With the Z900 RS, Kawasaki has reintroduced a vintage classic to India. After a three-year absence, this neo-retro motorbike is back on the market as a fully imported model under the CBU (Completely Built Unit) classification, bringing with it significant charges. It has therefore been priced at Rs 16.47 lakh, making it more expensive than the brand’s flagship superbike in the nation—Ninja ZX 10R, which has a steep price tag of Rs 16.15 lakh (both prices ex-showroom).
The Vintage Style
The Z900 RS’s design is inspired by Kawasaki’s classic motorcycles from the late 1970s and features neo-retro flair. It borrows aesthetic cues from the Z1 while resembling its smaller sibling, the Z650 RS, uncannily. Two dual-tone color combinations—Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Imperial Red and Candy Tone Blue—are available for the Z900 RS. such as the single-piece, ribbed-patterned bench, round headlamp with a chrome bezel, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and round rearview mirrors. This motorcycle is visually stunning thanks to additional features including an upswept exhaust muffler, spoked alloy wheels with chrome-finished rim edges, and a sleek, floating tail section. The bike’s attraction is further boosted by the contrast between the chrome and the blacked-out components.
Hardware and Features
The lightweight trellis frame that supports the Z900 naked street bike’s 41mm upside-down forks up front and monoshock at the rear serves as the foundation for the Z900 RS. The subframe has been modified in the Z900 RS model to allow for a traditional stepped single-piece seat. Dual 300mm front discs and a 250mm single rear disc with dual-channel ABS are used for braking. The motorcycle is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels and Dunlop tyres measuring 120/70 up front and 180/55 at back. A traditional twin-pod instrument console with analogue and digital components, all-LED lighting, and traction control are additional noteworthy features. The Z900RS weighs 215 kg and has a 17-litre fuel tank.
Engine Specifications
The 948cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine that powers the street-legal Z900 RS also powers the vehicle. On the Z900 RS, the engine has been slightly detuned, producing 107 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 95 Nm of maximum torque at 6,500 rpm.
Using a six-speed gearbox with a slip and assist clutch, power is sent to the back wheel. Although there isn’t a direct competitor for the Z900 RS in the Indian market, its neo-retro styling pits it against models like the Triumph Bonneville T100 and Speed Twin.
