KAWASAKI Z900RS (2017 - on) Review

Brakes are superb Suspension was too firm for me on standard settings but has softened up nicely by adjusting damping and sag. It feels to me that the standard fork oil is too thick as I can feel every tiny bump in the road surface. It rides large bumps well but I reckon if you ran over a fag butt you’d feel it. I’m going to try 2.5W fork oil

Very powerful with loads of torque

Never broken down and fish is stillrealy good at nearly 5 years old and 10,000 miles. No corrosion

I like having traction control as well as ABS

Seats a bit hard after more than an hour, brakes and suspension are fine for this style of bike.

Very torquey and powerful enough in the real world. Pulls from 30 in top gear, so you could ride it all day like that, however drop a few gears and it take off pretty quick, probably quicker than you think it would as it makes power fairly low in the rev range.

No quality or reliability issues whatsoever.

Simple to service Jap 4. Overall fuel economy is averaging +50 mpg unless you run continuously +80 on motorways then its back in the 40's. I changed the OEM tyres after 4700 miles to Michelin Road 6's and I'm very impressed, a lot better than the standard Dunlop's.

More than enough equipment for this type of bike. No need for rider modes or anything more than standard ABS or traction control. Just get on and ride with nothing fancy to think about!

The classic sit up and beg ergos and chassis make the bike very manageable (at no point does it feel like 215kg) both at low speeds and in the bends and corners. Handling is broadly neutral, with just a little tendency to drop in. As someone with a 33.5 inch inseam the leg room can sometimes feel a little cramped, despite the 835cm height in the saddle. Seat always seems firm yet surprisingly comfortable for rides hours on end, more so than my GS. I think most could ride for hours on this bike.I like the progressive feel from brembo brakes on the SE, though they remain good to adequate rather than being great. Whilst I've yet to dial in the suspension, including the Ohlins monoshock, I have no complaints out of the box - there's some skip at the back wheel when pushing on but I expect this to be improved once dialled in. Rear brake has poor feedback.Owners tend to fall into two camps regards the gearbox. Some think its 'positive', others find it at times agricultural. I tend to fall into the latter camp, having to sometimes rev match excessively when making changes up and down. Essentially, when getting a move on, it's fine, even lovely, but a little more work is required for back lane riding. Again, rev matching is the answer for avoiding the infamous 5th to 6th clunk.

Supremely tractable and buttery smooth. It may have to think about things for a few milliseconds if you are in high gear and low down the rev range, but it'll do anything and everything you'd want from an engine of this size and the bike's purpose. Kawasaki have done a good job in producing a 4 pot than can be ridden both fast and slow. Some owners prefer higher gearing, but for me this would reduce tractability and rather defeats the experience of riding a 4 pot over my twins. Having 5 gears for 'riding' and a high 6th gear for 'cruising' also works well for me.Some fuelling issues in lower gears and slower speeds. On the infamous throttle snap, I think another owner has summed this up well in saying that the throttle complaints are warranted but not 'necessarily' annoying. I suspect that some of the difficulties encountered result from poor throttle and clutch set up, combined with not rev-matching or choosing the incorrect gear - an easy trap to fall into with such a tractable engine, and especially if you are use to riding twins. Learning to rev match, be in the right gear, and to feather the throttle is not necessarily annoying when in free flow but can become a chore when having to change down excessively when entering corners or approaching potential hazards, to ensure that a quick throttle on (if necessary) doesn't cause a jolt. The ultimate solution is of course a remap, though this would also almost certainly void your engine warranty.

Too early to review reliability. Generally a quality finish in terms of materials, finish, welds, routing, cycle parts but with some disappointments, such as the plastic chrome to the bezels and headlight, cheap levers, some cheap plastics here and there. I love the clocks and centre readouts - not as classy as the triumphs - but even for this oldie the information, both analogue and digital, is very easy to see and assimilate. The switchgear is positive and has a quality feel and finish, and the mickey mouse mirrors (love them or hate then) are just perfect. The cast on the 'spokes' of the wheels seem very rough, and looks like it will tarnish early, compared to the rims. More generally, I thinks it lacks some of the 'special' touches one seems on other bikes, especially the Triumphs. A mention for the front light, which not only looks great aesthetically but is an incredibly bright DRL, which provides some measure of confidence that you are visible to other drivers. Some are disappointed with the rather small rear led, which tries to mimic the halogen bulbs of old, but I rather like it, and I suspect it does it's job. Indicators are from the parts bin, with little thought to design.

Pretty standard costs, between 150-400 dependent on service interval, in line with most major manufacturers. Average mpg is low 50s.Regards overall value for money, as much as I love the bike, and admire some of it finishes, the bespoke and quality parts, as well as its various upgrades on the Z900, I don't quite see the value here in what is essentially a Z900 platform and when compared to competitors such as the Triumphs. I think it's a good 1500 quid overpriced (whether the std or the SE), and that Kawasaki have, year after year, sought to capitalise on the bike's success by ramping up the price (ahead of the current inflationary situation).

Never a popular statement this, but this bike lacks a quick shifter. There are times when exiting corner that an immediate transition would leave an even bigger smile on your face. You can change clutchless very smoothly at the right revs, though I'm not convinced on whether this does or does not prematurely wear the box.An even less popular statement would be, I wish it had cruise control. Sitting on a long mway having to keep the hand on the throttle is boring, full stop.Heated grips should be standard. (I actually prefer the look of the optional integrated ones over other aftermarket, though they are not as warm as some).

The seat and sitting position is sublime. Folk talk about a snatching throttle and even mess about with re-maps to smooth it out. There is a slight snatch on take-up, but honestly, after the first 300 miles I stopped noticing it as I subconsciously adjusted my right hand. I never feel it now, no matter how hard or softly I ride.

Faultless, powerful across the rev range and torque from the off. You can pootle about in high gear at low speeds with instant acceleration, or hit the higher revs in third and take off like a sports bike. Two engines in one!

The build quality and attention to detail in mirroring the Z1 is outstanding. Even the decal z900 is edged like the original, and the engine has the torque of a twin, with the power range of an in-line four. Like a knife through butter.

Good MPG and a decent sized tank to give you good range.

Favourite is the engine and ride quality and comfort. Least fav are the tyres, could be better on the twisties.

I think the brakes are good and the front and rear suspension is fully adjustable to give a nice ride.

Engine is great. Plenty of power for what is a retro bike. It is very torquey and will pull easily from 30mph in top

It’s got abs and traction control. There is a power socket under the seat

Never had problem with ride quality, cannot see why people spend money on updates,brakes are very good no complaints.

I think this is one of the best motorcycle engines I have ever rode up-to-date, its very powerful bottom and top end pulls like a train sounds brilliant, but why only 3/5 because throttle response is dangerous in my opinion its so snachy up to 3000rpm,spoke to kawasaki denied any problems told too take it back to dealer, they said they all do it,all forums say have it remapped it's to do with euro 5.so I asked if dealer if I could get it remapped if I do I lose warranty they said.I did buy bike without test ride because no demo bike available but I think I would still have had it.

Love this bike everything looks well made paint really looks nice and deep.no problems with it yet apart from throttle response.

First service £140 I call it the rip off service,always said First should be free.after that around £220 annually.

No too many things on it, nice and simple, I never use most of equipment anyway.

Five out of five because of how it executes its purpose. Brakes could use a better feel and feedback but are strong enough for spirited riding up to 7/10. Would prefer upgrades if I were to take it on a track but that isn’t an intended purpose-Kawasaki makes numerous bikes better suited to that purpose. The handling is excellent and tip-in is predictable. The tires will limit you before the chassis or ground clearance will. 90% of the time you will keep up with 90% of the bikes in the twisties.

Throttle complaints are warranted but not necessarily annoying. The snatchiness has gotten better after 1k miles, definitely. Even when coming off another bike it is easy to pull off from a stop without drama. Like a carb’ ed bike a slight blip of the throttle before releasing the clutch is enough to smooth it out. Great, linear power delivery with a great soundtrack but the top end is not very strong, which is how Kawasaki tuned it. Lovely midrange. Excellent power 90% of the time. More power would not be keeping with its character and intent.

That paint. Perfect sound from the classy standard can. Maybe the best thing about it is unlike its rivals it never tries too hard. Other than perhaps a Bonneville and some Moto Guzzi’s there aren’t bikes pulling out the classic aesthetic, although many try. 100% reliability, oil tight. Kawasaki is to be commended for the overall execution of this remake.

Regularly returns 48-50 mpg tank after tank. Insurance company considers it a sports bike, not a retro or standard and the rate reflects that. OE tires are adequate but will be looking for a replacement with a better feel when on the sidewall.

It has abs and a nice standard headlight, seat is more comfortable than it looks but realistically you are going to want to stop every two hours. Classic and well engineered riding triangle. At the price point I can live without an IMU which more and more bikes are offering as standard. This bike is not trying to make any claims of leading-edge technology so the 3 out of 5 rating is still fine by me.

Throttle on and off very bad,euro 5 problem

Remap,throttle response I think is dangerous all down to euro 5 emissions.

Nice ride quality. Full adjustability on the forks and rebound clicker on the rear gives enough room to set it the way you like.

Would be 5 stars if the throttle was better.

Exceptional build quality.

I didn't have the bike long enough to get a good idea of running costs.

Has everything you need for the type of bike it is.

Could do with Brembos front and rear

An absolute dream

Just the necessary basics

Very good ABS brakes

Too bigger jump from 5th to top gear

Brakes poor but day long comfortable. Good alrouder. Not too bad with a pillion.

A peach. Grunty in-line four, reminds me of a Bandit 1200

No issues apart from wear and tear. As said, brakes a bit lacking so have replaced the rubber brake hoses with HEL braided lines and given it a good bleed with DOT 4. Rear shock not at all good for my 80kg with all my riding gear so this is being replaced for a Nitron unit. Front shock TBA

Standard tyres are quite hard and offer poor feedback. One tooth larger front sprocket sorts the gearing.

The ride quality is very good and the brakes are excellent - responsive and smooth. The only issue is the stock Dunlop tyres that come with the bike, they can feel a little slippery on tighter bends and in the wet.

The engine is superb, very responsive with excellent acceleration. It’s equally at home at slow speeds and in traffic as it is on motorways and dual carriageways. The stock exhaust note is lovely and loud enough without causing a nuisance. The throttle takes a bit of getting used to and can seem a bit snatchy at first.

The bike is well built with a good paint finish. The engine casing and wheels are all black and look good when rubbed over with ACF50 (or just an oily rag!). I’ve seen nothing wrong with the fit or finish of the bike. I’ve only done 1k miles and noticed greatly improved performance after it was run in and had its first service. I’ve had no issues at all.

The first service at 600 miles was done by my local Kawasaki dealer and seemed a reasonable price. I don’t do high mileage, so don’t expect to service the bike more than once a year. The cost may fluctuate depending on the level of service. Fuel consumption isn’t bad and costs me about a tenner to fill up the tank.

All the instrumentation you need on a bike is there with a good mix of old style dials and digital information. Everything is simple and easy to operate including the switches and buttons. My only gripe is that the bike comes with only a side stand, making oiling and cleaning the chain that bit harder.

Only thing to fault is the tyres, they can feel a bit vague on damp or wet roads.

Smooth, crisp and sporty enough for me.

Paint on the tank is deep and lustrous, jaffa version. Clocks look great, a mix of retro and modern. Srand could be a lot better, the bike stands too vertical on most surfaces.

Dealer service first rate.

Needs a fender extender, as all new bike seem to.

So superior to the FZ09/MT09 I has in 2016. The suspension is above average ride and handling and the brakes are a perfect compliment to the performance.

Fuels very good for fuel injection, makes great power, is very smooth and sounds terrific. A Scorpion slip on was all it needed.

Trouble free and not a chip in the paint. Very easy to service too.

That's US dollars.

Scorpion slip-on and Bridgestone T31. R&G radiator guard, Bags Connection tank bag and Yoshimura swingarm paddock stand spools. OEM tires were ok Dunlops but were toast at 3850 miles.

This bike is for those who are riding to enjoy the ride.. It isn’t a balls out speed machine, but has good point and squirt abilities.. Easy to travel 150 miles between top ups.. With a pillion stops may need to be more frequent..

The engine is typical Kawasaki, strong and bullet proof.. The gearbox can be a bit clunky until the first oil change..

Good build quality.

Shop around different dealers, to get the best deal.

Has Kawasaki riding modes, which work really well.

Front brakes are good but like most other bikes back brake is made of wood.

I love it as is. Mid range is fantastic and the intake and exhaust noise make me sile every time. Although I am greedy and would still like 30BHP more. (as above comments).

Reliability - Had it 2 years now - finish is still good. Performance still good. done 3800 miles. Only a couple of events of false neutrals but may have been down to me being a little club footed, changing down at higher revs. Quality is outstanding but don't buy Kawasaki crash bungs - they are plastic, flimsy rubbish and won't protect anything!

Don't believe £120-£140. That's for the 600 mile service! Servicing is always reasonable at first service but gets more expensive at each service so estimate £250-300 for say a 2 year service and although I love the original tyres - it handles just great & they've handled everything I've thrown at them with no probs they only last about 2500 miles so £250 per 2500 miles just for tyres too. so for medium complexity service and set of tyres per year that's realistically about £500-£600 and more when valve clearances get checked but it's worth it.

Only use traction control on gritty and / or wet roads. Love the analogue clocks. LCD / TFT Displays aren't for me. I love old school needles wizzing round and they're easier to see with peripheral vision so you keep eyes on road and they are sexier..

Had a little fiddle with suspension. A little bit softer. Brakes are extremely good.

Paint and finish are fantastic. Bike is only 2 years old but no problems as yet

Insurance is cheap as I'm a old fart ! Average fuel consumption around 50mpg ! For a almost 1000cc bike :)

Traction control and abs work great. Fuel gauge not the most accurate. But you do figure it out !

Service costs seem reasonable and in line with current costs

Analogue clocks with digital centre display that includes gear position.

Can ride this bike all day.

Very responsive in every gear.

Kawasaki quality at its best. Great sound and the quality of the paint work is something else.

The clocks with the digital read out between the 2 looks brill. And for OEM tyres they top quality.

Soaks up our potholes roads with relative ease!

Mid range stomp of a Rhino, for a 4 cylinder multi.

Brakes are good, though not as sharp as I expected. Think I’ve only felt the ABS kick in a couple of times so far. Ride quality felt great straight out of the showroom and I haven’t felt the need to tinker with it so far.

Generally easy going, torquey with an even spread of power, get to about 6,000rpm and it goes like a stabbed rat!

I’ve only owned the bike for four months, and so far, no problems. At the end of the day, it’s a big Kawasaki four, and I think they’ve kind of got the hang of manufacturing them by now!

Ten and a half grand on the road was about as much as I wanted to pay - I was initially thinking of getting the new Speed Triple, but thought it was just a bit more than I could afford. Yes, it’s more expensive than the other Japanese nakeds, but come on, just look at it!

It’s a naked bike, what do you need? Perfect for street riding, OEM tyres are a bit average.