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Kawasaki reveal Z900RS SE with uprated suspension and 70s tribute paint

Published: 16 August 2021
  • The 2022 Kawasaki Z900RS SE features a fully-adjustable Öhlins shock
    The 2022 Kawasaki Z900RS SE features a fully-adjustable Öhlins shock
  • The Kawasaki Z900RS SE will be available from January 2022
    The Kawasaki Z900RS SE will be available from January 2022
  • A side view of the Kawasaki Z900RS SE
    A side view of the Kawasaki Z900RS SE
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Kawasaki are gunning for the retro bike top spot after revealing a new Z900RS SE model for 2022 featuring beefier suspension components, uprated brakes and a striking ‘Yellow Ball’ 70s tribute paint job.

Based on the standard 948cc four-cylinder roadster that’s been with us since 2017, the Euro5-compliant SE is immediately distinguished by its new colours inspired by the 1972 Z1 Super Four model.

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This is then finished off with new red RS badging below the rolled seat, golden spoked rims, and a black FI cover, and radiator side covers.

It’s not all about cosmetics though and Kawasaki have gifted the SE an Öhlins S46 rear shock – replacing the preload and rebound-adjustable standard horizontal unit.

Gold USD forks feature on the Kawasaki Z900RS SE

Complete with a remote preload adjuster for some added bling-factor, the Swedish component features an aluminium body, with single-tube construction. Separate chambers for oil and gas are also said to provide an improved feeling of grip and handling – with the standard bike previously criticised for feeling floaty when pushed.  

Whilst on the topic of suspension, the old school Zed also gets a pair of fully-adjustable golden 41mm upside down forks. Although the same diameter as the USD units on the standard RS, they feature revised settings – said to create a more balanced ride.

Away from the springs, the new bike also gets an improved braking set-up, with new front Brembo discs and calipers. M4.32 radial monoblocs bite onto 300mm rotors and are served by a 1.6mm smaller, 17.5mm Nissin radial master cylinder, plus stainless steel braided lines.

The limited run-machines are set to be priced at £12,499 and are expected to arrive between January and February 2022. Bikes will only be allocated to dealers once a customer has placed a deposit. Keep an eye on MCN for updates and an in-depth review coming soon.

Watch MCN’s Kawasaki Z900RS video review here

By Dan Sutherland

News Editor - I joined the MCN team straight from studying at the University of Sheffield, starting out as Acting Consumer Editor, before becoming the Senior Online Reporter, Senior Writer and more recently the News Editor. Although my first love will always be performance bikes and racing, I have a passion for all things two-wheeled. I did my Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) on my 16th birthday and passed my full test around a year later. I now cover around 20,000 road miles a year on motorcycles of all genres and in all weathers. I have also experienced elements of advanced rider training, tackled countless UK and international short circuits and achieved an ACU race licence to begin a fledgling competition career.