Kawasaki Z900RS - Better than a modern sport bike? Maybe! - Complete Walk around Review!
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- čas přidán 5. 09. 2024
- The Retro Styled theme has been popular in motorcycling for a while now, but does the retro style also bring a relaxed riding position, with a more engaging riding experience compared to modern bikes? In this video I explore the Kawasaki Z900RS to help you decide if it's right for you! Want to see it in person? Connect with the amazing team at Jim Gilbert's PowerSports here: powersports.wh...
I just rode home my 2023 z900rs cafe from the dealer yesterday, couldn't be happier! I'm 21, it's my first new bike. Was never really into crotch rockets, but this bike is perfect. I'll probably have this thing till I'm 50 lol
That's awesome! I love hearing from owners! Feel free to subscribe, I'll have a lot more content! And I agree, that z900rs is a bike that gives you plenty of performance, but is still comfortable and great as a bike that you can keep for a long time!
Speaking as a 51-year-old, know that the half-century milestone comes faster than you can imagine. I’ve been riding since I was 20, and these “standard” bikes have been the most fun, useful and comfortable, for me. Enjoy the ride!
Just been bought a Z900 rs se in yellow ball for my 64th birthday by the wife. The Z1 was my retro, Triumph, BSA and Royal Enfield were before my time really. To me, a Japanese bike trumps the rest for quality, this is the Raleigh Chopper that I always wanted but my father could never afford. Deposit paid, bike reserved, arrives in the shop end of January 23 and on the road for the new registration on March 1st 2023.
Happy like a big kid !
Oh, you're going to love it!! Thanks for sharing your experiences! Feel free to subscribe! I'd love to hear more when you've had some time with it!
Congratulations, and what a great wife my oh my! After three years of not having a bike (because of wife our girls objections)
Last month I flat out said to my wife, "I'm buying a bike!'. She had no say in it. But she also knows I'm a good rider!
Bought this SE in July, very happy. Coming off a Hayabusa for years. This bike is still quick enough but not scary fast. I'm 56
Awesome! Thanks for sharing! I have to admit, I like this bike even more than I thought I would. It's very well done! I agree with you. Exceptionally quick for a road bike. But not something to be scared of like some high power bikes.
Glad you went from a Busa Boi to a nice bike! You’re too old to be a street squid! 😅
@@danielgielchinsky6951 Lol
I went from zx6r to a Jaffa and have never looked back. Same age. My son has a 10R and he can’t beat me to 100kmh😅….he will beat me to 300kmh though.
Nice to read; I am 56 as well and also bought a Z900RS 2 years ago. The brown and orange version 😍
I am 63, and had all sorts of motorcycles from Harley bagger to Honda Trail 90. My very first bike was a 1975 Z1 with a 1015 kit. I still have a couple HDs, but sold a CBR600rr to finance my used '19 Fukushima Green z900rs Cafe. Absolutely love this bike and will keep it until the end.
Most comprehensive review I've seen on this model. Thanks.
Thanks for watching! I ended up buying this bike, and I'll have plenty of content on it starting this Spring. Feel free to subscribe!
I bought the original Z1900 in 1973. Since then have owned two KZ1000, a Bandit 1200, first Gen Vmax, 2019 Yamaha Tracer 900. I have always put on a aftermarket slip on exhaust or headers. Now I own the 2022 z900rs cafe and I happy with the tuned exhaust. It sound just right, especially the sound of intake induction on acceleration. Love this bike.
That's awesome! Thanks for sharing your experiences!! I agree, I think Kawasaki really nailed the sound with this one! Gotta give them credit!
I own a 2021 model. The best bike I've ever had and underrated by a lot of people. The SE version is primarily intended for customers who want to ride more sportily. Whether you have the skills for it is the other question. This bike is fast, with 3.5 seconds from 0-100 and the 4 cylinders you practically always have a lot of power. In contrast to the Z900, you have more throttle in the lower range, in other words: it is comfortable but really fast. It's closer to the MT10 than the MT09 in terms of 0-100 acceleration.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing and helping to enhance this little online community!
I bought a SE here in Australia. We here also say Zed. Absolutely love this bike. So comfortable, easy to ride and looks the bomb with the retro styling. The only negative is I wish Kawasaki made the rear Ohlins shock fully adjustable with compression and rebound adjustment. That would complete the package. Keep up the great vids!
Awesome! Thanks for watching! Feel free to subscribe, I'll have plenty more content like this! As far as the shock, I wonder if that's just what they're doing to hit price points? Hard to say.
I would check that info. As far as I'm aware the ohlins is fully adjustable unlike the standard shock on the Rs. Why put a top of the line shock on a bike that isn't fully adjustable for compression/ rebound and preloaded. Are you sure you have the Se black/ yellow as some dealers call the standard model with the polished rims an Se which is confusing.
That bike absolutely rules. Next on my list. I love Kawasaki fit and finish on these machines. Really nice attention to detail.
That's very true. It's the details in this bike that make it great. The gauges with the clear font that remind me of bikes of the past, along with the attention to detail to get the look right, but the feel modern. I love this thing! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts! Feel free to subscribe!
I want a return to a more natural riding style. I have owned Harley Softails and the forward pegs and low slung seating position kills my lower back, especially as I've gotten older. I think I am going to give this bike a ride. Looks really nice. I hope it rides as good as it looks.
It rides great! I ended up buying this bike. Feel free to subscribe. I have more videos already made on this bike, and I'll continue to make more.
Been riding a long time and have a great love for the KZ900 of old. This bike takes that styling and as they say in Spinal Tap, takes it to 11! Thanks for the review. Nicely done.
Haha! Thanks for sharing! Feel free to subscribe! I have a lot more planned!
Great looking RS. Have a blue '22 RS and a '22 Z900 twilight blue. Love them both. As for more low end torque, the Z is just as powerful or more in low to midrange. Z, smoother and faster. RS, definitely more comfortable for long rides. Brakes, Z stops as quickly, doesn't feel as good at lever. Both have exceptional fit and finish. Had an MT09, don't miss it. Maybe newer ones handle better. Love smooth 4 bangers. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for sharing your experiences! Feel free to subscribe! I've got a lot more content coming!
Would go for the z900rs Frank. Drop by when you can. :)
I think that Kawasaki hit it out of the park, especially with the finned motor and the gauges. Great performance in a bike that's comfortable to ride! Much better than those transformer looking bikes.
I totally agree, and I love the gauges. They're the old fashioned, clean and easy to read font, but they still have that digital section that gives the information that a modern rider deserves on a modern bike. We totally agree! Thanks for watching! Feel free to subscribe, I'll have plenty more content coming!
I traded an RS in for a transformer looking bike. A ZH2. It's super fun, comfortable, and stupid fast, but I do miss the looks of the RS.
@@1970cutlassSMy younger brother rides the Z H2, I'm riding the Z900 RS (no SE).
For me old fart the retro is plenty of good enough 😁
I've owned my 2018 Z900RS for over 4 years now, got it brand new (it now has 29,000 miles on it). Amazing bike. BUT there are some cons.
Seat; absolutely terrible. Fell apart within the first few months of owning it (This was the very first model so it might be different now).
Paint; although stunning and beautiful, it chips like no other! I HIGHLY recommend the 3M paint protective film at least on the very front of the tank.
And finally, the Gauge cluster; I love it but for some reason it ALWAYS gets moisture stuck in it and causes them to get foggy. Had it replaced under warranty and it's doing it again.
Other than that, super fast, super beautiful and super fun. The SE version is absolutely gorgeous. I have the original orange and brown one.
Thanks for sharing your experiences! I'm wondering if the seat has been upgraded, it feels pretty durable to me. But yeah I agree, this thing is great fun!
Yes the fuel tank is wide at the front. Owners must be wary of stone chips.
@@und13s ya the paint is terrible on these bikes. I’ve seen Harley’s with 80,000 miles on them with almost no chips, rode my Z for about 2 months and got a huge rock chip.
Hi there, my wife bought me one of these last September 21, after waiting a year its finally arriving on 1 11 22 ,we have LED indicators ( you call them turn signals over there)must be different laws over there, great video though, can't wait to take mine for a spin, keep up the good work mate. Best of luck...shakie
Thanks for sharing! Yeah, I've seen some press materials with the LED signal lights, so I'm not sure why some countries get them, and some don't. You're going to love it! Well worth the wait! Thanks for watching!
I have my original street bike. It’s a 1983 LTD 750 Kawasaki. Has about 35000 original miles on it. Don’t ride it much anymore. It just sits in the garage gaining value as one of the 1st cruiser bikes! Great bike not for sale, period. I now ride a 2021 F-3S Spyder 1330 cc triple. What a sweet machine. All the modern features traction control, stability control, ABS breaks, cruse control. It has it all. Wasn’t sure if I’d like a trike but this thing is amazing!!! Feels like I’m driving a Formula one car on the street! What a blast to ride/drive!!! 😉❤️
BTW, subbing.
That's awesome! I haven't tried riding a Spyder yet. I'd like to, but I feel like, for my tastes, I'd miss the leaning and more motorcycle feel of things. Thanks so much for subscribing!!
I have a 2018 RS cafe" Kawasaki green ",and you are right. The Harley guys even give me a head nod.
Universally respected, because it's a great bike! Thanks for sharing!
I like very much this "vintage" style in motorcycles. Congratulations for the video !
Yeah, this motorcycle looks great, and is very well thought out. It's both very modern, with a great sound, but it still has a great retro look. Thanks for watching!
My wife's bike. She had to wait one year for it . Only 4 of them in our province of Quebec. She has one.
That's awesome! It's a great bike!
If I was in the market for a new bike, this would be it. For one, I absolutely love the way it looks. But the beauty is not just skin deep here. As mentioned, it's a thoroughly modern motorcycle in every way, and with this SE model, you get the upgraded brakes and suspension to improve the ride. This bike also has braided steel brake lines, whereas many of its competitors have rubber lines (more common). Add in the fact it's a Kawasaki so you know it will be reliable and provide you with many years of fun rides without costing a fortune in maintenance and repairs.
I couldn't agree with you more! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Good review of the details of the Z900RS and what a good looking bike.
Thanks for watching! Yeah. This thing stands out when you see it in person!
Looks elegantly classic. Wonderful. It was very nice also in 2018. Here goes my like.
Yeah, this thing is a great bike!
@@PeterLoweOne It really is. Can check my content. You may like it.
Just picked mine up a month ago, Triumph Trophy has been parked since. The bike is a real pleasure. Absolutely beautiful everything but the tires. They suck. Brakes are fabulous,clutch is easy and sweet. Transmission is silky smooth and power the same. I had a 2013 ninja 1000 and enjoy this 900 a lot more.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing!
I own a 2020 in Candytone olive green and yellow. It's received a few mods to enhance its sportiness and tractability:
Öhlins rear shock
Dymag UP7X wheels
Metzeler M7RR tires
LSL Superbike bars
Brembo front discs
Ivan's reflash
16T front sprocket
The last two were crucial to improving its manners in general riding!
Nice! I've heard that the 2022 isn't all that snatchy on the throttle, so I think I'm going to leave it as is. I already have the Ohlins shock and Brembo brakes on mine as it's an SE, the only mod that I'm looking at so far is that I want to see what the tires are really like because I suspect I'll want an upgrade there at some point.
I’m not an engineer, but I think that’s the fins on the engine would still provide some supplemental cooling, in addition to the rad….
This colour is amazing .
I love it!! I ended up buying this exact bike.
Passenger rails!! An available option. Don't go without those, seriously. Also, the centre stand option. Totally necessary. I'm so glad I got those options on my bike. (I have a 2018 Z900 RS and it is a masterpiece.)
I'm going to get the passenger grab rail on the back, (it's on backorder right now) I already have the centre stand and heated grips installed. All I need now, is for the snow to melt so that I can get out and ride!
Got my '23 black and gold café in the garage. Man, do I ever love it! I'm just, like many new owners, trying to find the time and weather to get some break-in miles accumulated so I can let her rip!
I hear you! I've still got mountains of snow on the ground and the associated road salt. I'm waiting for the big melt... but I hear you about those break in miles! I'm going to need to find time to put those on as quickly as possible! I want to get full use out of this bike on our short summers!
Currently ride Aprilia Tuono V41100 factory the pinnacle of naked bikes imo ,but the Zed 900se is pulling at my heart strings for it’s beautiful retro looks, that said if I make it my next bike, I will definitely convert it to 4 exhausts to complete the retro appearance
I'm not going to lie, I LOVE this bike. I have a lot more planned for this bike, so feel free to subscribe!
The exhaust sound is great. But if I buy one I'll install a classic 4 to 4 exhaust because I don't like that empty left side of the bike.
Really? I like the way you can see the wheel. I wouldn't have the guts to change the pipes because I love the sound, but I hear you... You've gotta have a bike you love, and I totally respect what you're saying. The look has to work for you.
Excellent review Peter. Thank you.
Thanks for watching! I ended up buying this bike. I'll have some more content on it soon!
Not really my thing, but by jingo, Kawasaki might have built the best looking bike on the market. I can't stop looking at this thing.
I had the 2020 model, and it was excellent, but needed some things to get it right... The stock shock was crap, so I got a K-Tech Razr R Lite sprung for me, heavier fork oil, better tires, and a lower and sportier bar... Once I did all that, it was transformed, and Kawi heard that feedback a lot... so they came up with the SE model that you have, that's ready to go right out of the box.
I had a blast on mine and I have video of it on track, on my channel.
Yeah, I really like the SE model. I think it will be great for what I want to do with it. My biggest disappointment is that the stock tires are a downgrade from the less expensive Z900 model. I can't make a true judgement on the tires, but if I'm paying more for the style of this bike, I shouldn't get less expensive components. Hopefully they'll be fine for the first season, but I'll definitely be upgrading them. Dunlop has a terrible video on their own website where they basically admit that the best feature about the tires is that they don't cost very much. So again, I'm not expecting them to be great. Hopefully they're good enough to start, and I'll upgrade in the future.
I'll definitely go check out your video. Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences!
@@PeterLoweOne Yeah, the stock Dunlops are absolute junk. Weird profile and not a ton of grip. I switched to Michelin Road 5's and got 5700 miles and a track day out of them easy... Normally I would get less than 2000 street miles out of a set of my normal sport tires.
The Road 5 is a great tire, and I have the newer Road 6 on my 2022 Speed Twin 1200 and they are excellent.
Here is the Z900RS, properly set up, at a track day.
czcams.com/video/AtPAFMsrFvw/video.html
This video popped up in my feed again so I just had to watch it again. I know you bought this bike Pete, how's it going? Have you had much of a chance to get out there and ride? I'm waiting foir your in-depth review. I have the z650rs and have racked up 7500kms on it. It's a great first bike but I keep looking forward to this bike, the big brother! I have to hold on to mine for another 10months until I'm eligible to ride whatever I want. Good to re-watch this video as well as I learned a whole lot more. Keep up the great work Pete!
I have been riding it! I'm through the break in period, and well into riding the bike properly. I LOVE it and I have a few surprising things to say about it. (surprising in a good way) I'll try to get something filmed soon. I have at least 3 videos that I'd like to get filmed soon.
@@PeterLoweOne good to hear! I'll wait and see what you have to say about it.
Enjoyed your video I purchased a new 2020 green with yellow stripe 900 rs and I have owned many bikes and agree it's near perfect
I have a LOT... and I mean a LOT more planned for this bike, so feel free to subscribe. Also, I haven't seen that green in person yet, but in pictures and videos it looks absolutely gorgeous!
Its Zed in Oz too,just got the se version.luv it.
Nice! I ended up buying this bike! I'll have a lot more content coming! I'm just waiting for the snow to melt here! I think we've got great taste in bikes! 🤣👍
I have an 82 gs650 right now and this is going to replace it come spring
Oh wow! That's going to be quite an upgrade! A lot has changed in 40 years! Thanks for watching! Feel free to subscribe!
That's interesting, I'm Australian and we pronounce 'Z' the same as you Canadians. I'm glad we're not alone....☺
Haha! We say it the right way, right?
Looking at buying this bike. I've been reading a lot about the snappy throttle....do you know if Kawasaki addressed this issue?
I have a cafe model, and I did a test ride with a friend's se model. The rear shock was also excellent for the normal model, so I didn't feel it much, but the front brake performance was good. Anyway, The z900rs series is an all-round player.😊
Yeah, I think the biggest thing the rear shock is going to add is a little more adjustability. It is a step up, but sometimes you can't always feel the upgrade if you come from a well set up bike. I think it would make a difference if you were to really ride things aggressively. But yeah, I love the Z900RS, it's awesome!
my dream motorbike 🤩🤩🤩
This exact bike is still in the showroom at Jim Gilbert's Wheels and Deals. If you're nearby, it could be yours!
@@PeterLoweOne hope that happens in the near future.. 😀😀😀
I absolutely love how this guy shows how he is just a regular Joe talking about his love for motorcycle's.
" Would have used to have". Made me chuckle when he said that.
Haha! I can't be anyone but me! At what time stamp did I say that? Also... if these are the things that I leave in, you should see my bloopers!! You're right about one thing though, I really love motorcycles!
@@PeterLoweOne 3:46. It's a classic.
@@jimgordon3468 Haha! Perfection is overrated! Be real, be honest, and respond to comments with comments and future videos. That's how I roll! Thanks for watching!
@@PeterLoweOne absolutely agreed which is why I subscribed.
@@jimgordon3468 I appreciate that more than you know!
For the record, that is not the stock seat for that bike. That is the "ergo fit low" seat. Much lower then stock. More narrow going forward and much less padding.
This is the stock seat. I ended up buying this bike, and I've triple checked the specs on the bike (probably a lot more than triple 😉). I film in Canada, so maybe things are equipped differently in other countries, but I promise you this is the standard seat where I film.
@@PeterLoweOne Peter you are absolutely correct. Move that bike south of the border and I am correct. I researched it, and in Canada they fit the RS with the lowest of the 3 seats. I have all three seats. In your case you might try the standard (US Spec) CAFE mid height seat. It IS softer, but not as narrow in the front as your LOW seat. I only have a 30" inseam. But the mid size seat is not as Pillion friendly if that is an issue.
Great video🏍️
Love the signature bear🧸
Haha! Jim Gilbert's Wheels and Deals and Jim Gilbert's PowerSports give out a teddy bear (or power sports gives out a "Freddy the Frog") with every vehicle that they sell. It's part of the absolutely amazing focus on caring for customers at the dealership! I like to use them in the thumbnail when I haven't got the logo or some other identifier in the shot. Thanks for watching! Feel free to subscribe, I have a lot more videos planned!
@@PeterLoweOne your video content is amazing. Definitely subscribing.
@@user-wn8iv1ve7d Awesome! I really appreciate it!!
Nice bike other than a short wheel base, I miss the long straight banana seat so when your legs get tired you can slide back on the seat and find a more comfortable position....with those step seats, you're stuck in one position.
True, but on a bike with this much power, I've driven it a number of times and been happy to have that step there as it's held me in place a number of times.
LOL!, that's a good one, I didn't think about sliding off the back of the bike when hitting the gas.@@PeterLoweOne
If you want to buy a retro bike: You are right at Kawasaki - buy a W800. If you want to buy a perfect modern sport bike with a perfect retro illusion: You are again right at Kawasaki - buy a Z900RS
They are LED indicators in Australia :D
That's it! I'm moving!! Mostly because our winter is your riding season! But also for the LED indicators! 🙂
They are called ZED indicators.
Have a Z900RS café for 4 jears ago and a W800 without ABS. Nice bikes, but for fun I drive Royal Enfield 500 trail and Fantic caballero 500 👍🏻
One minor nitpick. If I was going to compare this to a car. I’d compare it to the current Dodge Challenger. Also has very obvious homage to the classic styling. As well as the motor is more focused on torque and that hard off the line pull. Same as the RS. Which makes it feel closer to what it’s based on, than most modern high revving Motors
Yeah, comparing bikes to a car is always more of an art than a science. It's open to interpretation for sure!.
The bike sounds great along with the tuned exhaust, thanks for showing it. How many kilometers do you think you'll put onto your Z900RS in 2023?
That's tough to tell. I haven't put as much on as I'd hoped so far, with family commitments and a few stretches of less than ideal weather. I think I only have about 3000 kms on it so far, but this is a long termer for me, I'll be riding a lot!
@@PeterLoweOne I understand, thanks. That's true that finding spare time in life is not always easy to do along with the weather affecting things. Plus the recent wildfires in Canada too. Hopefully more time this summer for riding. It's an awesome bike and 4 cylinders, that is cool. Enjoy!
This topnotch review made me subscribe to your channel, mate 👍
Awesome! Thanks for your support! I've got a lot more planned for this channel!
@@PeterLoweOne Great, looking forward to your highly appreciated work, mate 👍
does kawasaki offer option for a cowl for this trim, i.e. in black/yellow?
Very much enjoyed your excellent review. I’m considering z900 rs vs rd cafe w/ mini fairing. Can you please compare the riding position on these two bikes? I’m interested in staying relatively upright with minimal weight on my wrists. Thanks again for outstanding review!!
Sorry for typo. That’s rs cafe
So I haven't been able to review the RS Cafe yet, but off the top of my head, I thought that the geometry's the same on both bikes. The specs seem to indicate a centimetre less ground clearance which leads to the same distance lower seat height, but I believe that's a suspension difference. To be honest, I haven't dug into the specs yet. I could be mistaken, and when I get the Cafe in, I'll definitely do a review, and try to compare things for you. I hope that helps! Please feel free to subscribe to make sure you see the review!
Thanks! I’ve subscribed and look forward to seeing more reviews! Much appreciated.
@@anonanon5976 Awesome! Thanks so much!
You sit slightly more inclined on the Cafè, you have slightly more pressure on your wrists.
In Europe LED-indicators comes as standard.
Yeah. It's weird. We're still getting incandescent in 2024 on these bikes.
@@PeterLoweOne Strange. Wonder why....
The incandescent bulbs in the indicators looks to be solely in the US market. Everywhere else gets led’s
I film in Canada, but yeah, I'm hearing that this is rare. I wonder if there were supply chain issues, and they went with incandescent for some markets to deal with that? I'm not sure.
I rode an RS last week before ordering an SE for 2023. Here are my questions.
1. Does the SE front brake feature a more linear pattern? The RS brake is disappointing in that it is too soft on the first few mills before it does a hard landing when you pull the brake lever harder. Can you elaborate in detail please.
2. Does the fork dive off while braking hatd and is the rear rising at the same time noticeably? Please give all the details.
So, I can't give you as in-depth of an answer as you're probably looking for here in the comments, meaning that I may have to make a future video to get into some of the specifics. To start with your second point, you will likely want to start playing with the suspension adjustments when you get the bike. You can usually dial in or out the ride you want, or the behaviours that you don't want by making small adjustments, and then going for a ride to see if you've tuned in the ride that you want. Secondly, your first question has to do with the brakes. On the SE, You do get the Brembo front brakes, and although I'm personally not sure of exactly what you're experiencing, you will have different front brakes, so I would assume that the specific issue that you experienced should be sorted by the different brakes.
@@PeterLoweOne Thank you very much Peter for your answer. As for q#1 Motojitsu was out with a YT video only yesterday, where he made the same experience I made in BEST CAFE RACER? 2023 Kawasaki z900 RS. He mentions some kind of strange brake pattern from 04:08 onwards through the end, exactly the same question I asked myself. He also stresses the need to adjust the preload to your weight which may be considered as a hint to adjust the the fork and the rear to firmer levels?
I am not a sporty driver, but when I ride on the German Autobahn at say 140mph or crossing the Euroean Alpes at 12.000 ft. the chassis and the brakes are key. Best regards from Germany.
@@mfkliegenschaften5420 ok. I can tell you when I bought my 2018 Kawasaki Versys, the front forks were much too soft for me. I spent some time tweaking the adjustable suspension and testing it. It took me an afternoon of tweaking and testing, but I was able to really dial it in to a point where I was able to set it and forget it. So from the suspension point of view, I think it's easily dealt with.
Molto bella , mi piacerebbe sapere se il suo motore euro 5 scalda le gambe.
I'm a BMW guy but this looks nice.
Yeah, I think that's what Kawasaki does right with this. You can't argue that Kawasaki builds fun to ride bikes, but the styling doesn't always appeal to everyone. In this case, I feel like you get a stylish, timeless design, while still having a fully modern, fun to drive bike. Thanks for watching!
If you're talkin about old-style wheelers you must be talking about pre-1980s tires my 93 zx6e had the same type of tires and they were great
Am I looking at the standard seat or the low seat option?
This is the standard seat... but I think there's only a high seat option in Canada. I just checked the options, and there is a "ergo-fit extended reach seat" as the only option. I'm about 6 feet tall, and this bike fits me very well. I ended up buying this exact bike. Check out my latest reviews to see it on the road. Here's a link. czcams.com/video/u8BPgvKyTF8/video.html
Absolutely should have led turn signals, please do the 23 650rs
Yeah, the more that I think about this one, the more I agree with you. Once you reach a certain stage in the Kawasaki lineup, they should be LED. I can see if dual sports don't have them, as they could be more expensive to replace in a collision, but at this level, for on-road riding, I agree. Also, I've done the 650RS, but it was a 2022. I'll do the 2023 when it arrives. Hopefully I can earn your subscription!
@@PeterLoweOne I’m now an official card carry member 👍🏻
@@RodeoRides Haha! You're the best! Thanks so much!
@@PeterLoweOne For some reason the indicators on US bikes can be different to Euro. For example, on the GS. On the z900rs Euro bikes they are led, and a totally different shape.
@@samsara3694 I'm pretty sure Europe and North America have different lighting standards, but we still have plenty of bikes with LED signal lights. These should probably be LED.
Gold rims are a bit kitchy?? Is there an option for chrome rims (traditional)
Haha! I ended up buying this bike! I feel insulted! Just kidding. If you don't like this colour scheme, I would go with a non SE model. They have traditional rims.
In the UK we get LED turn signals, so incandescent lights must be a North American thing.
It seems to be. The 2024 model is still coming with incandescent bulbs here. Very strange.
Tks. much.
Thanks for watching!
Do you work for Kawasaki? Be nice to have the negatives too.
I bought this bike with my own money. I'll happily point out the negatives in a riding review that I plan to film soon.
Going from 1st to 2nd gear is a little klunky, or...aggressive lol. Smooth, but...a more audible thump so to speak. Gets smoother with every oil change tho lol.
Again a lot of silly and juvenile arguments in the comments about "Zee" vs "Zed". There tons of words in the English speaking world that are either pronounced or spelled differently depending on the country you live in. It just doesn't matter, say it the way your country says it and let the other guy say it like they do in their country.
You aren't right or wrong because the way you pronounce-the letter "Z". Buy one and call it yours.
I’ve always said Zee for that letter as a Yank, but I like to say Zed way cooler! Lol 😂
I'm a Canadian, filming Canadian bikes in Canada at Canada's number one volume Kawasaki dealer. I say zed because of everything I listed, but boy it sure is funny when some Americans get upset about me saying Zed. Thanks for not swearing at me and telling me "this is America, don't say zed" I've had a LOT of those! 🤣👍
I wish it had cruise control.
Me too!
Peter how tall are you, I ordered one, and I am 6,2 would i be comfortable on one?
I'm 6 feet tall, so I think you would be. It's quite comfortable for me. You sit a little bit more ON this than a Versys 650 which you feel like you're a little bit more "in" if that makes sense, but that's just because of the windshield and fairing on the Versys. I like the overall riding position of this a lot. (Also... great choice! I think you'll have a blast with this bike! I mentioned in a later video that I ended up buying this bike, so I'll have a LOT more content on it starting in the Spring.)
For looks, design and technology, I'd put this bike-and the similar Zeds-up against any bike on the market. Let alone that it sounds perfect with the stock exhaust, a araity in these days, esepcially when I look at the ones that came with my Z1000 in 2019. As hideous looking as they sounded and weighed.
I agree! This bike is excellent! Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences! Feel free to subscribe!
Not a bad video, but alot of rambling with no specs. What is hp/torque, weight, gearbox, etc. ?
Thanks for watching. I try to cover information that isn't readily available on the website. As far as horsepower and torque, Kawasaki in North America doesn't list that. It's generally agreed that the numbers are similar or identical to European numbers, and those are out there on a quick Google search. The gearbox is a 6 speed, as is the standard for the class, and the weight is listed on the Kawasaki website as 472 lbs wet weight, but that weight has an asterisk beside it to clarify what they consider to be wet weight. At the end of the day, I make my videos under the assumption that this isn't the first step in learning about these vehicles. I leave out some common information, and try to talk about things that the specs or other reviews don't talk about. I'm always evolving my approach, and I'm still learning. If my "rambling" isn't for you, that's fine. I appreciate you giving me the chance.
hi ,great to hear its zed not zee ,,us in the uk say zed
Haha! I've never had so much support for non-American pronunciation! Don't thank me, thank whoever it was that decided that's how to say it here in Canada! 🤣
I wish the exhaust was black
Really? I like it like this. I have seen someone online put an aftermarket system on that's black, so it could be done. The chrome look, of course, is closer to the look of the original Z1.
@@PeterLoweOne I ride and been saving for an upgrade. I have rebel 1100 or z900RS in mind.
@@tubeee87 Go with the Z900RS. Yes I'm biased. I prefer the better bike. 🙂👍. I also just bought this exact bike.
The perfect bike I have to have the chrome bar on the back end of seat ,and have heated grips put on
Ecu flash to pump up the power it stock goes 0 to 60 3 sec . 1/4 mi.
Low 11s it handles super and is bullet proof nothing will never brake down ,last forever no matter how fast u drive , this bike is on another level,forget the Hondas,Yamaha ,suzuke, their junk in the long run🧝⚡🏴☠️🌴🌟🇯🇪🔥🐁
I just bought this bike and added the heated grips, chrome grab bar, black radiator grill, and a centre stand. I don't think I need it to go any faster for me. I think it'll be amazing as is! Thanks for sharing your experiences though! I'll have a lot more video on this bike in the future, so feel free to subscribe!
@@PeterLoweOne u know your bikes when u get a Kawasaki 900 rs don't forget the sliders ,I had menny Kawasaki s and never broke down drove them fast all the time and they even seem to run better in the heat and I bought them used I had good luck with some Harleys but the service department charged a lot to service them and often cannot be trusted in Vegas it's like every thing is a scam in Vegas and most of the sport games are fix a windshield is nice for the freeway made menny trips from Vegas to FLa and back sence I am older now I have slow down my speed
And in the mountains or country I often beep my horn because every once in awhile a deer jumps across the road had a friend that hit one and survive so I went to the physic shop and got some charms to carry been driving bikes sence 1970 🧝🌴🐁
@@vincentdavidson755 Sliders? But if you buy them you'll need them... if you don't, you won't, right? 😉
@@PeterLoweOne u never know I have seen experience riders not watching what their doing and fall over with their bikes I was in the mountains once and camping and a strong wind came up and I woke up the next day and my bike was laying down, when I was young I turn into a place to turn Around and hit gravel and my bike hit the payment so for a few dollars u can add protection I once look out side and seen a kid on my bike maybe about 6 years old, alot of bikers wear patchouli oil for extra protection , i have been driving bikes on a daily bases sence 1970
I have laid my down about 4 times
Always just pick my bike back up and was ok ,once forgot to put in my hose for my oil under bike and the oil got on the back tire and the bike went out from under me, a few times a dog jump out in front of me on the road and I had a friend that hit a deer and survive that why I often beep my horn if I'm on a back. Country road or mountains I drive slow,have went over big pieces of truck tire on the freeway, u are right in one sence because we attract what we think and I Always try to think positive thoughts but it's good to take advange of extra protection
@@PeterLoweOne your right the right thinking thought forms wins and creates our reality🧝🇯🇪
I'm so glad Canadians say "Z" properly 🙂 The way American's say it just sounds weird.
Haha! I often hear from Americans about how I say things incorrectly... It's not like I decide how things are said! It's good to know that there's an international crowd that appreciates how I was taught to say things!
The new zrx 1200...
Yeah! Pretty much! I just love the style of this though. Seeing it in person, it looks really sharp!
@@PeterLoweOne yep they look good I saw four last year at my local Kawasaki dealer
The original had a fantastic engine , especially for its time . In a straight line it impressed , but its weight let it down as soon as a corner or bump was encountered ! I et this modern version does not reflect the original in all aspects ! It better not anyway ... v
This is a thoroughly modern motorcycle. Its looks will remind people of the original, but the performance is very much up to current standards!
I had a z900 rs 2018 loved it except for when changing into 6th gear seems to not to chang as smoothly at over 4000 revs as the rest. Sold it a month ago, would love to by a z 900 rs se but worried it will do the same.
That seems to me like it would be something on an individual bike, not something that would be consistent across the line. I've heard a tonne of praise for these bikes. So hopefully it's all good!
Don't get me wrong I love the Rs and think it's the best looking bike out their. And great fun to ride didn't want to sale it. Moving on to se expect looking at one Sunday.
@@kevinjackson8072 Nice! Feel free to subscribe! I'll have more video on these bikes in the future, and it's great to have commenters and viewers who have some experience with these bikes!
My RS does the same. No biggie. Have a powerful Dimple oil drain plug. No evidence of metal shavings in 12k miles. Enioy the power and sound. These engines are tough. Talked to warranty manger at dealer. Said these bikes
ARE dependable. No issues. Harleys shed metal like a dog sheds hair. Magnetic oil drain plug is essential on these.
Many owners have complained of this but certainly not all. My 2018 shifts perfectly. The snatchy throttle is almost ubiquitous due to Euro 4/5 emission standards which can be alleviated by flashing the ECU. Great bike. Perfect after a few mods.
Zed everywhere _except_ the US. International English (UK, Aus, New Zealand, etc.) has the correct pronunciation and spelling. US English, is lazy english (color, not colour, etc.) and their silly "aluminum" instead of "aluminium".
Haha! I we say Aluminum like the Americans here in Canada.
Led indicators on U.K. bikes
Yeah, I see lots of promotional material with them. It's strange to me that this bike doesn't have them.
@@PeterLoweOne I think your type look nicer really
@@glenncaukill1320 Well there ya go! Maybe the reason ours gets these is for that reason alone. Someone who makes those decisions, likes them.
Hello Peter, how tall are you? (cm,please)
180 - 182 cm's. Depends on if I'm in shoes or not. I always say about 6 feet tall.
Charlotte and Gabi sent me here
Charlotte and Gabi are doing great work on that channel! Thanks for joining me here!
Hi
You two are the best!! Thanks!
Whadya mean “Zee” for the rest of you! The world doesn’t say “Zee”….. Aussie here and it’s “Zed”!
Haha! I often hear from Americans, who don't realize that a large number of english speaking countries don't say zee. 🙂
It's Zed.
Hahaha! We've found another for team Zed!
2nd
You two are the best!! Thanks!
what next audi quattro taco taco
A Quattro with Tacos? Sign me up!
No cruise control- Un except able, no leds , wake up Kawasaki
It’s Zed not Zee 👍
That’s proper English from England 😂
Hahaha! I appreciate your support for the proper way to say this! Cheers from Canada!
It’s zed in every 1st world English speaking country.
I'll let the U.S. know that you don't consider them to be a 1st world country! 🤣
@@PeterLoweOne the world doesn't consider the US to be a 1st world country
@@Stumc46 Haha! I'm not touching that one!!
Lmao, great sound, not. Apparently you have never heard a kz1000 or any kz 4 cylinder 70-80's or cb750, cb900 other great 4 cylinder 70-80's etc, with an old style kerker exhaust with racing baffle. Nothing sounds better!
So, just so I'm clear, because you like the sound of those bikes, I'm not allowed to like the sound of this bike? I ended up buying this bike, and I was riding it today thinking to myself, "Wow, this thing makes great noise!" You may like the sounds of other bikes better, but I stand by my opinion. I think Kawasaki did a great job with the intake and exhaust noises of this bike!
@@PeterLoweOne LOL, having owned and ridden the older bikes. The new sounds leave out a lot.
I am sure if you put an old style kerker with a racing baffle. The new kz900 would sound a lot better. Take out the air box throw on some k&n pods, you will be able to really hear the crack of the air flow when hitting hard and fast for full throttle.
Those sounds are simply bottled up on stock bikes nowadays.
@@SinOjOs-Transport Not sure the point you're making.. but thanks for the comments and interaction???
@@SinOjOs-Transport Yeah, I'm not saying that you shouldn't go to the aftermarket for a good tune, if that's what you want. I just stand by my statement that this bike sounds good. The work that Kawasaki put into sound tuning this bike is obvious when you ride it. It doesn't pick up on video, but it's very obvious in person. So I guess my point is, it's ok that we have different opinions about the sound of this bike. You can prefer an aftermarket tune, and I can still say that this sounds good to me, and to several other people too.
@@PeterLoweOne Sure you are correct. Yet as trends go. So many so called retro bikes, are not like they used to be. The kz900 is the only one that is similar to what the old bikes looked like.
With the predominance of Araprovic, Yoshimira, etc. The sound is much different. As most are slipon with catalytic devices between. Simply is not the same.
Unfortunately SuperTrapp purchased Kerker, one of their competitors. Subsequently shut them down, still available, but for a very limited number of bikes, Harley is about all.
Kerker was the shit, 70-80's. Listen to the old kz race bikes that the likes of Kenny Roberts & Eddie Lawson etc., raced.
Was a simple process back then to replace the stock exhaust with a kerker, jet kit, k&n pods, tune & synchro the carbs, great sound. With a substantial power boost. Next step was cam upgrade. Suppose that is a lost art now.
Nowadays, many are limited due to laws. Simply does not sound right. Some of us that grew up riding in the 60's, having had all the different bikes over the years. The new bikes simply do not sound right.
Unless you go with a full exhaust with No catalytic crap, open up the airbox or pods, with a proper computer tune. It simply does not sound good to me.
Guess I'm just to old to get it. Looking at getting a kz900 for my last bike. There is simply nothing else that evokes that older 4 cylinder presence.
If I end up going for it. Would like to do it right & get that old distinctive sound. There is simply nothing like it coming out of the new bikes.
Did not ride it!! Thumbs down.
I can't ride every bike as not every bike is a demo model. What I do here isn't going to be for everyone. In general, a riding review of any bike is going to be just a click away for my CZcams viewers... However, I actually ended up buying this bike and I'll have all kinds of riding reviews this summer. So let me know the kinds of things you want to know from a riding review, and I'll do my best to include that information.
nearly 20 minutes of blah blah blah and no start, no ride? Huh?
Yup! There are a thousand videos of this bike driving, and I tried to offer something different. It may not be for you, and that's ok. Not every bike that I have access to is a demo bike that I can drive. Sorry that this wasn't for you.
@@PeterLoweOne Well at least you are polite and gracious in your reply and you explained kindly your format, certainly redeeming qualities.
@@Roaddog420 Yup. I understand that what I do isn't for everyone. If I may suggest one thing to you. Before you comment, remember that there is a real person who made that video, and they tried their best. Constructive criticism can contribute to the conversation. The way you worded your criticism didn't add anything to this channel. Please be better when you leave comments on other channels.
Finally... You complained about my 20 minute video having no start and no ride. You didn't even watch the video or you would have known that I did start it and talk about the sound, and describe the ride.
@@PeterLoweOne Ok, point taken. I will also add that as a "viewer" I am not tasked with adding anything to your channel via comments, adding value to your channel is your task. If, as a viewer I am hearing "blah blah blah" your content may not be very captivating or engaging, compelling me to skip forward searching for something, anything entertaining. On positive note, the Z900RS is badass and did its part to hold my interest. 2wheelsdown:)
@@Roaddog420 two final points, and let's leave it here. I was raised to contribute to society, not to tear other people down. So whether it's a CZcams channel, or anything else in life, a comment like yours isn't kind. Be kind. Contribute to society. That's my point. And finally, I'm sorry you weren't entertained. That's actually not the goal of my channel. I'm here to add information to the internet. Plenty of other people will entertain you. Again, if this isn't for you. All good. But I'm going to keep doing what I do, always trying to improve. Thanks.
Apart from the gas tank and the rear fender, there is nothing retro here. The rest is a rotten alliance between accountants and marketing. Whoever has seen Z1 knows what I'm talking about..!
Right, but think about it. I was born in 1979, and I ended up buying this bike. I have no memory of being a teenager and seeing the original Z1. Kawasaki didn't just make a bike that shares some visual cues to the original bike, they gave people like myself a reason to buy the updated version.
They know that the W800 appeals to a certain market who remembers when bikes were built like that, but no automotive or powersport manufacturer is going to build a high volume new vehicle that is aimed at people who were teenagers in the early 1970's. That's a recipe for terrible sales figures.
People like myself (people who actually bought this bike) love the retro "inspired" looks, but want a modern sport bike that handles well, brakes incredibly well, and frankly, outperforms the original Z1 in every way. This bike has sold incredibly well because Kawasaki understands what they needed to do with a retro inspired bike, which is to give it looks that remind people of bikes of bikes from the past (this bike looks nothing like a modern sport bike) but give it performance which is fully up to date in every way. That's why this bike works for so many people. That's why it continues to sell so well every year.
As far as the looks, I've got two big posters up in my garage of the original and they sit right above where I park my bike. While they don't look identical, the lineage is clear, and that's what Kawasaki was going for.
I see that the seat is a lower version than the stock here in europe. What is the height on mm or inches of this seat? From the ground i mean...
The full Canadian specs can be found at www.kawasaki.ca
La Z900 RS nasce nel 2019 con componenti studiati per dare un perfetto equilibrio alla moto non credo sia stata una buona idea sostituire le sospensioni con le ohlins(primo perchè è aumentato il prezzo della moto con sospensioni,accumulate nei magazzini ohlins, e poi sarebbe giusto consegnarti le sospensioni originali ma non lo fanno! (vedi il pacchetto performance in cui ti montano la marmitta akrapovic ma ti consegnano la marmitta originale!)
In realtà mi piace che abbiano introdotto le sospensioni Ohlins per questo modello. Anche se mi avessero dato la scossa in più, non l'avrei messa sulla moto. Il prezzo non è il più economico della gamma Kawasaki, ma penso comunque che sia un prezzo equo per quello che è. Ho finito per acquistare questa bici e sarà regolarmente sul mio canale nei prossimi mesi e anni.
@@PeterLoweOne Introdotto?Mi dispiace ma sono "accordi" con ohlins e basta! Adesso le stanno montando su diverse e moto anche bmw honda ducati etc. e cosí i brembo accordi che chi ci capisce di moto vede gli altri... e sti ....!
Kawasaki doesn’t call it a ZED. Z is a letter. ZED is a word. It’s a fucking Z900. Not a ZED900.
You must be American. 🙂 Kawasaki definitely calls it a ZED 900 in parts of the world that say Zed, not Zee.
Its “zed”
Definitely not ‘zee’
Haha! I used to work on another channel, and when I said something the Canadian way, the audience was big enough that I'd get at least 10 to 20 people complaining that I was saying things incorrectly. 🙂
Depending on the local tongue 😁