Tokyo Motor Show 2017: Kawasaki Z900RS is the retro bike we've been lusting after

The retro movement isn't dead by a long shot, and Kawasaki's Z900RS is the latest in the long line of neo-retro motorcycles to prove that. It is inspired by the legendary Z1, and that inspiration is clear in the fuel tank design.The twin-pod instrument cluster with its analogue speedo and tacho also echo the past, but a lot of information can be had in the digital part of the instrument cluster.

However, it gets tons of modern bits - it is based on the Z900, as the name suggests, but the chassis had to be modified a little to accomodate the new fuel tank. Second, the rider's seating triangle is an upright one, with a raised handlebar and footpegs that are forward. Among other modern bits are all-LED lighting, upside down front forks with radially-mounted brake callipers that grab twin 300mm discs, a 'slip-assist' clutch that reduces effort at the lever and eliminates wheel hop on downshifts, and a suite of electronics along with ABS and switchable traction control. The latter is a feature that the Z900 does not have yet, but we expect it to make its way to the streetfighter. It may share the engine with the Z900, but both power and torque have been toned down to a more friendly 110bhp@8500rpm and 73Nm at 6500rpm. All this retro goodness weighs in at 215kg.

For those who want retro looks but don't want to give up performance, there is the Z900RS custom. This exchanges mundane materials like steel and plastic for exotic bits like a titanium exhaust and carbonfibre panels and wheels. It is also distinguished by a different paint scheme and decals.

The Z900RS aims to be part of the retro movement that includes the Ducati Scrambler, BMW R nineT, and of course the leader of the pack, the Triumph Bonneville. We imagine the product from Team Green will become one of the more popular big bikes in the Indian market, because of its styling, everyday usability and of course, exhaust note. Look for it to be possibly present at the Delhi Auto Expo in January and a launch in early 2018.