The year 2022 was a watershed moment for Kawasaki’s RS line of vintage-inspired motorcycles. The flagship Z900RS was outfitted in a striking “Fireball” hue as a throwback design to commemorate the Z1’s 50th anniversary.
However, the limited-edition livery wasn’t the only thing that was added to the Z900RS range; in addition to that, Team Green also released the 2022 Z900RS SE model with upgraded specifications. Nevertheless, the RS series was missing a genuine starting point, and the 2022 Z650RS was designed to fill that hole.
We can’t blame Kawasaki for taking it easy in 2023 after having such a busy year in 2022; as a result, the RS lineup will be returning for the next model year with very few changes.
Beginning with the Z650RS, the traditionally designed standard will have its signature Candy Emerald Green paint scheme, but will also include a new Metallic Spark Black color option in its palette of available colors.
The Z650RS is powered by Kawasaki’s liquid-cooled, 649cc parallel-twin engine, which is capable of producing 67 horsepower and 47 foot-pounds of torque. This engine is located beneath the surface.
Note: The Candy Tone Blue paint scheme from 2022, which was inspired by the 1975 Z1, made a return for a second time on the Z900RS, which follows the same strategy as its younger sister.
However, in 2023, the Kawasaki design team will combine that returning paint choice with the brand new Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Imperial Red combination.
The 948cc inline-four engine still delivers 109.5 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 72.3 foot-pounds of torque at 6,500 rpm. This allows the vehicle to have a vintage-styled appearance while yet having current performance.
Even while the 2023 Z900RS SE retains the same four-cylinder engine that has been adjusted for the street, it differentiates itself from the competition by including an Ohlins S46 rear shock and updated front suspension. Brembo M4. Riders are encouraged to push the pace by the presence of steel-braided front brake lines, 32 front brake calipers, and Brembo disc rotors.
Note: Metallic Diablo Black is just as eye-catching as it was the year before, especially when combined with the gold wheels that match it, although the SE does not receive a new graphic in 2023, in contrast to the base Z900RS and Z650RS models.
Even if Kawasaki’s Z line may debut with fewer changes and enhancements than anticipated, the Z650RS, Z900RS, and Z900RS SE continue to be appealing investments in 2023 thanks to the charming, nostalgic hues.