Kawasaki Z900 2019 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

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Overview - Kawasaki Z900 2019 vs KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

The Kawasaki Z900 2019 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 are both powerful naked bikes with impressive specifications. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 takes the lead with 173 HP, while the Kawasaki Z900 2019 offers 125.4 HP. The KTM also has a higher torque of 144 Nm compared to the Kawasaki's 98.6 Nm. Both bikes have four cylinders, but the KTM has a larger displacement of 1301 ccm, while the Kawasaki has a displacement of 948 ccm.

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, providing excellent stability and control. The Kawasaki Z900 2019 has a steel frame, whereas the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, which is known for its strength and durability. The KTM also has a tubular frame type, which adds to its overall rigidity.

When it comes to braking systems, both bikes have four-piston front brakes. However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 has a radial, monoblock technology, which offers superior braking performance. The Kawasaki Z900 2019 features petal technology, which also provides effective braking power.

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes are equipped with ABS. However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 also includes traction control, offering additional safety and control on the road.

Both bikes have similar front and rear tire dimensions, with a width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches for the front tire, and a width of 180 mm and a diameter of 17 inches for the rear tire. The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 has a slightly wider rear tire of 190 mm.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2019's 1450 mm. The seat height of the KTM is also higher at 835 mm, while the Kawasaki offers a lower seat height of 795 mm. The KTM is slightly lighter with a kerb weight of 189 kg, while the Kawasaki weighs 210 kg.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 offers light and natural handling with high stability, a silky engine with full pull from mid revs, high chassis transparency, great feedback, and a comfortable sitting position. It is also praised for its fair price.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 is known for its superb engine, agile handling, comfortable seating position, bombastic braking system, and classy look.

However, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 has some weaknesses, including a TFT display mounted too low, cumbersome menu operation, and rear-view mirrors that offer modest visibility. The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 has a somewhat nervous handling on the racetrack and a high price.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Z900 2019 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 are impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities, whether it be price, performance, or specific features.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Z900 2019 compared to KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Kawasaki Z900 2019
KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore73.4 mmBore108 mm
StrokeStroke56 mmStroke71 mm
Engine powerEngine power125.4 HPEngine power173 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,870 rpm
TorqueTorque98.6 NmTorque144 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,700 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio11.8 Compression Ratio13.2
DisplacementDisplacement948 ccmDisplacement1,301 ccm

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 width190 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,450 mmWheelbase1,482 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height795 mmSeat Height835 mm

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Kawasaki Z900 2019

Fortunately, the new Kawasaki Z900 has lost none of its character through the use of electronics. It is and remains a playful mid-range naked bike, which at the same time masters the brisk pace on the country road magnificently. The riding pleasure and suitability for everyday use are high, the now installed riding aids offer a plus in safety. Your opponents will have a really hard time from now on.

Light and natural handling with high stability

Silky engine with full pull from mid revs

High chassis transparency, great feedback

Sitting position with feel-good factor

Fair price

TFT display mounted too low

Cumbersome menu operation

Rear view mirrors offer modest visibility

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is undoubtedly a beast in terms of its data - 173 hp, 144 Newton metres of torque, 189 kilos dry weight are values with which you can make an impression on the quarter mile. It's almost a miracle that the Austrian is so easy to handle and agile despite its 1301 cubic capacity. On the country road it is therefore enormous fun, but on the race track you have to have a very precise riding style in order not to have to work a lot on the Super Duke R - but admittedly a very nice form of work! In addition, the expensive Special Edition can fully score visually with its many power parts and the beautiful paintwork

Superb engine

agile handling

comfortable seating position

bombastic braking system

classy look

somewhat nervous handling on the racetrack

high price

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Z900 vs KTM 1290 Super Duke R

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Z900 2019 and a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015. In terms of price, the actual average price of a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 is about 15% higher. Compared to KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2015 there are more Kawasaki Z900 2019 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 40 compared to 17. It takes less time to sell a KTM 1290 Super Duke R with 70 days compared to 116 days for the Kawasaki Z900. Since model year 2017 1000PS.de editors have written 46 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 and 65 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R since model year 2013. The first review for the Kawasaki Z900 was published on 11/11/2016 and now has more than 93,200 views. This compares to more than 4,900 views for the first review on KTM 1290 Super Duke R published on 11/8/2012.

Price Kawasaki Z900

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R

Model year
Current average market prices

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