Triumph Thruxton 1200 2017 vs. Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018

The Triumph Thruxton 1200 2017 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018 are both naked bikes with a classic and stylish design.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, the Thruxton 1200 has a 2-cylinder inline crankshaft engine with a power output of 97 HP and a torque of 112 Nm. It has a fuel injection system and a displacement of 1200 cc. On the other hand, the Z900 RS Cafe is equipped with a 4-cylinder inline engine that delivers a higher power output of 111 HP but a slightly lower torque of 98.5 Nm. It also has a fuel injection system and a displacement of 948 cc. Both bikes have liquid cooling systems.

In terms of suspension, the Thruxton 1200 features a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm with dual shocks at the rear. The rear suspension has pre-load adjustment and is made of steel. The Z900 RS Cafe, on the other hand, has a telescopic upside-down fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear. The rear suspension has pre-load and recovery adjustment and is made of aluminum.

Triumph Thruxton 1200 2017

Both bikes have steel frames, but the Thruxton 1200 has a central tube frame while the Z900 RS Cafe has a tubular frame.

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front, but the Thruxton 1200 has slightly larger discs with a diameter of 310 mm compared to the 300 mm discs on the Z900 RS Cafe. The front brakes on the Thruxton 1200 have dual pistons, while the Z900 RS Cafe has four pistons. Both bikes have ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

Kawasaki Z900 RS Cafe 2018

In terms of dimensions and weight, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The Thruxton 1200 has a rear tire width of 160 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the Z900 RS Cafe has a wider rear tire with a width of 180 mm. The Thruxton 1200 has a wheelbase of 1415 mm, while the Z900 RS Cafe has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1470 mm. The seat height is higher on the Z900 RS Cafe at 820 mm compared to 805 mm on the Thruxton 1200. The fuel tank capacity is also larger on the Z900 RS Cafe at 17 liters compared to 14.5 liters on the Thruxton 1200.

In terms of strengths, the Thruxton 1200 is praised for its successful café racer look, powerful engine, controllable braking system, and discreet electronic features. The Z900 RS Cafe, on the other hand, is praised for its beautiful, classic, and high-quality appearance, balanced behavior, sporty riding feel thanks to the high torque engine and sporty seating position, practical wind protection, and a great sport touring feel combined with excellent looks.

In terms of weaknesses, the Thruxton 1200 is criticized for its somewhat elongated seating position and the fact that the rear suspension's spring preload is adjustable only. The Z900 RS Cafe, on the other hand, lacks a gear shift assistant, is heavier than other retro bikes in its class, and has a seat that may be too soft for long rides.