New Delhi: Kawasaki is bringing the Z900RS back for 2026, which is going to equip the retro roadster with the updated electronics package, giving it a more modern-looking Z900. This will include a latest ride-by-wire throttle, cruise control, and an inertial measurement unit. The Z900RS didn’t change too much for 2026, still drawing design cues from the 1972 Z1 Super Four, like the teardrop fuel tank, round headlight, duck bill, tail cowl and highlighted fins on the liquid-cooled engine to create the illusion of air cooling.
However, the latest colour options, the primary visual difference comes from the newest exhaust system. These exhaust headers have been reshaped with a more exaggerated downward curve, particularly with the outer two pipes. The exhaust ends with the latest, the longest megaphone-style muffler. Less visible are the electronic updates, including the latest electronics throttle valves, electronic cruise control, a bidirectional quick shifter, and the Kawasaki Cornering Management Function. Using the data from the IMU, KCMF integrates with the traction control, wheelie control, slide control, engine brake control, and the Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System.
Kawasaki said that the 2026 Z900RS will have a 948cc Inline-Four producing 114hp at 9,300 rpm and 72.3 Lb-ft. At 7,700 rpm, compared to the 109 hp at 8,500 rpm and 72.6 Lb-ft. At 6,500 rpm claimed with the 2025 Euro-specification model. The high-tensile steel trellis frame is unchanged, as is the suspension on the base model Z900RS. Up front, the 41mm inverted fork returns, again offering adjustable compression and rebound damping and spring preload. At the rear, a horizontal back-link gas-charged shock offers rebound damping and preload adjustments. The brake system is also unchanged, with the dual radial mount four piston monoblock callipers and 300mm discs up front and a single piston calliper and 250mm disc at the rear.
The Z900RS SE adds Brembo callipers and discs for the front wheel, steel braided hoses, and an Ohlins rear shock with the remote adjuster. The SE model also comes standard with the USB-C charging port on the right side of the handlebars. The base model 2026 Kawasaki Z900RS will come in Candy Tone Red, inspired by the 1975 Z1B, and Black Ball Edition in Ebony with the blacked-out components. The 2026 Z900RS SE comes in Metallic Spark Black with orange graphics on black, gold-colored suspension, and matching wheels.
