The new Z900RS has a higher seat height but the footing remains the same! Actually check if such opportunism is true [Height 165cm, Footing 0].

The new "Z900RS" is fully equipped with enhanced engine power and electronic control, while complying with the latest emission regulations, for improved performance. In addition, there is no end to the topics of discussion, such as the addition of "SE" equipment and the new "Black Ball Edition. In this issue, we review the changes from the previous model and check the footprint of the new and old models.

Is the 10mm increase in seat height having a serious impact? Preferential treatment for small riders?

The new "Z900RS" unveiled in October marks a turning point for this model, which has not undergone a major model change until now. While the styling remains unchanged from the much-loved "Z1" model, the engine, electronic controls, and various other features have been reviewed and updated to make it more modern. Of course, the riding position has changed as well, with a new narrow handlebar aimed at a lower, more compact position, and a grip position that has been moved 50 mm inward and 38 mm downward to provide a more comfortable posture for smaller riders.

However, the seat height, the point of greatest concern for smaller riders, has been increased by a whopping 10 mm. This is not a mere 10 mm, but for small riders, this figure determines whether the toes or the ball of the thumb can touch the ground. It would be a complete reversal of the original plan if the new model, while claiming to offer a comfortable posture for small riders, worsens the footing of small riders. However, according to Kawasaki's announcement, "Although the seat height has been increased, the ERGO-FIT low seat is standard equipment for domestic specifications, and the tuck roll shape and urethane placement have been reviewed to improve sink-in. The footing is said to be almost the same as before. Is this really true? We had a chance to check out the old Z900RS and the new Z900RS under the same conditions. While reviewing the differences in detail, we would like to expose the truth!

First, a review of the changes. Although the appearance is almost the same, if you look closely, you can see the differences!

The basic engine design is the same as before, with a liquid-cooled, parallel 4-cylinder 948cc engine that shares its design with the "Z900" streetfighter. The major change is the adoption of a new electronically controlled throttle valve. While maintaining the direct feel of the previous wired throttle, the new KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter) for up/down and cruise control can now be installed, enhancing the modern features. The intake funnel, cam profile, and ECU settings have also been optimized to match the new throttle timing. In order to comply with the latest EURO5+ emission regulations, the exhaust system has been modified significantly: the exhaust pipe has been re-routed, an OBD2 sensor has been added to the catalyst, and the silencer has been lengthened by 7 cm. The shape of the silencer end has also been revised. The engine power is also said to have changed as a result of these changes, with higher RPM performance and increased maximum output, but detailed specifications have not yet been announced, so we await the official announcement of the output and torque changes.

As mentioned earlier, the rider's position is more compact thanks to a revised handlebar position and seat height. The rider-assist system also features a new 6-axis IMU KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function) package, which provides advanced traction control. It also features advanced ABS control for stable deceleration for cornering braking, sudden road surface changes, and rough surfaces. New smartphone integration features include a riding log record that allows the user to check vehicle information such as remaining fuel, odometer, and maintenance schedule via connection to the "RIDELOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE" app, incoming call notifications, display of navigation functions, and voice command functionality. The new model also retains the cockpit layout of the previous model, with a bullet-shaped analog twin-lens gauge and mini-sized LCD monitor.

To begin with, the footprint at 165cm is 0. How has the new model changed?

Now, let's step on to the actual car. First of all, the Z900RS is not a machine with poor footing to begin with, and the position is not unreasonably forward leaning, just like a standard naked bike. When both feet are down, the rider stands on tiptoe, which is a bit unstable (it is a bit difficult to move around while tapping the feet), but if one foot is placed on the step, the rider can stand firmly on the ground with only a slight heel lift. The Z900's mass balance makes the 215 kg weight of the machine almost imperceptible, and it can be lightly triggered and steered. This ease of use is one of the reasons why the Z900RS has been so popular since its launch.

And the new model looks the same, but the atmosphere is so different that you may think "what the heck". The most important point is the position of the steering wheel, which is lower and closer to the driver's elbow than in the past. The steering wheel is not too close, however, and the low position gives the car a sporty feel. I can't say for sure until I actually drive the car, but I am also very curious about the difference in handling. As for the footing, which is the most interesting aspect of the car, the conclusion was that there was no doubt that it was "almost the same" as announced. To be more precise, although I felt a little height at the moment I straddled the car, the soft urethane seat sank as soon as I put my weight on it, showing me the same footing as before. It was not squishy in any way, but the soft yet firm support of the rider was a strange feeling. If I had to use an analogy to describe this sense of security, I would say it is like a "sofa that ruins people" (of course it is not squishy and soft!). It's a very comfortable sofa. In fact, the Café's seat was clearly taller than the conventional seat, an atmosphere that would have chosen the rider's height. The difference is so clear that not only riders who are concerned about legroom, but also long tourers who need a softer seat and riders who want to enjoy a luxurious atmosphere will surely benefit from the new ERGO-FIT low seat, which Z900RS owners should experience for themselves. I hope Z900RS owners will experience it for themselves. So, after checking the footing of the old and new Z900RS, we learned that the new model remains the same in terms of footing and is rather more comfortable. Furthermore, the change in handlebar position is a very welcome factor for riders who used to ride far from the handlebars. The improvements that have been made to make it easier for smaller riders to manage the vehicle were convincing to everyone. At this point, we were unable to learn about the evolution of the electronic controls and equipment, but we look forward to actually riding the bike in the future to see how its performance has changed. To the gallery (16)