Kawasaki Motors Japan is refreshing its retro sport lineup. The Z900RS, Z900RS SE, and Z900RS CAFE go on sale on August 1, 2026 (Saturday), followed by the Z900RS Black Ball Edition on September 1, 2026 (Tuesday). Alongside the release, the standard Z900RS adds a new color, Candytone Greenish Blue.
Z900RS
The Z900RS series carries the DNA of Kawasaki's historic Z1, combining classical styling with modern riding performance. Since its debut in 2017, it has been embraced by many riders as a model that embodies the Z tradition and craftsmanship.
Across the engine, chassis, and electronic controls, the bike aims for a refined ride and comfort. The ETV (Electronic Throttle Valves) provides smoothness at low revs and stronger, more exciting performance at high revs. Rider-support features include KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function), which uses an IMU, the KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter) that supports both up- and down-shifts, and electronic cruise control.
The domestic-spec model comes with a low seat as standard, and thick urethane foam together with a narrow handlebar improve the fit and ease of handling.
For this release, the main change from the previous model is the addition of the new Candytone Greenish Blue color.
Z900RS Black Ball Edition
The blacked-out Black Ball Edition is defined by an all-black style that gives it a strong presence. The blacked-out finish extends to the meter bezel, headlight rim, handlebar, brake and clutch levers, front fender stay, radiator shrouds, knee-grip covers, fuel tank cap, chain, and front and rear wheels.
For the Black Ball Edition, there are no changes to the color and graphics or the main specifications. It continues in the Ebony color.
Z900RS SE
The Z900RS SE is the high-grade model in the lineup, a special edition that further raises riding performance and quality. It adopts a Brembo brake package and Öhlins rear suspension for strong control and a supple ride, aimed at riders who want sporty yet refined performance.
At the front, it is fitted with Brembo ø300mm discs and M4.32 radial-mount calipers. A small-diameter Nissin radial-pump master cylinder and stainless steel mesh hoses allow linear, precise braking. At the rear, an Öhlins S46 shock with a large piston and gas chamber provides grip and a comfortable ride, and a remote preload adjuster makes it easy to adjust for tandem riding or luggage.
In terms of appearance, the front fork features a plate engraved with the Öhlins logo and gold-colored outer tubes. A dedicated side-cover emblem, with the RS lettering finished in red, adds a special SE character.
The Fireball color that symbolizes the Z1 follows the graphics of the 2018 model, but with higher saturation and brightness. The orange and metallic black create a vivid contrast that highlights the SE model's presence.
The SE is also equipped with a USB Type-C power socket and a Mitsuba Sankowa GPS-compatible front-and-rear dual-camera drive recorder, offering comfort and reassurance from everyday use to touring.
For the Z900RS SE, there are no changes to the color and graphics or the main specifications. It continues in the Metallic Spark Black color.
Z900RS CAFE
The Z900RS CAFE brings a cafe racer style with a sportier atmosphere to the Z900RS series. By adding cafe racer character to the Z900RS, which fuses classical beauty with modern riding performance, it offers a slightly different motorcycle experience.
The distinctive front cowl creates a sporty impression while also providing wind protection. A black-painted low-position handlebar and a specially designed seat balance style and comfort. The silencer and heat guard have a hairline finish for a refined, sporty look.
The fuel tank uses rainbow-line graphics as an homage to Kawasaki's legendary Mach series. The KAWASAKI logo is expressed with a transfer film, and the underlying body color showing through gives it a distinctive presence. The side-cover emblems are also finished in black for a more unified look.
For the Z900RS CAFE, the color and graphics have been changed, and it is offered in Candytone Red.
All of these models are compatible with RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE. Using the voice command and navigation features requires a license to activate them, and the license is available free of charge.
Prices, Colors, and Release Dates
| Model | Suggested Retail Price (incl. tax) | Color | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z900RS | ¥1,507,000 | Candytone Greenish Blue | August 1, 2026 |
| Z900RS Black Ball Edition | ¥1,529,000 | Ebony (continuing color) | September 1, 2026 |
| Z900RS SE | ¥1,837,000 | Metallic Spark Black (continuing color) | August 1, 2026 |
| Z900RS CAFE | ¥1,540,000 | Candytone Red | August 1, 2026 |
The suggested retail prices include consumption tax and are reference prices. They do not include insurance, taxes (excluding consumption tax), or the various costs associated with registration. These models are subject to the motorcycle recycling program, and the price includes the motorcycle recycling fee. All models come with ABS and ETC 2.0 as standard equipment, are sold exclusively at Kawasaki Plaza, and are Kawasaki Care models.
