Z900RS Black Ball Edition 2026
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four |
| Displacement | 948 |
| Bore x stroke | 73.4 x 56 mm |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Valve/Induction system | DOHC, 16 valves |
| Fuel system | Fuel injection: Ø 36 mm x 4 |
| Ignition | Digital |
| Starting | Electric |
| Lubrication | Forced lubrication, wet sump |
| CO2 Emission | 117 g/km |
| Maximum Power | 85.0 kW {116 PS} / 9,300 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 98.0 N•m {10.0 kgf•m} / 7,700 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
| Frame type | Trellis, high-tensile steel |
| Rake/Trail | Trail: 98mm |
| Wheel travel | Front: 120 mm | Rear: 140 mm |
| Steering angle | 35° / 35° |
| Seat Height | 835mm |
| Curb Mass | 216 kg* | *Curb mass includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied). |
| Ground Clearance | 135 mm |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2,100 x 865 x 1,150 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17 Litres |
| Brakes Front | Dual semi-floating 300 mm discs. Caliper: Dual radial-mount, monobloc, opposed 4-piston |
| Brakes Rear | Single 250 mm disc. Caliper: Single-piston |
| Suspension front | 41 mm inverted fork with compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability |
| Suspension Rear | Horizontal Back-link, gas-charged shock with rebound damping and spring preload adjustability |
Smartphone connectivity lets riders connect to their machine wirelessly for an enhanced motorcycling experience.
Like the original Z1, the Z900RS’ 900cc-class In-Line Four engine configuration offers an ideal balance of power and manageability. The engine’s newly equipped electronic throttle valves enhance controllability in the low- to mid-rpm range, where riders spend most of their time. At the same time, increased power in the higher rpm range further sharpens the bike’s fun-to-ride character.
Complementing a light overall weight (noticeable as soon as the bike is lifted off its side-stand), frame rigidity and chassis geometry tuning were selected to deliver light, natural handling. Like the engine, the chassis responds to rider input predictably, going where the rider wants it to without resistance.
Complementing the Z900RS’ rider-friendly engine and handling performance, an expanded electronic rider support package includes IMU feedback and Kawasaki’s latest dual-direction KQS, as well as comfort-enhancing features like electronic cruise control. Smartphone connectivity further enhances the riding experience, offering greater convenience and enjoyment than ever before.
The Z900RS’ suspension and brake components are on par with those of a modern supersport model. A Ø 41 mm inverted fork with adjustable damping and Horizontal Back-link rear suspension contribute to both a comfortable ride and sporty performance. Radial mount front brakes deliver a linear brake feel with excellent controllability.
In addition to a choice of three different models (Z900RS, Z900RS Blackball Edition and Z900RS SE), riders will be thrilled with highly distinct retro sport images created by the colourways available. The standard model is available in Candy Tone Red colour scheme inspired by 1970s Z models, as well as a Black Ball Edition that features a fully blacked-out design complemented by classic-style Z1 badging. The SE model adopts a vivid Fireball pattern further enhanced by its gold-coloured suspension components for a truly standout appearance. The CAFE model, which already turns heads thanks to its cafe-racer-image front cowl, cafe-racer-image drop handlebar and unique seat, features a blacked-out design with tank graphics inspired by Kawasaki’s legendary Mach series.
With a seamless blend of Z1-inspired styling elements and modern craftsmanship—from the iconic teardrop fuel tank to the innovative oval LED taillight—the Z900RS offers timeless good looks with an exquisite attention to detail and superb fit-and-finish that results in a very high-quality appearance. Functional beauty was a priority, with a simple, yet refined design pursued.
The elegantly sculpted teardrop-style fuel tank at the heart of the design draws inspiration from the iconic Z1. Echoing the Z1’s distinctive tail design, the tail cowl contributes to a sleek side profile that flows smoothly from the seat to the end of the tail. Further tribute is paid through details like the round LED headlamp, dual-dial instrumentation, and oval LED taillight—all carefully crafted elements that honour the original Z1’s timeless appeal.
As with previous models, sound tuning was used to achieve the ideal exhaust note. With the goal of resonating with the rider’s senses, the exhaust sound was carefully engineered to evoke the character of a classic 4-into-1 system. The result is a deep, evocative tone that enhances the riding experience—from the engine’s initial roar at startup to its pulsing idle and rich sound during low-speed cruising.
Stylish fins integrated into the cylinder head create the impression of an air-cooled engine and are further complemented by engine design cues inspired by the original Z1. The engine cover design is reminiscent of traditional naked models, and the use of die-cast aluminium for all covers adds a high-quality, premium finish.
