When Kawasaki filed a trademark application for Z900RS more than a year ago, it made us believe the Japanese intentions of bringing back the ethos of the famed Z1 of 1972. The bike that was then known to be called as the Z900 in a few markets and it carried a 903cc four-stroke DOHC inline-four machine that defined the term “Superbike”.

Fast forward to 2017, the Japanse Green brought back the Z900 nameplate with an aggressive naked streetfighter onto the streets that looked unlike anything else. Now though, the same nameplate is getting a suffix for a bike that will echo the character and attitude of the vintage Z1.

It will be called as the Z900RS. Kawasaki's modern-retro.

1972 Kawasaki Z1/Z900


With almost every brand entering the neo-classic craze, Kawasaki is bringing one of its own classics back. Although it has the W800, the Z900RS will depict a much more modern take with thoroughly modern mechanical features, fit and finish.

The bike is touted to be showcased at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show on October 25 and the folks have released a couple of teaser videos that have kept us intrigued about the motorcycle.

Despite the retro styling, Kawasaki has also festooned the Z900RS with radially-mounted, four-piston brake calipers (with ABS) in front with upside-down forks, a single rear shock, and 17″ cast aluminum wheels with a low profile, high-performance rubber. No spokes there.

Premising the classic Z1 early on in one of the videos, the RS will also have a circular headlamp unit which will come with LED lightings and will be painted in the same black and orange color scheme resembling the original Z1.

Coming to the powertrain, we believe the RS will share the same soul as that of its naked sibling. The new Euro IV complaint liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, 948cc inline four-cylinder engine offers impressive power and strong torque. A purposeful choice to provide riders with a crisp and smooth response with an exhilarating acceleration.

Four 36mm throttle bodies and sub-throttles provide better mid and low power bands and the engine belts an impressive 126 hp and torque peaks at 74 lb-ft at 7700 rpm.Transmission is through a 6-speed manual with the 6th gear being an overdrive gear for a relaxed highway cruising. It is supported with the Assist and Slipper clutch for a lighter clutch action.