Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe [2018-2022] Review: A Retro-Modern Masterpiece
Introduction
The Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe is a motorcycle that demands attention. It’s not just a machine—it’s a time capsule with a modern heartbeat. Designed to evoke the spirit of Kawasaki’s iconic 1970s Z1, this Cafe variant adds a dash of sporty aggression to the retro formula. As part of the Z900RS lineup produced between 2018 and 2022, the Cafe model distinguishes itself with a bikini fairing, dropped handlebars, and a color scheme that nods to classic racing liveries. But does it live up to its heritage while delivering 21st-century performance? Let’s dive in.
Design & Aesthetics: Nostalgia Meets Precision
The Z900RS Cafe is a masterclass in retro styling with modern flair. The round LED headlight—a clever fusion of vintage design and contemporary tech—sits proudly above a minimalist flyscreen. Kawasaki’s obsession with details shines through: the tank’s hand-painted pinstripes, the brushed aluminum accents, and the ducktail rear fender all scream "heritage." Color options like Pearl Storm Gray (2021), Metallic Diablo Black (2022), and the bold Vintage Lime Green/Ebony (2020) ensure there’s a flavor for every retro enthusiast.
The Cafe’s ergonomics strike a balance between sporty and comfortable. The slightly rearset footpegs and low, narrow handlebars create a leaned-in posture, but the 820 mm (32.3-inch) seat height keeps it accessible. The saddle itself is firm yet supportive—perfect for hour-long rides, though you might crave extra padding on longer hauls.
Engine & Performance: Smooth Operator
At the heart of the Z900RS Cafe lies a 948cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine—a modern masterpiece dressed in vintage clothing. With 110 HP @ 8,500 RPM and 98.5 Nm (72.7 lb-ft) of torque @ 6,500 RPM, this engine is deceptively quick. Throttle response is crisp, thanks to Keihin’s 36mm throttle bodies, and the power delivery is linear. Unlike peaky supersports, the Z900RS Cafe pulls eagerly from as low as 3,000 RPM, making it a joy in city traffic.
The exhaust note deserves special mention. Kawasaki tuned the stainless steel system to replicate the Z1’s signature growl, but with a deeper, more refined bark. It’s loud enough to turn heads without crossing into obnoxious territory.
Fuel efficiency sits at 5.3 L/100 km (44.38 mpg), which translates to a theoretical 320 km (200-mile) range from its 17-liter (4.5-gallon) tank. Real-world riding? Expect closer to 280 km (174 miles) if you’re exploiting that torque.
Handling & Ride Quality: Confidence in the Curves
Kawasaki nailed the chassis setup here. The diamond-type steel frame and fully adjustable suspension—41 mm inverted forks up front and a horizontal back-link rear shock—strike a perfect balance between agility and stability. At 215–216 kg (473–476 lbs) wet, the Cafe feels lighter than its specs suggest. Flicking it through switchbacks is effortless, and the Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 tires (120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear) provide ample grip for spirited riding.
Braking is equally impressive. Dual 300 mm front discs with radially mounted four-piston calipers deliver strong, progressive stopping power. The ABS is unobtrusive, only intervening when necessary—a blessing on wet roads.
Competition: How It Stacks Up
The retro-modern niche is crowded, but the Z900RS Cafe holds its own against key rivals:
- Triumph Street Twin/Scrambler: Triumph’s Bonneville lineup offers superior customization, but the 900cc parallel twin can’t match the Kawasaki’s inline-four character or horsepower.
- Yamaha XSR900: More aggressive and tech-heavy, the XSR900 appeals to hooligans, but its CP3 triple lacks the Cafe’s retro authenticity.
- Honda CB1100: A purist’s dream with its air-cooled engine, but it feels dated next to the Z900RS’s modern suspension and electronics.
The Kawasaki’s ace? It blends nostalgia with contemporary performance better than any competitor. Traction control (a rarity in this segment) and LED lighting give it an edge, while the engine’s flexibility caters to both casual riders and thrill-seekers.
Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive
Owning a Z900RS Cafe is relatively straightforward, but here’s what to prioritize:
- Oil Changes: Use 3.8L of SAE 10W-40 (API SG grade) every 6,000 km (3,700 miles). The wet sump system simplifies DIY changes.
- Chain Care: The 15/42 sprocket setup and sealed O-ring chain require regular cleaning and lubrication. Aim for 25–35 mm (1–1.4 inches) of slack.
- Tire Pressure: Keep the front at 2.5 bar (36 psi) and rear at 2.9 bar (42 psi) for optimal grip and wear.
- Brake Fluid: Flush with DOT 4 every two years to maintain ABS performance.
- Cooling System: The 2.3-liter coolant capacity needs replacement every 48,000 km (30,000 miles).
Common upgrades from MOTOPARTS.store include:
- Aftermarket exhausts for enhanced acoustics.
- Gel seats or ergonomic handlebars for long-distance comfort.
- Suspension upgrades (e.g., Öhlins shocks) for track-day enthusiasts.
Conclusion: Timeless Appeal, Modern Soul
The Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s an experience. It rewards riders with visceral engine performance, sharp handling, and head-turning aesthetics, all while honoring its Z1 ancestry. Whether you’re carving canyon roads or cruising downtown, this bike delivers grins per mile in spades.
For owners, the real magic lies in personalization. Swap the mirrors, tweak the suspension, or add a quickshifter, and the Cafe becomes uniquely yours. At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re here to help you elevate every ride. After all, legends aren’t just born; they’re built.
Ready to make your Z900RS Cafe truly yours? Explore our curated selection of upgrades and accessories today.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 80 kW | 107.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 99 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Fuel Injection (DFI with 36mm Keihin throttle bodies) |
| Max power @: | 8500 rpm |
| Displacement: | 948 ccm |
| Fuel control: | DOHC |
| Max torque @: | 6500 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 73.4 x 56.0 mm (2.9 x 2.2 in) |
| Configuration: | Inline |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 10.8:1 |
| Lubrication system: | Forced lubrication, wet sump |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1470 mm (57.9 in) |
| Wet weight: | 216 |
| Seat height: | 820 mm (32.3 in) |
| Overall width: | 846 mm (33.3 in) |
| Overall height: | 1191 mm (46.9 in) |
| Overall length: | 2101 mm (82.7 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 130 mm (5.1 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 17.0 L (4.5 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Clutch: | Wet multi-disc with assist and slipper function |
| Final drive: | chain |
| Transmission: | 6-speed manual |
| Rear sprocket: | 42 |
| Front sprocket: | 15 |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Rear tire: | 180/55-z-17 |
| Engine oil: | 10W40 |
| Front tire: | 120/70-z-17 |
| Idle speed: | 1100 ± 50 RPM |
| Break fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR9EIA-9 |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.8-0.9 mm |
| Coolant capacity: | 2.3 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 3.8 |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 5000km or 2 years |
| Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.10–0.20 mm |
| Valve clearance check interval: | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi |
| Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.20–0.30 mm |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.9 bar (42 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Additional Features | |
|---|---|
| Lighting: | LED headlight |
| Warranty: | 12 Month Limited Warranty |
| Windscreen: | Small café-style |
| Instrumentation: | Analog speedometer with digital multifunction display |
| Traction control: | Standard |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Frame: | Tubular diamond frame (high tensile steel) |
| Trail: | 98 mm (3.9 in) |
| Rear brakes: | Single 250 mm disc, 1-piston caliper, ABS |
| Front brakes: | Dual 300 mm discs, 4-piston calipers, ABS |
| Rear suspension: | Horizontal Back-link monoshock, adjustable rebound damping and spring preload |
| Front suspension: | 41 mm inverted telescopic fork, adjustable compression/rebound damping and spring preload |
| Rake (fork angle): | 25° |
| Rear wheel travel: | 140 mm (5.5 in) |
| Front wheel travel: | 119 mm (4.7 in) |
