EICMA 2017: Retro-styled Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe let loose

Kawasaki goes old-school with the 2018 Z900RS Cafe

This year's Tokyo Motor Show saw Kawasaki reveal the retro-inspired Z900RS. The roadster harks back to the classic look of the 1971 Z1 and is powered by a potent 949cc four-cylinder engine that pulls 110 PS and 72.5 Nm of torque.

Now, the motorcycle brand recently revealed a new version of the Z900RS only this time it takes an even more retro look. Dubbed the Z900RS Cafe, the new 949cc bike takes inspiration from cafe racers with its unique body fairings.

Unlike the standard naked bike, the Z900RS Cafe comes with a host of 'old-school' style fairings, along with a new, lower handlebar which gives the bike a sportier riding position. Topping it all off is the headlight cowl that further accentuates the bike's cafe racer look. The bike is then painted in Kawasaki's signature green hue.

Beyond that, the Cafe Racer still comes with the lightweight trellis frame made from steel, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and 949cc liquid-cooled four-cylinder motor with a six-speed gearbox.

“We were delighted at the worldwide acclaim for the Z900RS when it was launched just a few weeks ago. The Z900RS Cafe widens the appeal of the new RS offering and personifies the True Spirit model tagline. Kawasaki took its time to enter the modern classic scene but the wait was worthwhile. The Z900RS Cafe and Z900RS have a unique heritage and an authenticity that sets them apart as the genuine article,” said Morihiro Ikoma, Kawasaki Motors Europe Directors.

Other features present in the 2018 Z900RS Cafe include LED lighting for both the headlight and taillight, anti-lock brakes with radial-mounted calipers, traction control and a slipper clutch.