Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 vs. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

The Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sportiness and touring capabilities. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine performance, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 is equipped with an in-line four-cylinder engine that delivers 142 horsepower and 111 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 features an in-line three-cylinder engine with 119 horsepower and 93 Nm of torque. While the Kawasaki offers more power, the Yamaha has a more refined and powerful engine with great tuning.

Both motorcycles have a chain transmission and a 4-stroke engine. The Kawasaki has a displacement of 1043ccm, while the Yamaha has a slightly smaller displacement of 890ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The Kawasaki has a front suspension travel of 120mm and a rear suspension travel of 144mm. On the other hand, the Yamaha has a front suspension travel of 130mm and a rear suspension travel of 137mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have an aluminum frame, which provides a good balance between rigidity and weight.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, with the Kawasaki having a diameter of 300mm and the Yamaha having a diameter of 298mm.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles come with ABS and traction control. However, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 offers a more comprehensive electronics package, including suspension that is electronically adjustable, cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki has a wheelbase of 1440mm, a seat height of 815mm, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 235kg. The Yamaha has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1500mm, a slightly lower seat height of 810mm, and a slightly lighter kerb weight (with ABS) of 220kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 19 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 offers a noticeable increase in power compared to the Versys 1000, a sensitive in-line four-cylinder engine that can be dosed in a controlled manner, and is considered the price-performance winner among the tested sports touring bikes. It also provides an ideal compromise between sportiness and touring capabilities. On the other hand, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has the strengths of being a GT variant with great standard equipment, a powerful and powerful engine with great tuning, easy handling, stable ride, a comprehensive electronics package, great e-chassis, good wind protection, great pillion comfort, and a long range.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 is considered to be electronically rather rudimentary, and its instruments are not optimally readable in direct sunlight. On the other hand, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has the weaknesses of having a poorly readable and illogical display, stationary noise above 95 dB, a somewhat rough clutch, and moderate responsiveness.

Overall, both the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 are capable sport touring motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities in terms of engine performance, electronics package, and overall riding experience.