Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 vs. KTM 890 Duke R 2023

The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 and the KTM 890 Duke R 2023 are both naked bikes with similar engine types, fuel systems, and cooling systems. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has a slight advantage with 125 HP compared to the KTM 890 Duke R 2023's 121 HP. The torque is also slightly higher for the Z900 SE at 98.6 Nm compared to the 890 Duke R's 99 Nm. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

When it comes to suspension, the Z900 SE features an Öhlins rear shock absorber, while the 890 Duke R has a WP shock absorber. Both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front, but the Z900 SE offers more adjustment options with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. The 890 Duke R only has preload adjustment for the front suspension.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

In terms of chassis, the Z900 SE has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the 890 Duke R has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. Both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with four pistons, but the 890 Duke R has larger diameter disks at 320 mm compared to the Z900 SE's 300 mm. The 890 Duke R also features radial brake technology.

Both bikes come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the 890 Duke R has additional features like cornering ABS and connectivity.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Z900 SE and the 890 Duke R have similar front and rear tire widths and diameters. The 890 Duke R has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1482 mm compared to the Z900 SE's 1450 mm. The seat height is also higher for the 890 Duke R at 834 mm compared to the Z900 SE's 795 mm.

KTM 890 Duke R 2023

In terms of equipment, both bikes come with LED headlights and TFT displays. The Z900 SE also has LED daytime running lights, while the 890 Duke R offers connectivity as an additional feature.

In terms of strengths, the Z900 SE has a powerful four-cylinder engine, high-quality chassis components, strong Brembo brakes, good ergonomics, and easy handling. On the other hand, the 890 Duke R has a powerful and rev-happy engine, finely controllable response, sporty seating position, high-quality adjustable suspension, powerful Brembo brakes, low vehicle weight, and extensive electronics.

However, the Z900 SE has some weaknesses such as the lack of a quickshifter, lean angle dependent traction control, and cornering ABS due to the missing IMU, as well as its high weight. The 890 Duke R's weaknesses include a more demanding seating position compared to the basic model and a tight basic set-up that may not suit everyone's taste.