Kawasaki Z900 2023 vs. Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

The Kawasaki Z900 model year 2023 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP model year 2021 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 is equipped with a 4-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 125 HP of power and 98.6 Nm of torque. It has a displacement of 948cc and features a fuel injection system. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 is powered by a 3-cylinder in-line engine that produces 119 HP of power and 93 Nm of torque. It has a displacement of 889cc and also utilizes a fuel injection system. Both bikes have liquid cooling systems to maintain optimal engine temperature.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for both the front and rear suspension, while the Kawasaki Z900 2023 only provides preload and rebound adjustments.

Kawasaki Z900 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 features an aluminum frame with a twin tube design. The choice of materials and frame design can affect the overall weight and handling characteristics of the bikes.

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 300mm for the Kawasaki Z900 2023 and 298mm for the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021. Both models also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, with both tires having a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1450mm and a seat height of 795mm. The bike has a kerb weight of 212kg with ABS. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 has the same tire dimensions and wheelbase as the Kawasaki Z900 2023, but it has a slightly higher seat height of 825mm. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 is also lighter, with a kerb weight of 189kg with ABS.

In terms of equipment, both bikes are equipped with LED headlights and TFT displays. However, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 also features LED daytime running lights, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 has additional advanced rider assistance systems such as cornering ABS, quickshifter, and anti-wheelie control.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 offers light and natural handling with high stability, a silky engine with full pull from low revs, and a seating position with a feel-good factor. It also comes at an absolutely fair price. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 provides an upright and comfortable seating position, a well-tuned chassis, and quick and easy adjustability of mappings and traction control. It also boasts high-quality workmanship and lovely details, along with a great tuned engine that delivers excellent acceleration and lots of pressure in the relevant rev range.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Kawasaki Z900 2023 has a relatively cumbersome operation of the menu, lacks slope-dependent assistance systems, and has a high weight. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021, on the other hand, has a horn that is mounted in a crude way and a display that is considered poor.

In conclusion, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 are both impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki Z900 2023 offers a smooth and stable ride with a powerful engine, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 provides a comfortable seating position and advanced adjustability. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.