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Naked Motorcycles

2021Kawasaki Z900RS

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The 2021 Kawasaki Z900RS is a retro-styled middleweight that appeals to riders seeking classic aesthetics with modern performance. Powered by a 948cc inline-four producing 110 horsepower, it delivers responsive power and nimble handling in a timeless package. Known for blending vintage charm with reliable, everyday rideability and accessible performance.

Capacity: 948.0 ccm
Engine: In-line four, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 215.1 kg
Seat height: 836 mm
Power: 110.0 HP (80.3 kW) @ 8500 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

What’s new for the 2021 Kawasaki Z900RS

vs the 2020

Spec	2020	2021
Front suspension	Inverted telescopic fork with (10-way) adjustable compression and rebound (12-way) damping, spring preload	Inverted telescopic fork with (13-way) adjustable compression and rebound (11-way) damping, spring preload (15-turn

Other years 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail15%

Cornering75%

City riding70%

Daily riding78%

Touring62%

Two-up60%

Track40%

Best for: Built for stylish street riding and weekend backroad cruising rather than outright performance or track work.
Built for: A retro-styled naked roadster that blends nostalgic Z1-inspired looks with modern chassis manners and smooth four-cylinder power delivery.
Not ideal for: Not ideal for off-road adventures or riders seeking a lightweight, hyper-aggressive supersport experience.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 836mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2021 Kawasaki Z900RS, with a relaxed knee angle of around 130 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 821-900 mm — Long Legs →

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Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 948.0 ccm
Power: 110.0 HP (80.3 kW) @ 8500 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 114 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.: MKAXC.948AAB-020
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 4.86 L/100km (48.4 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 0.1 CO g/km
Torque: 98.5 Nm (10.0 kgf-m) @ 6500 RPM
Engine type: In-line four, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.30 litres/100 km (18.9 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.5114 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke: 73.4 x 56.0 mm
Compression: 10.8:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: TCBI with electronic advance
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, wet sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-disc, manual

Performance

0-60 mph: 3.20 seconds
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 3.50 seconds

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1470 mm
Overall length: 2111 mm
Overall width: 865 mm
Overall height: 1181 mm
Seat height: 836 mm
Wet weight: 215.1 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Tubular, diamond
Front suspension: Inverted telescopic fork with (13-way) adjustable compression and rebound (11-way) damping, spring preload (15-turn
Rear suspension: Horizontal back-link swingarm with stepless adjustable rebound damping and spring preload
Front wheel travel: 119 mm
Rear wheel travel: 140 mm
Rake (fork angle): 25.0°
Trail: 98 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper.
Rear brakes diameter: 250 mm
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 180/55-ZR17

Other

Color options: Candytone Green/Yellow
Warranty: 12
Comments: Traction control.
Fuel Tank Material: Metal

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2018	2020	2021	2023	2025	2027
Capacity	948 cc	948 cc	948 cc	948 cc	948 cc	948 cc
Seat height	795 mm	836 mm	836 mm	836 mm	835 mm	835 mm
Fuel capacity	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2021 Kawasaki Z900RS is a modern classic motorcycle that embodies the spirit of the original Z1 from the 1970s. With its retro-inspired design and powerful performance, this bike stands out in the crowded market of modern classics. The 948cc inline-four engine provides a thrilling ride, while the advanced chassis and suspension deliver precise handling and a comfortable ride. The Z900RS also features modern technology such as traction control and multiple riding modes, making it a versatile and practical choice for riders looking for a blend of timeless style and contemporary performance.

Overall, the 2021 Kawasaki Z900RS is a fantastic motorcycle that pays homage to the iconic Z1 while offering the latest in performance and technology. Its retro design, powerful engine, and modern features make it a standout choice in the modern classic category. Whether you're a fan of vintage motorcycles or simply appreciate a timeless aesthetic, the Z900RS is sure to impress with its balance of style and substance.

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