Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 vs. BMW R nineT 2018

The Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 and the BMW R nineT 2018 are both naked bikes that offer a unique riding experience.

Starting with the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018, it boasts a powerful and smooth engine with 111 HP and 98.6 Nm of torque. The engine is an in-line, 4-cylinder configuration with a displacement of 948cc. This bike also features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, Ride by Wire, and Traction control. The suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The frame is made of steel and has a tubular design. The braking system includes double disk brakes with a diameter of 300mm and four pistons. The Z900 RS 2018 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1470mm and a seat height of 835mm. The kerb weight of this bike, including ABS, is 215kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 17 liters.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

On the other hand, the BMW R nineT 2018 features a boxer engine with 110 HP and 116 Nm of torque. The engine is a 2-cylinder configuration with a displacement of 1170cc. It also has ABS as an advanced rider assistance system. The suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a paralever with a monoshock at the rear. The frame is made of steel and has a tubular, load-bearing engine design. The braking system includes double disk brakes with a diameter of 320mm and four pistons. The front and rear tires have the same specifications as the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1487mm and a lower seat height of 803mm. The kerb weight of the BMW R nineT 2018, including ABS, is slightly higher at 222kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 18 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 has a powerful and smooth engine, good looks, and a comfortable seating position. It is also easy to ride and has balanced handling, making it neither nervous nor ponderous. On the other hand, the BMW R nineT 2018 has a boxer engine full of character and offers powerful pressure from low revs. It also has a comfortable seating position, extensive equipment, and a large accessories market. Additionally, it has a cool look that appeals to many riders.

However, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 does have some weaknesses. It lacks a shift assistant, making gear changes less seamless compared to other bikes in this class. It is also heavier than other retro bikes in its class, which can affect maneuverability. Additionally, the seat may be a little too soft for long tours, and there is no wind protection, which can be uncomfortable during high-speed rides.

BMW R nineT 2018

Similarly, the BMW R nineT 2018 has a few weaknesses. The footrest position when maneuvering can be a bit awkward for some riders. The passenger ride comfort may not be as good as some other bikes in this category. Lastly, the price of the BMW R nineT 2018 may be higher compared to similar bikes in its class.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 and the BMW R nineT 2018 offer unique riding experiences with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities when choosing between these two bikes.