The Z900’s remarkable performance led Kawasaki to collaborate with Louis to debut the innovative motorcycle at the prestigious 1972 IFMA Expo in Cologne, Germany. To mark the historic milestone, Detlev Louis crafted a bespoke motorcycle that celebrated the union between Kawasaki’s Z900 and the iconic RS model, paying tribute to their shared heritage.
The imperative to avoid superficial changes became apparent from the project’s outset: a transformation that could never focus solely on enhancing the Z900RS’s aesthetic appeal. To encapsulate the bespoke identity and design language of our firm’s Detlev Louis Motorbike Gear model, we conceived a unified piece that harmoniously integrates our custom with the visual DNA of the Kawasaki Z900RS.
As a German company, Louis may be particularly mindful of the regulatory constraints that European motorcycle enthusiasts encounter when customizing their rides. Stringent TÜV regulatory standards prevent many of the customizations that riders in other countries are able to make. To ensure their bike was 100% compliant and road-legal, they hired a local expert to oversee its construction from start to finish.
Despite the TÜV’s stringent regulations, Louis had the freedom to modify the Z900RS’s subframe and fine-tune its dimensions to achieve a more streamlined appearance. Following the removal of the tail unit and excess material, a fresh ring was installed to seal the opening. When equipped with the subframe trimmed according to TÜV regulations, the bike is specifically designed for single-rider operation and does not meet safety standards for carrying passengers. As a result of these changes, the pillion footpegs and brackets were discontinued, replaced by an innovative new mounting system designed specifically for the exhaust muffler. Throughout this stage, Louis’s skilled workforce retained the innovative seat mounting system, leveraging its versatility to seamlessly integrate a new seat design. The sleek, newly designed saddle seamlessly integrates with the latest subframe, boasting a sophisticated black leather finish adorned with intricate diamond stitching and a discreet DL logo embossed on the cowl.
Louis further solidified their mark on the Z900RS by incorporating a diverse range of components from their extensive inventory of over 55,000 products. The bicycle now features an entirely new illumination system, boasting a state-of-the-art Gazzini Nino LED headlight at the front, sleek Gazzani Bar finish indicators that seamlessly pivot, and two discreet Gazzini Pepe dual-function LED lights that efficiently handle both turn signals and brake light duties on the rear. Perched atop the brand-new headlight is a sleek SW-Motech small windshield, providing a stylish yet functional barrier against the elements. Meanwhile, behind this shield lies a robust pair of ABM Multi-Clip Tour handlebars, offering a commanding view and exceptional control. The bar finishes from Gazzini lend a cafe racer aesthetic to the bike, while the Louis workforce completes the look with a set of distinctive LD-512 diamond-patterned grips that tie everything together seamlessly.
No changes made, SKIP. Each fenders are aftermarket gadgets. The entrance features an SW-Motech half-moon saddlebag, custom-designed for the Kawasaki Z900RS, paired with a bespoke, modified rear luggage rack crafted by W+W specifically for vintage Harley-Davidson models. To complement its authentic fender design, Louis also fitted a custom-trimmed bodystyle chainguard to ensure a sleek, uninterrupted visual flow.
To ensure the rear compartment remained spotless, Louis leveraged a connection with Gazzini to secure a prototype of an innovative side-mount bracket still under development. The newly established association relocates the plate to the left of the rear wheel, where it sits vertically below an LED plate light. Bridgestone AX41S tires mounted on the inventory rims imbue the bike with a rugged, chunky aesthetic that cleverly contrasts its otherwise sleek and slender profile.
The final stage of construction revealed the Kawasaki Z900RS with custom, one-off paintwork. The unique, dual-toned livery featuring a combination of off-white and matte black hues has been retained in this conventional Z model, with the added distinction of Detlev Louis branding on the tank. The powder-coating extends to the edges, brake calipers, and rear suspension spring, ensuring a uniform aesthetic with the rest of the components; additional components, such as the levers, clutch cowl badge, and celebrated exhaust system, have also been blacked out to harmonize with the overall design.
Following the successful completion of their mission, Louis offered their team members the opportunity to reside in a Z900RS accommodations. The winner of the Glemseck 101 competition was announced last month, and it’s likely that they are thrilled to embark on their exciting new adventure.
