Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 vs. Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 is equipped with a 4-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 125.4 HP of power and 98.6 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 features a 3-cylinder in-line engine with slightly lower power output at 119 HP and torque at 93 Nm. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The rear shock absorber on both models is provided by Öhlins. However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 offers more adjustment options for the front suspension, including compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 also has adjustable front suspension, but lacks the compression adjustment.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022

When it comes to the chassis, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 features a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design. Both frames are known for their durability and rigidity.

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 has slightly larger brake disks with a diameter of 300 mm, compared to the 298 mm disks on the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 comes with additional features such as cornering ABS, a quickshifter, and anti-wheelie control, which are not available on the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

In terms of dimensions and weights, the two bikes have similar front and rear tire widths and diameters. The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1450 mm, compared to the 1430 mm wheelbase of the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021. The seat height of the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 is also slightly higher at 825 mm, compared to the 795 mm seat height of the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 is also lighter, with a kerb weight of 189 kg, compared to the 210 kg kerb weight of the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022.

In terms of equipment, both bikes come with LED headlights and TFT displays. However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 also features LED daytime running lights, which are not available on the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021.

In summary, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 offers a powerful engine, high-quality chassis components, strong brakes, good ergonomics, and easy handling on the racetrack. However, it lacks a quickshifter. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 provides an upright and comfortable seating position, a well-tuned chassis, quick and easy adjustment of mappings and traction control, high-quality workmanship, lovely details, and a great tuned engine with excellent acceleration and pressure in the relevant rev range. However, it has a crude horn mounting and a poorer display compared to the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022.