Kawasaki Z900RS First Ride Review at RevZilla.com
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- čas přidán 8. 09. 2024
- 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS First Ride Review
www.revzilla.c...
Some guys have all the luck. Lemmy’s out on the Z900RS for a first ride review, and he has a thing or two to say about Kawasaki’s modern retro. The bar is set high, as the Z900 is already a remarkable motorcycle. Add the obvious homage to Kawasaki’s legendary Z1, plus all the hype fans have had for this new machine, and the Z900RS has its work cut out for it.
Grinning away behind the bars, RevZilla’s Man on the Street lays out the differences between the Z900RS and the Z900, as well as his thoughts on the motorcyclists who will most enjoy Kawasaki’s latest creation. As always, expect a healthy dose of insight, critique, honesty, and throttle-rippin’. To learn more, hit the link above to read Lemmy’s full first ride analysis on Common Tread.
I rode one last weekend and that was a mistake...now I absolutely need to buy one.
That's what I did, ended up gettin' one..
I rode one, I liked it but it just didn't blow me away. The engine and transmission are really good and it sounds amazing. If I find one used for a good price I can see myself buying it but not new.
Just got mine today.
@@Reapers261 u dont need to blow away
@@Reapers261 You're the only person not blown away. It's counterbalanced, 109 horsepower, glassy smooth, laser smooth, and sounds better than anything on the road. Hard for people not to fall in love. I haven't even ridden it, but I've watched 10 or more professional reviews, and never seen anything like it. Everyone loves it.
I got mine last Saturday...Metallic black...I am in heaven...Run, don't walk to your local Kawasaki dealer...
Steve WK. ABSOLUTELY...simply put, it will be the last motorcycle I ever own...it is that good!
I just bought a 2019 Z900RS Cafe and I have to say. Kawasaki nailed this retro bike as well as Dodge nailed the retro Challenger. I remember the original Z900's and this bike isnt exactly the mirror image of them but it is a sexier modern version that actually gives you a far better riding experience than the original.
In the candytone olive green especially, wow, they are gorgeous.
I guess I am quite off topic but do anyone know of a good website to watch newly released movies online ?
I just bought the cafe, Being a massive Triumph fan I was seriously looking at the Speed twin and Thrustie , But this Kawasaki feels lighter, and bigger than the Triumphs, and much better value, £8495 for a 0 mile per reg. No regrets so far, its great.
I'm a simple guy. I see Lemmy on a bike, I hit Like.
omg I got a reply from lemmy *explodes in awe*
Now I only need one from spurge and my bucket list is completed :D
Yes, you must be very simple minded. Sub-normal intelligence I suspect.
@@larjkok1184 Aww... look at you being bitter
So nice to see the gay community is well catered for ...
Oggy Oggy the angry F...oggy? :joy:
In '79' I got a '75' model Z900. After owning the S2 350 and 500 Mach III, the 900 was a rocket as far as I was concerned.
This New Z900RS Absolutely makes me salivate at wanting to own one.
Gosh, I can still feel the wind hitting my face at 150 MPH on that thing,... wait is that a piece of that bug still stuck in my teeth?
The top speed of the 1975-1979 Z900 was 217km/h or 134.8mph, must have had some quality mods. Would hate to test a 70's tire at those speeds.
Well, this is a bike for me. I like the Honda cb 1100 rs and the BMW R ninT. But this one hit the sweet spot between retro look and modern performence.
I'm stuck between this, the CB1100 and an XSR900... I'm leaning towards the Honda...
Get the Honda. No regrets. It’s an attention magnet too.
My boy Lemmy still killing it with the high quality content!!! 👌👍👌
youngsoldier93
Liking someone doesn't mean high quality.
I like him too, but high quality?Really?
νικος γιώργος I don't care man. I've been watching Lemmy kill shit for a few years now. He's an OG LEMMY LEM!!! hahahahaah
Well done lady.
Lemmy is perhaps the best motorcycle reviewer on youtube
Watched a ton of reviews on this bike and this one is definitely one of the best! thanks man!
My Brother already HAS ONE in his Garage!! (-;
His FIRST Bike was a 76 KZ900...in this same 'Root Beer' Brown... and ordered a new Z900RS back in December!
My Brother added dual front brakes to his original KZ900...and he has mentioned some mild 'issues' with the front brakes on the new bike...
As for the 'styling' I LOVE the general configuration of -- as you mentioned -- "The Standard Japanese Motorcycle"...!!
NO, it is NOT the maximum design for a Race Bike... but it still allows plenty of 'aggressive' riding...but it is ALSO COMFORTABLE for a full day of FUN -- even comfortable for a passenger to ride along -- and similar to my FZ1, it can be completely at home with my Cruiser Friends and I can still keep up with all but the hardest riding, and somewhat Dangerous, Sport Bike friends.
I am hoping to be able to add one to my own garage soon...but I will be looking for the Cafe Model, which I will immediately re-paint to a Candy Red metallic with custom gold and silver stripes... (-:
I ADORE this machine! I want one, I just wish it had longer mudguard/hugger... They go to all that trouble to make those sweet headers only to have a stubby muguard. I know it's not the end of the world and yes you can get aftermarket extenders but it wouldn't have broke the bank to fit full size ones. That's my only criticism. I ride all weathers and live in a very wet UK.
With you on that.
Good to see Standard Bikes are making a comeback.
I don't give a crap what anyone says, the bike looks awesome. Love it. This is coming from a guy who used to have a CB1100 and now has a XSR900.
Can you explain why is the z900rs better than the Honda cb1100
Kawasaki really nailed this one. You can even fit a bikini fairing and panniers, position a pretty pillion, and commute or tour. A slightly bigger tank for more range wouldn’t hurt.
I wouldn’t mind 3-4 litres more, that extra 100km of range would be awesome
Great overview! I really think Kawasaki killed it with this bike!
I like the Z900RS but I am melting away for the look of the cafe version... Looks so much like the Z1... Unbelievable what kind of magic Kawasaki has produced...
Cafe version equals Mad Max. My dealer has one, and they are sweet.
Lemmy = Like
Lem Lem*
Agreed!
I like pretty much all of RevZilla videos but I wish this had a bit more going on except for simply cruising - would have been nice to get a feel for acceleration and braking, etc
6:31 "Nobody is going to mistake this for an old bike." - You sure about that? 🤔
Awesome! Started on a '75 Kawasaki f11 and ever since I couldn't find a bike I liked as much as that. Love the UJM style, it's how a motorcycle should feel I think. And they did such a great job with this. If I were going to buy a new bike I'd be on my way to Kawasaki right now 😂
In 70's I was young and thought that Z900 is the most beautiful bike in the world. Same stands today. I am not really crazy about today's square styling of modern bikes, sharp angles, plastic panels giving a bike Transformers look. I don't want that. This is perfect. I wouldn't mind having 4 exhaust pipes either.
Dream on old man, it is financially out of reach for me at this time.
I’m really liking the look of this bike. I managed to destroy my Yamaha XJR1300sp 2001 recently, I loved that bike. It’s been real tough trying to find something comparable in styling, until I saw this bike. Nice review dude, I think you’ve sold me on it.
I bought my 2019 back in June 2 years ago. I added a rack on the back with a Large box to carry things. I take it off when I go riding.
I also put a center stand on. I love the use I get out of it. The bike rides incredible smooth and it has enough power to get out of it's own way.
This bike reminds me of my 1979 KZ650. I truly loved that Bike. I will be glad to let anyone know what I don't like about it. Let me know.
I am dyslexic, but I really like this ikasawaK.
Honestly, the pipe within the pipe thing for me is not as cool. I love the way headers blew up. My favorite are the titanium where they turn all crazy colors but stainless will turn some pretty cool colors too. I don't know why but I love it, but I could see the attraction of keeping them nice and shiny
It might also insulate the pipe a little bit and have less heat that comes off of it for you as well as Maybe giving it a small boost in horsepower like wrapping the exhaust does
Growing up in India pretty much every bike on the road looked like 'classic style' so I disliked this immediately but I am a kawasaki fan boy sooo I'm not sure WHAT TO FEEL
Asad Siraj lucky for you then, if you don't like this styling then z900 is available for cheaper price!
Burnt headers look good though.
Beauty in the eye of the beholder
What a fantastic looking bike.
I am liking this bike the more I see it.
Another great review Lemmy. Stay safe out there.
I want this bike so bad. Time to rethink keeping my Ducati Monster.
One of the nicer new bikes to come out.
miss Lemmy on RevZilla
This bike so is beautiful in person - especially in black. I saw one when I went to buy a cb1000r and was very tempted to buy the z900rs
I was seriously waiting for this!!!!!
I like each bike review should be at least 30mins long. We would all watch it Lemmy. Come on, don't starve us of our Lemmy time haha :)
Wish Kawi would bring back a modernized ZR1100 Zephyr....
sorryociffer this did, it was called the ZRX1100/1200. I have had two 👍
As always I enjoy watching your videos. Your ability to throughly review a motorcycle while riding at the same time never ceases to amaze me! Have you done a review yet of the CB1100 or CB1000r? I’ve tried looking on You Tube without much luck... keep up the great work!!
We have not yet reviewed it, though it's possible we might in the future. -DrewZilla
Dont forget the CBs! The new cb400s and 1000s still come with analog gauges but with small digital display for trip and gear info!
It would be really interesting to have a comparison of the gsx s1000, the new gsx-s750, the mt 09, xsr 900, z900, and the z900rs. I know they aren’t all exactly in the same class, but they are all fun, affordable, and comfortable sport bikes. I am a big fan of more affordable comfy sport bikes that the mt 09 helped to popularize. The retro nakeds also add some variety and a different take on some of these newer naked sport bikes
terrific review as always, thank you Lemmy
Having owned a Z1000 and Z1R in the late 70s/80s I really appreciate this bikes looks, because it picks up many of the design cues from the Z900/Z1000. Whilst the styling of this bike looks great the main problem with it, like the current Z900, both bikes are somewhat undersized, scaled down if you will, which at first glance isn't that obvious until you have a pillion on board and then the bike looks very small. Having said all that I hope it does well, its just a pity they used a revised version of the Z900 chassis and not a full sized one.
Am I the only one who finds it crazy that Lem Lem always rides with his visor up?
They don't have bugs in southern California. Otherwise, he'd knock that off right quick. ;-)
Very good review... the engine sounds soooo good... omg... that Japanese engine inline 4 cylinder engine sound..... just muah.
Yes, and bravo to Kawasaki for taking the effort to make it sound like that, instead of making it too quiet, like everything else. It's loud enough to sound good, but not loud enough to be annoying to others. Just like Yoshimura has been doing for decades.
A match up with this, the XSR 900, and the rest of the "heritage" bikes you mentioned would be great. Make it happen.
how about compairing it to the honda
Lemmy, your beard doubles as a wicked microphone windshield in that helmet :)
I was waiting for your video ! I read your review and couldn’t agree more that’s why I was the first person in the US to own one in black from what I’m told this is an awesome bike now I just need better weather so I could get out there and ride👍
Awesome review brother, enjoyed the video
Good Points on The styling of the Z900 vs the XSR900. Both are excellent bikes nonetheless.
Great review! I too agree that Kawasaki walked a very fine line with the looks. It evokes just enough of the classic Z-1 to rope in older (62!) guys like myself, while making it a thoroughly modern motorcycle. Kudos! However...! I do lust after a "new" Triumph...the Street Twin gives me a motoboner. But so does the Ducati Scrambler and (I can't believe I'm even saying this) the Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber. Holy cow that's a good-looking bike (to my eye).
So. Many. Good. Choices. At the end of the day I'll have to stick with my 1996 Sportster for now. We might call it a "retro" bike because it looks just like my 1986 version, which looked just like the 1958 version. Some designs are just timeless - like this new Z-900RS :)
I wish Quak would do a retake on the GT750 too.
How is the off-on throttle response compared to the base Z900? I keep hearing that the Z900 is extremely smooth, while the Z900RS is much more snatchy
ZLA Lemmy Thanks for the response. That's a shame imo. I love the retro styling, but I don't want the retro issues haha
Patrick Luberus I have found the booster plug to be the answer to this problem on many bikes easier and much cheaper than an ECU remap or power commander.
I found the Z900 throttle to feel almost a big laggy at low throttle openings haha. Maybe I'll like the Z900RS? As long as it doesn't feel like the FZ-09 throttle. Can't wait to try one!
Larger front sprocket or smaller rear.
Snatchiness: addressed.
I fitted a Booster Plug to my Z900RS and its totally fixed the snatchy throttle issue.
Perfect review except. I didn't hear you mention how it handles the curves and twisties. If I missed it, I'm sorry.
I really wish they had better integrated that front brake reservoir hanging on the bar like a sore thumb. I just sticks out on a naked bike like this. They needed to use a more sleek, black, low profile reservoir. I ALWAYS prefer analog tachs, everything else can be digital. Digital tachs are one of the worst inventions ever. The wheels are great. They invoke the looks of retro spokes, but they are high tech cast wheels. Nice touch.
Ive put 23000 miles on my 2016 xsr900 love it no complaints. Now this thing is pulling at my gut and i want it. Some chrome spokes 4 chrome pipes. Now that would look old school big time. Man i need help really bad. 12 step for bikes. M.A. where are you?
Hi Lemmy, I like the Yamaha xsr900 and the kawa z900rs. I'm not sure which one to go for. What is your recommendation on these two bikes?
Cheers.
2:07, I thought we’d have to call captain Scarlett because the Mysterons has come 😉
Let's get some more retro standard bikes to compete with Triumph!!!! Would love a better price, though. Maybe a Twin 650 or 700. Not a fan of Yamaha's XSR, though. That huge radiator is awful.
Wait, what?! Bikes still come out without steel braided brake hoses? WHY?! With the amount of money we pay for new bikes that's a crime!
What exactly is wrong with regular lines?
I will buy this bike..I don't have to expend a money for a after market exhaust..the stock exhaust of this bike does sounds good..power..reliability..comfortably and money wise.
Surprise! Kawasaki is throwing an Akrapovic Slip On for free with a new purchase of a hold over 2018 or new 2019.
This bike is beautiful. I'd LOVE a smaller option also, a 500 or 650 version.
The W800!
Great video Lem!! I love that bike!
My problem with the Z900Rs is the price. I buy Japanese bikes because they offer value. I can get equal performance for less, however, with the Z900rs I don't get more for less. It's priced right up there with triumphs and more than a victory scout. Why is that a problem? Well if you look at the resale value of a Japanese bike compared to say a Triumph, you quickly realize that buying the Kawi at this price is equivalent to simply throwing money away.
Great review Lemmy.
A couple of points that I would love to hear your thoughts on. I don't get that first gear. Why did they lower it? The gearing makes the bike feel as if it lacked torque to be honest.
And speaking of torque, yes, they may have changed the cams, but they kept the same oversquare engine as the Z900. I think they missed the mark here.
What about the fuelling? I thought the throttle was not very smooth. More like an on/off switch (yes, I'm exaggerating a bit).
Cheers
Lemmy! Would love to hear your take on the Z900RS vs the XSR900.
Scott Minor Did u watch the review, half of what he's saying is comparisons...best
After riding both I bought an xsr900. Both are great bikes, and both are fairly fast bikes, but I felt like I was going to slide off the z9p0 and it's too far over on the Retro scale for my taste. My .02
Lemmy, I know this is a subjective question but how is the level of comfort compared to xsr900 & xsr700? Which one would you take for longer distance travel?
I have owned both. I have the Z900RS today, not the XSR900. Enough said.
Owner of a 77 Kz1000 here and I think this bike would pair well with my Kz. I wonder if they will make a Z1000RS.
I hope it’s comfortable. Most naked bikes are not made for old men like me.
ZLA Lemmy it's already up on cycle-ergo.com...amazing how much legroom it has. Awesome.
Old guys like us do not want to sit in the recliner position (crusier) or the bent over feet back position (Super Sport). Standards are the best as it is like sitting at a desk upright.
My dream bike. Sadly i cant even buy a scooter 😑
With the lower compression ratio compared to the Z900, does this bike take regular gas instead of premium???
Womp-womp :-(
Kawasaki lists it as 10.8:1 and I know of at least a few bikes in that range that take regular so it got my hopes up. Thanks for the reply and great video! Keep em coming.
Calls for 90 octane minimum
@@petevicente9236 Thanks! already bought one though :-)
Uhhgg.. less compression and smaller cam.. plus LOWER first gear? Gears are short enough as is on the Z900. I paid $6700 brand new for my z900 and it’s a keeper for now
Great review! I really like the looks of that bike! Initial reviews commented on fueling being less than ideal when going through bumpy corners, how did you find it?
Dude you look cool on that bike. I want one
God knows if anyone will see this post but I finally went to test drive bike and guess what.
Well let me start by saying I'm about 6'2 235 lbs with size 13 shoes. Why am I telling you my shoe size?
Well because the space between the peg and the shifter I couldn't get the toe of my boot through. I also found the sitting position less then comfortable besides the fact that I had to get my feet on a 90 degree angle to fit in the tiny space I had. I'm 52 and have been bodybuilding for years so squats and lunges have taken their toll on my hips. Basically I found this bike extremely uncomfortable even painful. I guess it's back to cruisers for me!
Likey the bikey but first thought is its priced a bit high. Looking at the bike and thinking its a UJM but actually its nicer than that isn't it?
Happy Trails to me it's like a really premium, modern UJM. The "premium" might be the reason I get an SR400 instead tho...
Great review lemmy looking at this bike in the future hope it's like the nighthawk 650 honda used to make.
Agreed! However how can anyone hate the honda that never has issue!
A true muscle retro bike. Like the ZRX
I would love to buy this for my dad...
Coolchris158 is your dad 26 years old ?
Josue Perez no he's almost 60 but he loves the look of this bike. He said it reminds him of the good old days on his cb550
If you were my son I'd accept your gift
Very nice review tganks thanks 👍
Bet that exhaust system is beastly heavy with the dual wall headers (although probably thinner dual sections).
I m big fan of your work, I would love to see a review on the new Indian scout bobber.
How about some performance information about this bike. The original Z's reputation was based on it's quarter mile E.T's. and top end, (as well as some of it's less positive performance issues, ie handling). I looked for this information for a while before finding it and was very disappointed to see 11.6 e.ts. which makes this version even more retro. Harley-Davidson's V-Rod out performs it. The original Z1's ran anything from 11.9 to 12.1 e.ts. Having owned a Z1B (1975) version, I fell in love with this newer version and will be purchasing one in the very near future. I guess being 65 yoa, I really don't need to be going as fast as I use to.
And V-Rods are dead anyway unless you go to the used market.
Great review! Been looking at bikes for a while and love the look and seating position of this one the best. Its a little pricey compared to the rest I've looked at but adding a couple years onto the loan will help with that. Also my fiance likes this one the best and that's a big plus! :) Do you think someone will come out with a lower price center stand after the bikes been on the market for a while?
It's possible that SW-Motech might come out with a center stand, but we don't know what it might cost. -DrewZilla
Great review lemmy
I've got a good job with good money, but I really want a job that pays me to ride and play with new parts!
ZLA Lemmy please could you do a spot on the booster plug.
John Garrison
If you have "good money", you can make it happen!
Stop complaining...
Liked this video and love the bike. It's got my attention.
Kawasaki z900 is a Awesome Machine..❤️
May be in future will go for Any if the Kawasaki Series..
Like the review,Best As Usuall.🙏👍
Cop Rider check out fortnine bike reviews. You'll thank me
Riffed Wood Ya ,Sure Buddy.
Thanks in advance 😜
Have a great time 👍
Get your hands on a classic Zephyr 1100 while you still can, they just dont make them like they used to.
Hi Lem, what do you prefer riding the 900RS or the XSR900?
06:40 Lemmy confess that it's a copy of the Honda's CB1100EX (except for the tail light)
I had a 80s Maxim 1100 XJS that had similar clocks
To me it looks more like Kawasaki Zephyr 1100. It's got the same retro lines.
Only an American would talk with their hands whilst riding a motorbike @3:50
Oil filter location makes it easy to change, and without spilling oil on the headers.
From the reflections on your jacket, we can tell there's going to be a certain time of day when those beautiful clicks are going to blind you; reflecting as a plane.
Beautiful bikes, but they really should make the Z1 again. A proper one, with the skinny tank, air cooled and with four separate pipes. It's even allowed to handle badly, just like the original.
Like it.Would love it if it were shaft drive.
Price tag MSRP OTD? What about for a 5”6 height?
Depending the range appears to be between $10000 to $11700 USD at dealers around me. At 5'10 I can sit flat footed. Four inches less? You might be on your toes.
“fastidious”. You go Lemmy...
Still no mention of how many RPM's at 60 mph. Not one motorcycle review ever mentions the actual cruising RPM in top gear. I've heard this bike has very short and very obnoxious low gears, and a very low top gear. I've read 4200 rpms at 60mph, which is very short gearing for a bike with 75 ft lbs of torque? Fortunately they make a 37 tooth rear sprocket for this, and a 17 tooth front. Which you can buy for cheap. This should drop the revs down to about 2900 or 3000 rpm at 60?
My stock Z900RS cafe does just shy of 3600 RPM at 60mph in 6th ⚙ gear.
4250 rpm at 70mph
May we request a review of the new 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400?