The Kawasaki Z900RS reimagines the legendary Z1 for the modern era, pairing vintage-inspired styling with genuinely current technology in a way few retro nakeds manage, and it remains one of the most complete classic-styled bikes Kawasaki builds for riders chasing that seventies silhouette with none of the compromises a genuinely old machine would bring to daily life, from cold starts to reliability.
Power comes from a 948cc liquid-cooled inline four, a DOHC 16-valve engine producing 116PS at 9,300rpm and 98.5Nm of torque at 6,500rpm, fed by four 36mm throttle bodies with sub-throttle control and running a 10.8:1 compression ratio. Drive passes through a six-speed gearbox and wet multi-disc clutch to a sealed chain, tuned for smooth low-rpm response and genuinely real excitement as the revs climb, and a 17 litre tank supports genuinely long days out, with digital ignition and electric start for effortless everyday riding whatever the weather has in store.
A trellis, high-tensile steel frame carries a 41mm inverted fork with 120mm of travel offering compression and rebound damping plus preload adjustability, and a Horizontal Back-link, gas-charged rear shock giving 140mm of travel with the same adjustment, giving the Z900RS composed, genuinely modern handling beneath its classic looks. Dual 300mm discs with radial-mount, monobloc opposed four-piston calipers provide serious stopping power on 120-section front and 180-section rear tyres, and at 216kg with a 2,100mm overall length, an 835mm seat height, a 1,470mm wheelbase and a 98mm trail, the riding position stays comfortable and confident mile after mile.
A comfortable, low-set seat, analogue-look dials and a sound-tuned silencer set the retro tone, while electronic cruise control, smartphone connectivity and the IMU-equipped Kawasaki Cornering Management Function bring it firmly up to date, all within 130mm of ground clearance for genuine everyday use. It suits riders who want classic Kawasaki style without giving up any modern rider support along the way, and it comes with Kawasaki’s four-year manufacturer warranty, backed by GT Motorcycles’ servicing and genuine parts supply for years of ownership. GT Motorcycles, your Kawasaki dealer in Plymouth, welcomes test rides and offers finance to riders across Devon and Cornwall.
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