KAWASAKI Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (KMSB) has launched the retro-styled Z900RS, priced from RM67,900.
Two variants are offered. The base model is priced at RM67,900, while a special edition version is available at RM69,900.
The Z900RS is powered by the same 948cc DOHC inline-four as Kawasaki’s popular Z900 naked bike, but is tuned to give more low-end grunt and now produces 111 hp and 72.5 Nm of torque.
Kawasaki calls it a “synthesis of the traditional and the modern”. It may be powered by the engine from one of today’s most powerful Z bikes, but the RS’ inspiration comes from the iconic Z1, which was one of Japan’s most powerful bikes from the 1970s.
The focal point of the Z900RS design is the teardrop fuel tank, which bears an unmistakable 70s flavour. The frame had to be completely redesigned to accommodate the tank position and slim shape.
The neo retro treatment extends to the instrumentation. Bullet-shaped dial cases house analogue-style speedometer and tachometer dials, with a multi-functional LCD screen, giving the best of the digital and analogue worlds. The LCD features a negative display.
Kawasaki says they tuned the Z900RS to be reminiscent of their legendary bikes of yesteryear.
“Happy to run at a leisurely pace, but more than capable of accommodating more spirited riding should the mood arise” is the description that Kawasaki uses.
To achieve this, the RS features two-mode switchable traction control.
The engine is housed in a lightweight high tensile trellis frame especially designed for the RS.
It is also the first time that Kawasaki has conducted sound research to craft an exhaust note. Engineers focused on the engine’s initial roar to life, idling and low-speed riding sound where the rider is best able to hear the exhaust.
The RS is also equipped with an assist and slipper clutch.
Race-inspired clutch technology gives the clutch a lighter feel at the lever, and prevents rear-wheel hop when downshifting with a back-torque limiting function.
While the Z900RS will no doubt be a neo classic associated with high power, thanks to its modern Z powerplant, handling has also not been overlooked.
Suspension is handled by a 41mm inverted fork up front and Kawasaki’s Horizontal Back-Link on the rear.
The fork features fully adjustable 10-way compression and 12-way rebound damping.
The rear shock features fully adjustable rebound damping and preload.
The cast aluminium wheels chosen for the Z900RS feature flat spokes designed to look like classic wire-spoked wheels.
The RS was launched in conjunction with Kawasaki Premium Dealer’s Annual Gala Dinner and Chinese New Year 2018 gathering by Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin on Tuesday.
Present were Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd executive chairman Ahmad Faez Tan Sri Yahaya, Japan’s Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd manager Naoki Kawaguchi and KMSB general manager Datuk Jeffrey Lim.