Tag Archives: Kawasaki

Kawasaki Z900 SE Unveiled, Gets Higher-spec Suspension And Brakes

In the automotive world, the ‘SE’ suffix usually denotes ‘Special Edition’, typically bringing better hardware and additional features to a platform. Last year, Kawasaki did this with the range-topping, supercharged beast that is the Z H2 SE. Now, the idea has trickled down to one of the more popular street-naked Kawasaki models – the Z900. 

The Z900 SE gets higher-spec components in the form of an updated suspension and more competent brakes. A fully adjustable 41mm USD fork and Öhlins S46 monoshock handle suspension duties. The SE update also brings a remote preload adjuster to either end, giving you the ability to tweak your suspension without any tools.

2022 Kawasaki Z900 SE

And as we just mentioned, the other notable update is to do with the brakes – radially mounted Brembo M4.32 brakes and steel braided lines. Interestingly, these updates were also seen on the retro-styled Z900RS SE, which debuted not too long ago.

A close-up of the gas tank and handlebars on a 2022 Kawasaki Z650RS

The rest of the Z900 SE remains identical to its standard counterpart. This includes the 948cc inline-four, liquid-cooled engine with peak output figures of 125hp at 9,500rpm and 73.1lb-ft of torque at 7,700rpm. The electronics package that debuted on last year’s model, with a three-level Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) system, two power modes – Low and Full; four Riding modes – Sport, Road, Rain, and Rider – has been carried over as well. 

Kawasaki has not announced prices or availability for the Z900 SE in North America.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Retro-styled Kawasaki Z650RS Is Coming

Not too long ago, Kawasaki took the incredibly smooth inline-four motor that powered the Z900 and put it in a retro-themed iteration called the Z900RS. This proved to be a rather fruitful decision, considering that the RS was well received and is still a popular model. 

A side view of the 2022 Kawasaki Z900RS
2022 Kawasaki Z900RS

It’s not surprising that now, the Japanese manufacturer has decided to do the same thing with its 650cc platform. A type-approval document that has found its way online confirms that there will be a Z650RS coming in 2022.

A side view of the 2022 Kawasaki Z650RS model as seen in the teaser trailer
Source: Kawasaki Teaser video on the Z650RS

The upcoming Z650RS will be powered by the 649cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that’s currently at the heart of the Z650, Ninja 650, Vulcan S, and the Versys 650. Peak output figures appear to be the same at 67hp at 8,000rpm and 47lb-ft of torque at 6,700rpm. The document also reveals that the model will have a top speed of 191kmph (118.6mph).

A view of the 2022 Kawasaki Z650RS models

Components like the tubular steel frame and 17-inch wheels will be shared with the standard Z650; however, the former does have a 5mm shorter wheelbase. We think this could be thanks to a different steering rake angle or tweaked suspension set-up, but it’s only speculation at the moment. 

Another obvious difference is the aesthetics – the RS will get body panels and color schemes that stay true to its retro intentions. And, if the differences between the elder siblings are anything to go by, the Z650RS will also feature a slightly more relaxed rider triangle, owing to a taller and wider handlebar.

A close-up of a model connected to the new teaser about the 2022 Kawasaki Z650RS
Source: Kawasaki Teaser video on the Z650RS

The Z650RS is bound to be one good-looking motorcycle, and while any more concrete details are scarce, we won’t have to wait too long for an official update. Kawasaki has been teasing the arrival of a new retro motorcycle on the 27th of September, and it could very likely be this one.

A close-up of the new infotainment system present in the all-new 2022 BMW Transcontinental

Stay tuned for more info, and make sure to check out the Europe-bound Z900RS SE as well as Kawasaki’s 2021 Lineup for spec comparison!

– Submitted by Vishal Venugopal

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

It’s exciting to go back to Barcelona, for many reasons. I had a win in the first ever WorldSBK race there last season and Montm…

It’s exciting to go back to Barcelona, for many reasons. I had a win in the first ever WorldSBK race there last season and Montmelo is the team’s home round. I spend a lot of time there and even during these covid times we will have a lot of guests and sponsors there, so it will be even more important to be at 100% to do the best job we can. The circuit’s really nice, I really enjoy it, especially the new Turn 10, which is much more open than the past and the track has more flow now. We have tested there in the summer and we were able to make a good step with our Ninja ZX-10RR. It is a circuit that is very critical for tyre wear, so we need to focus on that to be strong at the end of the race. I feel good with our bike and I was able to fight in Magny Cours for the podium and in Barcelona the target will be the same. The championship is very close and now we have three rounds in a row, so it is so important to be strong – but also to be consistent and make no mistakes. What happens in these next three weeks will have a big impact on the championship, so I am super-excited to get going


Source: Jonathan Rea On Facebook