2021 Kawasaki Z900 RS Review

The Classic Kawasaki Z900RS a recreation of the original Z1 from 1972.

Check out also our Youtube Video Review here: https://youtu.be/Y9iyAQ47kCc

Firstly i must thank Preston Motorcycles for letting me borrow this awesome machine and if you would like a test ride or see more of the many different brands of motorcycles you can check them out here on their website https://www.prestonmotorcycles.co.uk

Ok on to my review of this motorcycle, so i was able to take this beauty out for a whole day and wanted to feel how it really felt on a good ride out so firstly i took it up the M6 from Preston to Lancaster and was curious how it felt on motorway cruising. Well i can say that while the first 4 gears are short the 5th and 6th gear are long and suited for longer rides at motorway speeds. Obviously its a naked bike but the air is clean and no buffeting at higher speeds. I didn't notice any vibrations through the bars or foot pegs due to the lovely smooth in line 4 engine. One thing that did surprise me for a euro 5 motorcycle was the crisp exhaust note that reminded me of the old z’s from the past.

While the bike comes on fully adjustable front up side down forks, the rear has preload and rebound settings but no easy preload adjuster for quick pillion or any heavy luggage which would have been nicer than having to use a C spanner every time needed. I do wish though they had put two shocks on the rear in keeping with the original look of the Z1, but modern day performance and handling win.

Brakes come in the way on the front of Kawasaki monoblock 4 piston callipers on 300mm twin disks, while the rear has a single piston on a 250mm disI, the bike has ABS front and rear with 2 stage traction control adjustable on the left handlebar grip and indicated on the lcd display between the two clocks.

Seat height on this bike is 835mm and very comfy, however i did find that i sunk into the seat and on longer ride found it to be not that comfy. I have been told the low seat is firmer and more comfortable though.

The engine is a 948cc in line 4, DOHC, and produces 109BHP @8,500rpm while torque figures are 98.5nm @6,500rpm. The overall weight of the bike is 215kg, and I feel that the power and torque is enough and well suited for this motorcycle. The motorcycle comes with a slip & assist clutch making light work of the clutch and gear changes. However with the short first 4 gears felt it would suit a Quickshifter, but kawasaki do not offer a solution/option, i am sure an after market one would be available if needed.

Colours available are, Ebony, Black or Candytone, pictured below.

Tyres are Dunlop Sportmax, 180 rear & 120 front.

Pricing on this motorcycle,

From riding this motorcycle all day i can tell you it handles like a modern bike, the engine is lovely and smooth also. If there is a couple things i would have liked they had kept is the Z1 style twin exhausts and twin rear shocks but i understand totally why they didn't do this. It’s a stunning motorcycle with beautiful paint schemes and a lovely exhaust note. If your looking for a modern classic, refined then i recommend taking a test ride see for yourself. If your in Lancashire or surrounding areas then why not give Preston Motorcycles a shout, great guy’s and great service.

And don't forget if your looking for the special Z900RS SE coming shortly with upgraded suspension, Brakes and colour scheme reminiscent of the original Z1 then stay tuned.

Cheers

Nick @ MotoUK

Our Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/MOTOUK1