Kawasaki Z 900RS 50th Anniversary

Kawasaki’s legacy of creating motorcycles that have unrivaled performance, excitement, and unmatched styling continues by welcoming four new special anniversary models  to its 2022 motorcycle lineup with the Z 50th Anniversary Z900, Z650 Z900RS and Z650RS.

As the last letter in the alphabet, Z represents the ultimate – the reason why the legendary Kawasaki super4 900 was nicknamed the Z1 in 1972. Since then, the Z moniker has been inherited by several models in Kawasaki’s lineup that have been developed to stand out as the ultimate machines in their respective categories. Fast forward to 2014 and the next step in Z supernaked performance and design was taken with Sugomi styling incorporated into the Z1000. The Kawasaki Z family of motorcycles has grown into one of Kawasaki’s core motorcycle brands.

For 2022, the Z 50th Anniversary editions of the supernaked Z900 and Z650 can be found adorned in a “Firecracker Red” paint scheme, similar to that found on the dominant 1981 Z1100GP that pushed the limits of air-cooled high performance. The Z brand’s 50-year pursuit of the ultimate riding excitement, passed from generation to generation, now vividly adorns these Z supernaked models.

For the Z 50th Anniversary editions of the Z900RS and Z650RS, the iconic “Fireball” colorway of the 1972 Z1 was chosen. With elegant curves resplendent in the lustrous, rich red of the famous Fireball pattern, Z's glorious past and brilliant future shines for all to see. An exquisite milestone to mark half a century of Z history.

Limited production will apply to each of these unique models and a special coffee table book commemorating the 50 years of the Z brand will be included as a premium gift for each customer who purchases a Z 50th Anniversary Edition model.

Z 50th ANNIVERSARY Z900 AND Z650

Z 50th Anniversary editions of the Z900 and Z650 supernakeds are clad in an eye-catching “Firecracker Red” that was found on dominant Kawasaki machines like the Z1100GP. This hue of red was Kawasaki’s signature color in the 1980s, and for these Z 50th Anniversary models, was specially blended, making their aggressive supernaked Z styling even more striking. Dark blue and silver highlights throughout complement the vivid red color and a gloss black frame contrasts the bright coloring. The Z emblem and Kawasaki logo are finished in gold and a commemorative Z 50th Anniversary logo has been added to the front fender, further distinguishing these models from their
standard counterparts. The red wheels feature silver pinstripes, adding to the head turning styling and special seat that has a texture distinct from the standard model. Gold outer fork tubes can also be found on the Z 50th Anniversary Z900, providing a high-class touch.

Z 50th ANNIVERSARY Z900RS AND Z650RS

Reigniting the classic style of the original Z1 900 motorcycle, the Kawasaki Z 50th Anniversary Z900RS and Z650RS retro-sport motorcycles feature a “Fireball” colorway that honors the legendary Z1 and pursues the quality suitable for a 50-year milestone. A special painting process was developed specifically for these Z 50th anniversary models, which includes the candy colors being applied in layers using a special technique that brings out a deep, glossy texture to enhance the inherent beauty of these retro-sport models. The frame is finished in gloss black to complement the rich coloring, and gold colored wheels add to the old school retro styling. Additional special features found on these models include “Double Overhead Camshaft” side cover emblems like that found on the original Z1, a commemorative Z 50th Anniversary tank logo, revised seat material with a distinct texture and special color stitching, and a chrome grab bar.

Adding to the Z 50th Anniversary Z900RS’ design are timeless design elements with minimal bodywork and no fairing for a pure retro-style look.

Engine

The engine is based on that of the Z900, but re-tuned to create an engine character that’s completely different. While the Z900 engine has a sharp, quick-revving nature that encourages high-rpm operation, the Z900RS was tuned for low-mid range power, delivering strong torque that facilitates control for riders of all skill levels. Below 7,000 rpm the engine actually pulls stronger than the Z900.

• Cam profiles with shorter intake (270˚ to 248˚) and exhaust (256˚ to 244˚) duration focus engine performance in the low-mid rpm range. Strong and smooth response gives the engine a very manageable character.
• Compression ratio is reduced from the Z900’s 11.8:1 to 10:8 to complement the shorter duration valve openings.
• Crankshaft with an approximately 12 percent heavier flywheel mass than the Z900 contributes to the Z900RS’s smooth character.
• Die-cast cylinder block is rigid while its open deck design helps save weight.
• Connecting passageways between the cylinders help reduce pumping loss, improving high-rpm performance.
• The pistons are formed using the same unique casting process that is used for making those found in the Ninja H2™/H2™R. The process creates hollow areas to achieve idealized thickness for reduced weight without sacrificing strength.
• Downdraft intake design provides the fuel mixture with the straightest, shortest path to the combustion chamber to contribute to performance.
• Stylish fins built into the cylinder head help create an image of an air-cooled engine to further invoke the original Z1 heritage.
• Die-cast aluminum engine covers are also inspired by the Z1, with the clutch cover and many other parts featuring Z1 motifs.

Digital Fuel Injection(KP)

• 36mm throttle bodies are used for their ideal mid-range response.
• Sub-throttle valves, located behind the main throttle valves, are controlled by the ECU so the EFI system has smooth, sensitive throttle response.

Exhaust System

• Extensive sound research used to craft the ideal exhaust note that emphasizes the engine’s sound at initial start-up, during idle, and while riding a lower speeds where the rider is best able to enjoy the exhaust’s deep rumble.
• Dual-wall header pipes give the exhaust a more powerful appearance while making them resistant to heat discoloration over time.
• 4-into-1 exhaust with short megaphone muffler contributes to the retro image while enhancing the exhaust note.
• Exhaust system is formed from high-quality stainless steel and triple buffed to a lustrous shine.
• Pre-chamber helps centralize mass, reduces muffler size and contributes to the exhaust note.

Assist and Slipper Clutch(KP)

• Using the rotational forces fo the clutch hub and pressure plate, the clutch is forced together during acceleration (assist function) so that fewer and lighter clutch springs can be used for a lighter feel at the lever. During high back torque, such as when too low of gear is selected during downshifting, the slipper function allows some clutch slippage to help prevent rear wheel hop and stalling due to engine lock-up.
• Judder spring component helps prevent judder when the clutch is disengaged.

Transmission

• Gearing is optimized for the Z900RS’ engine character.
• Compared to the Z900, a shorter first gear combined with the engine’s strong low-end torque facilitates moving off from a stop, while a longer sixth gear allows the engine to run a lower rpm when
cruising at highway speeds for increased ride comfort. Kawasaki Traction Control System (KTRC)(KP) (2-MODE)
• 2-mode system offers enhanced sport riding performance and rider assurance by facilitating smooth riding on slippery surfaces. The operator can also choose to turn the system off.
• Mode 1 features highly-sophisticated programming that allows a degree of wheel slip to maximize acceleration. The system looks at a number of parameters to get an accurate real-time picture of
what is going on: front and rear wheel speed (slippage) and various engine, machine and rider input parameters are monitored. Complex analysis predicts when traction conditions are about to become
unfavorable and the system acts before wheel slippage exceeds the range for optimal traction.
• Mode 2 has higher sensitivity and controls ignition timing, fuel and air for ultra-smooth operation.
• The system uses minimal hardware but complex software. Apart from the engine ECU, the system relies on only front and rear wheel speed sensors so that it is light weight.

Trellis Frame

• Using Kawasaki’s advanced analysis technology, the trellis frame was designed to accommodate the slim teardrop fuel tank and offer the retro-style handling optimal for enjoyable riding at a more measured pace.
• Compared to the aggressive, forward-leaning stance of the Z900, the Z900RS has a neutral, or even, stance achieved by raising the front and lowering the rear. Suspension settings were chosen to achieve a high level of comfort for more relaxed riding.
• The upper-triple clamp increases the steering offset by 6mm (from 28mm to 34mm over the Z900), which reduces trail to help quicken the steering and contribute to light handling.
• Frame components follow the ideal pipe line so that the lines of the frame are as straight as possible. When bends were necessary their angles were as small as possible, resulting in a design that disperses stress extremely well.
• Five-point, rigidly-mounted engine is a stressed member, which contributes to weight savings.
• Twin-tube rear frame section contributes to the low seat height and easy reach to the ground while minimizing vibration transferred though the seat.

Inverted Front Fork

• 41mm inverted front fork contributes to excellent ride comfort and sporty riding potential.
• 10-way compression and 12-way rebound damping adjustment allows fine-tuning for rider preference and riding style.

Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension(KP)

• Fitted with Kawasaki’s modern suspension technology for a higher level of sporty riding potential and matches the front fork’s level of ride comfort and sporty performance.
• The linkage is placed atop the swingarm for better mass centralization and to place the lay-down shock absorber further away from the exhaust so that its operation will not be affected by exhaust heat. The shock has adjustable preload and rebound damping. • Extruded aluminum swingarm is lightweight and contributes to the light handling.

Brakes

• Dual 300mm front discs are clamped by dual opposed piston monobloc calipers that provide a firm feel from the initial touch for superb brake performance.
• The machined Monobloc calipers have an alumite coating and laser-etched Kawasaki logo to add to the high-quality sporty appearance.
• Radial pump master cylinder also contributes to the superb control and feel offered by the calipers.
• Sintered brake pads contribute to the superb feel.

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)(KP)

• ABS helps provide an added degree of reassuring braking performance.

Wheels & Tires

• Cast wheels feature flat spokes designed to look like classic wire-spoked wheels. Designed using Kawasaki’s advanced analysis technology, the wheels offer a balance of light weight and stylish looks, contributing to both handling and the retro Z1 design.
• On some colors, machining on the spokes and rim edge contributes to the bike’s high-quality image.
• Dunlop GPR-300 tires contribute to retro-style looks.

Relaxed Ergonomics

• The upper-triple clamp is 40mm higher, contributing to the higher handlebar position and a more upright riding position than the Z900.
• Wide, flat handlebar contributes to the retro styling while offering a wide grip to facilitate control. Compared to the Z900, the handle grips are 30mm wider (total), 65mm higher and 35mm closer to the rider, contributing to the more upright riding position. A wide 35-degree steering angle facilitates low-speed maneuvering.
• Handlebar features rubber-mounted bar-ends to dampen vibrations.
• Both clutch and brake levers are 5-way adjustable, able to accommodate a variety of hand sizes for increased comfort.
• Slim fuel tank is narrow at the rear, making it easy for riders to grip the bike with their knees.
• Low seat height and slim overall design help facilitate the reach to the ground so that a wide range of riders can place both feet can be firmly on the ground when stopped.
• Stepped seat offers a wide seating area for good ride comfort for both rider and passenger. The seat is slimmer at the front, facilitating the rider’s reach to the ground. The seat can be removed without tools, offering easy access to the battery, fuse box and tool kit.
• Compared to the Z900, the footpegs are 20mm lower and 20mm farther forward, contributing to an even more relaxed riding position.
• Rider footpegs feature rubber pads to reduce vibration transmitted through the feet, as well as rubber-mounted weights on their undersides to further dampen vibrations.

Distinctive Z Styling

With a seamless blend of Z1-inspired styling elements and modern craftsmanship – from the iconic teardrop fuel tank to the innovative oval LED taillight – the Z900RS offers timeless good looks with an exquisite attention to detail and superb fit-and-finish. From the top-quality paint on the fuel tank to the high-grade coating for the bolts, attention to the smallest detail, carefully considered wire routing, and a clean fit-andfinish contribute to the Z900RS’ high-quality appearance.

• The centerpiece teardrop fuel tank is reminiscent of the Z1 and the frame was designed to accommodate the tank’s ideal position and slim shape.
• Complementing the rich paint used on the tank, immersion graphics on the candytone brown model result in a design that does not leave a raised surface, resulting in a highquality finish.
• The 4.5-gallon fuel tank actually extends down behind the side covers, a layout that maintains the slim design of the tank while offering greater tank volume for extended cruising range.
• Stylish fuel tank cap complements the elegant lines of the tank.
• Side covers were designed to flow naturally from the tank. Emblems on the side covers contribute to the retro styling.
• Knee grip covers, located forward of the side covers, are pressed aluminum pieces with a clear alumite coating for an attractive, long-lasting finish.
• A blend of retro and modern designs, the large-diameter LED headlamp casts a bright, white light for great nighttime visibility. Position lamps in the high-beam chambers ensure the whole lamp appears lit, like a retro-style bulb headlamp. Convex lens and chromed headlamp ring add to the retro design.
• Round mirrors are styled after those of the Z1, contributing to the retro looks while ensuring good rearward visibility.
• Three-piece front fender uses die-cast aluminium fender supports, adding a high-quality touch and enhancing the retro image. The supports are extremely thin, measuring only 1.7mm thick, to keep weight down.
• Stylish two-tone seat uses different materials for the top and sides to create a high-quality design. Double-stitching adds to the high-quality image.
• Flowing design of the rear cowl was inspired by the duckbill tail cowl of the Z1.
• The oval design of the LED taillight is another homage to the Z1. Unlike standard LED taillights that appear as a collection of dots, the surface-emitting LED taillight lights up as a solid surface, creating a design that is both retro and modern.