Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 vs. KTM 790 Duke 2018

The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 and the KTM 790 Duke 2018 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced features. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the engines, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 is equipped with an inline-four engine that delivers 125.4 HP of power. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 features a twin-cylinder engine with a power output of 105 HP. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 is equipped with an Öhlins shock absorber, which offers pre-load and recovery adjustment. The KTM 790 Duke 2018, on the other hand, features a WP shock absorber with pre-load adjustment only. Both bikes have aluminum components in their suspension systems.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022

When it comes to the chassis, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the KTM 790 Duke 2018 features a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame. Both bikes have dual disc brakes at the front with a diameter of 300 mm and four-piston calipers. The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 has petal technology for its front brakes, while the KTM 790 Duke 2018 has radial technology.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes are equipped with ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 also features ride-by-wire and cruise control, while the KTM 790 Duke 2018 does not have these features.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm, with a diameter of 17 inches for both. The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 has a wheelbase of 1450 mm and a seat height of 795 mm, while the KTM 790 Duke 2018 has a wheelbase of 1475 mm and a seat height of 825 mm.

KTM 790 Duke 2018

In terms of equipment, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 is equipped with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT screen. The KTM 790 Duke 2018 features an adjustable windshield.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 offers a powerful engine, high-quality chassis components, strong brakes, good ergonomics, and easy handling on the racetrack. The KTM 790 Duke 2018, on the other hand, offers a high-revving engine with powerful acceleration, a chassis optimized for sporty riding, fantastic sound even with the stock exhaust, many electronic tricks and functions, and an extremely precise gear lever that makes fast riding even easier. Both bikes also offer comfortable seating positions.

However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2022 lacks gear shifting, which can be seen as a weakness. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 has some weaknesses, including difficult handling at low revs, poor performance in city traffic, complicated switches on the handlebars, and oil leakage in the engine block in many 790 Dukes.