2017 Kawasaki Z900
A new 948cc engine based on the current Z1000 mill, and with an all-new trellis frameKawasaki's updated 'Z' offensive in 2017 not only includes the Z650 but also the new Z900.
The bike, unveiled at the recent EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, will replace the Z800 in Kawasaki's line-up, using a 948cc version of the Z1000 engine. In its lower capacity guise, the in-line four-cylinder engine produces 125hp (92.2kW) and 98.6Nm, and there's an assist and slipper clutch added into the mix as well.
One of the criticisms of the old Z800 was that its engine, for a sporting naked, lacked some keenness compared to its rivals, so Kawasaki has obviously been listening… And the Z900's joining an illustrious group of 900cc Kawasakis that have come before it (Z1, GPz900R, ZX-9R) so the pressure's on!
According to Kawasaki, the Z900 is the second Kawasaki model (after the Z1000) to benefit from “sound research” in crafting its intake note. To that end, the shape of the airbox was designed based on acoustic tests carried out in a sound room. Kawasaki says the intake note on the Z900 is "clear and mild" compared to "edgy and powerful" on the Z1000.
Styling has never been a reason to take issue with the Z800 though, and the Z900 continues in the same vein, complete with an LED taillight lights up in a “Z” pattern, contributing to the sporty image and the strong Z identity.
The chassis incudes an all-new light-weight steel trellis frame, which plays its part in in keeping weight down to 210kg. The suspenders are 41mm upside-down forks and a horizontally mounted shock, both adjustable for rebound and preload. Anti-lock braking is standard.
The seat height is 794mm, and colours are Pearl Mystic Gray / Metallic Flat Spark Black, Candy Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black, Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Spark Black and Candy Plasma Blue / Metallic Graphite Gray (Special Edition).
Kawasaki Australia is yet to announce which liveries we'll be seeing, and there's no word on price yet.
The Z900 will be on display at 2016 Moto Expo Melbourne, which will be held from November 25-27. The Z900 wil be joined by the Versys-X 300, Z650L, Ninja 650, Ninja 650L and Ninja 1000.
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