If there’s one thing Kawasaki has always done right, it’s keeping the spirit of the Z alive. Since the 1970s, the Z name has stood for raw performance and unmistakable style, much like Honda’s legendary CB line. Both families trace their roots to an era when motorcycling was about freedom, simplicity, and the thrill of twisting the throttle without too much electronic interference.
And somehow, both brands have managed to evolve their icons for a new generation of riders.
The original Kawasaki Z1 that debuted in 1972 was the bike that turned the brand into a performance powerhouse. It was fast, powerful, and reliable, earning its reputation as one of the early “real superbikes.” For many riders, the Z1 was the beginning of Kawasaki’s “Let the good times roll” attitude. Like the Honda CB750, it captured that perfect mix of approachability and excitement, which made it accessible to everyday riders while still thrilling enough for weekend warriors.
Fast-forward to today, and that same DNA lives on in the Z900RS. It’s Kawasaki’s modern tribute to the Z1, a bike that channels the past without being stuck in it. The RS is all about riding nostalgia that actually works in the real world. You get the looks and soul of a vintage machine, but everything under the skin is completely modern.
The Z900RS SE takes this formula a step further. At first glance, it’s all classic cues: the teardrop-shaped fuel tank, the round headlight, and that oh-so-satisfying stance that instantly makes you think of old-school cafe racers parked outside a diner at sunrise. But look closer and you’ll see the refinement that sets this bike apart from the rest.
Power comes from a 948cc inline four-cylinder engine that produces around 111 horsepower and 73 pound-feet of torque. It’s the same smooth, eager mill found in the Z900 naked streetfighter, tuned here for a more relaxed and tractable character. The powerband was tweaked to be wider and forgiving, giving the rider smooth acceleration at low rpm and an addictive rush as the revs climb. Kawasaki even tuned the exhaust system to deliver a soundtrack worthy of its retro charm, complete with that signature growl when you crack the throttle.
The RS SE’s frame is a lightweight trellis design that keeps the bike feeling nimble, even at parking-lot speeds. Kawasaki highlights its handling as one of its best traits. It’s light and predictable, never twitchy or intimidating. The Öhlins S46 rear shock provides a level of control and comfort that feels premium, with an aluminum body and a big 46 mm piston working with internal oil and gas chambers to keep the ride plush without feeling soft. Up front, the suspension is fully adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune it for sporty canyon carving or relaxed weekend cruising.
Braking performance gets a serious upgrade too. The SE uses Brembo M4.32 radial-mount monobloc calipers biting down on 300 mm discs, paired with a Nissin radial-pump master cylinder and braided steel lines. The result is sharp, confidence-inspiring stopping power with plenty of feedback at the lever. It’s a level of control that elevates the RS from a nostalgic ride to a truly capable modern performer.
Gallery: 2026 Kawasaki Z900RS SE
And since we’re in 2025, Kawasaki didn’t forget the tech. The Z900RS SE features an IMU-equipped rider aid suite that includes Kawasaki’s Cornering Management Function and traction control, along with a dual-direction quickshifter for clutchless upshifts and downshifts. Cruise control comes standard too, which makes long highway rides a breeze. Riders can also pair their smartphone via Kawasaki’s Rideology app to track ride data and tweak settings.
What makes the Z900RS SE so special isn’t just the mix of new and old, but how effortlessly it bridges the gap. It’s a bike that feels like it has a soul. It looks like it belongs in the 1970s, yet it rides like a machine built for the modern era. In my opinion, Kawasaki nailed the styling, the sound, and the performances (at least on paper). It’s one of those rare motorcycles that appeals equally to riders who grew up idolizing the Z1 and younger enthusiasts who want a bike that’s fast and looks perfect on their Instagram grid.
Source: Kawasaki
