New Kawasaki Z900RS 2026

With the new Kawasaki Z900RS, the Japanese manufacturer writes the next chapter of its retro icon. For the 2026 model year, this classic sportbike features a revised engine, refined electronics, and a sound that is meant to recall the golden era of the Z1.

At the heart of the Kawasaki Z900RS 2026 lies a refined, liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 948 cc. It is expected to deliver 116 hp at 9,300 rpm and 98.0 Nm at 7,700 rpm. The new electronic throttle valves (ETV) manage air and fuel intake more precisely, promising a more natural throttle response. Kawasaki has also reworked the ECU tuning to offer more control at lower revs and noticeably more power at higher revs.

Key technical changes in detail:

• Crankshaft inertia reduced by 10% for a more direct throttle response
• Larger sprocket (43 teeth) and closer gear ratios for improved acceleration
• Compression ratio increased from 10.8:1 to 11.8:1
• New camshaft profiles with altered valve timing
• Revised intake funnels (#1 & #4 shorter, #2 & #3 longer)
• Optimized airbox for consistent torque and the distinctive Z sound

The result is likely to be an even more vibrant riding experience, true to the classic four-cylinder style.

The new megaphone exhaust merges retro style with modern technology. Revised headers, a newly designed end muffler, and a pre-silencer create a deep, authentic sound that intentionally echoes the 4-in-1 system of the Z1. The sound tuning has been specifically developed to provide the rider with the typical Kawasaki sound from the first roar to cruising.

With the new 6-axis IMU, cutting-edge electronics find their way into the Z900RS 2026. It measures every movement of the motorcycle, enabling the use of the Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF). This system is designed to intervene to stabilize when braking in corners or on slippery surfaces, providing enhanced safety without diluting the classic character.

The seating position of the Z900RS remains upright and relaxed—ideal for city traffic or winding country roads. The standard version offers a seat height of 835 mm, while the SE variant is slightly higher at 845 mm. An optional ERGO-FIT Low Seat can lower the seat height by 25 mm. The newly designed seat, with wider side padding and thicker foam, aims to significantly enhance long-distance comfort.

The Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts. A non-contact sensor detects lever movement from as low as 1,500 rpm, momentarily cutting the ignition for smooth gear changes. Additionally, a Cruise Control is now standard, operated via the left handlebar controls. Speed and throttle are electronically managed, with the system automatically adjusting to inclines or declines.

Kawasaki stays true to its roots: The Z900RS will also be available in multiple versions in 2026.

• Z900RS SE in the legendary Fireball design – featuring bolder orange, higher contrast, and gold-colored suspension components
• Black Ball Edition – entirely in black, with classic Z1 emblems
• Standard Model in Candy Tone Red – inspired by the Z1B from 1975

For the first time, all versions are also available as 70 kW models, which can be restricted to 35 kW (A2 compliant).

The Kawasaki Z900RS 2026 is not a radical redesign, but a careful yet consistent continuation of its iconic heritage. With a finely tuned engine, modern electronics, and the signature Z sound, it is set to prove once again that retro and progress don't have to be opposites.

The Z900RS will be available from late 2025/early 2026 at Kawasaki partners. Prices for Germany are already available:

Kawasaki Z900RS: CANDY TONE RED (RD1); Price (MSRP): 12,995 Euros ex-factory, 13,470 Euros including delivery; available from December 2025.

Kawasaki Z900RS Black Ball Edition: EBONY (BK2); Price (MSRP): 13,195 Euros ex-factory, 13,670 Euros including delivery; available from December 2025.

Kawasaki Z900RS SE: METALLIC SPARK BLACK (BK1); Price (MSRP): 14,595 Euros ex-factory, 15,070 Euros including delivery; available from December 2025.