Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 vs. Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020

In terms of engine and drive train, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 features an in-line four-cylinder engine with a power output of 125 HP and a torque of 98.6 Nm. On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers a higher power output of 147 HP and a torque of 126.2 Nm. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front. The Z900 SE 2023 has an Öhlins monoshock at the rear, while the Monster 1200 S 2020 features a single swing arm with an Öhlins monoshock. The rear suspension of both bikes can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The Z900 SE 2023 has an aluminum swing arm, while the Monster 1200 S 2020 has an aluminum rear suspension.

In terms of brakes, both bikes have double disc brakes at the front with a diameter of 300 mm for the Z900 SE 2023 and 330 mm for the Monster 1200 S 2020. Both bikes also feature four-piston Brembo calipers. The front brakes of the Monster 1200 S 2020 use radial and monoblock technology, which provides enhanced braking performance.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

Both bikes are equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. The Z900 SE 2023 also has LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display, while the Monster 1200 S 2020 features LED headlights.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a front tire diameter of 17 inches. The Z900 SE 2023 has a rear tire width of 180 mm and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, while the Monster 1200 S 2020 has a rear tire width of 190 mm. The wheelbase of the Z900 SE 2023 is 1450 mm, slightly shorter than the 1485 mm wheelbase of the Monster 1200 S 2020. Both bikes have a seat height of 795 mm. The Z900 SE 2023 has a kerb weight of 210 kg with ABS, while the Monster 1200 S 2020 weighs slightly more at 211 kg with ABS.

In terms of equipment, the Z900 SE 2023 has LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The Monster 1200 S 2020, on the other hand, only has LED headlights.

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020

In terms of strengths, the Z900 SE 2023 is praised for its powerful four-cylinder engine, high-quality chassis components including Öhlins suspension at the rear, strong Brembo brakes, good ergonomics, and easy handling. The Monster 1200 S 2020 is praised for its high-performance power unit with plenty of torque, fantastic electronic equipment including DTC, DWC, and RbW, freely configurable driving modes and assistance systems, high-quality chassis, great seating position, and overall coherent and harmonious concept.

In terms of weaknesses, the Z900 SE 2023 lacks a quickshifter, lean angle dependent traction control, and cornering ABS due to the absence of an IMU. It also has a relatively high weight. The Monster 1200 S 2020 has a quickshifter that requires some sensitivity to operate, increased wind load on the upper body at higher speeds, and the absence of a steering damper in the S variant.

Overall, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 and the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 both offer powerful engines, high-quality components, and advanced rider assistance systems. However, the Monster 1200 S 2020 has a higher power output, more advanced electronic equipment, and a slightly more refined overall package, while the Z900 SE 2023 offers good performance and handling at a more affordable price point.