Motorcycle specifications KawasakiZ 900 RS SE 2026 The Z 900 meets its destiny

There's a lot to grumble about, and a lot to disagree with, but there's no denying that the Z 900 RS SE is a classy motorcycle. The timeless lines, the soft golds from the forks to the rims, the half-post, half-modern, half-rock'n'roll ambience... Why do more?

To make it trendy without overdoing it. This is what happens in 2026, with an increase in electronic modules. Since the start of its career, it has had ABS and traction control. These will be upgraded to the next level of efficiency with the installation of an IMU and consequent cornering sensitivity.
In addition to cornering ABS and KCMF modulated traction control, the Z 900 RS gains cruise control and an Up&Down shifter.

How about a few extra watts? In order to emerge from its conversion to E5+ with its head held high, some 116 hp come from the 4-cylinder engine. Five more than the previous generation. A little less torque, but virtually undetectable.

A family affair

This Speciale Edition aims to catch everyone's eye. Better equipped, even more vintage-scented, more desirable, better suspended - it smells of big fun and good whimsy at the same time.

It's a showstopper.... She parades..... With its fork tubes and golden wheels, it's a real showstopper. You'd swear they were Marchesini, which is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the machine. The sun-kissed patina is a far more precious sight than the classic grey or black adorned elements. The Z 900 RS evokes just one thing: it's fun, it's beautiful.

And it's going to feel even better with the improved chassis. The 41 mm upside-down fork not only has a nice coating, but its settings have been reworked to match the better-built shock absorber. Kawa offers the SE a more rigorous, higher-quality Öhlins S46 component. It takes its name from its 46 mm-diameter piston, enclosed in an aluminum body.

Braking, too, has been upgraded with the arrival of Brembo M4.32 calipers. The Italian jaws offer greater consistency and feel, especially as they are activated by a smaller master cylinder (Nissin) and a set of aviation hoses. It would seem that the Z 900 RS was somewhat inspired by the Z 1000 R before pulling out all the stops.

The handlebars receive the company of a USB-C port, placed like a wart on the finger. A practical goodie, but as poorly integrated as on the 1100 (Z, Versys and Ninja SX). We'll nevertheless praise its services for connecting the smartphone, which can now be synchronized with the bike via the Rideology app.

Of course, you'll have to fork out a bit more for this more assertive, more fiery bike.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos