car news

Kawasaki puts successful Z900 on edge

October 31, 2024

The Kawasaki Z900 owes its success to a good interplay between engine power and handling. This bike simply handles very easily. It is not too heavy, does not have an imposing seat height and is blessed with a four-cylinder engine that responds to the throttle quizzically at every speed. In addition, the price is attractive.

Familiar recipe from Kawasaki Z900

Behold, the recipe for years of sales success. The Kawasaki regularly scores top three listings among the best-selling motorcycles in the Netherlands and in many other countries. Kawasaki is now presenting a new one, but wisely leaving much of that familiar recipe intact.

But now with more electronics

The exterior has been made a little bolder, and the Z900 is moving up a gear when it comes to electronics. For example, the suite of electronic riding assistance systems is greatly enhanced with the addition of an IMU sensor, a quickshifter, electronic cruise control and an all-new TFT display with navigation.

Engine of Kawasaki Z900

The powerful 948cc four-in-line is one of the great success factors of the Z900. This engine knows like no other how to combine a lot of power at high revs with agility. Thanks to new camshafts, more torque in low and medium revs, the suppleness is even more present. Maximum power is 91 kW (124 hp). Torque is 97.4 Nm at 7,700 rpm. There is also a 70 kW (95 hp) version and it is also available with 35 kW kit for A2 license holders.

Now with special Rider driving mode

New electronically controlled throttle valves provide more precise throttle response and also allow the addition of the up/down quickshifter and cruise control. You can also choose from Sport, Road and Rain driving modes. For the really hardcore sporty riders, there is also the fully configurable Rider driving mode, in which, for example, Traction Control can be disabled.

Modified spring settings

Modified front and rear spring settings allow more pressure on the front end resulting in even sharper handling and more feel in the front end. New radially mounted calipers are lighter, more powerful and provide more feedback.

Electronic bend angel

Major innovations have also been made in the electronic driver assistance systems. Thanks to the new six-axis IMU, the ABS now operates in a slope-dependent manner. As a result, the cornering angel Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF) is now also available. This groundbreaking system monitors parameters at corner entry, apex and exit, modulating braking force and power delivery to help you maintain your intended line optimally.

LED headlights

The Z900’s impressive Z-Supernaked design is completely new, yet still recognizable. The front end is more sharply fronted with new LED headlights. The shape of the fuel tank fits seamlessly. You get a more aggressive-looking whole. New side covers, adjacent to the radiator, are made of brushed aluminum. The rear has been shortened and features a new LED taillight.

Voice control

In the cockpit is a 5-inch TFT color display with ”turn-by-turn” navigation and voice control via the Rideology App. The display can be changed between two layouts. Layout 1 displays all important information, while in layout 2 a jet-inspired inclination indicator dominates which is perfect for sporty rides.

Kawasaki Z900 SE

In addition to the standard Z900, an SE model is also available. This version takes the Z900’s handling to the next level with a high-performance Öhlins S46 shock absorber, fully adjustable front fork, Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers, radial Nissin brake pump and steel-braided brake lines. In addition to these upgrades, the SE comes standard with a sportier saddle, USB-C connector and a special color scheme.

Prices?

Prices will be announced later by Kawasaki, at least for delivery scheduled for February 2025.