Fun-lovin' four-pot: 2025 Kawasaki Z900 retro boasts punchier performance and extra electronics

Kawasaki are continuing their gentle introduction of 2025 models with a revised four-cylinder Z900 naked range featuring more low-end torque, lean sensitive electronics, an up/down quickshifter, and more.

Launched on the evening of Wednesday, October 30, next year’s 900s will consist of a standard and SE model as before – with both bikes powered by a Euro5+ version of the firm’s 948cc four-cylinder engine.

Capacity remains the same, however the engine has been fitted with new electronic throttle valves, plus updated camshaft profiles, and new ECU settings.

As such, the 123.3bhp lump is set to have up to a 16% increase in fuel economy and pumps out fewer carbon emissions when compared with the previous model.

Low end torque has also had a lift, with Kawasaki’s latest up/down quickshifter said to be useable from just 1500 revs.

Further electronics include cruise control as standard, traction control, and rider modes, as well as the firm’s first turn-by-turn navigation system. This is displayed via the bike’s five-inch colour TFT dash, when connected to Kawasaki’s Rideology mobile app.

• Related: Best motorcycle sat navs and mobile apps

Away from the technology, customers will also find a set of four-piston brake calipers and Dunlop Sportmax Q5A tyres – the same rubber you’ll find on next year’s Yamaha MT-07.

There’s also two seat heights available, too – a standard 830mm perch and shorter 810mm position to give smaller riders a surer footing. Both the front and rear lights have also had a restyle, with new brushed aluminium side shrouds further adding to the bike’s look.

Further to this, the SE (Special Edition) model gets USB-C outlet as standard, plus an adjustable Öhlins rear shock with remote preload adjuster, and radially mounted Brembo front calipers.

• Related: Brembo buys Öhlins

Watch: 2020 Kawasaki Z900 review video