer, cheers, Phil.
Owned many bikes over the years and I’ve found tire differences often make little real world difference. That said, the Michelin Road 5’s transformed my VFR as well. Which leads me to a question: Why do some tires make such a significant difference and others barely make a difference at all?
Hey Walter, that’s a great question and putting aside all the chemical technology involved in a tyre, these days, I think what a rider likes and has confidence in has a big part to play. Some folk like quick steering / steep profiles, others not. If you get the ‘wrong’ profile, that’s makes a big difference. Oddly, despite them being top manufacturers, I’ve never liked Pirelli’s. Ever. Now, if I ever have a bike with them fitted is it an emotional lack of confidence that skews my judgment? Dunno. When I used to ride with friends a lot we’d always kick each other’s tyres and “don’t like the look of that”. And it’s amazing how much a little doubt can impact confidence.
Not an answer Walter, aside from its the tyre + rider combination that perhaps determines the difference.
Thanks for stopping by, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Great Vid Sir. If you could please, which size Power Bronze screen do you have? They have 3 different sizes for the "Lite Screen" 225mm, 285mm, and 290mm. Also, any overly annoying helmet buffeting at highway speeds? I love my RS but I really need a screen for the highway rides and yours really looks good w/o taking away from the bike.
Hey Jon - thanks for stopping by, it's great to know you enjoyed the video. As for the screen, it's the light 290mm screen : www.powerbronze.co.uk/kawasaki-z900rs-18-21-290-mm-430-u272.html
There was no noticeable buffeting - but it does (like all flyscreens) increase the wind noise - so earplugs are an absolute necessity. It's pretty good quality, easy to fit and a good price. Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Thanks so much for the info! Great Vids..Cheers!
Got a new kawasaki z 900 RS SE in yellow ball colourway ordered, arriving shortly , to go on the road March 1st. Accessories - grab rail, kawasaki silver radiator grill and kawasaki tank protector. DVLA private reg bought beginning K900 with my initials as the last three letters. Bargain price for a reg plate as well at £250 including assignment fee of £80. Can't wait !
Steve Zodiac! So first question, are you Colonel Steve Zodiac or the even more legendary guitarist from 1980's rock band Vardis? If neither, no worries :-)
Love the yellow ball Z900 RS-SE!! What a cracking machine and those are some very nice accessories I have to say + a personal plate. I can't wait either! I can only hope the weather, grit and grime is better wherever you are in the UK.
Let me know how you get on with the bike and I'd love to see some photo's at some point. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Beauriful bike !Enjoy
Hey Mat, thanks for stopping by....You know what...I absolutely will! Hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
The biscuit that was, ta for your art!
Hey Daniel, how are you doing? Yep, that biscuit is nothing but crumbs now 😀 And my pleasure, cheers, Phil.
dang she looks cool in that colour
Thanks Stanley, yeah…it is rather nice I have to say 😀
As ever well filmed ...best colour z too..👌.chunky .kitkat for me never tire of it....cheers
Thanks! Yeah, the colour is great! Good to hear from you again! Cheers, Phil.
Good video, it is the ergonomics of rs that is makes it perfect, fast engine with adventure touring ergonomics. It is the higher handlebar, the sweep, the rise that make a bike more enjoyable to ride. I have a Suzuki inline four but the ergonomics is sporty, although the engine sounds and feel same as Rs but not as comfortable, only 45 minutes riding before you have to stop and get off the seat.
Good evening, spot on with the adventure touring ergonomics - combined with low to the street dynamics of a road bike it’s really quite lovely. I can easily do four/five hours on it and still feel “up for the ride” as opposed to wanting it over, which has to be a good thing.
Good to hear from you, thanks for taking the time to comment and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
I put on a K-Tech Razor R rear shock and I must say, you should seriously consider it.
Evening! Thanks for the advice and thanks for stopping by, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
I'm so far I South America and It seems to be in a Z900RS movie when watching your videos. I like the soft suspension setting in my Kawasaki, please let me know how many turns on your bike for the 3 in front forks and the rear one. Thanks
Hey Sergio, thanks for your comments and hope all is well in South America! At the moment I haven’t made any changes to the standard suspension settings so whatever they came out of the factory with, that’s what I’ve got. The bike is in storage at the moment so I can’t check the settings I’m afraid. Sorry! Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Yep, Bourbon it is... Loved the review and am looking forward to the touring update. Cheers!!
Thanks! I love a good bourbon, really takes me back to a simpler time and the Z900 kinda does that also. Must admit I had to give the packet away as I scoffed about five at one sitting, got a sugar rush and needed a lie down. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Yes the motorcycle one of the best transportations out there but honestly try an euc you will love it.
Thanks Andy, of course I agree completely! And if I get the chance, I will! Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Got a 74 H2 and a 80 Z1R - yours looks very nice... might add the new 2022 gold wheel one as they look pukka !
Morning, thanks for stopping by. Yes, the SE is quite a thing and adding it to your collection would add a certain perfect symmetry. H2….wow! I can almost smell the fumes from here. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.
Looks like I won't be able to get this until the end of 2022 due to a change in importers. I will also get the new michilin Road 6 as well.
Hey Nasi, thanks for stopping by. That’s a shame but it will be worth the wait. As for the Road 6’s as soon as my Road 5’s wear out I’ll be putting a pair on. If they improve on the already amazing 5’s they will be incredible! Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
I did a 93 mile, mixed speed jaunt this afternoon in the rolling Kansas countryside and my arse was toast. But, I'm back in the saddle after a looong time away, so there's probably more of an issue with me than the seat. BTW, Evotech do a nice rad' guard for the '21 model. I also have their tail tidy but am yet to fit it .. going for a ride instead won the day. Stay safe!
Good afternoon. Yes, comfort on any bike is very much backside dependant, so er, it’s highly personal hence the caveat 😀 I think I’ve got the R&G radiator guard, I didn’t video it as it wasn’t very interesting to be honest! And yes, fitting a tail tidy or going for a ride…Right choice every time. Hope all is well is Kansas and thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Greetings from Colorado. I am debating between 1200XE or 900RS. You've owned both. If you were to buy again which one and why? Thanks in advance.
Morning Bilal and greetings from the UK, hope you’re doing well. Well, if I were to buy again and assuming I didn’t need the admitted versatility of the XE, I would always choose the Z900. Reasons being it’s so much better on the road, the engine, in my opinion, despite being a flat four is so much more fun and involving to use than the XE. Then there’s the usability of the Z900 - bigger tank, virtually no engine heat, much better clocks and none of the keyless hassle. I think the XE in Colorado could quite easily get very overwhelming from a heat perspective.
Of course the XE gives you dual sport capability, which the Z900 doesn’t, however I found again, because of the heat, it was compromised doing low speed off tarmac trails.
I’ve just got back from a 2500 trip to Europe on the Z900 and I can say it coped brilliantly, fun all the way, comfortable and more importantly, looks amazing. I’d say the finish between the two bikes is just as good also.
Still, that’s my opinion of course…Hope that helps!
Cheers, Phil.
Thank you Phil. I agree with everything you said leaning more towards the RS...
It’s such an beautiful machine!!!
Well done also a great vid buddy
Thanks very much, glad you enjoyed the review, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews have a good one buddy
I thought you were going to say Jaffa cake there for a minute ;-) Great photography as ever :-)
Ah! Is it a cake or a biscuit? It’s dangerous ground once you start talking cake…But yes, that would have been more appropriate I guess…but er, I don’t really like them to be honest - for some reason they remind me of hospitals 😬 Anyway, that’s a debate that could go on forever…. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
I’m not sure which you like best - Bourbon Biscuits or the 900RS ?
Morning Ian, well, that’s the existential question….It’s the bike or the biscuit 🤔……Tricky, very tricky…
Nice video like always…
Thanks very much, it’s really good to know the work is appreciated, cheers, Phil.
That makes the Z900RS SE a chocolate Hobnob then - exotic & desirable, you know you shouldn't, but you're helpless in its power. Look forward to the European grand tour report, Phil.
Thanks Hugh, chocolate hobnob, hmmm you’re upping the ante there….Helpless in the power of a desirable biscuit…I think you could be right. Let me see what I can find in France though, I suspect my head may get turned by something sweet and fancy….And yeah, I can’t wait myself 😀 Thanks for stopping by again, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Je récommende les gallettes aux amandes - délicieuse, mon ami.
Hmmm…Almonds, I love almonds. Right, a challenge has been set…Not that I need one with biscuits 😀 Thanks Hugh!
Nice bike with my backyard as a backdrop too…
Thanks Ian! I’ll keep an eye out for you…Hope all is well & thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Second time around - that bike just gets more desirable, Phil.
I’m going to get one in every colour…
@@80eightReviews 😂
What is the fuelling like at low revs? I've a friend who loves the bike and is currently riding a demo 2018 one...but, it does have a fuelling issue at low revs, which is a little dangerous when pulling out of slow bends, or pulling off in general. I read that others have had the issue too, and get the ECU "flashed", but is that needed on the newer models?
Good afternoon - thanks for stopping by. To be honest, I never really had a problem with the fuelling on my particular bike. It did run super lean which manifested itself as being a little jerky in lower gears but to be honest I simply learnt to ride around it after 10 minutes. And by that I mean feathering the clutch if needed / selecting a higher gear occasionally. In no way was it dangerous and compared to some bikes I've owned it was brilliant!
Now whether my later (2021) bike had better fuelling than earlier bikes I can't really say - though as you suggest re-mapping seems to be a common thing to do. From my perspective I never felt the need to do it but I'm sure the right map would have an impact.
Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
When mine arrives it's changing the tires & a remap to smooth everything out. I'm looking to make a 4 into 2 exhaust
Hey Frank, sounds good and I can definitely recommend the Michelin Road 5’s.
Thanks for stopping by and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Lovely bike and great video. Given you’ve added the small fairing, weren’t you tempted to get the z900rs cafe version with an OEM fairing all included?
I think the cafe version is a dark chocolate club biscuit.
Good afternoon, thanks for stopping by and glad you enjoyed the video. As for the Z900RS Cafe….Well, being a shrinking violet I preferred the more subtle colour scheme of the standard RS and I think the bars are a little lower on the Cafe? I’ve got dodgy (twice broken) wrists so need all the upright help I can get. It still a gorgeous bike though.
Hmmmm…Dark chocolate club biscuit….Good choice, you are a man of taste…Great choice I have to say 😀 What about the one with the raisins? Anyway, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
What overlay are you using that shows the road, elevation, speed, ect…????
Good evening - the overlay is done through the GoPro Quik app - edit the footage, add gauges, then export. It’s a bit fiddly but looks good. I think any GoPro from the Hero 6 or 5 onwards has GPS so just need to make sure that’s been switched on in the camera.
Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
my dream motorbike... 🤩🤩🤩
Good afternoon...And that's a very good choice for a dream bike - it's a beautiful and fun motorbike. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Would you say its a relaxing ride around town? looking at a triumph t120 or maybe this..
Hello, well, I’ve just spent some time navigating (and getting lost) through a couple of French cities in some incredible heat and found it to be a stress free and quite enjoyable experience. You’re sat upright on the bike, there’s loads of leverage through the bars and the engine is super smooth (and cool running), while the clutch is super light. Then you’ve got plush, comfortable suspension so it works rather well. Oh and no vibes…I get white finger really bad but in this….nothing. Great mirrors also.
Some folk say the throttle response is jerky…and while I can sense it is, now I’ve acclimatised to it, it’s no big deal.
I’ve not ridden a T120, although I had a 1200 scrambler for a year, good bike but I found the engine quite dull and it was like someone strapping a sandwich toaster to my leg.
Hope that helps, thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Just subscribed to your channel, as I like your bike taste & your film production is very unique, with an interesting artistic & landscape prospective! I primarily saw your videos, as I am seriously considering purchasing a Kawasaki Z900RS & like to get some reviews from “real world” owners before parting with my cash? Thanks for your opinions & recommendations on the bike, which help enormously in making my decision! Safe riding out there! 😎👍
Afternoon Paul, thanks for the sub and great to know you appreciate the reviews. They are more an exercise is aesthetics in many ways, as that’s what owning a bike for me, is all about - getting you to places and being very enjoyable on route. The Z is a lovely, lovely bike, fast enough without being insane, very nice handling and a load of real world usability, plus, of course, it is very nice to look at! Sounds amazing also!
Anyway, hope all is well where you are, good luck with the bike decision and likewise with your riding also, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews I’ll let you know how I get on! Thanks Phil 👍
Hi again Phil, I just bought a 2020 Z900RS cafe racer in Kawasaki Green with 4,500 miles on the clock! I rode both versions, but liked the lower riding position & small colour coordinated fairing! Great ride & powerful silky smooth engine! Thanks again! Happy, safe riding out there! 👍😎
Hey Paul, great to hear from you again and congratulations on your new purchase! Silky smooth…that’s the one! The cafe is a brilliant looking bike and of course just as brilliant as the RS…You’re going to have a blast! Normally I’d sign of by saying “hope all is well “…But I think you’ll be doing just fine 😀 Cheers, Phil.
Thanks for the great review. What is the brand of the windscreen/ flyscreen? I couldn’t quite pick up the name.
Evening Nick, the screen is made by Powerbronze, easy to fit, looks ok and I was probably a little unfair about it as it does the job perfectly. Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Nice update - thank you. A quick question regarding luggage if I may. Obviously you can't spoil this bike's lovely lines with panniers, etc., however I recall seeing a red cargo net in your previous video at 4 mins 14 secs. In the absence of a grab rail, are there anchor points available for the net, or did you have to run straps underneath the rear tailpiece somehow? Cheers.
Thanks for stopping by, great to know you enjoyed the video. In answer to your question, yes, there’s a bobbin on each side, near the passenger foot peg hanger, and towards the rear there’s a little bracket on each side which is also used to hold the rear / side reflectors (which I’ve removed). So you’ve got four anchor points and no need to directly hook onto the bodywork or under the seat / tailpiece.
I’m currently in France and have chucked on my old throw over panniers, and they’re working just fine! Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
SW Motech do soft luggage to fit this bike. The frames are small enough to not spoil the looks of the bike. I've also put a Hepco & Becker rack on it. Again, it's discreet enough not to spoil the bike. Besides which, it can come off easily enough between trips.
Thanks Mark, good info, cheers, Phil.
I am waiting to see the price of the new SE model, when it's released here in the US.
Morning, definitely worth doing if you’re interested in the bike….mines staying 😀 Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
Well done at showing a beautiful back drop.
But unfortunately no close up of the bike and the mods you speak of!
Evening, well, there’s a close up of the back tyre, a close up of the screen in profile while riding and er, the radiator cover was so uninteresting I didn’t bother 😀 If you’re interested though it’s a R&G cover. Oh and bike closeups we’re done in the first video so I didn’t bother this time….Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
Are you Peter Jackson's cinematographer? Great job 👍
Ha ha thanks Julie, well, he can have my number anytime and I’m available at short notice 😀 Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
V7III or the Z900RS if you had to choose which was the "keeper" of the 2?
Morning Dave, that’s a cruel and fiendish moral dilemma of a question! I’ll need to think very carefully about it….I’ll get back to you! Thanks for stopping by ( I think!) Cheers, Phil.
Well Dave, yesterday, I sold my V7 and got a….
Bourbon, eh?
Very good and entertaining. Looking forward to the tour.
Yeah, it’s gotta be. Bourbons are vaguely nostalgic and classic but still have so much to offer in this digital age. As for the tour…Me too! Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
new this was a uk video as soon as I heard them gulls can tell by the gulls accent
Hey Luke, yeah...You can also tell they are UK gulls as their diet of chips, burgers and pizza crusts doesn't half make a mess. We've got seagulls nesting on our roof...if they weren't protected I'd be taking some measures....
Nice scenery but not sure about the review, don't get the comparison to biscuits ? most people who own these talk about the snatchy throttle, the cold idle speed being too high for too long, rock hard seat, its a great bike once you tweak it a bit... oh and btw they are nothing like the original 1970 Z bikes
Hey Bob, I’m really glad they’re nothing like the original! I hated the seventies, bad hair, awful food, nothing on the telly and wet Sundays were totally grim. Or at least it was here.
Plus I was trying to learn coding on an Apple II so that probably didn’t help. As for the biscuits, well, it’s all about trying to combine the things I love, so bikes and biscuits are right up there. I would disagree with the rock hard seat, I reckon it’s just fine and as for the throttle, I don’t know if the 2021 is better than earlier models but it’s so easy to get used to and ride around, it’s no problem at all. 2500 miles in a week earlier on this year and zero complaints!
Thanks for stopping by, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
Excellent work, as always. Love your work. The Z900RS looks absolutely beautiful. I currently ride a Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone, and while I respect the bike, I just haven't connected with it as much as I would like. The Z900RS seems a good alternative, if I decide to part with my Guzzi. Keep up the great work.
Good evening, thanks for your kind comments - great to know the work is appreciated. Well, as a V7III rider myself (which I totally adore) I’m finding the Z900RS while similar from a genre perspective, is a totally different proposition and for me, gorgeous looks aside, it’s doesn’t “overlap” with the Guzzi from a speed, sporty or handling perspective. The V7 is properly trad and that’s why I love it. The Z900RS looks trad but is modern yet super simple , easy to ride and very effective across all sorts of riding. Worth a look!
Hope that helps and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Thanks for your reply! I will definitely look into the Z900RS. Very excited. Thanks again.
Hi. How do you find the throttle on the RS? Many complain that it is a bit snatchy.
Good evening….Well, personally, I’m aware that it can be snatchy and I have experienced it myself, however, I now just ride round it which is basically knowing how it responds and when, and taking steps to smooth my use of the throttle….So I choose a higher gear than I would normally use around town (the bike can easily pull fifth gear at 30 mph) and keep my hand on the clutch to feather it when needed. In 99 % of my riding it doesn’t manifest itself and in the other 1% I deal with it. But that’s just me, different riding gear conditions may make it more of a hassle I guess. I grew up on dodgy fuelling, gutless 2 strokes, worn out carbs etc, so everything these days feels brilliant!
Probably doesn’t help so worth a (long) test ride as we’re all different! Hope that helps, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews My rs is a little snatchy but you get used to it.
How is this compared to the xsr900?
Thanks 🙏🏻
Afternoon Vladimir…Good question…For me and the riding and the roads I have locally, the Z900 is much the better proposition. Suspension wise it’s much plusher which means not only is it more comfortable but much less nervous feeling. On smooth roads I found the XSR brilliant - but I don’t have many of those round here! The XSR engine aces the Z900 in some respects, it feels more powerful and spins up like a mad two stroke. The Z900 is just as fast but the delivery is much more linear. Both sound amazing. For me, on unfamiliar bumpy roads I have much more confidence in the neutrality of the Z, while some folk would prefer the more flighty nature of the XSR. The Z is sensible/fast/neutral while the XSR is mad/quicker/flighty…Does that help at all?
Both great bikes though and having just back from Europe, the comfort and bigger tank of the Z made for a really good trip….I think it would have been much more challenging on the XSR.
Thanks for stopping by and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews Thank you for taking your time to answer.
It does help to know your opinion.
Will we see bits of your euro-trip? Would be great to know what routes you chose
Thank you one more time
Hey Vladimir, yes, I’ll be doing a short video of the trip soon! Cheers, Phil.
Beautiful bike and nice review. But that bike screams for some bar-end mirrors. Just a thought.
Also... thanks as always for including a TARDIS.
Evening Mike, hmmmm….now there’s a thought….Glad you enjoyed the review and the TARDIS, hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
I have one and like the mirrors.
And they do work very well.
Lovely-looking bike. Lets see how long you do actually keep it. Haha!
Evening! Er, I mean it this time. I think. No, this is it! Perhaps. Thanks for stopping by (again), cheers, Phil.
Its a solid bike, but needs some upgrades. The stock tires are crap, the shock is awful and 6th gear is way to tall... The new SE model will address those shortcomings...
I have done a lot of mods, and even tracked mine... It's a brilliant bike once you get it set up right...
Morning! Yes, I’ve seen your track videos - they’re incredible! I’m on Michelin Road 5’s now - fabulous tyres! Cheers, Phil.
Be careful I said this bike is a keeper 15 bikes ago
Hey Jack, ha ha, er, well, I mean it this time….Well, until the next time 😀 Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
It's a keeper huh? I thought your Moto Guzzi was a keeper. Lol. Nice video.
Yeah, I know…However, I’ve still got the Guzzi and still totally adore it…It’s brilliant! Glad you enjoyed the review and hope all is well where you are, cheers, Phil.
@@80eightReviews , just giving you a hard time. 😉
Ha ha I need it….I’m terribly fickle 😀
Keeper....😀😁😂!!
It is David, really! When’s the SE coming out though? Hope all is well, cheers, Phil.
Right now I am riding a milk bone!
Woof! That sounds like a shaggy dog story if ever I heard one! Thanks for stopping by, cheers, Phil.
I knew you were going to say Bourbon biscuit. I don't know why though.🤔
Hmmm…Perhaps there were tell tail crumbs stuck to my face? I came close to choosing the Peek Freans iced biscuit to be honest, but couldn’t find them anywhere. And then, I found out Peek Freans had invented the original Bourbon biscuit and also the Garibaldi! As Alexei Sayle famously pointed out, there’s something about revolutionary biscuits 😀
I’ll stop now. Thanks for watching, cheers, Phil.