Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 vs. Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018

Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018

Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

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Overview - Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 vs Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

The Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 and the Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016 are both naked bikes with a classic look and powerful engines. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 is equipped with an in-line, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 948cc. It delivers a power output of 111 HP and a torque of 98.5 Nm. On the other hand, the Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016 features an in-line crankpin offset, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 1200cc. It produces a slightly lower power output of 97 HP but a higher torque of 112 Nm. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and offer a smooth and responsive ride.

When it comes to suspension, the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound, offering a customizable riding experience. In comparison, the Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016 features a telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with dual shocks at the rear. The rear suspension only offers preload adjustment. While both bikes provide a comfortable ride, the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018's suspension setup allows for more precise tuning.

Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018

Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018

In terms of chassis, both bikes feature steel frames. However, the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 has a tubular frame, while the Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016 has a central tube frame. The choice of frame design affects the overall rigidity and handling characteristics of the bikes.

When it comes to braking, both bikes are equipped with double disc brakes at the front. However, the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 has larger diameter discs (300mm) and four-piston calipers, providing excellent stopping power. The Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016, on the other hand, has slightly smaller diameter discs (310mm) and double piston calipers. Both bikes are equipped with ABS for enhanced safety.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 has a wider front tire (120mm) compared to the Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016 (120mm). However, the Thruxton has a wider rear tire (160mm) compared to the Z900 RS Cafe (180mm). The wheelbase of the Z900 RS Cafe is also longer (1470mm) compared to the Thruxton (1415mm). The seat height of the Z900 RS Cafe is slightly higher (820mm) compared to the Thruxton (805mm). Both bikes have similar fuel tank capacities, with the Z900 RS Cafe having a slightly larger capacity (17 liters) compared to the Thruxton (14.5 liters).

Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 offers a beautiful, classic, and high-quality look. It has balanced handling and a sporty riding feel thanks to its high-torque engine and sporty seating position. The bike also provides practical wind protection and offers a great sport tourer feeling paired with great looks. On the other hand, the Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016 boasts a powerful and finely tuned engine, an authentic look, and a genuine classic bike feel.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 lacks a shift assistant, which can be found on some other retro bikes in its class. It is also slightly heavier than other retro bikes in its class, which may affect its agility. Additionally, some riders may find the seat a little too soft for long tours. The Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016, on the other hand, has a chassis that is clearly below that of the "R" model, resulting in moderate comfort. However, it compensates for this with a good sound that adds to the overall riding experience.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 and the Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016 offer unique features and strengths. The Z900 RS Cafe excels in its classic and high-quality look, balanced handling, and sporty riding feel. On the other hand, the Thruxton stands out with its powerful engine, authentic look, and genuine classic bike feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 compared to Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018
Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line crankpin offset
BoreBore73.4 mmBore97.6 mm
StrokeStroke56 mmStroke80 mm
Engine powerEngine power111 HPEngine power97 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power6,750 rpm
TorqueTorque98.5 NmTorque112 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque4,950 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio10.8 Compression Ratio11
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders4Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesOHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement948 ccmDisplacement1,200 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionTelescopic fork
DiameterDiameter41 mmDiameter41 mm
TravelTravel120 mmTravel120 mm

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSwing armSuspensionSwing arm
Shock absorberShock absorberMonoshockShock absorberDual Shock
TravelTravel140 mmTravel120 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreload, ReboundAdjustmentPreload
MaterialMaterialAluminiumMaterialSteel

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeCentral tube
RakeRake65 degreeRake67.3 degree
TrailTrail98 mmTrail90.8 mm

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter300 mmDiameter310 mm
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFloating caliper

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter250 mmDiameter255 mm
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonDouble piston

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Ride by Wire, Traction controlAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,100 mmLength2,105 mm
WidthWidth845 mmWidth745 mm
HeightHeight1,190 mmHeight1,030 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,470 mmWheelbase1,415 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height820 mmSeat Height805 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity17 lFuel Tank Capacity14.5 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018

Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018

With the Z900RS Cafe, Kawasaki has launched a very successful and high-quality homage to the café racer machines from the 1970s. It combines the classic, sporty design with the ultra-modern technology of the modern era. Surprisingly, it presents itself as a pleasant-to-ride sports tourer with high utility value. This means that it will be used more often in practice than a Z900RS or similar motorbike. A big hit.

Beautiful, classic and high-quality look

balanced handling. Not nervous and not ponderous

sporty riding feel thanks to high-torque engine and sporty seating position

practical wind protection

great sport tourer feeling paired with great looks.

No shift assistant

heavier than other retro bikes in this class

seat a little too soft on long tours.

Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016

The Thruxton is far behind the Öhlins and Showa-equipped "R" in terms of sporty performance. This becomes particularly clear on the Alpine passes, where a good chassis, strong brakes and light handling are crucial. In return, it rewards the eye of the aesthete with an even more authentic, because more classic, exterior. Laymen can hardly distinguish a new Thruxton from a vintage or youngtimer. Like the Street Twin, it has a sympathetic effect on passers-by and should be enjoyed in a relaxed manner.

Powerful, finely tuned engine

authentic look

genuine classic bike

Chassis clearly below that of the "R"

moderate comfort

good sound

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe vs Triumph Thruxton 1200

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 and a Triumph Thruxton 1200 2016. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 7. It takes less time to sell a Triumph Thruxton 1200 with 79 days compared to 209 days for the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe. Since model year 2018 1000PS.de editors have written 8 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe and 5 reviews for the Triumph Thruxton 1200 since model year 2016. The first review for the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe was published on 07/11/2017 and now has more than 37,500 views. This compares to more than 38,500 views for the first review on Triumph Thruxton 1200 published on 09/03/2016.

Price Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe

Unfortunately, the data available to us is not sufficient to provide meaningful price information for this model.

Price Triumph Thruxton 1200

Model year
Current average market prices

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