Kawasaki Z900RS
The Z900RS has been around since 2017 and has barely changed in that time. Based on the four-cylinder Z900 roadster and with a style inspired by the iconic 1970s Z1 superbike, the RS has long been a favourite with British riders.
Going with the old adage of ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix’ Kawasaki’s taken the need to update the Z900RS to meet Euro5+ as an opportunity to add some more modern tech for the 2026 model year. It largely looks the same but, under the skin, new electronic throttle valves, cruise control, up/down quickshifter and IMU controlled cornering aids make for a more contemporary machine, while the new exhaust system is said to give a sweeter sound – and a touch more power too.
As before, there’s also an SE version with upgraded Brembo brakes and an Ohlins rear shock. It’s in showrooms from January, with prices still to be announced.
Honda CB1000F
Honda’s new entry in the retro world is the Hornet 1000-based CB1000F.
Inspired by Honda’s early-1980s CB900F, it’s another four-cylinder modern classic with a similar vibe to the Kawasaki Z900RS.
Far from simply being a Hornet in a new dress, Honda has given the Fireblade-based engine a retune for improved low-down power delivery while it also gets more advanced electronics than the Hornet, like cornering ABS. These should combine to create a motorcycle with a very different character to the feisty Hornet.
Honda says the CB1000F will be in showrooms from February, priced £10,599.
Yamaha XSR900GP
Not a new model, but the XSR900GP gets a new look after Yamaha brings out its most famous liveries for 2026.
One of the few faired retros on the market, the MT-09-based XSR900GP was introduced in late 2024 and pays homage to the company’s greatest sports bikes and racers from the early 1980s.
It’s proved a popular addition to Yamaha’s range and looked the part in a red and white livery inspired by the cigarette sponsorships of the era. Now they’ve broken out the famous yellow, black and white speed block designs made famous by Kenny Roberts in the late 1970s, and doesn’t it look great?
Triumph Scrambler 900
No retro review would be complete without including Triumph’s evergreen Bonneville range, which has been given a subtle upgrade for 2026.
The classic lines remain the same but all models in the range, which includes 900cc versions of the Bonneville and Scrambler, the sportier Speed Twin derivatives and the Speedmaster and Bobber cruisers, get changes under the skin.
All models now get lean sensitive ABS and traction control, but our pick of the range is the Scrambler 900, which gets a raft of improvements including lighter wheels and upgraded Showa suspension and radial brakes. These should combine to deliver a more responsive chassis, while the new instruments, full LED lighting and better Smartphone connectivity give it a more upmarket feel.
It costs £10,395 and will be in showrooms from March 2026.
Royal Enfield Bullet 650
Royal Enfield celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2026 and their headline new model is this, the Bullet 650.
The Bullet is Royal Enfield’s most famous design. First introduced in 1932, it’s always been the cornerstone of the range. The new 650 breaks tradition by being a twin (they’ve always been single cylinder machines up to now) and that should give this classic design the teeth required for modern day riding.
We rode the Bullet 350 recently and loved its vintage look and authentic vibe, but with a 70mph top speed its appeal is rather limited. The 650 more than doubles power output and brings vintage motorcycle style to modern day riders. It will cost £6,749 when it goes on sale in the new year.
