Kawasaki Motors Japan has officially announced the specifications and launch date of the new one Z900RSseries, which was first presented worldwide at the Japan Mobility Show 2025.
The highlight is the Z900RS SE 2026which gets major engine updates, new electronic features, a connected instrument cluster and a revised ergonomic design, while retaining the classic look inspired by the legendary Z1.
The launch in Japan is scheduled for February 14, 2026. All versions come standard with ETC 2.0 and fall under it Kawasaki Care-plan.
Updated engine and more power
The most important technical change is the introduction of ETVthe new electronically controlled throttle valve, which has been developed to combine smoothness at low revs with a more powerful response at high revs. The 948 ccengine underwent a thorough overhaul, with an increase in the compression ratio 10.8:1 to 11.8:1 and a redesigned camshaft profile.
Another important adjustment is a reduction of approx 10 percent of the crankshaft flywheel mass compared to the previous model, which improves throttle response and delivers a sportier feeling at high revs.
This caused the maximum power to increase 111 hp at 8,500 rpm Unpleasant 116 hp at 9,300 rpm. The maximum torque remains 10,0 kgf.mbut now comes with 7.700 t/mincompared to 6,500 rpm for the previous model.
New exhaust system and adjustments
The exhaust system has also been modified. The exhaust pipe now has a layout that extends further forward than the previous model, with a revised design of the collectors. The damper is now a new type conical megaphone, 70 mm longer than before, and equipped with a screwed end cap made of stainless steel.
In line with these changes, the front room has been made more compact and is a subkatalysator integrated into the system.
Bosch IMU, cornering functions, quick shifter and cruise control
Together with the electronic throttle, Kawasaki has a new one Bosch IMU installed, strengthening the package of electronic driver assistance systems. This includes new cornering braking features via KCMF and updates to it ABS-system.
Also new in the series are the KQS met bidirectionele quick shifter in cruise controlboth of which function from 1.500 t/min.
Classic instrument cluster with connectivity
The Z900RS retains its analogue-looking instrument cluster, now enhanced with smartphoneconnectiviteitwhich combines retro aesthetics with modern features.
Revised ergonomics and adjusted driving position
Kawasaki has also revised the ergonomics of the model. The handlebars are of a new, narrower type, with the handles 50 mm inwards in 38mm down have been moved. The saddle was given a new shape and is equipped with: polyurethane foam to improve comfort and cushioning.
The seat height remains unchanged: 835 mm for the Z900RS and 845 mm for the SE. Kawasaki also offers an optional low seat, which lowers the seat height to 810 mm for riders who want an easier time with their feet on the ground.
Z1-inspired design and Fireball color on the SE
While retaining the Z1-inspired style, the Z900RS SE itself through the return of the original Fireballcolor of the classic model, combining visual heritage with modern technology.
Prices in Japan (yen and dollars)
On the Japanese market the prices of the new ones are Kawasaki Z900RS SE 2026 officially confirmed, reflecting the expansion of the technology and equipment package.
- Z900RS SE 2026: ¥1,837,000 (approx US$ 12.250)
- Z900RS Black Ball Edition: ¥1,529,000 (approx US$ 10.190)
- Z900RS Cafe: ¥1,540,000 (approx US$ 10.270)
The price of the Z900RS SE represents an increase of ¥132.000 compared to the previous model, or approx US$ 880justified by the addition of the electronic throttle, Bosch IMU, bi-directional quick shifter, cruise control and mechanical updates.
All models arrive on February 14, 2026 at Japanese dealers, equipped as standard with ETC 2.0 and included in it Kawasaki Care-plan.
Technical specifications: Kawasaki Z900RS SE 2026
- Length: 2.100 mm
- Width: 815 mm
- Height: 1.135 mm
- Ground clearance: 140 mm
- Wheelbase: 1.465 mm
- Seat height: 820 mm
- Weight: 217 kg (curb)
- Motor: four-cylinder in-line, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, 948 cc, liquid-cooled
- Maximum power: 116 hp at 9,300 rpm
- Maximum torque: 10.0 kgf.m at 7,700 rpm
- Transmission: 6 gears
- Fuel tank: 17 liter
- Tyres: front 120/70ZR17, rear 180/55ZR17
- Price in Japan: ¥1.837.000
- To colour: red and black
- Introduction date: February 14, 2026
Source and images: Kawasaki Japan. This content was created using AI and reviewed by editors.
