The Z900 Legacy Why It’s a Big Deal
I’ve always had a soft spot for the Kawasaki Z900. It’s one of those bikes that hits the sweet spot between power, agility, and everyday rideability. So, when I heard the 2025 version had landed in India at ₹9.52 lakh (ex-showroom), I had to dig in and see what’s changed and what’s stayed gloriously the same.
Let me walk you through it.
The 2025 Kawasaki Z900 isn’t just another naked streetfighter. It carries forward the iconic “Z” lineage from Kawasaki, which dates back to the early 1970s with the Z1 a machine that redefined performance motorcycling. Over the years, the Z-series has built a cult following for its aggressive Sugomi design, smooth inline-four performance, and pure rider engagement.
The Z900, first introduced in 2017 as a successor to the Z800, took that legacy and sharpened it further with lighter weight, better handling, and a 948cc engine that’s been the heart of this beast ever since.
What’s New in 2025 Kawasaki Z900 A Real Step Up
While the engine and main frame are the same and honestly, that 948cc, liquid-cooled inline-four making 125hp and 98.6Nm didn’t need fixing Kawasaki has made some solid upgrades elsewhere:
Ride-by-wire tech
Finally! This opens the door to modern aids like cruise control and riding modes that now come standard.
Bidirectional quickshifter
Shifting up or down without the clutch just adds that extra thrill and convenience, especially on twisty roads or track days.
5-inch full-color TFT display: It’s Bluetooth-enabled and lifted straight from the bigger Ninja 1000SX, complete with improved switchgear.
2025 Kawasaki Z900 Fresh styling
The headlight now looks more like the Z500, giving it a leaner, sharper face. Kawasaki’s also tweaked the frame rails to maintain an easy reach to the ground despite a cushier seat.
Upgraded brakes
The old axial calipers are gone. You now get radially-mounted Nissin 4-piston calipers gripping twin 300mm discs much more bite and control.
Better tyres
Goodbye Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2, hello grippy Dunlop Sportmax Q5A. While sizes haven’t changed, performance should definitely feel better.
IMU-powered electronics
With a 5-axis IMU on board, all your rider aids traction control, riding modes, ABS, and more are smarter and more intuitive.
Colours and Price
You get two color options in 2025 Kawasaki Z900
Black/Green classic Kawasaki vibes
Black/Red bold and modern
At ₹9.52 lakh, it’s ₹14,000 more than before, but the upgrades genuinely justify the price bump. It still undercuts rivals like the Triumph Street Triple R (₹10.17–10.43 lakh) and the Ducati Monster (₹12.95 lakh), while offering more tech than the Honda CB650R (₹9.20–9.60 lakh).
Final Thoughts The Z900 Grows Up
The 2025 Kawasaki Z900 doesn’t mess with its formula it just evolves where it counts. It’s still that brutally fun, smooth-revving inline-four streetfighter we all love, but now it comes packed with modern tech and sharper styling. If you’ve ever loved the Z series or just want a no-nonsense, powerful naked bike that’s finally caught up with its rivals in electronics and safety, this one’s worth a serious look.
I can’t wait to swing a leg over it and put those upgrades to the test on some proper Indian roads. Stay tuned for a full ride review soon!
