Kawasaki Z900RS in the Lap Time Test: Elegant Retro Racer

Throughout the year, we at 1000PS receive many different motorcycles in our editorial office. We weigh the bikes on the precise 1000PS scale, gather practical experiences, and compare the motorcycles with similar bikes. A fixed point in our test program is also the Supermoto track in Bad Fischau, near the 1000PS headquarters. There, we test all motorcycles under comparable conditions and measure lap times. We record the ride with the onboard camera and publish these rides along with lap times in the format "1000PS Best Time" on 1000PS TV. Here is the link to all videos from this series. The clothing worn by NastyNils can be found here in the Louis online shop. Would you like to ride the track with your own motorcycle? Here is the link to the track. NastyNils in a different light! On LinkedIn, he talks about management, online business, and life as an entrepreneur. Follow here.

The heart of the Z900RS is its impressive 948cc inline-four engine. With 111 hp at 8500 rpm and a torque of 98.6 Nm at 6500 rpm, this engine is a true powerhouse. And although it has a few years under its belt, it impressively proves why it belongs to the best in its class.

The engine is a real gem: power from the low revs, endless reserves at the top, and a throttle response that is second to none. Even on our tight course, it shows its strengths. It is one of the few engines where you can bring real torque to the rear wheel even in first gear - something that often doesn't work as well with single or twin-cylinder engines.

The throttle response is buttery smooth, and you can accelerate wonderfully out of corners with both low and high revs. A real cream engine that shows that the motto "Never touch a running system" is sometimes spot on.

Chassis: Comfort meets Sport

The chassis of the Z900RS is an interesting compromise between comfort and sportiness. Up front, a 41mm USD fork with 120mm travel works, and at the rear, a monoshock with 140mm travel. Both are adjustable in rebound and compression damping as well as preload - a luxury in this class.

Despite the "RS" in the name, the setup is more on the comfortable side. This is particularly noticeable when turning in and transitioning from deceleration to acceleration. Here, a slight restlessness in the chassis becomes apparent, which somewhat impairs a perfect cornering flow. It always takes a few tenths to maximize lean angle and go full throttle.

This behavior is probably the biggest difference to more sporty naked bikes or supersports, which remain more stable in these dynamically demanding phases. For everyday use and leisurely rides, however, this setup is perfect.

Ergonomics: The Perfect Middle Ground

Kawasaki has achieved a masterpiece in ergonomics with the Z900RS. The seating position is relaxed and upright, yet it allows for active riding and movement on the bike. With a seat height of 835 mm, it is accessible to most riders.

This balance makes the Z900RS a versatile bike that is suitable for both relaxed cruising and sporty rides. The upright position also provides good visibility in traffic - a clear plus for everyday use.

Brakes: Sturdy and Well-Dosed

The braking system of the Z900RS is more than adequately dimensioned. Up front, two 300mm discs with four-piston calipers work, and at the rear, a 250mm disc with a single-piston caliper. The ABS works unobtrusively in the background and provides additional safety.

The brakes are well-dosed and offer enough bite for sporty riding. Only during very hard braking maneuvers does a slight hopping at the front wheel become apparent, but this is forgivable for a bike in this class.

Electronics and Equipment: Modern, but Not Overloaded

The Z900RS comes with contemporary but not over-the-top electronic equipment. In addition to the obligatory ABS, traction control is also on board. A quickshifter is not available.

The total weight of 216.5 kg (wet weight) is acceptable for a bike in this class, even if it is not one of the lightweights. The 17-liter tank ensures decent range.

The Kawasaki Z900RS is like a tailor-made suit - it not only looks damn good but also fits perfectly. It combines classic design with modern riding characteristics, creating an impressive balance between everyday usability and sportiness.

I am convinced that the Z900RS will take a respectable position in our best-time table. Although I suspect it might land behind direct competitors like the Yamaha XSR900, which is a bit more sport-oriented. But the Kawasaki impressively proves that style and performance can indeed be combined.

The Z900RS is the perfect compromise for riders looking for a stylish bike for everyday use that also performs well on twisty country roads and occasional track visits. It is faster than its retro look suggests and offers a level of everyday usability that many pure sports bikes lack.

• Here is the link to all videos from this series.
• The clothing worn by NastyNils can be found here in the Louis online shop.
• Here is the link to the track. NastyNils in a different light!
• Follow NastyNils on LinkedIn - Follow here.