I have the same bike; great bike, for those intrested you won't be dissatisfied. Fun, fast, nimble, reliable, great price, great aesthetic, simply a bad ass bike!
Your brake fluid reservoir needs to be above your brake lever for gravitational feeding purposes. It’s also put right in front of you for constant visual inspection to make sure you don’t have leaks, and insure you have enough fluid.Going fast is fun, but so is stopping ;)
People do not pay attention what you said. First there is nothing that you hate. Things being pointed out are just little quirks.this is a fine video. People need to loosen up and enjoy. Stop being jerks! Be good to one another.
Motorcycle designers please take note - There is no reason why things like resonator boxes, brake reservoirs and radiators should be treated any differently from the rest of the bike from a design aspect. At the moment they look like purely functional add-ons whilst the rest of the bike has a lot of careful aesthetic design input. The bike's design philosophy should be applied to everything on the bike. There's no reason to not have a beautifully designed and crafted radiator etc.
I'd make a leather flap to cover the fuel indicator. I like the full pillion seat but what I dislike aesthetically is the lack of suspension supporting the rear seat. It appears under- engineered to carry a passenger without putting strain on the frame. I'm being old school about my preference to the classic Z1900 but if it is built to safely support a passenger, it's a great looking motorcycle.
I recently got a Z900RS Cafe, here's what I actually hate about the bike, The freaking stems for the tires and air pressure, they're straight and thus a PITA to get to. Also spot on with the range indicator
I have to agree with you about that brake reservoir. I used to have a 1974 Z1 and it was on top of the handle bars right alongside the mirror. Far less conspicuous. They should have put it there.
I rode one a few days ago and I didn’t even notice the brake reservoir on the right. I loved it as soon as I let the clutch out ... will be picking up my new RS this week 😎
Nothing bothers me about my Z900RS, although I do agree with your comments on the brake fluid specimen jar on the handlebars, it looks a bit crappy, same as the Cat on the standard exhaust...mine will get ackrapovic header when I have the spare cash. All in all I love the bike personally.
I had two Z1 900s back in the 70s, the front brake reservoir was integrated into the lever mount as most if not all bikes were from memory and all alloy of course. As nice as they were I must say I preferred the H2 750 triple of which I had four, by the by.
Just purchased a candytone green 2020 last week and noticed some of the same things. Fuel gauge is not very accurate, but I always sanity check those anyway with the trip meter. Rear shock is low tech and undersprung, but I knew that going in and a Wilbers 640 is coming. Front brake reservoir looks pretty stupid hung way out there, and I'll try relocating it using the Cafe's bracket and hose. The engine mapping is pretty bad around town or in the slower twisties, it's very abrupt and lightswitch-like. Engine braking with fuel cut is ridiculously strong, I don't like it...the ECU is now taking a short vacation for some retraining! HUGE THANKS for talking about the brake light's poor visibility!!! I did not know about that, and very recently a guy I worked with was killed on the 101 freeway when he was plowed from behind.
Love my 2020 RS Cafe. I don't see any need for any modifications. But then I'm 60 years old. I'm glad I left it quiet. Self-cancelling turn signals would be nice. They really went old school on those. LOL.
I have to agree re the brake resevoir. Although I don't own A Z9 just watching your video it was irritating me being stuck out there. It looks shoddy on what is a very pretty bike. Sort it out Kawasaki!
Jerky throttle response. After my warranty ran out I took the ECM and sent it to Ivan's Performance and for $350 he reflashed it and got rid of all that crappy emission garbage that causes that on the throttle. Totally different bike now and well worth the money. Not to include Kawasaki's stupid Hi-Rev RPM start up on a cold soaked engine. Not very smart. The ECM re-flash fix's all those problems.
So that's good to know as far as the tail light for sure. Gas gauge is also something I was not aware of. They should have just made a fuel cock with reserve. Otherwise when you get on the last blinking thing, just go to the gas station. I don't see that as a big deal. 👍🏍️👀⚙️🛣️
Tail light does not have a bulb, it is LED. Agree with the reservoir, it is also in the way if you want to turn off the bike with your right hand. Could have been mounted differently. I have a 900RS Cafe and rode the bike 1200 miles in 2 days, not the best seat for that kind of riding but did the job. One thing I love about this bike is how smooth everything is. Certainly the smoothest straight 4 cylinder I have ever had (I have been riding for 42 years and I have had lots of different bikes). It is a great bike. Great gas mileage and range too.
Thanks for the comment. I am impressed as well with the range and gas mileage. The 6th gear spins at very low rpm while cruising which helps with boosting mileage and still allotting power low in the rpm.
My pet hate is the power outlet is under the pillion part of the seat. Should have been on the dash, near my phone on the handlebars and heated grips. I get 350 kms to a tank on a typical Sunday morning ride. Great bike love the power wheelies in first with the traction off. Great bike in Sydney's traffic thanks to the light clutch and slick gearbox and the smooth fueling.
Agree. East coast the 40 mile range flashing light may be soon... I live in NM... and if u wait for the 40 mile light to warn u..... it may be too late. Lol
I’d sat on the RS& Cafe. I’m 6’2”, & found it a great fit for my height, thankfully. Outside of the paint scheme & the front cowling on the Cafe, I think they’re basically the same bike. I like the seat on the Cafe better. I’d really been wanting an decent upright/standard like a Z9, (tho if Kawa makes the Z900R from the mockup I saw, that’ll be 2 I’ll want to have-). Hoping to attain one or the other in ‘20.
My Z900 has an understated black anodysed metal brake fluid reservoir. Barely noticeable. On a bike 6k (🇦🇺) less than the RS. Same for the resonator. Beautiful bike, but i cant see the 6k price difference over the Z900.
The remote brake reservoir is a functional design decision. Reservoirs that are integral to the lever perch are significantly more expensive to replace than remote reservoirs. It’s function over form and it’s good.
Brake reservoir was the first thing I saw when I looked at reviews of this bike. Felt the same as you did. Yeah, it's old school, but they could have put that somewhere else.
The brake reservoir/its placement is the reason I did NOT buy a standard Z900RS; it just looks like an afterthought the way it sticks out in front of the bar instead of being more incorporated into the bar/switchgear. I opted for the Cafe version - the reservoir is not so noticeable.
I have had my z900rs from March 19. I find it a great bike , the things in not too happy with is i find it very low geared so when at higher speeds the engine seens to be working hard around 70 to 80 mph. If you have a pillion on and going down some steep hills you have to really work the front break, the back break is poor. The tyres that come new with the bike i find poor,need changing. But I do like the engine and the sound it gives and the bike does ride well and i guess better when you change them tyres. Clutch is nice and light. Bikes looks much better with a tail tidy fitted and a lower seat.
They have an ergo fit seat not only feels more narrow but reduces the height about an inch.... I think the stock seat is done tall and wide on purpose so you would buy the 400 dollar ergo seat
I definitely agree with you that the ergo fit seat is a extra money maker. I would certainly buy it if it wasnt almost $400 just to sit down in the bike more.
I definitely agree with you that the ergo fit seat is a extra money maker. I would certainly buy it if it wasnt almost $400 just to sit down in the bike more.
I have one of these bikes, and I can list what aspects are a bit of a let down with it... 1) OEM Tires are crap, but that's an easy fix 2) If you have any sport riding aspirations, the shock has to go. Even if your weight is within the range of what they designed, it overheats and loses what little damping it has. It's not serviceable, and is just a poor quality component. Faster riders will need to upgrade that ASAP. 3) The forks are better, but not by all that much. Those are my only real complaints...
ws6man96: Good points, but with the exception of the tail light issue, which is a genuine safety concern, they all seem to be very minor. That is not a criticism, it just highlights what a nice bike the Z900RS is. I have heard in another videos that the fuelling is seriously herky-jerky at low rpm's especially in first gear. I wonder if that was addressed by Kawasaki before you bought your bike, or if you dealt with it somehow when you first got the bike. That would be a serious issue for me personally. Maybe you could touch on that in your next video.
Rick Ducharme thank you for the comments and video suggestion. I think I will do a video and address the throttle debate/ issue. You arnt the first to inquire about it on my videos.
ws6man96: Thanks for the reply. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and observations on throttle response. I'm looking for a new bike, and the Z is on my short list. Many new bikes have the problem. This was never a problem with the older bikes. Throttle by wire, pollution controls, and ride by wire all conspire to create this problem. I have even heard that with the Z, it is actually a safety concern, until the rider gets used to dealing with it. I was going to buy the Yamaha FZ9 at one point, but the throttle issue just drove me nuts. For me it is a make or break issue because IMO a smooth and linear throttle response is one of the pleasures of riding a bike. For me the smooth fuelling at throttle is the key to establishing that direct connection between the rider and the bike that is so important to the experience. In other words, it goes beyond a minor annoyance for me. The safety aspect is not a credible complication IMO, it is more about an unwanted annoyance that I don't want on my bike. Also, while there have been some improvements that have been made through various means, they are only improvements as opposed to genuine solutions. Again, for me personally that is not really what I'm looking for. It's like cleaning the kitchen or the bathroom: It's either clean or it's not, so anything less than clean doesn't cut it.
You could change to Akrapovic headers and keep the stock pipe. This gets rid of the huge cat. Unless you think it makes the bike too loud, this could solve your issue with it:)
I think the Z900 RS is gorgeous, but there are things I would like changed. The clocks should not be chromed. Black powder paint coated would have made them look more modern. Same with the handlebars. Black powder coated. I think that's pretty much it really. The bike looks like an amazing modern looking retro-bike. However the view from the riding position just looks like an old bike. (At least compared to modern styled bikes anyway.)
ws6man96.....enjoyed watching this video too. Like you, I really don't hate anything about my Z900RS. I do wish I could have sourced the SE edition in root beer/orange but the black is beautiful as well. I continue to get the thumbs up from lots of guys and stories from others who fondly recall their Z1. Safe riding and have fun man....
I watched the video because I was interested to see who could come up with 5 things, but after watching, I get it. Minor nits. I would prefer a small solid red light for low fuel versus a flashing square LED. Since you "hate it", sell it to me. I keep watching for a nice used one to come on the market...nada, zip, zero zilch so far here.
Despite the beauty of my 50th Anniversary I have detected a couple of unbearable things: - the noise (sorry " the sound" ) of the fuel injection airbox is quite inspiring but it becomes soon too loud and exhausting at low rpm; - the engine mapping makes accelerations and engine break too brutal. It is difficult to adapt your speed if you are too fast or too slow in a bend or in a roundabout. More smoothness would be much appreciated. - the rear break is not very efficient and needs a too high effort; - the head light efficiency is so-so at night. Nevertheless I do appreciate the engine responsiveness, the front brake efficiency, the perfect handling and the confort.
The resonator ! Underneath the bike is actually the Kat converter , unfortunately it has to be there for emission law's. Hear in the UK, we currently don't test bike on the MOT , so we can junk it if we so desire. Lovely bike thou, I've just bought the cafe version. Happy trail's.
Everyone talking about taking the CAT off their bikes. California has already made it illegal to modify the emmisions system. How long before there will be smog tests and inspections to pass registration?
@@ws6man96 OTOH, much easier than a car to swap back the stock parts for an inspection. 🤪 Though having to do put back the stock tune in the black box would be a drag if needed.
I have the Z900 RS SE 2018 and I agree with the complain about de fuel gauge, it's not very accurate. The fuel range change often, sometimes you go for a ride it says "range 250 km" you ride like half a hour and when you get home it's like " range 325 km" 🤷♂️🤷♂️ Otherwise it's a pretty good bike 💪👌
I love the bike but totally agree about the break resevior being in a bad place. and I wish the bike had a front fairing maybe like a cafe racer. or something that looked good and controlled the wind from hitting you, and I wish the engine wasn't so bland looking, the all black doesn't a 100% do it for me. I like engines that look like the Honda CB650r, I used to own the first 1984 900 Ninja, I loved that bike.
What I hate is this ugly coolant cap and the square radiator. Out of the flow like the brake resevoir. Can some one redesign these radiators on Kawa and Yamaha bikes please
The coolant cap sticking is the worst oversight to me, even if it's in a practical position it's not like you use it much. The radiator looks great with the yoshimura radiator guard:)
I have a 2019 Cafe model. After many many years of cruiser usage (05 Mean Streak that I still own), I find this bike to be a bunch of fun. I get more and more confident with it every mile. It is surprisingly good for charity rides with many other bikes. I didn't think it would be. And the Harley crowd find it to be a novelty out there with them.
I have an 01 kawasaki Eddie Lawson edition 1200 r and I was wondering if you think your bike has a more upright seating position .My 01 is starting to bother my wrists.love your bike it could be a nice option for me.Stat safe.
@3:18... For the number 3. The brake reservoir is no option on a bike, it must be placed on top of the brake at the highest position, the brake reservoir needs to keep the level of brake fluid without any possibilities for the air to come inside the circuit. So, the reservoir is maybe not so beautiful to look at, but it could not be placed anywhere else. Lovely bike BTW, I am waiting for the early 2020 to order the green and yellow paint scheme.
Thank you I just wish they wouldn't having stuck it out there to bounce around and stick out like a sore thumb. Everything else flows so well on the bike and looks clean other than that reservoir.
What I don't like on this bike is quite huge tank from the top view, but mainly that the pegs are really really low. I did removed peg feelers immediately, but scratch them all around
DaFalcon the tank did seem large when first seeing the bike in person but you quickly forget while riding. I havnt had any problems with the pegs being too low and scraping to early for me.
Why would someone think there is something wrong with the bike when they know the blinking light is low fuel? Also tail light. Hand signals are important in traffic as well. Remember those? You had to learn about them in your rider's test. Use them
Just picked one up (new one) a few days ago. Love it, but one thing that bothers me quite a bit is the noise the gears make when shifting up. Of course, there's a "clack" when going from neutral to first, but also upshifting from 2 > 3 > 4 etc gives this loud "clack". Did you notice this? Maybe it's due to the bike being new, so maybe this improves over time?
Congrats on getting one! Yes, the transmission can be kinda clunky compared to many other bikes. It has quietly down now having about 3500 miles but is still not the smoothest.
So you don’t have a problem with a “snatchy” throttle? Lucky man, it’s been like an on/off switch for some of us though there is a fix. I’ve had my Z900RS for 2 months and I’ve loved every minute of it (except for the snatchy throttle, but that’s fixed now). There’s a forum for Z900RS owners which hundreds of us have joined www.z900rs.co.uk/index.php
gm16v149 I have noticed the throttle but I just worked to recalibrate my throttle response. Thank you for the comment and the link! I'll check it out. Just read the new cafe version seems to have the throttle mapping fixed.
Good video... I have the Cafe edition. I have to disagree with the exhaust sound on the bike. When I first got the bike it sounded like a old sewing machine!! I had to put headers on it to make it sound correct.
May have reservoir that obvious in hopes rider will notice if/when fluid gets low. It is an annoyance but not as bad as eating a tailgate. Oh yeah by the way... No.6 thing: The Price!
Had you done a bit of research before noting the seat as one of your hates you would have known there is an ergo seat available from Kawasaki that is a more narrow seat and also drops the overall seat height by around 1". Check it out!
@@ws6man96 Sorry about that. I came across a bit harsh and not intended. I found the seat by digging around. Like your reviews on the bike. As a matter of fact we are probably putting money down on one like yours tomorrow. Will wait until Kawasaki comes out with their new deals in April to see if there is any advantage to waiting. Your down home style of review is one of the reasons we got serious on one.
While I only sat on the bike briefly, I disagree on the seat. I'm about your height (with probably a bit longer legs) and I flat footed it with my knees bent. It felt a little short for me overall.
Wonderful country you live in: really enjoyed the ride! Several posters have mentioned a break-in period with the Z900RS seat -- maybe the "problem" will take care of itself. Otherwise, wouldn't it be easy to edit in s couple of pix SHOWING the resonator or the tail light? Just sayin'.
Sierra Nevada Manufacturers aren't approved to sell in CA until and unless CARB approves. The cats for bikes sold in CA are for that. Fed EPA CAA follows CA laws.
Hi ws6man96. I can tell you are very raw and new but we all start somewhere so it's cool that you've started and are having a go. Please do some research before you go public with comments. I think you are referring to the catalytic converter as a resonator. You don't help yourself by making such a silly comment. Good luck for the future. Remember your grammar and your manual.
You don't pretend to be Kevin Cameron, and that is all right. I like your video, understanding that it is not held out to be a technically rigorous review.
I agree 100%. I find it wide and makes me feel like I have to reach for the ground while sitting on a barrel. 5' 9" Might try the lower seat but they are awfully pricey.
ws6man96 not many other places for it since it has be be above the master cylinder. You could just get a new master cylinder that has the reservoir builtin though.
All the things mentioned will soon be fixed by either aftermarket companies or riders themselves,I think they call that personalizing it. When I had my 79 KZ I just used the trip odometer, and never even thought of having a gauge. Now the brake light issue would have to be dealt with . The last thing you need is some jackass to run you over, its bad enough with them on a Danm cell phone. The 77 kz-650 I have now has a brake reservoir is round also just closer to the bar. I would just make a new bracket for it and be done. I think the only thing that really bothers me is the blinkers which are also easily changed. Some people have complained about it Being wide ,The tank may be wide but it is more balanced than my 77 KZ island that to me is more important than the aperance stuff because that is something you just can't change with e-bay. ut that is probably only something a 59 year old with 2fake knees thinks about( not a young person) . /I may be old and broke up but I'm not dead yet and I have earned all my arches and pains. I think the only thing I HATE. About the Z900rs is the fact that they announced they were bringing it to the US the day after I bought a Honda cb500x😡 .when I sell it I'll have room for a 900rs. Keep making videos and ridin. Watch out for bambies dad
It has not been an issue to me like others have said and made it out to be. I just re calibrated my wrist to the difference in sensitivity. Only time it is noticable is in lower gears if you coast and then get back into the throttle. A lot of new bikes still possess this tendency as well.
Thank You for this amazing video and wishing you fun and safe ride. Would you mind test riding the Triumph Street Twin and share with us your comments :)
I understand. Thank You :) I would love to buy the Z 900RS but its double the price in India being a direct import from Japan. So i was looking for an alternative and thought about the Triumph
I agree, there is nothing "bad" about it but there are things that could have been better addressed but I feel that is true for every bike. It may also come down to personal preference.
The thing I hate about the Z900RS is that it isn`t in my garage.
I have the same bike; great bike, for those intrested you won't be dissatisfied. Fun, fast, nimble, reliable, great price, great aesthetic, simply a bad ass bike!
Your brake fluid reservoir needs to be above your brake lever for gravitational feeding purposes. It’s also put right in front of you for constant visual inspection to make sure you don’t have leaks, and insure you have enough fluid.Going fast is fun, but so is stopping ;)
Exactly..there is a reason its where its at.
Sat today on this beautiful beast, that's how bikes should feel, this 90s wibe are there 100%
I just bought a Z900RS Cafe and absolutely love it.That "Ginormous" resonator can you mention is actually the catalytic converter.
LOL!!!
Props to "THE RESONATOR"!
It's actually the muffler too. If you install an aftermarket slip-on hoping it will be louder, it won't.
the catalic converter is where the lamda probe sits the breadbox is the main part for silencing the sound
People do not pay attention what you said. First there is nothing that you hate. Things being pointed out are just little quirks.this is a fine video. People need to loosen up and enjoy. Stop being jerks! Be good to one another.
Motorcycle designers please take note - There is no reason why things like resonator boxes, brake reservoirs and radiators should be treated any differently from the rest of the bike from a design aspect. At the moment they look like purely functional add-ons whilst the rest of the bike has a lot of careful aesthetic design input. The bike's design philosophy should be applied to everything on the bike. There's no reason to not have a beautifully designed and crafted radiator etc.
I think they probably would love to have one-off parts that perfectly integrate stylistically. But off the shelf parts help keep costs down.
If you want that, you should buy a ducati and not a Japanese motorcycle!
I'd make a leather flap to cover the fuel indicator. I like the full pillion seat but what I dislike aesthetically is the lack of suspension supporting the rear seat. It appears under- engineered to carry a passenger without putting strain on the frame. I'm being old school about my preference to the classic Z1900 but if it is built to safely support a passenger, it's a great looking motorcycle.
I recently got a Z900RS Cafe, here's what I actually hate about the bike,
The freaking stems for the tires and air pressure, they're straight and thus a PITA to get to.
Also spot on with the range indicator
I totally agree about the stems! Very hard to get an accurate reading. Glad someone else realized my complaint with the range indicator.
Everyone moans about that brake reservoir. I dont look at it on my rs. I look at the road
I love the bike, the reservoir location and design sucks. It should be an innocuous rectangular shape so you don't even see it.
I have to agree with you about that brake reservoir. I used to have a 1974 Z1 and it was on top of the handle bars right alongside the mirror. Far less conspicuous. They should have put it there.
I rode one a few days ago and I didn’t even notice the brake reservoir on the right.
I loved it as soon as I let the clutch out ... will be picking up my new RS this week 😎
Awesome! I love the bike. Will have an update video out soon.
Nothing bothers me about my Z900RS, although I do agree with your comments on the brake fluid specimen jar on the handlebars, it looks a bit crappy, same as the Cat on the standard exhaust...mine will get ackrapovic header when I have the spare cash. All in all I love the bike personally.
Kinda jelous because you hate that...in my case i just want that bike...
I had two Z1 900s back in the 70s, the front brake reservoir was integrated into the lever mount as most if not all bikes were from memory and all alloy of course. As nice as they were I must say I preferred the H2 750 triple of which I had four, by the by.
Just purchased a candytone green 2020 last week and noticed some of the same things. Fuel gauge is not very accurate, but I always sanity check those anyway with the trip meter. Rear shock is low tech and undersprung, but I knew that going in and a Wilbers 640 is coming. Front brake reservoir looks pretty stupid hung way out there, and I'll try relocating it using the Cafe's bracket and hose. The engine mapping is pretty bad around town or in the slower twisties, it's very abrupt and lightswitch-like. Engine braking with fuel cut is ridiculously strong, I don't like it...the ECU is now taking a short vacation for some retraining!
HUGE THANKS for talking about the brake light's poor visibility!!! I did not know about that, and very recently a guy I worked with was killed on the 101 freeway when he was plowed from behind.
Love my 2020 RS Cafe. I don't see any need for any modifications. But then I'm 60 years old. I'm glad I left it quiet. Self-cancelling turn signals would be nice. They really went old school on those. LOL.
I have to agree re the brake resevoir. Although I don't own A Z9 just watching your video it was irritating me being stuck out there. It looks shoddy on what is a very pretty bike. Sort it out Kawasaki!
Gotta say that if that is the worst thing about the bike, it is a pretty good bike.
That bike is absolutely awesome. I want one! I don't like the plastic brake reservoir, either. They should have used a metal one.
Hope you can find one!
metal screws get rusty n pain to open,i prefer plastic n maybe nice kawasaki cover
Gotta say they did a pretty good job keeping the old school look. I like it 👍nice bike u have & a great video.
Marty Collins I agree and thanks for watching! Keep a look out for my new video "5 Things I Love About my Z900RS"!
Jerky throttle response. After my warranty ran out I took the ECM and sent it to Ivan's Performance and for $350 he reflashed it and got rid of all that crappy emission garbage that causes that on the throttle. Totally different bike now and well worth the money. Not to include Kawasaki's stupid Hi-Rev RPM start up on a cold soaked engine. Not very smart. The ECM re-flash fix's all those problems.
So that's good to know as far as the tail light for sure. Gas gauge is also something I was not aware of. They should have just made a fuel cock with reserve. Otherwise when you get on the last blinking thing, just go to the gas station. I don't see that as a big deal. 👍🏍️👀⚙️🛣️
Tail light does not have a bulb, it is LED. Agree with the reservoir, it is also in the way if you want to turn off the bike with your right hand. Could have been mounted differently. I have a 900RS Cafe and rode the bike 1200 miles in 2 days, not the best seat for that kind of riding but did the job. One thing I love about this bike is how smooth everything is. Certainly the smoothest straight 4 cylinder I have ever had (I have been riding for 42 years and I have had lots of different bikes). It is a great bike. Great gas mileage and range too.
Thanks for the comment. I am impressed as well with the range and gas mileage. The 6th gear spins at very low rpm while cruising which helps with boosting mileage and still allotting power low in the rpm.
I just bought a new 2019 w800 cafe. The Z900 RS will probably be my next bike if I ever feel the need for more oomph
The power difference would be drastically apparent.
My pet hate is the power outlet is under the pillion part of the seat. Should have been on the dash, near my phone on the handlebars and heated grips. I get 350 kms to a tank on a typical Sunday morning ride. Great bike love the power wheelies in first with the traction off. Great bike in Sydney's traffic thanks to the light clutch and slick gearbox and the smooth fueling.
Brad Poulter it is odd where they located the power outlet but I think mounting it on the bar might have taken away from the clean retro look.
Yet they put a modern plastic brake fluid reservoir there. I get your point but now I have fitted a not so elegant socket on the left of the bars.
Brad Poulter Yes, putting the reservoir there was silly.
Agree. East coast the 40 mile range flashing light may be soon... I live in NM... and if u wait for the 40 mile light to warn u..... it may be too late. Lol
I’d sat on the RS& Cafe. I’m 6’2”, & found it a great fit for my height, thankfully. Outside of the paint scheme & the front cowling on the Cafe, I think they’re basically the same bike. I like the seat on the Cafe better. I’d really been wanting an decent upright/standard like a Z9, (tho if Kawa makes the Z900R from the mockup I saw, that’ll be 2 I’ll want to have-). Hoping to attain one or the other in ‘20.
My Z900 has an understated black anodysed metal brake fluid reservoir.
Barely noticeable.
On a bike 6k (🇦🇺) less than the RS.
Same for the resonator.
Beautiful bike, but i cant see the 6k price difference over the Z900.
The remote brake reservoir is a functional design decision. Reservoirs that are integral to the lever perch are significantly more expensive to replace than remote reservoirs. It’s function over form and it’s good.
Makes sense. Just think it sticks out there and shakes like a sore thumb.
My 2015 ER6N has that exact same issue with the fuel gauge. I have since figured out there's still a fair bit of range left when it's flashing!
Glad I'm not the only one seeing it!!
Brake reservoir was the first thing I saw when I looked at reviews of this bike. Felt the same as you did. Yeah, it's old school, but they could have put that somewhere else.
Agree. I guess it is just for that "retro" part of the styling.
The turn signals. I feel like they were an afterthought. I am looking to put round chrome signals on my RS.
I m thinking of buyin one wud like to know wats ur review abt d bike,how does it work out for daily commute
The Triumph Bonneville signals look great on these bikes. Round and very nice chrome.
@@PappyfromtheKeys from which year and model? Are they LED?
The brake reservoir/its placement is the reason I did NOT buy a standard Z900RS; it just looks like an afterthought the way it sticks out in front of the bar instead of being more incorporated into the bar/switchgear. I opted for the Cafe version - the reservoir is not so noticeable.
I have had mine since March 23 2018 I now have 6k and climbing daily and I really have no complaints other than the wheels being a a pain to wash lol
I have 3k on mine now. Planning to do another review. I also agree about the challenge of washing the wheels!
Be glad you don't have true spoked wheels, talk about a pain to wash, polish and true. 8-)
I have had my z900rs from March 19. I find it a great bike , the things in not too happy with is i find it very low geared so when at higher speeds the engine seens to be working hard around 70 to 80 mph.
If you have a pillion on and going down some steep hills you have to really work the front break, the back break is poor. The tyres that come new with the bike i find poor,need changing.
But I do like the engine and the sound it gives and the bike does ride well and i guess better when you change them tyres. Clutch is nice and light. Bikes looks much better with a tail tidy fitted and a lower seat.
Great review. I agree with your complaints.
They have an ergo fit seat not only feels more narrow but reduces the height about an inch.... I think the stock seat is done tall and wide on purpose so you would buy the 400 dollar ergo seat
I definitely agree with you that the ergo fit seat is a extra money maker. I would certainly buy it if it wasnt almost $400 just to sit down in the bike more.
I definitely agree with you that the ergo fit seat is a extra money maker. I would certainly buy it if it wasnt almost $400 just to sit down in the bike more.
I have one of these bikes, and I can list what aspects are a bit of a let down with it...
1) OEM Tires are crap, but that's an easy fix
2) If you have any sport riding aspirations, the shock has to go. Even if your weight is within the range of what they designed, it overheats and loses what little damping it has. It's not serviceable, and is just a poor quality component. Faster riders will need to upgrade that ASAP.
3) The forks are better, but not by all that much.
Those are my only real complaints...
I barely used to get 70 miles out of a full tank on my 1976 S3 400 triple!😎
It is surprisingly fuel efficient.
Nice country. Different from what I see in NC. Not as boring.
The only thing that bothers me about the z900rs is I don't have one!
Nice bike. Wouldn't mind having one in my garage one day. Also, nice to see another motovlogger in Western PA.
ws6man96: Good points, but with the exception of the tail light issue, which is a genuine safety concern, they all seem to be very minor. That is not a criticism, it just highlights what a nice bike the Z900RS is. I have heard in another videos that the fuelling is seriously herky-jerky at low rpm's especially in first gear. I wonder if that was addressed by Kawasaki before you bought your bike, or if you dealt with it somehow when you first got the bike. That would be a serious issue for me personally. Maybe you could touch on that in your next video.
Rick Ducharme thank you for the comments and video suggestion. I think I will do a video and address the throttle debate/ issue. You arnt the first to inquire about it on my videos.
ws6man96: Thanks for the reply. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and observations on throttle response. I'm looking for a new bike, and the Z is on my short list. Many new bikes have the problem. This was never a problem with the older bikes. Throttle by wire, pollution controls, and ride by wire all conspire to create this problem. I have even heard that with the Z, it is actually a safety concern, until the rider gets used to dealing with it. I was going to buy the Yamaha FZ9 at one point, but the throttle issue just drove me nuts. For me it is a make or break issue because IMO a smooth and linear throttle response is one of the pleasures of riding a bike. For me the smooth fuelling at throttle is the key to establishing that direct connection between the rider and the bike that is so important to the experience. In other words, it goes beyond a minor annoyance for me. The safety aspect is not a credible complication IMO, it is more about an unwanted annoyance that I don't want on my bike. Also, while there have been some improvements that have been made through various means, they are only improvements as opposed to genuine solutions. Again, for me personally that is not really what I'm looking for. It's like cleaning the kitchen or the bathroom: It's either clean or it's not, so anything less than clean doesn't cut it.
You could change to Akrapovic headers and keep the stock pipe. This gets rid of the huge cat. Unless you think it makes the bike too loud, this could solve your issue with it:)
i had the Z900RS for the day last year real nice bike to ride & looks fab, nice one kawasaki
I totally agree!! I marvel at it everytime I'm in the garage. Just waiting for bike riding weather!!
1: Fill your tank more often. 2: Buy a custom Sargent© Seat. 3: Buy an aftermarket small windshield, similar to what Z1000 comes with or a step larger. You won't notice the brake reservoir. 4: Resonator can. All bikes have them & Kawasaki FAILED by not giving this bike dual or quad retro "correct" pipes. Go aftermarket& shell out $1,800, I won't notice the ugly can anymore. 5: Change to or have LEE's custom installed. Ride safely!
I think the Z900 RS is gorgeous, but there are things I would like changed.
The clocks should not be chromed. Black powder paint coated would have made them look more modern.
Same with the handlebars. Black powder coated.
I think that's pretty much it really. The bike looks like an amazing modern looking retro-bike. However the view from the riding position just looks like an old bike. (At least compared to modern styled bikes anyway.)
Indeed, the chrome blinds you with direct sunlight..
The funny thing about the tail/brake light is that kawasaki did that on purpose to give it a vintage feel.
Don’t put both feet down when you stop, put your right foot on the rear brake and just keep your left foot down. The wide seat makes it comfortable.
How much mileage does it give?
ws6man96.....enjoyed watching this video too. Like you, I really don't hate anything about my Z900RS. I do wish I could have sourced the SE edition in root beer/orange but the black is beautiful as well. I continue to get the thumbs up from lots of guys and stories from others who fondly recall their Z1. Safe riding and have fun man....
I watched the video because I was interested to see who could come up with 5 things, but after watching, I get it. Minor nits. I would prefer a small solid red light for low fuel versus a flashing square LED. Since you "hate it", sell it to me. I keep watching for a nice used one to come on the market...nada, zip, zero zilch so far here.
Thanks, glad you got my video. I'll be keeping the bike. Nothing I actually "hate". Hope you can find one!
Despite the beauty of my 50th Anniversary I have detected a couple of unbearable things:
- the noise (sorry " the sound" ) of the fuel injection airbox is quite inspiring but it becomes soon too loud and exhausting at low rpm;
- the engine mapping makes accelerations and engine break too brutal. It is difficult to adapt your speed if you are too fast or too slow in a bend or in a roundabout. More smoothness would be much appreciated.
- the rear break is not very efficient and needs a too high effort;
- the head light efficiency is so-so at night.
Nevertheless I do appreciate the engine responsiveness, the front brake efficiency, the perfect handling and the confort.
The resonator ! Underneath the bike is actually the Kat converter , unfortunately it has to be there for emission law's. Hear in the UK, we currently don't test bike on the MOT , so we can junk it if we so desire. Lovely bike thou, I've just bought the cafe version. Happy trail's.
it is the main part of the muffler the cat sits in the pipe first after the downpipes look in the service manual and you will see it
Everyone talking about taking the CAT off their bikes. California has already made it illegal to modify the emmisions system.
How long before there will be smog tests and inspections to pass registration?
You have a valid point! Policies may unfortunately make there way to other states soon.
@@ws6man96 OTOH, much easier than a car to swap back the stock parts for an inspection. 🤪
Though having to do put back the stock tune in the black box would be a drag if needed.
@@MrLuigiFercotti yeah I'm considering getting the akrapovic headers. I'll keep all stock parts.
I have the Z900 RS SE 2018 and I agree with the complain about de fuel gauge, it's not very accurate. The fuel range change often, sometimes you go for a ride it says "range 250 km" you ride like half a hour and when you get home it's like " range 325 km" 🤷♂️🤷♂️ Otherwise it's a pretty good bike 💪👌
ik heb niks slechts te melden van deze bike ,i'love the bike great bike lots of fun
....got the 2018 in Black with the gold and silver detail. I haven’t found anything to hate.
It's cool you let grandma ride your bike but tell her to twist that throttle open once in awhile !!! RIDE IT...
That radiator cap sticks out a lot, or maybe is just the wide angle lens? Z900RS or W800?
It's really not that noticable. I'd go with the Z900RS everyday. The only things in common are they both have two wheels and a Kawasaki.haha
I love the bike but totally agree about the break resevior being in a bad place. and I wish the bike had a front fairing maybe like a cafe racer. or something that looked good and controlled the wind from hitting you, and I wish the engine wasn't so bland looking, the all black doesn't a 100% do it for me. I like engines that look like the Honda CB650r, I used to own the first 1984 900 Ninja, I loved that bike.
If that's all you don't like, I'm getting this bike. Thanks
That is one heck of a nice country road you’re on. And a really nice Cowa to boot.
What I hate is this ugly coolant cap and the square radiator. Out of the flow like the brake resevoir. Can some one redesign these radiators on Kawa and Yamaha bikes please
Jay Oscar I agree with you totally! Thanks for watching.
The coolant cap sticking is the worst oversight to me, even if it's in a practical position it's not like you use it much. The radiator looks great with the yoshimura radiator guard:)
I have a 2019 Cafe model. After many many years of cruiser usage (05 Mean Streak that I still own), I find this bike to be a bunch of fun. I get more and more confident with it every mile.
It is surprisingly good for charity rides with many other bikes. I didn't think it would be. And the Harley crowd find it to be a novelty out there with them.
Love that back road yr riding on. . . Nice and quiet no traffic good scenery. Cool
I have an 01 kawasaki Eddie Lawson edition 1200 r and I was wondering if you think your bike has a more upright seating position .My 01 is starting to bother my wrists.love your bike it could be a nice option for me.Stat safe.
J P it is almost upright and the bars are slightly swept back.
What bothers me being a former kz1000 owner is they didn't make a Z1000 version.
@3:18... For the number 3. The brake reservoir is no option on a bike, it must be placed on top of the brake at the highest position, the brake reservoir needs to keep the level of brake fluid without any possibilities for the air to come inside the circuit. So, the reservoir is maybe not so beautiful to look at, but it could not be placed anywhere else. Lovely bike BTW, I am waiting for the early 2020 to order the green and yellow paint scheme.
Thank you I just wish they wouldn't having stuck it out there to bounce around and stick out like a sore thumb. Everything else flows so well on the bike and looks clean other than that reservoir.
What I don't like on this bike is quite huge tank from the top view, but mainly that the pegs are really really low. I did removed peg feelers immediately, but scratch them all around
DaFalcon the tank did seem large when first seeing the bike in person but you quickly forget while riding. I havnt had any problems with the pegs being too low and scraping to early for me.
Why would someone think there is something wrong with the bike when they know the blinking light is low fuel? Also tail light. Hand signals are important in traffic as well. Remember those? You had to learn about them in your rider's test. Use them
Just picked one up (new one) a few days ago. Love it, but one thing that bothers me quite a bit is the noise the gears make when shifting up. Of course, there's a "clack" when going from neutral to first, but also upshifting from 2 > 3 > 4 etc gives this loud "clack". Did you notice this? Maybe it's due to the bike being new, so maybe this improves over time?
Congrats on getting one! Yes, the transmission can be kinda clunky compared to many other bikes. It has quietly down now having about 3500 miles but is still not the smoothest.
@@ws6man96 ok thanks. dealer also said it should be normal but will improve after switching the running-in oil. loving the machine!
So you don’t have a problem with a “snatchy” throttle? Lucky man, it’s been like an on/off switch for some of us though there is a fix. I’ve had my Z900RS for 2 months and I’ve loved every minute of it (except for the snatchy throttle, but that’s fixed now).
There’s a forum for Z900RS owners which hundreds of us have joined
www.z900rs.co.uk/index.php
gm16v149 I have noticed the throttle but I just worked to recalibrate my throttle response. Thank you for the comment and the link! I'll check it out. Just read the new cafe version seems to have the throttle mapping fixed.
Evidently some people have the “on/off” throttle problem and some don’t, but mine was annoying though I could live with it.
Good video... I have the Cafe edition. I have to disagree with the exhaust sound on the bike. When I first got the bike it sounded like a old sewing machine!! I had to put headers on it to make it sound correct.
The thing I hate about the z900rs is there arent any used ones around for me to pick up at a nice discount. Lol.
It starts to blink when you have 4 litres of useable fuel remaining,what’s ya problem
The brake fluid reservoir should be hidden. That's the only negative thing I find on this bike.
It's a common complaint that I wish they could have foreseen.
May have reservoir that obvious in hopes rider will notice if/when fluid gets low.
It is an annoyance but not as bad as eating a tailgate. Oh yeah by the way...
No.6 thing: The Price!
Had you done a bit of research before noting the seat as one of your hates you would have known there is an ergo seat available from Kawasaki that is a more narrow seat and also drops the overall seat height by around 1". Check it out!
When I purchased the bike the ergo seat was not an option yet in the US market and furthermore its cost of $399 is ridiculous.
@@ws6man96 Sorry about that. I came across a bit harsh and not intended. I found the seat by digging around. Like your reviews on the bike. As a matter of fact we are probably putting money down on one like yours tomorrow. Will wait until Kawasaki comes out with their new deals in April to see if there is any advantage to waiting. Your down home style of review is one of the reasons we got serious on one.
Getting mine in a few days!
This guys complaints: "I hate that is a motorcycle instead of some sort of magic carpet ride"
Did you have an opertunity comparing this with honda cb 1100
While I only sat on the bike briefly, I disagree on the seat. I'm about your height (with probably a bit longer legs) and I flat footed it with my knees bent. It felt a little short for me overall.
I thought you would share smthg about the jerkiness of the throttle. But you didn't?! Would you not complain about that?
Man i love that bike ,is the throttle jumpy? Because of ride by wire.
terry Hunt thank you and not when you adjust to the throttle input.
ws6man96 thanks
The only thing I hate about your Kawa is, that it’s not mine.
Wonderful country you live in: really enjoyed the ride! Several posters have mentioned a break-in period with the Z900RS seat -- maybe the "problem" will take care of itself. Otherwise, wouldn't it be easy to edit in s couple of pix SHOWING the resonator or the tail light? Just sayin'.
OMG they do that, with the range because, they don't know how fast or slow and economically each rider rides
The can underneath is mostly the cat, at least in the CA Zmodels.
Yeah, there’s not much you can do about it, but fitting the Kawasaki center stand hides it a lot.
You could evacuate California before it splits up and sinks.
Gotta protect mother earth!
CA has no smog test for motorcycles, its for euro 4 emmisions
Sierra Nevada Manufacturers aren't approved to sell in CA until and unless CARB approves. The cats for bikes sold in CA are for that. Fed EPA CAA follows CA laws.
Hi ws6man96. I can tell you are very raw and new but we all start somewhere so it's cool that you've started and are having a go. Please do some research before you go public with comments. I think you are referring to the catalytic converter as a resonator.
You don't help yourself by making such a silly comment. Good luck for the future. Remember your grammar and your manual.
You don't pretend to be Kevin Cameron, and that is all right. I like your video, understanding that it is not held out to be a technically rigorous review.
What do reckon mate? Do you think punters like bullshit Click Bait Video tiles? Do you like it when you get sucked in?
I own this bike and had no idea until now it has a range indicator. Lol! ...Christ!
I hate the reservoir right there it looks dumb. On the cafe atleast it's hidden behind the windscreen. Hopefully you can remount it elsewhere
Nice scenery. Good video!
I agree with at least the first two. The seat cuts into the inside of my thighs because it is too wide.
They should have changed this Seat i think, IT is the same as z 900 rs though.
I agree 100%. I find it wide and makes me feel like I have to reach for the ground while sitting on a barrel. 5' 9" Might try the lower seat but they are awfully pricey.
Yeah, these urine cup/brake reservoir on bikes (and not only this bike) look hideous.
Felix I'm hoping someone designs a re-locator kit.
ws6man96 not many other places for it since it has be be above the master cylinder. You could just get a new master cylinder that has the reservoir builtin though.
Radial master cylinder. Most high-end bikes use them, including race bikes.
Many vehicles blink or show fuel lights when technically on the last gallon
All the things mentioned will soon be fixed by either aftermarket companies or riders themselves,I think they call that personalizing it. When I had my 79 KZ I just used the trip odometer, and never even thought of having a gauge. Now the brake light issue would have to be dealt with . The last thing you need is some jackass to run you over, its bad enough with them on a Danm cell phone. The 77 kz-650 I have now has a brake reservoir is round also just closer to the bar. I would just make a new bracket for it and be done. I think the only thing that really bothers me is the blinkers which are also easily changed. Some people have complained about it Being wide ,The tank may be wide but it is more balanced than my 77 KZ island that to me is more important than the aperance stuff because that is something you just can't change with e-bay. ut that is probably only something a 59 year old with 2fake knees thinks about( not a young person) . /I may be old and broke up but I'm not dead yet and I have earned all my arches and pains. I think the only thing I HATE. About the Z900rs is the fact that they announced they were bringing it to the US the day after I bought a Honda cb500x😡 .when I sell it I'll have room for a 900rs. Keep making videos and ridin. Watch out for bambies dad
What can you say about the throttle response? I keep reading about and seeing in videos that the response is the abrupt.
It has not been an issue to me like others have said and made it out to be. I just re calibrated my wrist to the difference in sensitivity. Only time it is noticable is in lower gears if you coast and then get back into the throttle. A lot of new bikes still possess this tendency as well.
Thank You for this amazing video and wishing you fun and safe ride.
Would you mind test riding the Triumph Street Twin and share with us your comments :)
I would absolutely love to ride any Triumph. Especially the street twin, thruxton and new speed twin but unfortunately there are no dealers nearby.
I understand. Thank You :)
I would love to buy the Z 900RS but its double the price in India being a direct import from Japan. So i was looking for an alternative and thought about the Triumph
@@KITCHU3 Triumphs are actually more expensive here than the Japanese manufacturers.
Agree but this is what i was talking about :-
bikeadvice.in/z900rs-high-price-reason/
The only thing I hate about my z900 RS is I can't find anything bad of it
I agree, there is nothing "bad" about it but there are things that could have been better addressed but I feel that is true for every bike. It may also come down to personal preference.