What really killed off the British bike industry was cheap cars and small sub 250 motorcycles. Triumph and Norton were still selling big bikes up until 76, but the younger generation were buying Japanese mopeds and eventually on to 250s for their first bikes because there were no alternatives from the British companies. When they finally graduated to larger capacity machines the familiarity with Japanese models was already set. The British bike industry just failed to respond to changing demographics and increased wealth - for a cheap ride to work machine there was the Honda 90, a plethora of sub 250 motorcycles and even the monkey bike. People always think it was the big Honda what done it, but it wasn’t that simple.

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Interesting!

@user-sw2lv3zp6o

Жыл бұрын

True.

@1mikefrost

Жыл бұрын

Yes. I had a 250 Hustler in 1975. Bought a 750 Bonneville in 76 which I've still got. I just had to have a British bike. All my mates were buying big Japanese 2 strokes.

@richardbartlett6932

Жыл бұрын

At 16 in the 70's you could ride a moped in the UK so it was either a Honda step thru (which had grandad status back then) or an FS1-E. Virtually all kids wanted a fizzy. At that market there simply wasn't any alternative from uk still being manufactured iirc(?) This entry level end was surrended to the japanese because the sheer volume they were producing in the far east made them economically viable and their superior design and production methods (introduced by American engineer called Deming after the war as part of the rebuilding process) superior tooling and acceptable work practices the British by then had little option but to choose to concentrate on higher margin bikes of 500cc and above. Which were still selling in decent numbers btw. Although they did produce some 250 cc bikes for the learner market (the T25 for example would detonate the engine due to poor design) they were no competition for the far superior japanese product. CB250, GT250 RD250 etc etc . So many factors were involved in the rise and fall of the UK bike empire but you're right this was one of the major ones.

@douglasalexander4348

Жыл бұрын

There was an alternative, a bsa bantam. What a crap bike that was. The jap two strokes were light, reliable fast and fun, an RD 250 would take on a 650 Brit bike quite happily. I’ve had them all, and again recently ( yam rd250 and BSA 650 lightning) The image of Brit bikes were clunky and oily transport mainly ridden by grumpy old men. (Nothings changed) Jap bikes were for the young and exciting to ride. Of course British is best, Jap are crap. That’s what killed the Brit bikes off, they were too arrogant to develop new bikes, because they knew better than the public. Notice how the Japanese are constantly developing new engines and styles? That’s why they’re still in business.

You bring out the best in Aussie travellers Freddy. We're all in the same family mate. 👍

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Agreed🇦🇺 They are the finest bunch

@frankmorris2603

Жыл бұрын

@@FreddieDobbs 🇦🇺🇬🇧💪

@gdfggggg

Жыл бұрын

@@FreddieDobbs cool 🇬🇧 🇦🇺

I've been watching a number of your motorcycle reviews since I have found you. You're one of the best reviews in my opinion. You have a fresh and interesting way of expressing your opinions and I feel like it couldn't be more revealing and enjoyable to watch. You're a great presenter. I look forward to seeing more of you.

Really looking forward to your review of this bike. It’s been on my favourite list for a long time now.

Supercool choice! The Z900RS has an fantastic inline four engine. It is undoubtedly a first-class cafe racer. Cannot wait for the review.

The Z900RS is a beautiful bike, I just bought a XSR700 and I love it! I enjoy all the videos you do. Great content Mr. Freddie Dobbs!

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

I MUST try the XSR! Really glad you enjoy the videos, thanks Fabian🤜🏼🤛🏼

The Kawasaki z1-R was the mutts nuts here in Canada in the 1970’s. Nothing came close to being as cool as that in the 1970’s. This bike brings back some cool memories. 👍

@greatestytcommentator

Жыл бұрын

GPz900r dude here... They are ALL genetically the same beast....

This bike was at the top of my list when I was in the market for a new bike last year. I rented one for a day and enjoyed myself on it. Great sound for a stock exhaust and simply beautiful to look at. Especially in the candytone green colour in this video. I eventually opted for a XSR 900 as my previous bike was also an inline 4 and I wanted a change. My next bike will probably have a 2 cylinder engine, but I am planning on owning a Z900RS at some point in the future

Stunning looking bike, Freddie. So glad you found one.

Wow.yes,yes .this is a beautiful bike. Never thought even about this model . waiting for the review.

I remember someone in my road having an original Z900 back in the late 70s. Never owned one myself but had a Z750 and a 650. The RS is a beautiful bike.

I love my z900rs. Candytone Blue! I have owned an air cooled Bonneville and Scrambler and this bike is on a whole other level. It has all the looks of a good retro with the amenities of a modern sport bike. 4 cylinder engine, proper tire sizes, adjustable forks and rear mono suspension, LED lights, etc…

Got the yellow ball Z900 RS SE, new on March 1st. Love it !

Hi freddie and of course moniker , great review as always ,my wife bought me the special edition yellowball kawasaki 9OORS for my 70th birthday last year, as an owner of several motorcycles this one is easily the best so far, she rides pillion everywhere we go and says it's very comfortable compared to some of the race reps I've had in the past 😮 looking forward to your review, keep up the good work both,Shakie

Great bike. Hope you both have a fun few days

That bike is gorgeous. I remember seeing one of the originals at school of all places...brown and orange...we were either still on our Honda SL100s or had graduated to Suzie TS 250s (cos we loved the dirt and sand). We just stared at it. And dreamed. And now I want this bike...and so does a mate of mine. And yeah...Aussies aren't bad right? Not surprised at all. Love from NZ...their cuzzies. Ride safe guys.

Currently riding in Southern France. Looks like you’re picking up a great ride. Enjoy your time with the Kawasaki.

Finally a video about a motorcycle from you again. I like your videos about motorcycles very much, whether Royal Enfield, Triumph or other brands, because I love motorcycles.

Owned a Kawasaki Z1 years ago.. beautiful powder blue.. should have kept it... Great video and location Freddie!

Top content again, thanks M and F 🙂

I think the excitement of riding a super retro like the Kwacker 900 would have me leaving my card in the ATM as well Freddie. Although I'm not a fan of straight fours I can appreciate how well Kawasaki have done this bike.. especially that beautiful tank. Enjoy your couple of days on it and look forward to hearing about it. p.s. back in the day (70's) I had a CB750K2 Honda which was much admired, but the advent of the 900Z1 with DOHC and aggressive styling was an awesome time.. it really did kill off the competition .

I just love how fulish you can be but we all know you are no fool but thanks for your honesty !!!!!!!!!!!!!! It really does help all us fools me being one !!

Hi , now that is a bike , for those that are in a hurry and a great color . Thanks for the video , have fun on it .

1972 i was in the showroom when it came out...wow.....that and the yamaha rd 350 was also my #1!

What an amazing bike!!! An enviable lifestyle. Good one 🍻

Great to see you on a more powerful bike Freddie,look forward to seeing your next vlog when you get open it up a bit more,big up to the Aussies rescuing your bank card,i finally made it out for a ride last weekend on my street triple,up to Squires bike cafe & The Motorist car cafe,both near York,good luck to Monika on the back of the Kawasaki

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

They’re a great bunch🇦🇺 I’ll save these biker spots for when I next head up north near York. Glad you got a good ride in, Adrian🤘🏼

Great work keep it up

Visiting summer bike meets for the last few years these Kwackers really attract a lot of attention. Beautiful. However of the 14 bikes I have owned over the years I have only owned two 4 cyclinder motorcycles, the Kawasaki z650C and a BMW K1100LT. Both good bikes but I love twins and the other 12 bikes are all twins.

nice bike ,had a demo back in 1972 on the original z 1 .will always remember it .

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

WOW, the original👌🏻

Nice bike Freddie ! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

freddy loved your RE reviews . could you review the interceptor 865 which is modified from the stock model ?

What a beautiful bike! Enjoy your rides!

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Thanks🙌🏻🙌🏻

Beautiful bike, looked in to buying one but found the seat higher than i thought and the bike quite heavy, especially for a newish rider, will hopefully get one in a couple of years.

There are quite a few premium retros out there and they are great. I've owned an R9T for a few years and a Thruxton R for seven years and the Kawasaki 900 RS would nicely in my garage. Sure some similarities but like ice cream the different flavors keep it interesting.

this is a great video and a great motorbike!

Wow. Thanks for coming to my country, bro. 👍👍

I beg to differ, the game changer for Japanese street HP bikes was when Kawi released the KZ 1000 for 1977. I remember it well, the 78 model packed 90 Horses and at that time that was phenomenal. It would launch you out of your seat. That being said, I wish I had an old Norton 850 Commando now that i'm older, They were gorgeous and handled the backroads well due to their nimble handling.

Freddie your on one of my all time favorite bikes from the 70s in style but this incarnation is also a dream of a bike for me . These are timeless the closest I got was a Z650 which I loved but could not run to the 900 back then . I nowadays run what I would call the Yamaha version of this the 1200 XJR SP it is also a good looker in my eyes it's a 98 model and to me very stylish in a similar way to the old Z900s. Looking forward to your findings although I doubt you will get to put it through it's paces on those roads but it sure as hell will be fun to try . Monica is going to like it too I am sure it has to be more comfortable for her on the back of this one 😉👌👍

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

The 1200XJR is a very handsome, gigantic beast, too👌🏻 I was delighted to find genuinely big open roads in the south of Bali to properly test it🤘🏼

The Z900 is an awesome bike, the fit and finish is top notch especially the metallic paint work, even if it had the standard exhaust they still sound better than most new bikes. looks like this one has the low seat option which has a lot less padding than standard, looking forward to your review.

@greatestytcommentator

Жыл бұрын

He motor STILL sounds like a good old Zed from the Day

Seriously beautiful bike. I could have that and only that. That finish is beautiful, and the exhaust sound. I'm a fan. The seat the appearance. I might tip toe at 5'11 on this seeing Freddie on it

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

It’s a seriously smart bike David, and a proper head turner. At 5’11 you’d be absolutely fine on it👌🏻

Happy z900RS owner here. Looking forward to your review video and hearing your thoughts on the bike.

This bike could sway me away from my bonneville. Dare I say it. I'm looking forward to your full review, Freddie. Do include some pillion comfort reviews as well (if poss please).

Good to see you back on a bigger bike, and what a lovely bike too. I'm looking forward to the review, especially on those roads over there, I'm guessing theres no roads to really have a quick blast. I noticed it doesn't have a front number plate, neither did the W175, is there a reason for that?

I’ve wanted one for years. If I ever get a second bike, this is it!!! It’s lovely and strong, but basic and built like a tank. For sure I’m looking forward to your review! Dang I’m a bit jealous! Ride Safe 🙏🏼

@johnmartin7158

Жыл бұрын

An iconic bike back in my day. Love the styling of the Kwaka.

Thanks!

Wow, I’m renting my bike from these guys right now, the W175! Crazy to be watching you all this time and see you rock up there!

@louisross2919

Жыл бұрын

I also went to the same beach as one of your previous Bali videos on that bike late last year!

Lovely bike!!!

Freddie , I had a 1972 Z1 in brown/orange and it was fabulous bike, having owned previously a Honda CB 750K1 which was arguably one of the first multi cylinder , if not the first Japanese superbike , the Z was the one that left a lasting impression .The handling and brakes were of their time but totally predictable and the extra input required just added to the riding experience but the engine was a peach !.Their rapid appreciation in value in recent years just proves how good they were- wish I still had it !.

@DanTube2010

Жыл бұрын

I see a '73 sold recently at auction for $52k🤑

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Very interesting to hear this. I’ve been looking at used prices and they really do demonstrate a seriously desirable bike. I rode a ‘82 Z1; gigantic, intimidating and unforgettable (even though it was ridiculously hard work to live with!)

Great show as ever. Indonesia is the only place in the world where I have left my bank card in the machine. Easily done Freddie. In Sumatra I had three security guards chase me for about a half mile to give me back my bank card. Super honest guys. I was very impressed.

Kool Kawasaki Kiddos and cool Aussies for chasing you down with your card in hand. You are twice lucky.

What a ride. When I was a kid my pops had a 75 Kawasaki 900 ltd. At the time it was the most powerful production bike in the world. The u.s. actually made them change the speedometer from a 170 top line to 140 before they could be shipped here lolol.

It's good to see a man of your height and stature finally ride a motorcycle that doesn't look like a toy under you, Freddie. It's also a lot more comfortable for your lovely pillion when the bike has some meat to it. Metric bikes, in general, rule in performance and reliability. Glad to see you on a Kawa. P.S. I think I see some engine guards on her. Whenever I rent a moto, I always bring along a pair of highway pegs to attach to the engine guards. Gotta be able to stretch my legs on the long hauls.

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

This is very true re metric bikes. It feels brilliant to be on a a bike with a good level of intimidation factor💪🏼 Clip on highway pegs. This is such a simple little trick that I’ve never knowingly come across before😳

@mr.solitude3352

Жыл бұрын

@@FreddieDobbs If a bike has forwardly placed engine guards, they are a candidate for some clip on foot pegs. When you reach geezerhood, stretching your legs becomes a requirement. :) Thanks for the treat of sharing your adventures.

Wow, Freddie... That was probably one of the best videos I've ever seen about this bike... I'm a V Strom 1050 owner but in terms of a classic motorcycle that I'd like to have the Z 900 rs is on my list together with a Guzzi V7. I'm torned apart between those two but saving money will help me decide myself which one I'm gonna buy! God bless you!

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Really glad you enjoyed it, Mihai. I think/hope I cover this topic of what retro to buy in my review video next🤜🏼🤛🏼

@mihaimihai9254

Жыл бұрын

@@FreddieDobbs Thanks a lot for answering Freddie!

The black and yellow with the brown seat looks killer. 🔥

when I was a kid in the late 80s early 90s in NJ, all my friends rode inline 4 Japanese bikes, and we spent our weekends racing 1/4 mile drag strip.

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

This is cool⚡️

Damn I love that beautiful bike 😍😍

Spent my half hour lunch break drooling over a couple of these in Derby kawasaki a couple of weeks ago and I'm an ADV rider. 😁

That’s the one! Hopefully in my garage next😊

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

It’s dream level stuff🏍️🇯🇵

A lovely bike you won’t be disappointed ,in line fours have a real character of their own when you wind up. Wonder how you will find the fueling on it ?

Gotta love those Aussies mate!!!

Z900 in Bali 👀 Living the dream Freddie. It’s stunning.

Great looking bike ..

Hi Freddie the Z Rs 900 is the best bike on the market world wide in the modern classic . Build quality & with the biggest curb side smile.

Thats more like it Freddie, after all those scoopeds !!!!

Good man Freddie👍

Undoubtedly substantial

Almost bought this bike but came away with my Triumph Gold Line T120. Side by side i did not think the fit an finish was as good. Also the radiator on the Z900Rs seemed like an after thought!!!!

Very nice bike. Great to ride too.

Aussie blue we are 👍, love love love the Z900 !

Beautiful bikes! Loved my Z1R back in the late 70’s. Didn’t have to kick start it, didn’t have to mop oil off my drive, didn’t need to spend Sunday morning setting my tappets and it had over half as much power again as an 850 Commando. Is there any wonder eh?

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

What a time to own a Japanese bike. I can imagine it must’ve been a revelation back then!

I really like this bike, I would prefer it over the street twin I eventually bought but unfortunately it’s triple the price for whatever reason in Vietnam.the street twin is cramped or me, and now I’m trying to modify it to be a little bit less so

the dream bike for me

Proper muscle bike. Stunning

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Spot on. It’s a proper beast💪🏼

I had a Z1A in 1974. I sold it after I put 100,000kms on it. A great bike for the time and with 82 horsepower and 248kgs wet it was king of the road. But my 2021 R1250GS Rallye is the same wet weight and has 136 horsepower and exactly twice the torque. It handles better , stops better and is more comfortable. Nevertheless, the Z1A still provides fond memories...

Keep the r9t, the Enfields, the Triumphs as far as 70's retro cool goes, this is the bomb.

It looks so freaking gorgeous

Great video! May I ask what handlebars are those?

Right Freddie. I am commenting before watching this vid and predicting that this will be your new favourite bike! Ok, now to watch 😅 Ok, will wait to the next vid to see if I am right or right. Now remind me, Triumph 900 Scrambler, favourite bike, Triumph Speedmaster, favourite bike! I also have an XK8 in very good condition and love it. Is it my wisest decision, erm, no!

Absolutely gorgeous motorcycle 😋 Might be worth mentioning the Honda CB1000R for looks cos it’s also got a round headlight….🤔 🙏🏽 thanks for taking us out of rainy 🌧 Düsseldorf…😉

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Interesting- I mentioned the CB1100RS instead, as well as the XSR900

Shortly after I got my license last summer I went to the nearest shop to try out a Moto Guzzi V7, the salesman insisted that I also try out his own Z900RS. Compared to guzzi its a monster! Today I ride a Street Twin, but can't forget the Kawasaki. Maybe in a couple of years!

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Very interesting to hear your thoughts on this!

Congrats

That’s a beautiful bike

You want good roads and nice bends. Denpasar, Pupuan, Sirrit, Lovina Singaraja then back to Denpasar. Great days ride. Have great fun. 🏍☁️🏍☁️

You're like a kid with a new toy.. It's a lovely bike!

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

The magic of very special bikes like this!🤩

Cool bike, that colour wasn’t available in the Uk until 2020. Looks like the rear shock has been changed to a ohlins maybe? as it’s got a preload adjuster ( unless Bali is getting higher spec models, I know they get the low seat version as standard)

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Ahhh ok, I was wondering about this. The suspension was SUPERB

Ohh Freddie, our pleasure! You are too cool to extract from your savings account 😉! What a beast of a bike in Bali! Sounds as if it’s got a modified exhaust 🤔Is Monika comfortable of this beast? The boss must be happy! Enjoy your continued holidays & adventures ❤️

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Steve😆🏧 It’s got a modified (unpleasantly loud) exhaust. Monika found it “acceptable” comfort-wise.

I still ride my 1975 R900/6 BMW every day, all year long. I have trouble thinking of a R9T as retro. Crap it even has brakes.

Freddie, interesting helmet you've got. Information, please. Lovely bike. Bless🕊

What I love most about Freddie Dobbs is his eloquence, intelligence, enthusiasm, style and love for sharing what he feels most passionate about; and that is the Motor Bike - the juggular two-wheel freedom machine! ⚡🧖

That is the daddy of the retros. Stunning machine.

Ok , I’m very envious! The current version still bucket and shims?

You don’t see cup holders enough on bikes. Such a good looking bike too, pretty and burley at the same time 👌

have never owned a Japanese motorcycle...have ridden a Suzuki once..lol...am afraid that no matter what...I will always be a Triumph rider...always....excellent video as always...

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Ahhh I know. I may well be similar to you with regards to Triumph, Kevin

Monica has the right idea of doing a walk around as though you were filming to assure the bike came back the same way it left. Remember even though they took a video of the bike doesn't mean it was saved or did the video really process so your video is proof.

Try tyhe kawasaki infront the standar version w175, i think that one is the kawasaki w250/estrella.

Please do a road trip to Lombok 😊

Besides the aftermarket seat (and master cylinder), it has some aftermarket cafe racer handlebars - the wider originals would provide even more of a sit up and beg experience, and probably better handling around town.

@FreddieDobbs

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this Sam, I wasn’t sure if these bits were original or not so very useful to hear this

@samsara3694

Жыл бұрын

@@FreddieDobbs Cool, just thought it was worth knowing when coming to review the bike. Thanks for the content, which I enjoy very much.

That's a beautiful piece of metal

Well done the Auzzies!

She be right mate, no worries.