Thanks for the ride 👍 Finally someone who rides this bike as you should and not like most… like “hooligans” . This is exactly my kind of riding and I was wondering how it would be on a Z900rs … well you showed it perfectly 👍 Now this bike is Nr.1 on my list 😊👍👍👍 So thanks for the pleasant ride 😊
I know this is from a while ago but I bought the z900Rs a couple of weeks ago and your videos helped me decide … obviously I test rode one and was blown away … yes I succumbed to the temptation and do open it up here and there and it’s magnificent… it really is the type of bike that’s just happy under all circumstances… loves slow loves quick loves just riding and it’s been the first time in years that when I finish riding for the day I want to keep going … lately my riding became 100% commuting no random rides … this bike I’m finding any excuse to go out and ride … just a beautiful biking experience
Sounds like you have found the perfect bike for you ... and the prefect bike full stop. Glad my videos helped and you get to enjoy many more hours on random, impulsive rides. Isn't life great when that happens and you go where the feeling takes you. :>)
What a wonderful ride - that area of Australia is absolutely gorgeous and very conducive to bike rides. I'd luv to visit there and see the place - thanks for your great video and wonderful review of a great bike!
Nice relaxing video. Have a '22 blue RS. These really are great bikes. A lot of people say only twins and triples have character. I say BS. This 4 banger has gobs of torque. The other day, I came up to a stop sign and deliberately left it in 4th gear. Gave it a little throttle and didn't even slip the clutch.It pulled away smoothly without a hiccup. I started laughing and thought the RS might just take off in 5th. Looks, power, great brakes and excellent handling. What's not to like?
Thanks Nick, ...lol.. those high revving days are behind me ... but I must admit I do like turning the throttle when I fire her up each day to hear that magnificent four cyclinder sound .. as well as how it purrrrrrrs along the rest of the time.
Thank you for that. I have the 2020 Cafe version. I'm a truck driver over here in the States. I don't get to ride near as much as I would like. So I listen to other people riding. I love the sound of these bikes. I agree with everything you said. Cheers.
I agree with you. I have a Z900RS SE and my favourite roads are 60-80 km/h. This bike was made for riding them at a reasonable speed. It's definitely not a bike for squids. The gear shifter is great, and I especially like Kawi's feature that you can easily find neutral from first when you are stopped.
Wow the SE must be great with the better brakes and suspension. Yes if I want to ride faster and harder I will buy an XSR 900 as an additional bike for that purpose. The RS is too enjoyable as a cruising roadster and I will never part with mine.
Yes. These bikes demand respect. Usable horsepower at any rpm. It WILL easily get you in deep trouble. Ride it like you want to age with it. You'll both appreciate.
... lol ... WOW .. don't know if Clive was into motorcycles but could imagine him riding a classic looking Triumph or Royal Enfield. Thanks for this interesting message. :>)
I am going to replace the Kawasaki emblem on the tank with the retro white version with old font, to match the z900 emblem, can't believe they did that.
Excellent, thanks for sharing your biking experiences, gotta love that bike! I'm in the market for one atm, but a Blue/Gold is my preference, all the best!
Great video - your voice reminds me of watching test cricket. I have an XSR700, I would like a 900 but they don't look quite as good to me. I might switch to the Z900RS instead.
Thank you ... an XSR is definitely on my list ... I don't own a triple and desperately want one so the 900 is on my radar. Love the 700 too which is a great engine from Yamaha
We study geography at school, although I've never been to Australia, but if I remember correctly, Kangaroo Valley is south of Sydney, or are there more places with similar names? Down Under is not a small continent after all. Nice to know that there are more people than me who like this machine, it is probably the best choice in the fall of age. Here in Sweden, winter has begun to creep in, albeit a month late, so my beauty is warm and dry in the garage. They have promised a snow cap this week. You have summer in December-February, right? Thinking of fitting an Akrapovič exhaust system this winter. Many have told me that there are only advantages to doing so, and I believe them, maybe also a Corbin saddle, and other slightly thicker handles. Then we'll see if I'm satisfied, but I hope so?
Yes your geography is correct and yes we are heading into summer in December. Best riding here is spring and autumn. More pleasant to ride when the temp isn't in the high 30s or low 40s. Sounds like you have some great upgrades planned. :>)
I currently have a Triumph Speed Twin. Looked at trading it on a z900rs last year. Went to the dealer and took it for a spin expecting to love it. Have to say that I did not, and left on the Triumph. An absolutely beautiful bike, but I have to say the Triumph had more character with the twin. Not bagging anyone who loves the z900, its just my experience. I may still go get one though.
Love that green, but the blue paint on my '22 is a close second, plus I've never been crazy about yellow. I'm not nearly as easy on mine. Installing a closed course header woke her up nicely. Yesterday I could feel level one traction intercede, as the front wheel went to lift , cresting a hill at the end of 4th. Plenty of turning clearance, with stock pegs, to get to the edge of the tire. She's a beast, if you turn her loose. :)
@@motorcyclingdownunder I enjoy just cruising, most of the time, but this bike is capbable of much more. The ecu seems to have adjusted the AFR nicely, and the stock can provides just the right bark under load. When a safe opportunity presents itself, it's hard not to stretch her legs, even if just briefly. I added a K Tech Razor Lite shock, adjusted fork oil weight & volume, and had the dealer swap on Road 6s, before I picked up the bike. Handlindg was OK stock (I'm about your size/weight), but the bike is much more confidence inspiring now. The stock brakes are good so far. If I got picky there, I might run some SS front brake lines. Not sure I'd change the pads, unless I take her to the track. :)
That country side reminds me of the special forces training area in the 1957 film “ bridge on the River Kwai. So strange to me to ride on opposite side of road.
Relaxing video. A great way to enjoy this bike. Why no rev matches downshifts? It's so fun and it's how it's done. Yes, the slipper clutch let's you get away with it, but still. Acceleration run is nice, but man, past 6k is where it really wakes up.
Awesome and emotional review. Would you recommend it for daily use as a can do it all bike with pillion? Up to what speeds can you actually enjoy the engine noise? Cheers.
Yes it is very capable and very comfortable for a ride and pillion but if it involves a lot of stop start city riding the engine does run fairly hot in that situation
I’ve never had a ABS equipped bike and never even remotely felt I needed it. But you have no choice on new machines. Does the final drive seem very reliable?
Hi BIll, The older I get the more mellow I ride so the only time ABS ever activates is in an emergency and then it definitely helps me control the bike to a stop without any lock ups. If I was a more aggressive rider like I was in my youth it could feel invasive but have not experienced that at all. I have other bikes without ABS and traction control and can't say they are any more or less enjoyable to ride. Hope that helps. :>)
They are more than capable on the freeway but could use a higher top gear for that. I won't put a windscreen or fairing on mine to reduce the wind because I think it would spoil the look and for my style of riding I like the good clean air. But if you were doing a lot of long high speed highway miles it may be something to consider. I think the cafe fairings look best on this bike but are more likely to cause wind buffeting.
@@stanleylawson9015 I think with the original models they changed the colours every year. With the retro versions they seem to be rejuvenating those original colours with a new one every second year. Which is great.
Thanks for the ride 👍
Finally someone who rides this bike as you should and not like most… like “hooligans” .
This is exactly my kind of riding and I was wondering how it would be on a Z900rs … well you showed it perfectly 👍
Now this bike is Nr.1 on my list 😊👍👍👍
So thanks for the pleasant ride 😊
Thanks Robert. Nice message. Its as smooth as silk :>)
I admit-i ride my rs like a hooligan, but there is just so much power in reserve, I can't control myself.
@@Greenpeas58 ...lol... yes this bike certainly comes with temptation :>)
I know this is from a while ago but I bought the z900Rs a couple of weeks ago and your videos helped me decide … obviously I test rode one and was blown away … yes I succumbed to the temptation and do open it up here and there and it’s magnificent… it really is the type of bike that’s just happy under all circumstances… loves slow loves quick loves just riding and it’s been the first time in years that when I finish riding for the day I want to keep going … lately my riding became 100% commuting no random rides … this bike I’m finding any excuse to go out and ride … just a beautiful biking experience
Sounds like you have found the perfect bike for you ... and the prefect bike full stop. Glad my videos helped and you get to enjoy many more hours on random, impulsive rides. Isn't life great when that happens and you go where the feeling takes you. :>)
What a wonderful ride - that area of Australia is absolutely gorgeous and very conducive to bike rides. I'd luv to visit there and see the place - thanks for your great video and wonderful review of a great bike!
Happy you enjoyed it ... been busy lately but will be back on the bikes for more TH-cam rides in this wonderful part of the world soon.
I quite enjoy watching long-form riding videos. I can daydream about the day I can get out there myself!
Won't be long now Nick. Look forward to seeing your rides
Nice relaxing video. Have a '22 blue RS. These really are great bikes. A lot of people say only twins and triples have character. I say BS. This 4 banger has gobs of torque. The other day, I came up to a stop sign and deliberately left it in 4th gear. Gave it a little throttle and didn't even slip the clutch.It pulled away smoothly without a hiccup. I started laughing and thought the RS might just take off in 5th. Looks, power, great brakes and excellent handling. What's not to like?
Thanks Frank - I totally agree
Love this bike, and good to see it ridden in normal conditions rather than being revved to high heaven lol
Thanks Nick, ...lol.. those high revving days are behind me ... but I must admit I do like turning the throttle when I fire her up each day to hear that magnificent four cyclinder sound .. as well as how it purrrrrrrs along the rest of the time.
They're built to rev. The fun really starts at around 6k.
@@stratolestele7611 thanks I look forward to doing that some more now the bike is run in
It's an inline 4 it's meant to be revved high that's where the power is.
@@stratolestele7611 Exactly though no problem with riding how you want.
Did you get your tach fixed ? ... Never did see it go past 3,000 rpm's lol
Awesome bike and scenery 👍
I feel very fortunate
My Z900RS SE in yellow ball is perfect. Kawasaki fiddled with throttle response on this model and now it is perfect. Brakes and suspension are superb.
Yeh they look amazing :>)
Thank you for that. I have the 2020 Cafe version. I'm a truck driver over here in the States. I don't get to ride near as much as I would like. So I listen to other people riding. I love the sound of these bikes. I agree with everything you said. Cheers.
Thanks Jacksun .. I don't think the Cafe version is available new in Australia any more .. was in 2018 and 2019 but not now
great to see a safe ride through a place that I do know and have ridden, thank you mate, I enjoyed it so much
Thanks @sharkyrider6444
I agree with you. I have a Z900RS SE and my favourite roads are 60-80 km/h. This bike was made for riding them at a reasonable speed. It's definitely not a bike for squids. The gear shifter is great, and I especially like Kawi's feature that you can easily find neutral from first when you are stopped.
Wow the SE must be great with the better brakes and suspension. Yes if I want to ride faster and harder I will buy an XSR 900 as an additional bike for that purpose. The RS is too enjoyable as a cruising roadster and I will never part with mine.
Yes. These bikes demand respect. Usable horsepower at any rpm. It WILL easily get you in deep trouble. Ride it like you want to age with it. You'll both appreciate.
Yellowball all the way!
@@danielkeel9265 yeh that definitely is a great looking bike
Just picked my Kawasaki Z900rs yesterday, it's an amazing bike! New York City :)
Fantastic choice ... you'll love it ... handles city riding really well too
Bloody Hell! Thought it was the late Clive James reviewing the fab Kawa,for a minute! ..... Voice double. Nice vid,and scenery, by the way 👌
... lol ... WOW .. don't know if Clive was into motorcycles but could imagine him riding a classic looking Triumph or Royal Enfield. Thanks for this interesting message. :>)
Great video and great bike!
Thanks Steve
Thank you for this ride. So well done!!!
Thank you
Great road mate. Wishing can get the and ride on them ...
Yes very lucky to have some great roads nearby ... hope your wish comes true for you
Great to watch , nice roads and weather. Waiting for it to warm up a bit in the U.K. at the moment, I’m on my second rs, love em
Thanks Glenn, Will send some of our warm weather your way.
Love your work mate, great bike from Bundaberg QLD
Thanks Graham, Yes its definitely a long term keeper :>)
I am going to replace the Kawasaki emblem on the tank with the retro white version with old font, to match the z900 emblem, can't believe they did that.
Be interested to see how it looks once you've done it.
Excellent, thanks for sharing your biking experiences, gotta love that bike! I'm in the market for one atm, but a Blue/Gold is my preference, all the best!
You're in for a real treat with one of these
Great video - your voice reminds me of watching test cricket. I have an XSR700, I would like a 900 but they don't look quite as good to me. I might switch to the Z900RS instead.
Thank you ... an XSR is definitely on my list ... I don't own a triple and desperately want one so the 900 is on my radar. Love the 700 too which is a great engine from Yamaha
We study geography at school, although I've never been to Australia, but if I remember correctly, Kangaroo Valley is south of Sydney, or are there more places with similar names? Down Under is not a small continent after all.
Nice to know that there are more people than me who like this machine, it is probably the best choice in the fall of age. Here in Sweden, winter has begun to creep in, albeit a month late, so my beauty is warm and dry in the garage. They have promised a snow cap this week. You have summer in December-February, right?
Thinking of fitting an Akrapovič exhaust system this winter. Many have told me that there are only advantages to doing so, and I believe them, maybe also a Corbin saddle, and other slightly thicker handles. Then we'll see if I'm satisfied, but I hope so?
Yes your geography is correct and yes we are heading into summer in December. Best riding here is spring and autumn. More pleasant to ride when the temp isn't in the high 30s or low 40s. Sounds like you have some great upgrades planned. :>)
I currently have a Triumph Speed Twin. Looked at trading it on a z900rs last year. Went to the dealer and took it for a spin expecting to love it. Have to say that I did not, and left on the Triumph. An absolutely beautiful bike, but I have to say the Triumph had more character with the twin. Not bagging anyone who loves the z900, its just my experience. I may still go get one though.
Haven't ridden a speed twin but eager to give one a spin
Pick my 2022 z900rs June 2nd can't wait love your videos 👍
That's cool Graham ... I am sure you'll love it
Love that green, but the blue paint on my '22 is a close second, plus I've never been crazy about yellow. I'm not nearly as easy on mine. Installing a closed course header woke her up nicely. Yesterday I could feel level one traction intercede, as the front wheel went to lift , cresting a hill at the end of 4th. Plenty of turning clearance, with stock pegs, to get to the edge of the tire. She's a beast, if you turn her loose. :)
Thanks Peter, I'll take your advice and unleash the beast some more.
@@motorcyclingdownunder I enjoy just cruising, most of the time, but this bike is capbable of much more. The ecu seems to have adjusted the AFR nicely, and the stock can provides just the right bark under load. When a safe opportunity presents itself, it's hard not to stretch her legs, even if just briefly. I added a K Tech Razor Lite shock, adjusted fork oil weight & volume, and had the dealer swap on Road 6s, before I picked up the bike. Handlindg was OK stock (I'm about your size/weight), but the bike is much more confidence inspiring now. The stock brakes are good so far. If I got picky there, I might run some SS front brake lines. Not sure I'd change the pads, unless I take her to the track. :)
Thanks@@petermccann2561 .. that's really interesting feedback
That country side reminds me of the special forces training area in the 1957 film “ bridge on the River Kwai.
So strange to me to ride on opposite side of road.
Are all speedometers in kilometers only?
No in the UK for example the speedo is in miles and kms. I think it is the same in the US. In Australia it is only in kms.
Relaxing video. A great way to enjoy this bike.
Why no rev matches downshifts? It's so fun and it's how it's done. Yes, the slipper clutch let's you get away with it, but still.
Acceleration run is nice, but man, past 6k is where it really wakes up.
Thanks .. I'll make sure I focus more on riding and less on talking in future videos
@@motorcyclingdownunder Your riding to talking ratio is just fine. IMO :)
@@jacksunstone8771 thanks Jackson
@@jacksunstone8771 thanks Jackson
thanks mate.
You're welcome
Awesome and emotional review. Would you recommend it for daily use as a can do it all bike with pillion? Up to what speeds can you actually enjoy the engine noise? Cheers.
Yes it is very capable and very comfortable for a ride and pillion but if it involves a lot of stop start city riding the engine does run fairly hot in that situation
There's a minivan with a trailer on your tail...lol.
Looks like you're enjoying the Z900 RS' low rev torque through the mountains, mate 👍
Definitely ... perfect bike for those conditions
Nicely done!
Thank you
Does the suspension make your butt lose contact with the seat going over potholes?
I’ve never had a ABS equipped bike and never even remotely felt I needed it.
But you have no choice on new machines.
Does the final drive seem very reliable?
Hi BIll, The older I get the more mellow I ride so the only time ABS ever activates is in an emergency and then it definitely helps me control the bike to a stop without any lock ups. If I was a more aggressive rider like I was in my youth it could feel invasive but have not experienced that at all. I have other bikes without ABS and traction control and can't say they are any more or less enjoyable to ride. Hope that helps. :>)
great bike , I still want one ..... what are they like on the freeway
They are more than capable on the freeway but could use a higher top gear for that. I won't put a windscreen or fairing on mine to reduce the wind because I think it would spoil the look and for my style of riding I like the good clean air. But if you were doing a lot of long high speed highway miles it may be something to consider. I think the cafe fairings look best on this bike but are more likely to cause wind buffeting.
Some folks are puttin a one tooth larger front sprocket on for highway. The bike has plenty of torque for that.
I have a 2020 cafe and it's surprisingly smooth, but I'm 5'7".
@@jacksunstone8771 I think they smoothed out the throttle a bit by the 2020 model as well compared to the 2018 and 2019 models
@@jacksunstone8771 cheers .. I need to do a review where I use more of the horsepower and torque to show what it can do
Sehr schön!
What year? How is the throttle?
Late 2020 and yes a little snatchy but I like that ...don't like too smooth a throttle :>)
I know they have smoothed it out more in more recent models though with some re-mapping
For 2023 model? I do like the new colour too
@@stanleylawson9015 I think with the original models they changed the colours every year. With the retro versions they seem to be rejuvenating those original colours with a new one every second year. Which is great.
@@stanleylawson9015 2023 model still has a snatchy throttle, but it's something you learn to adjust to by and large.
There's safe riding then there's you might as well have bought a scooter. :P
Give it some gas, haha just kidding
its a great bike when you do that too ... certainly comes to life between 6000 and 8500 rpm
A beautiful day, a gorgeous motorbike....
I'm disgusted! 😅
... lol ... yeh its terrible isn't it :>)