The Kawasaki Z900RS 2018, today's technology on the styling of the 70s

Motorcycle enthusiasts have always had a certain fondness for designs from other times. That is why, alongside very attractive and modern designs, manufacturers are looking back to the past to create models that revive those designs but with all the technology the industry offers today. A case in point is the new Kawasaki Z900RS 2018, which was shown at the EICMA in Milan and which we bring you here so you can see what it is capable of, straight from Japan.

Ahead of this important event for two-wheel enthusiasts, several teasers were released to give us clues without showing anything definitive. What we find is a motorcycle inspired by the Kawasaki Z1, so it keeps a completely retro look, although it is a disguise that hides the latest technology available for riding this model. Everything is designed to recreate a 70s motorcycle, but with all the features of a model meant for 2018.

The styling features a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, with a single-piece seat and an almost horizontal tail section, while the wheels also have a traditional design, with chrome finishes, to enhance that very retro look. The twin-dial instrument cluster with digital screen mimics that of the era, as does the mudguard. The engine, although water-cooled, imitates air-cooled blocks, more suited to the style chosen for the model.

In fact, it is the same engine used by the Kawasaki Z900 but modified to give it that look. In terms of figures, this four-cylinder block delivers 111 CV and a maximum torque of 98.5 Nm. The 4-into-1 exhaust with chrome side outlet has been tuned so the rider has a deep, powerful sound accompanying them while riding.

It sits on a Trellis-type steel frame with black finishes, the colour chosen for most of the motorcycle’s decorative details. The inverted fork with a 41 mm diameter has compression and rebound adjustment, and a rear monoshock completes the base of the model. The front brakes are dual 300 mm discs with four-piston radial calipers. The clutch is assisted and anti-hopping.

Continuing with that modern, up-to-date equipment, the Kawasaki Z900RS 2018 features KTRC traction control with two modes. LED lights, both at the front and rear, complete the contemporary design. It will reach the market in early 2018 and will be available in three finishes: Candytone Brown/Candytone Orange, Metallic Flat Spark Black and Metallic Matte Covert Green/Flat Ebony. We do not yet know its price, but it will be accompanied by a café version, which will have the characteristics typical of this type of model.