Review on a kawasaki z900rs kindly loaned by bournemouth kawasaki uk Genuine kawasaki LOW seat available for this bike PLEASE LIKE ,SHARE AND SUBSCRIBE THANKS :)
Mark, I have one in that colour scheme for a year now, I could totally agree with all of your comments. I bought mine over the phone after it was featured in MCN with out a test ride, and boy I have not been disappointed in any way. I too am 5'7" and have fitted the lower seat option which works really well for me, both feet on the ground. The only other options I have fitted are the optional grab rail which really sets it off looks wise, and a radiator grill. Perfect fun bike, for summer leather jacket and jean ride outs. Build quality is exceptional, and personally, I think that they are extremely reasonably priced. Great review!
The last time I rode a bike was in 1981 , a Kawasaki z1000st I absolutely loved that bike . I was 21 then , I’m now 62 and can imagine how good the 900rs is , looks fantastic , would love to ride again .
I remember being in awe of the Z1 when it came out, not helped by the couple of lads I knew that rode them being borderline insane! I think it's a beautiful bike, and captures the features of the original bike so well. I'm not in the market for a naked bike, but I think this and the Royal Enfield Interceptor are the best looking retro bikes by a considerable margin. Thanks for the review. Your enthusiasm was loud and clear. If only I had a spare £12,000 or so, eh?
I’ve owned mine for nearly a year now and covered nearly 11,000 kms on it, not a huge mileage but pressures of work... All I’ve done is put on the Kawasaki grab rail, centre stand and heated grips. I had problems with the fuelling (snatchy throttle) but I fitted the Booster Plug made in Denmark and that fixed it 100%. We’ve got lots of hills where I live in Victoria, and I’ve even taken it to a track day at Phillip Island, it’s a marvellous bike for fast, twisty roads. In fact it’s the best bike I’ve ever owned! It sounds like they might have fixed the fuelling problem on the 2019 bikes going by your review. I used to live in Cornwall so I know what the weather’s like in February over there! Too cold for me haha.
I’m having to binge watch your reviews as your churning them out at a high rate , it’s no hardship though as they’re cracking and informative , this is a fantastic bike that The Missenden Flyer has stated would be a replacement for his Speed Triple which is praise indeed
Nice review, as someone who has owned this model for a year, it’s a peach of a bike. I’ve fitted the retro badging on the tank, it mirrors the white dimples on side covers, which in turn pay homage to the same badging on the Z1. I’ve also fitted a rear grab rail, which just places a more retro look on the tail. Just a couple of things, the air box induction roar is amplified again as you hit around 6500 in the range, it’s totally addictive. The stock tyres are utter crap, with bugger all feedback, “Squirrelly” comes to mind. My fix were Michelin RS’s, what a difference. Keep the bike up in the rev range, let it sing and let it dance on good rubber (of sorts).
Had the original and many Kawasaki’s over the years Bought same recently and it is a fantastic tribute to the Z1, with a Modern twist. Ride exceptionally good. Great bike for UK roads and as an alternative to sports bike if your looking for an easier ride. Plenty of great options available from various top quality manufacturers that allow you to personalise this machine. Don’t think you have to as in it’s factory clothing it is superb. This is a good review and matches my experience. Buy one before they are gone. Possible future classic especially if you have a Z1 as well. For me the brown and orange or the candy green and yellow are the classic more desirable for future classics. However any colour is a personal choice.
Nice review. I’ve owed my black one for a year now. Best retro on the market in my opinion with proper clocks. A real head turner. Sounds Awsome and it’s quick!
I picked mine up today. Blue and gold. Your review and some others went aways to helping me firm up my choice. Only ridden 34k in damp conditions back from the dealer but love it already. Thanks for the effort you put in. 👍
Boy! does this bike take me back...lovely bike and I think Kwacker got it right,perfect balance of old school styling and modern tech,but not too much.great review Mark.👍👍
Another nice review, thanks Mark. I love this bike it has really captured the modern meets retro spirit and it reminds me of all the happy years and miles I spent riding my old XJR1200. There is one thing though that I think spoils it and needs to be changed and that is the front brake resevoir. I'm not sure if it just looks worse on camera but I've seen a few reviews of this bike now and to me it just sticks out like some kind of huge carbuncle. Get rid of it Kawasaki!
haha yes re the carbuncle ! its a fab bike to ride ,i enjoyed it more than i thought, check out my video of the street scrambler ,should be live this eve all the best mark
I've got the 2018 RS in black and absolutely love it; bought it last summer from Inglis Cycle in London, Ontario. It's winter here in Canada and I can't wait for the snow to melt and the temperature to warm up. It was -24c this morning and we have about 3' feet of snow on the ground and it's snowing right now. My bike gets a lot of attention from folks when I'm stopped at the lights. Have even had people run up to me and give me a thumbs up! Nice review, thanks for sharing......
Totally agree with you Mark. Easily the sexiest retro out there right now. And that has to be the most testosterone inducing sound coming from any stock exhaust. I'm a Yamaha man as a rule, but they've dropped their standards of late in my opinion. Even on their retros they didn't quite get it and failed to be fully faithful to 70s styling. Despite all the naff fashion of that era, Japanese motorbike manufacturers got the aesthetics spot on and made bikes to swoon over. One of those in green please, oh yeah.
Nice review Mark, I think this bike is awesome and definitely one on my radar for the future, took one for a test ride and loved it, best sounding 4 cylinder factory bike in my opinion. At 5'4 it was a bit of an issue, not very confidence inspiring on uneven surfaces but for those like me don't be put off as Kawasaki make a low seat which reduces the height by 25mm to 810mm.
Hi yes what a machine ,I just couldn't get over the sound ,and yes I too was a little surprised about it's height ,but as you say Kawasaki do a low seat for it all the best mark
Hi Mark, agree with almost everything you say. Bought one without riding it but was not disappointed at all - its a blast. Took me back to the Z1 days where all my mates had them. Put on a Akro headers but kept the standard can, loud but adds about 8hp and goes like stink. Put on the grab rail and heated grips but, best of all, bought it painted up in an original Z1 colour - one of a kind I believe. It is an awesome machine for round town and twisties, really like it. Cheers, good review - spot on (maybe the seat could be a bit softer and a bit less pitched forward but I am tall).
Nice Review. I bought mine from Chris Walkers last July. Fantastic Bike. Never get bored of looking at it. And Riding it. Only comes out in decent weather though. Get my Fazer for all year round 👍🏻
Lovely bike Mark, and a excellent video. You deserve more subs for your hard work. If I had space in my garage then it would be this or maybe a triumph speed twin.
I’m buying one come spring. Been riding an SC58 Blade but recently decided to turn that into a track/race bike and only play with it in it’s natural habitat from now on. The RS will be my everyday / commuter / Sunday blasts with my son bike. Can’t wait to add it to the garage.
I wanted one as soon as they came out and decided to go ahead in February 2018. Sadly the dealer couldn't get hold of one until July. I didn't want to wait that long and bought a Z1000SX instead which is a great bike but I still find myself lusting for a Z900RS.
Great thanks Mark that's good to know ,it is a little tall as standard and I guess you now sit into the bike a bit more rather than perched on top all the best MP
@@markpulling12 The drop of 30mm does just that. It makes the whole bike feel more planted, so for the rider of average build, I would suggest the lower seat is probably the best option.
Great review thanks! I had the original z900 in the 70s while in the forces. I used to travel from Aldershot most wk ends to staffs and it never missed a beat. Im seriously thinking of this bike now. So once again great review.
Hey Mark another in-depth video I agree lovely bike no need for a slip on exhaust by the looks and sound of it. #Its winner winner chicken dinner if you ask me
Crikey Mark that was a fast response. I,m in Southern Alberta Canada so its 6 30 pm here. Must be around 1 30 am in UK?? Yeah really nice bike. I sat on one at my local dealer and it felt just about perfect unfortunately here right now its minus 25 deg C so riding motorcycles is a suicide mission!!. Ultimately my aim is to have an Adv/touring bike, a retro, a cheap light dirt bike and maybe a sport bike. The Kawasaki would definitely be on my list for the retro but I do like the look of the new Triumph 1200 scrambler. I,m originally from Liverpool so I love your accent, reminds me of time the wife and I spent in Devon many years ago. I like your videos you should have way more subs. Incidentally the first of my wish list bikes is a V Strom 1000 which I bought last year and I believe you did a good review of this bike. Stick with it friend and I,m sure you will do well.
Hi dave ,wow minus 25 ,and i consider me riding in plus 5 cold !,yes id like an adv/tourer too tiger 1200 would be lovely ,ive got a 1997 cbr 600 at mo but getting my new 2019 zx6r in three weeks !!! all the best mark
I used to think that until Triumph released the Speed Twin. Triumph heritage and 270 degree twin with tons of power. But just my opinion as I'm a Triumph fan.
Very nice review. The best I have seen so far in fact. A colleague of mine has one. I saw it outside his office (we are in different offices). Wow, I did not even know tihs existed! What a bike! Had a Zed Thou back in the 80s when I had hair. So what do I do, get a nice restored Z1 for US$ 11k or one of those .... I think I am over tinkering and poor handling so I may just have to get one .... when a few more second hand ones show up. I'll take the lime green "cafe" one with the little fairing and the slightly lower steering bar. As a tall bloke I never fitted on the GPZ900Rs etc of the day. Current "GADA" bikes seem to look more like insects than like bikes. I prefer the older style "UJM" for ease of use.
Nice review! I test rode this bike last May and agree with your findings that it is a fun bike with lots of tech and the good looks of a retro, naked bike. My bike at the time was the T100 Bonneville and I was looking to upgrade the safety tech that the Bonnie didn't have. However, I didn't go for the Z900RS in the end but went for the Z1000SX instead as it was a much more comfortable bike to ride in terms of protection from wind and rain, which suited my advanced years!! I wouldn't mind the Z900RS as my second bike though, if ever the opportunity came up.
@@dry509 From memory the Z900RS was certainly nimble on the bends but I have no complaints about the Z1000SX's handling, just a bit less "chuckable" but its something I've gotten used to now. Hope this helps.
I still owe $2300 on my 2015 Vulcan 900 classic LT ,I'm going to keep her to ride my wife around,but this is going to be my next bike. I'll probably get the black one though because it reminds me of the 79 LTD 440 I had in my younger days
Old retro or new retro. This or Speed Triple R or BMW S1000R or super moto. Dilemma. It does look nice though. Maybe it should have had some riding modes - race full fat, road semi skimmed and rain skimmed/UHT.
I'm trading in a 1977 kawasaki triple Kh 250 fully restored for one of these in 2 weeks had enough of the triple kh250 always in the shop time to get a decent bike
They do a low seat option which lowers the seat height from 835mm to just 800mm. When fitted it looks very stylish on the bike as well. Many reviews from the Far East show the low seat fitted. Stephen
This is the only reasonable standard being offered... I don't want a retro bike that throws out all the technology that has come in the last 35 year's but a Standard motorcycle that is not an uncomfortable race replica or a cruiser that is trying to be a better Harley..... I have A Harley because I like Harley's but this is the Japanese bike I want . ... Just wish Suzuki would make a standard like the GS 1100 of old but with liquid cooling and fuel injection. Looks like I'm going to go look at the local Kawasaki Dealership .
K makes a good bike. I have a 2007 Vulcan 900 Classic that looks and runs like new. I would like to have this bike with a good fly screen to cut through wind. Maybe the green Cafe version. No since having a fast bike if you can't hold on at high speed.
@@markpulling12 I'd say it's mine too... My brother in law has the 2020 Z900 (a bit transformers-esque) which I've also ridden but the retro look of the RS is irresistible.
@@markpulling12 Marvellous. At 6'1" it's a perfect flat foot on a tall bike. The engine note is gorgeous, and louder than I expected for a stock exhaust. Deposit paid. Will take delivery after the NI lockdown starting on Boxing Day for 6 weeks. Merry Christmas.
The Moto Guzzi v7 is probably the best looking, most stylish motorcycle in existence. And it sounds superb. The only problem is that it's totally gutless. No power at all.
Lovely bike and great review. However, I prefer my Triumph Speedmaster with it’s perfect high torque engine. As with everything Mark, everyone will have a different opinion! Yours aye, Alan
Hi Mark ..i currently have tracer 9gt but i find the seat uncomfortable and i slide into tank...the kawasaki z900 rs is my next bike as everyone says so comfortable and it is a stunner....
One thing I love about the Kawasaki that it holds the road way better then a Harley in the rain much more smother, and agal more faster, way more reliable🧝⚡
Mark, I see your name on the video I hit the like button, very good detailed reviews. In your opinion, this bike a better performer than the Yami XSR 900?
Hi ,no id say the are similar performance ,z900 is 111hp xsr is 115 hp,the z900 has a bit more torque though ,i think the yamaha is about £1000 cheaper , all the best mark
I had the first 900 Ninja that came out in 1984, it had a low seat. and was very stable at any speed, and the seating position wasn't as crazy as the sport bikes of today. so I am wondering how this bikes handling would compare to my 84 900 Ninja. or would I be better off with a z900 naked , if Kawasaki made a remake of my 84 900 Ninja I would buy it. I loved that bike, I don't like the new seats that have the passenger sitting up so high on a uncomfortable Little Rock of a seat, I like my girl right behind me holding on. this RS appeals to me but I wish it had some kind of wind screen.
In the UK we use a weird mix of metric and imperial - we’ll discuss our height in feet and inches but have adopted the metric measurements when comparing seat height etc from manufacturers’ European specs. Same for tyres (tires) - the wheel diameter spec is in inches, the width in millimetres. I sometimes wonder how we manage to function!
Looks like a cracking machine. My head spins again. I find myself in great difficulty deciding on my next bike. I thought I was set on a Vulcan s, but now I'm not sure 🤔😆🤘
@@markpulling12 I could definitely see myself heading that way alrite, bit of a price difference however but worth working towards. Good review, thanks 👍
@@markpulling12 Indeed, it`s quite something. Then again, I guess I could live with one kidney, and lung... and my right leg. Edit: No dang it, I need that for the rear brake... nvm.
O ring and Xring chains have come a long way in the past 43 years. The chain on my 01 ZRX1200 lasted 25,000 miles. That was a heavier bike with slightly more torque and hp.
Thanks Mark. Late to the party seeing this review. I rode one in early 2020 and loved it but only got a suburban test loop so it’s great to see the rpm at 100kmh. The one I test rode was a lovely khaki colour with yellow stripes and all of 11km on it. Pleased they can take a centre stand, also.
Thinking of upgrading from my Z400 and wanted something I can do longer road excursions on, take the wife on dates and just also commute on...I like to explore nearby towns and have to do sustained speeds of 70mph...how does it handle then? I’ve done with the Z and she can do it but it’s just not fun because she feels sluggish
Yes this would be a great choice as you already like naked bikes ,it has loads more power , handles great and ok for two up It is actually quite a tall bike as I remember with a high seat height ,alot taller than your z400 so keep that in mind ,but they do a lower seat for it ,also it looks very cool ,if I was getting a retro this would be the one cheers mark
If you had to chose, would you pick this bike or Ninja 1000? I realize they are different bikes, but they're about the same money and both are basically liter bikes.
Id personally go for the ninja 1000 ,the fairing suits me more for my type of riding ,but the z900 is a fantastic bike if you want more of a retro look all the best mark
@@markpulling12 Well, thankfully the dealer did not have a Ninja 1000 in the gloss black, only the matte silver and black. That made my decision quite easy. I rode the Z900RS home yesterday. What a crazy fun bike!
My dad just bought one, his first bike in ~20 years and he's in love.
Does he lend it for you to ride?
He was excited about riding mom at one point as well.
@@lucassimon5174 don't have a licence
@@e.l.9589 yeah, he still rides this one though
@@karnoh5269 Safe Travels! Rain or shine, let it whine.
As a kid the Z900 was the bike to have, dead cool 😎 Kawa have hit the nail on the head, perfect.
Mark, I have one in that colour scheme for a year now, I could totally agree with all of your comments. I bought mine over the phone after it was featured in MCN with out a test ride, and boy I have not been disappointed in any way. I too am 5'7" and have fitted the lower seat option which works really well for me, both feet on the ground. The only other options I have fitted are the optional grab rail which really sets it off looks wise, and a radiator grill. Perfect fun bike, for summer leather jacket and jean ride outs. Build quality is exceptional, and personally, I think that they are extremely reasonably priced. Great review!
Hi yes some people say it's pricy but I'd say it's good value , cracking bike what a sound ! All the best mark
How much lower did the bike get with the seat kit?
I had one of these in for a Valet late last year. I couldn't stop looking at it. By far the best 'reproduction' bike that I have seen so far.
The last time I rode a bike was in 1981 , a Kawasaki z1000st I absolutely loved that bike . I was 21 then , I’m now 62 and can imagine how good the 900rs is , looks fantastic , would love to ride again .
Go for it Donna ...you'll be amazed how much modern bikes have improved
Regards mark
I remember being in awe of the Z1 when it came out, not helped by the couple of lads I knew that rode them being borderline insane! I think it's a beautiful bike, and captures the features of the original bike so well. I'm not in the market for a naked bike, but I think this and the Royal Enfield Interceptor are the best looking retro bikes by a considerable margin.
Thanks for the review. Your enthusiasm was loud and clear. If only I had a spare £12,000 or so, eh?
Me too !! id have one of these if i had more money lol
You can't beat the sound of the Kawasaki 4 cylinder engines. The engine is so smooth and I love the sound of them. It's the same with the Versys 1000.
I’ve owned mine for nearly a year now and covered nearly 11,000 kms on it, not a huge mileage but pressures of work...
All I’ve done is put on the Kawasaki grab rail, centre stand and heated grips. I had problems with the fuelling (snatchy throttle) but I fitted the Booster Plug made in Denmark and that fixed it 100%.
We’ve got lots of hills where I live in Victoria, and I’ve even taken it to a track day at Phillip Island, it’s a marvellous bike for fast, twisty roads. In fact it’s the best bike I’ve ever owned!
It sounds like they might have fixed the fuelling problem on the 2019 bikes going by your review.
I used to live in Cornwall so I know what the weather’s like in February over there! Too cold for me haha.
sounds like youve got wonderful roads where you live to ride all the best mark
Oh no, a centre stand?!? That’s the first thing that everyone took of the old ones.
Kawasaki surely is good at building good looking retros.
I’m having to binge watch your reviews as your churning them out at a high rate , it’s no hardship though as they’re cracking and informative , this is a fantastic bike that The Missenden Flyer has stated would be a replacement for his Speed Triple which is praise indeed
Hi Adrian I was surprised to say the least ,I've never ridden anything like this before and it was amazing , that sound wow all the best mark
Nice review, as someone who has owned this model for a year, it’s a peach of a bike.
I’ve fitted the retro badging on the tank, it mirrors the white dimples on side covers, which in turn pay homage to the same badging on the Z1.
I’ve also fitted a rear grab rail, which just places a more retro look on the tail.
Just a couple of things, the air box induction roar is amplified again as you hit around 6500 in the range, it’s totally addictive.
The stock tyres are utter crap, with bugger all feedback, “Squirrelly” comes to mind.
My fix were Michelin RS’s, what a difference.
Keep the bike up in the rev range, let it sing and let it dance on good rubber (of sorts).
Thanks Anders !
Had the original and many Kawasaki’s over the years
Bought same recently and it is a fantastic tribute to the Z1, with a Modern twist.
Ride exceptionally good. Great bike for UK roads and as an alternative to sports bike if your looking for an easier ride.
Plenty of great options available from various top quality manufacturers that allow you to personalise this machine.
Don’t think you have to as in it’s factory clothing it is superb. This is a good review and matches my experience.
Buy one before they are gone. Possible future classic especially if you have a Z1 as well. For me the brown and orange or the candy green and yellow are the classic more desirable for future classics. However any colour is a personal choice.
Thanks graham ... great feedback
Cheers mark
Nice review. I’ve owed my black one for a year now. Best retro on the market in my opinion with proper clocks. A real head turner. Sounds Awsome and it’s quick!
I picked mine up today. Blue and gold. Your review and some others went aways to helping me firm up my choice. Only ridden 34k in damp conditions back from the dealer but love it already. Thanks for the effort you put in. 👍
Thanks Adrian great choice 😊
have just bought one with custom 1970s purple and tan original colour scheme. arrival in 3 days. I cant wait
Boy! does this bike take me back...lovely bike and I think Kwacker got it right,perfect balance of old school styling and modern tech,but not too much.great review Mark.👍👍
I love the look of this bike, it’s on my ‘to own’ list. One day 🤞🏻
Another nice review, thanks Mark. I love this bike it has really captured the modern meets retro spirit and it reminds me of all the happy years and miles I spent riding my old XJR1200. There is one thing though that I think spoils it and needs to be changed and that is the front brake resevoir. I'm not sure if it just looks worse on camera but I've seen a few reviews of this bike now and to me it just sticks out like some kind of huge carbuncle. Get rid of it Kawasaki!
haha yes re the carbuncle ! its a fab bike to ride ,i enjoyed it more than i thought, check out my video of the street scrambler ,should be live this eve all the best mark
I've got the 2018 RS in black and absolutely love it; bought it last summer from Inglis Cycle in London, Ontario. It's winter here in Canada and I can't wait for the snow to melt and the temperature to warm up. It was -24c this morning and we have about 3' feet of snow on the ground and it's snowing right now. My bike gets a lot of attention from folks when I'm stopped at the lights. Have even had people run up to me and give me a thumbs up! Nice review, thanks for sharing......
Thanks brrr and I thought the south of England gets cold at 5c all the best mark
Totally agree with you Mark. Easily the sexiest retro out there right now. And that has to be the most testosterone inducing sound coming from any stock exhaust. I'm a Yamaha man as a rule, but they've dropped their standards of late in my opinion. Even on their retros they didn't quite get it and failed to be fully faithful to 70s styling. Despite all the naff fashion of that era, Japanese motorbike manufacturers got the aesthetics spot on and made bikes to swoon over. One of those in green please, oh yeah.
Yes what a bike I really liked it all the best mark
Hi Mark, there’s nothing not to like about this bike. they put a lot of thought and care into that model and it shows.
Definitely craig ...it's one of my favorite retros :) regards mark
looks amazing, the "cafe" variant is great too
Nice review Mark, I think this bike is awesome and definitely one on my radar for the future, took one for a test ride and loved it, best sounding 4 cylinder factory bike in my opinion. At 5'4 it was a bit of an issue, not very confidence inspiring on uneven surfaces but for those like me don't be put off as Kawasaki make a low seat which reduces the height by 25mm to 810mm.
Hi yes what a machine ,I just couldn't get over the sound ,and yes I too was a little surprised about it's height ,but as you say Kawasaki do a low seat for it all the best mark
Hi Mark, agree with almost everything you say. Bought one without riding it but was not disappointed at all - its a blast. Took me back to the Z1 days where all my mates had them. Put on a Akro headers but kept the standard can, loud but adds about 8hp and goes like stink. Put on the grab rail and heated grips but, best of all, bought it painted up in an original Z1 colour - one of a kind I believe. It is an awesome machine for round town and twisties, really like it. Cheers, good review - spot on (maybe the seat could be a bit softer and a bit less pitched forward but I am tall).
Thanks for the comment Ian :)
Nice review thanks. Love the look of this bike, probably my favourite of the modern retros together with the XSR 900 from Yamaha
Agree 😃
Nice Review. I bought mine from Chris Walkers last July.
Fantastic Bike. Never get bored of looking at it. And Riding it. Only comes out in decent weather though. Get my Fazer for all year round 👍🏻
Nice one Paul I'd love one myself ,a real looker !
Lovely bike Mark, and a excellent video. You deserve more subs for your hard work. If I had space in my garage then it would be this or maybe a triumph speed twin.
Hi Duncan thanks what I loved was it's engine. Beautiful power between 3-6 k right where you need it for the road all the best mark
Great bike, I see the new Triumph Speed twin as being its direct competitor now.
Thanks richard ,ill try and add the speed twin to my list !
I’m buying one come spring. Been riding an SC58 Blade but recently decided to turn that into a track/race bike and only play with it in it’s natural habitat from now on. The RS will be my everyday / commuter / Sunday blasts with my son bike. Can’t wait to add it to the garage.
Nice one rich !!
I wanted one as soon as they came out and decided to go ahead in February 2018. Sadly the dealer couldn't get hold of one until July. I didn't want to wait that long and bought a Z1000SX instead which is a great bike but I still find myself lusting for a Z900RS.
Hi Mark another excellent review and the bike is Hampshire/Dorset registered!
I'm 5'7" I put the lowered seat on and can get both feet flat on the ground now. Made a huge difference to the feel of the bike.
Great thanks Mark that's good to know ,it is a little tall as standard and I guess you now sit into the bike a bit more rather than perched on top all the best MP
@@markpulling12 The drop of 30mm does just that. It makes the whole bike feel more planted, so for the rider of average build, I would suggest the lower seat is probably the best option.
I really don't understand why some people are so obsessed about having both feet flat on the ground. All you really need is tiptoes on one side.
Just bought one identical to that one. Can’t wait get my hands on it! Great review.
Thanks mick
Great choice regards mark
You can get lowering links for the rear shock absorber, I think it lowers it 30mm, for people short in the leg for this bike...
Great review thanks! I had the original z900 in the 70s while in the forces. I used to travel from Aldershot most wk ends to staffs and it never missed a beat. Im seriously thinking of this bike now. So once again great review.
No probs lee ..the z900rs and speed twin are my favorite retros all the best mark
A truly scrumptious art form on two wheels. Great review too.....I’m aching for one of these zeds.....👍🏍
Hi Gary it's one of my favorite retros :) goes like stink and sounds awesome
mark pulling
I’ve still got to convince “she Who Cracks The Whip” that I should have one. Watch this space.....😊🏍👍
Hey Mark another in-depth video I agree lovely bike no need for a slip on exhaust by the looks and sound of it.
#Its winner winner chicken dinner if you ask me
Hi clan ,yes i was blown away by the noise it makes ,it sounds even better in the flesh all the best MP
Love mine 2024 yellow ball edition
Yep a lovely bike. One of the best retros out there. I would love one of these in my garage. Great review.
Thanks for the comment Dave ,it's amazing to ride ,that sound wow ,all the best mark
Crikey Mark that was a fast response. I,m in Southern Alberta Canada so its 6 30 pm here. Must be around 1 30 am in UK?? Yeah really nice bike. I sat on one at my local dealer and it felt just about perfect unfortunately here right now its minus 25 deg C so riding motorcycles is a suicide mission!!. Ultimately my aim is to have an Adv/touring bike, a retro, a cheap light dirt bike and maybe a sport bike. The Kawasaki would definitely be on my list for the retro but I do like the look of the new Triumph 1200 scrambler. I,m originally from Liverpool so I love your accent, reminds me of time the wife and I spent in Devon many years ago. I like your videos you should have way more subs. Incidentally the first of my wish list bikes is a V Strom 1000 which I bought last year and I believe you did a good review of this bike. Stick with it friend and I,m sure you will do well.
Hi dave ,wow minus 25 ,and i consider me riding in plus 5 cold !,yes id like an adv/tourer too tiger 1200 would be lovely ,ive got a 1997 cbr 600 at mo but getting my new 2019 zx6r in three weeks !!! all the best mark
Absolutely beautiful. What a bike.
Looks just like my 2018. Great review.
Thanks for the comment fern all the best Mark
This looks really nice to me. I am quite tall and I like the old-style bikes. I used to ride them 40 years ago.
Thanks one of my favorite retros
Cheers mark
You can get it with a low seat, think you have to pay extra for it though.
Very nice bike! Just love the analog gauges, cannot stand looking at the TFT "gauges" anymore.
Thanks it's amazing to ride i was seriously impressed all the best mark
Best modern retro out there imho .
It sounds amazing when you ride it !
I used to think that until Triumph released the Speed Twin. Triumph heritage and 270 degree twin with tons of power. But just my opinion as I'm a Triumph fan.
nice review as usual, really good bike, remember the universal Japanese machine? back to basics with modern flair, I really like these
It's my favorite retro Noel ;)
Very nice review. The best I have seen so far in fact. A colleague of mine has one. I saw it outside his office (we are in different offices). Wow, I did not even know tihs existed! What a bike! Had a Zed Thou back in the 80s when I had hair.
So what do I do, get a nice restored Z1 for US$ 11k or one of those .... I think I am over tinkering and poor handling so I may just have to get one .... when a few more second hand ones show up.
I'll take the lime green "cafe" one with the little fairing and the slightly lower steering bar.
As a tall bloke I never fitted on the GPZ900Rs etc of the day. Current "GADA" bikes seem to look more like insects than like bikes. I prefer the older style "UJM" for ease of use.
Thanks ralf for the kind comment :) all the best mark
Nice review! I test rode this bike last May and agree with your findings that it is a fun bike with lots of tech and the good looks of a retro, naked bike. My bike at the time was the T100 Bonneville and I was looking to upgrade the safety tech that the Bonnie didn't have. However, I didn't go for the Z900RS in the end but went for the Z1000SX instead as it was a much more comfortable bike to ride in terms of protection from wind and rain, which suited my advanced years!! I wouldn't mind the Z900RS as my second bike though, if ever the opportunity came up.
Hi Edward ,yes I agree I test rode the 1000sx a week ago and it probably is more suitable for more situations all the best mark
Edward Richards Does the Z1000SX turn and corner as easy as the Z900rs? I tried a 2012 Ninja 1000 and it was sort of hard to turn or corner.
@@dry509 From memory the Z900RS was certainly nimble on the bends but I have no complaints about the Z1000SX's handling, just a bit less "chuckable" but its something I've gotten used to now. Hope this helps.
I had a test ride on this model at a weekend Kawasaki race event in Thailand and loved it
Thanks Billy awesome bike !
I still owe $2300 on my 2015 Vulcan 900 classic LT ,I'm going to keep her to ride my wife around,but this is going to be my next bike. I'll probably get the black one though because it reminds me of the 79 LTD 440 I had in my younger days
Great choice chas ,it sounds amazing btw all the best mark
@@markpulling12 👍
I ride Triumph myself ,what a brill review on the Z9 . I fancy one i love retro ,could be a bike i,d buy . Cheers .
Ok great thanks all the best mark
Nice bike I really like it but the Yamaha 900 looks more exciting. Good review.
Incredibly beautiful bike. Thanks for the review…. Very much appreciated as always. Regards Micheal
Thanks Michael yes these are great bikes cheers mark
Old retro or new retro. This or Speed Triple R or BMW S1000R or super moto. Dilemma. It does look nice though. Maybe it should have had some riding modes - race full fat, road semi skimmed and rain skimmed/UHT.
I'm trading in a 1977 kawasaki triple Kh 250 fully restored for one of these in 2 weeks had enough of the triple kh250 always in the shop time to get a decent bike
They do a low seat option which lowers the seat height from 835mm to just 800mm. When fitted it looks very stylish on the bike as well. Many reviews from the Far East show the low seat fitted. Stephen
The cafe racer has a different seat as well which is lower. Agree with this review, the bike looks and feels great.
good vid mark! i certainly like mine as well
making more vids on my channel for the z club fam
Thank you Mark.You just cost me $10k+😂 Great review as always, and much appreciated!👍👍
Me too I think!
Nice great video Thank you.☺☺😎💪🇺🇸🇺🇸
Hi thanks axel !!
Gorgeous, prefer the looks to the new Speed Twin, gonna test ride both very soon..
What's your conclusion ?
Thanks for the review Mark. Looks great. Not sure you mentioned the tank capacity and it looks like it doesn’t have a centre stand.
This is the only reasonable standard being offered...
I don't want a retro bike that throws out all the technology that has come in the last 35 year's but a Standard motorcycle that is not an uncomfortable race replica or a cruiser that is trying to be a better Harley.....
I have A Harley because I like Harley's but this is the Japanese bike I want . ...
Just wish Suzuki would make a standard like the GS 1100 of old but with liquid cooling and fuel injection.
Looks like I'm going to go look at the local Kawasaki Dealership .
Can we have. Z750RS now please. Lovely bike and great review.
K makes a good bike. I have a 2007 Vulcan 900 Classic that looks and runs like new. I would like to have this bike with a good fly screen to cut through wind. Maybe the green Cafe version. No since having a fast bike if you can't hold on at high speed.
Looking at one of these tomorrow. Very helpful review. Cheers.
Ok Brian great ....these are my favorite retros ...let me know what you think cheers mark
@@markpulling12 I'd say it's mine too... My brother in law has the 2020 Z900 (a bit transformers-esque) which I've also ridden but the retro look of the RS is irresistible.
@@markpulling12 Marvellous. At 6'1" it's a perfect flat foot on a tall bike. The engine note is gorgeous, and louder than I expected for a stock exhaust. Deposit paid. Will take delivery after the NI lockdown starting on Boxing Day for 6 weeks. Merry Christmas.
@@WideAppeal great news Brian ....yes the engine sounds awesome as standard ...bet you can't wait !
Regards mark
The more I see and sit on this bike I want one - only thing is, I love the Guzzi V7 too though a totally different proposition.
The Moto Guzzi v7 is probably the best looking, most stylish motorcycle in existence. And it sounds superb. The only problem is that it's totally gutless. No power at all.
Gorgeous bike, and I really want one but the price of 10k bike is mental money.
Yes this bike is getting lots of admiration all the best mark
Lovely bike and great review. However, I prefer my Triumph Speedmaster with it’s perfect high torque engine. As with everything Mark, everyone will have a different opinion! Yours aye, Alan
Thanks alan ,yes ill have to check out the speedmaster all the best mark
Hi Mark ..i currently have tracer 9gt but i find the seat uncomfortable and i slide into tank...the kawasaki z900 rs is my next bike as everyone says so comfortable and it is a stunner....
well done mark good review
Great thanks Alan 👍
One thing I love about the Kawasaki that it holds the road way better then a Harley in the rain much more smother, and agal more faster, way more reliable🧝⚡
If u are in the mountains or country beep your horn often to spook away any
deer that may jump out across the road
Enjoyed that had xjr 1300 think the z900 might be better with the 6th gear
Cheers from New Zealand
Thanks Jim. Glad to hear I'm getting out to New Zealand wow
All the best mark
Mark, I see your name on the video I hit the like button, very good detailed reviews. In your opinion, this bike a better performer than the Yami XSR 900?
Hi ,no id say the are similar performance ,z900 is 111hp xsr is 115 hp,the z900 has a bit more torque though ,i think the yamaha is about £1000 cheaper , all the best mark
Just picked up mine today, 2021 Kawasaki Z 900 RS café
Great choice regards mark :)
I bought a cb1100 rs , nicer looking imo , good review though 👍🏻
Thanks Andrew !
You obviously weren't around in the 70s.
Bootiful....
Mark, how did you find the fueling? Lots of reviews mentioning snatchy throttle issues.
Hi I found it perfect and I rode it for two hours ,plus I'm very picky with fueling , all the best Mark
I had the first 900 Ninja that came out in 1984, it had a low seat. and was very stable at any speed, and the seating position wasn't as crazy as the sport bikes of today. so I am wondering how this bikes handling would compare to my 84 900 Ninja. or would I be better off with a z900 naked , if Kawasaki made a remake of my 84 900 Ninja I would buy it. I loved that bike, I don't like the new seats that have the passenger sitting up so high on a uncomfortable Little Rock of a seat, I like my girl right behind me holding on. this RS appeals to me but I wish it had some kind of wind screen.
great review thank you mark spain
Thanks greetings to espagna !
Great review and thank you for using the U.S. Customary system for your specs. If you said you were 1.7m tall I wouldn’t of had a clue:)
Thanks for the comment , I love the z900rs ,its one of my favourite retros all the best mark
In the UK we use a weird mix of metric and imperial - we’ll discuss our height in feet and inches but have adopted the metric measurements when comparing seat height etc from manufacturers’ European specs. Same for tyres (tires) - the wheel diameter spec is in inches, the width in millimetres. I sometimes wonder how we manage to function!
epic bike, great review. thanks mark
Hi thanks again ,where in the world do you live btw :)
@@markpulling12 california
wow ,would love to see california one day, ive been to kentucky a few times to visit
Excellent review. 👍👍
Great thanks :)
Great review
Looks like a cracking machine. My head spins again. I find myself in great difficulty deciding on my next bike. I thought I was set on a Vulcan s, but now I'm not sure 🤔😆🤘
Decision's decisions Bryan
I'd go z900rs cheers mark
@@markpulling12 I could definitely see myself heading that way alrite, bit of a price difference however but worth working towards.
Good review, thanks 👍
I love this bike, it pulls best at about 7k rpm not 4.
Haha yes definitely 😊
In Norway the starting price is £17,500,-
Wow ouch 😯 think I'll pass lol
@@markpulling12 Indeed, it`s quite something. Then again, I guess I could live with one kidney, and lung... and my right leg. Edit: No dang it, I need that for the rear brake... nvm.
And then there is the two pints to celebrate with so it's more like UKP 20k ha ha
Chain drive. My old 1976 KZ900 ate chains back in the day with much less HP. Would have liked to see it use a Gilmer belt drive.
O ring and Xring chains have come a long way in the past 43 years. The chain on my 01 ZRX1200 lasted 25,000 miles. That was a heavier bike with slightly more torque and hp.
My zed thou ate sprockets too heh heh
Thanks Mark. Late to the party seeing this review. I rode one in early 2020 and loved it but only got a suburban test loop so it’s great to see the rpm at 100kmh. The one I test rode was a lovely khaki colour with yellow stripes and all of 11km on it. Pleased they can take a centre stand, also.
Thanks Adrian yes great bike 😄
cheers brav new subby here from New Zealand
HI thanks for the sub all the best mark
It brings back a tiny bit from the Z, ZR bikes. 😆
Really? A "Z" bike? Wherever did you get that idea?
Lovely
Nice ride abs chat Mark. Give you a sub. Looking hard at this, great looking and practical. A bikini fairing would help.
Great thanks for the sub Dave :)
Thinking of upgrading from my Z400 and wanted something I can do longer road excursions on, take the wife on dates and just also commute on...I like to explore nearby towns and have to do sustained speeds of 70mph...how does it handle then? I’ve done with the Z and she can do it but it’s just not fun because she feels sluggish
Yes this would be a great choice as you already like naked bikes ,it has loads more power , handles great and ok for two up
It is actually quite a tall bike as I remember with a high seat height ,alot taller than your z400 so keep that in mind ,but they do a lower seat for it ,also it looks very cool ,if I was getting a retro this would be the one cheers mark
Nice looking modern retro 😃
Think I prefer my R nineT Racer for looks but it's great for the money 😃
Hi michelle i must get round to testing the R nine t at some point
7.50 Lets give it some power... AKA lets use only half its revrange and shortshift at 5000 rpm
If you had to chose, would you pick this bike or Ninja 1000? I realize they are different bikes, but they're about the same money and both are basically liter bikes.
Id personally go for the ninja 1000 ,the fairing suits me more for my type of riding ,but the z900 is a fantastic bike if you want more of a retro look all the best mark
@@markpulling12 Well, thankfully the dealer did not have a Ninja 1000 in the gloss black, only the matte silver and black. That made my decision quite easy. I rode the Z900RS home yesterday. What a crazy fun bike!
haha thought youd like it mike ! that sound !
Nice lokking bike
VERY NICE. I'LL TAKE 2...
One of my favorite modern retros Ken :)
How does this compare to a T120 or a Speed Twin, I love that retro/Bonneville style. Looking at my first bike to call my own.
Hi ,its smoother and revs faster/higher being the inline 4 ,its my favorite of the retros ,id def go for this one myself MP
mark pulling thanks