Kawasaki revealed the all-new Z900RS at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show before making European debut at EICMA in Milan. It effectively addresses the long anticipated tribute for the original Z1. The retro naked roadster instigates the legendary spirit of the Z1 and is hoping to make huge impact in the global markets due to its uniqueness compared to other motorcycles in the brand’s lineup.
With its authentic stance and powertrain from the Z900, it is almost certain of carving a name for itself. Another highlighting factor is the 948 cc liquid-cooled engine making 110 bhp and 99 Nm and is re-calibrated to pump out lower peak power amidst a stronger midrange for more punch below 7,000 rpm. It boasts a number of advancement assistance features like traction control and radially mounted brake calipers among others.
The exhaust layout, made of high quality stainless steel and treated to a buff finish, is rather subtle unlike the four-pipe unit in the Z1 as the collector and header pipes are converging into one piece with no connector pipes or exhaust valve. It makes the overall design smooth and unmistakably retro. It could be a downer for some but it is the need of the hour for such a beautifully crafted motorcycle.
As for the instrument display, there are analogue speedometer and tachometer dials with LCD screen found in the middle featuring gear indicator, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, range indication, coolant and external temperatures, clock and the Economical Riding Indicator. It can be covered with accessory panel as a shout-out to the 70s.
The Z900RS has finally entered India today but with an extravagant price of Rs. 15.3 lakh (ex-showroom) as it is brought into the country via CBU route from Japan. The pricing could disappoint a large band of enthusiasts. It is made available in Candytone Brown and Candytone Orange paint schemes only as Metallic Spark Black, Metallic Matte Covert Green and Flat Ebony will be missed for now.
The braking duties are performed by 300 mm front discs with radial mounted calipers and radial pump front brake master cylinder. The Z900RS is easily tech-rich than its Z900 sibling and multiple design variations were taken into account before choosing the production styling. The double walled pipes converge into the collector before outputting exhaust gases via a mono silencer.
Engine | 948 cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke inline-four,16v, DOHC |
Power | 110 bhp @ 8500rpm |
Torque | 72.6 ftlb (99 Nm) @ 6500rpm |
Frame | High-tensile steel trellis |
Suspension | 41mm inverted front fork with compression and rebound damping / Horizontal Back-link, gas-charged rear shock |
Brakes | Dual semi-floating 300 mm front discs / Single 250 mm, single-piston caliper |
Tyres | 120 / 70ZR17 Front / 180 / 55ZR17 Rear |
Seat Height | 835 mm |
Kerb Weight | 215 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 17 litres |
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