Kawasaki Z900 2023 vs. Suzuki GSX-8S 2023

The Kawasaki Z900 2023 and the Suzuki GSX-8S 2023 are both naked bikes with similar engine types and fuel systems. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Kawasaki Z900 has a higher output with 125 HP compared to the Suzuki GSX-8S which has 83 HP. This means that the Kawasaki Z900 will likely have better acceleration and top speed capabilities.

The torque output of the Kawasaki Z900 is also higher at 98.6 Nm compared to the Suzuki GSX-8S which has 78 Nm. This means that the Kawasaki Z900 will have better low-end power and acceleration.

Kawasaki Z900 2023

Both bikes have a liquid cooling system and a steel frame. However, the suspension and braking systems differ slightly. The Kawasaki Z900 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension and a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and adjustable preload and rebound. The Suzuki GSX-8S also has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension and a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock, but it only has adjustable preload. The braking systems are similar with double disk front brakes, but the Suzuki GSX-8S has larger diameter disks at 310 mm compared to the 300 mm disks on the Kawasaki Z900. The Suzuki GSX-8S also has radial technology for its front brakes, which may provide better braking performance.

Both bikes come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the Suzuki GSX-8S has an additional feature of a shift assistant with blipper, which allows for smoother and quicker gear shifts.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the two bikes are quite similar. They both have 17-inch wheels with the same tire widths and diameters. The wheelbase of the Suzuki GSX-8S is slightly longer at 1465 mm compared to the 1450 mm wheelbase of the Kawasaki Z900. The seat height of the Suzuki GSX-8S is also slightly higher at 810 mm compared to the 795 mm seat height of the Kawasaki Z900. The kerb weight of the Suzuki GSX-8S is slightly lighter at 202 kg compared to the 212 kg kerb weight of the Kawasaki Z900.

Both bikes come equipped with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display for the instrument cluster. However, the Kawasaki Z900 has a TFT display that may be easier to operate compared to the Suzuki GSX-8S which has a menu that may be more cumbersome to navigate.

Suzuki GSX-8S 2023

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 is praised for its light and natural handling, high stability, and silky engine with full pull from low revs. It also has a great seating position and is considered to be a good value for the price. On the other hand, the Suzuki GSX-8S is praised for its high-quality overall concept, high-torque engine, stable handling, and good seat and riding position. It also has a good quickshifter, high-quality controls, and a very good display. The suspension of the Suzuki GSX-8S is also noted to offer reserves for a wide range of uses despite the lack of adjustment options.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z900 is criticized for its relatively cumbersome menu operation, lack of slope-dependent assistance systems, and high weight. The Suzuki GSX-8S is noted to have a quickshifter and gearstick that require more operating force than usual, a heavier weight compared to other bikes in its class, defensively controlled ABS, and a lack of rev reserves upwards for the engine.

Overall, both the Kawasaki Z900 2023 and the Suzuki GSX-8S 2023 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki Z900 offers a powerful engine and stable handling at a fair price, while the Suzuki GSX-8S provides a high-quality overall concept and a comfortable riding position. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.