Kawasaki Z900 - Raw Greens

India Kawasaki Motor recently added more greenery to their BS IV-compliant 2017 line-up in India, including the all-new Z900. Here’s what the latest mean, green naked machine is like.

- Jim Gorde

NOT EVERYONE likes their vegetables. Greens are something most children try to avoid taking in. However, as unpleasant as a green diet may seem, one Japanese manufacturer has turned it into a signature line of dishes. They’re mostly green, with a choice of orange and black as well, but, essentially, they’ve become rather recognised. More importantly, they’ve also been linked with a special case of hooliganism.

The Z line of motorcycles from Kawasaki have always had a bit of an edge to them. The Z800 was a great all-rounder that let you ride without being scared silly, whereas the Z1000 demanded a bit more respect. Its snake-eyed front end and chiselled appearance garnered quite a fan following, many of which turned into owners. The Z800 went on to become one of the most popular bikes, not just in India, but also in Europe. Those who were just not ready for a big 1,000 turned to the 800. Now, though, there’s a 900. And it’s even closer to the big 1,000 in more ways than one.

The Z900 looks — and actually is — more well-rounded, in every sense of the term. It’s lost a bit of the edgy design and seems better built, like it’s balanced its workout with a proper meaty diet. It looks a bit chunkier and, while that takes away a little from its formerly aggressive demeanour, it adds to the ease of approach.