Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 vs. Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021

In terms of engine performance, the Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021 takes the lead with its 145 HP engine compared to the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023's 125 HP engine. The Honda also offers a higher torque of 104 Nm, while the Kawasaki has a torque of 98.6 Nm. Both bikes have a four-cylinder engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection systems.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has an advantage with its Öhlins rear shock absorber, providing better performance and adjustability compared to the Showa shock absorber on the Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021.

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with four pistons. The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has slightly smaller 300 mm diameter disks, while the Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021 has larger 310 mm diameter disks. The Honda also features radial brake technology, which enhances braking performance.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

Both bikes come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control. However, the Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021 offers additional features like a quickshifter, which allows for seamless gear shifts, and a ride-by-wire system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the two bikes are quite similar. Both have a front tire width of 120 mm and a front tire diameter of 17 inches. The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has a slightly narrower rear tire width of 180 mm compared to the Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021's 190 mm. Both bikes have a wheelbase of around 1450-1455 mm, providing stability during rides. The seat height of the Honda is higher at 830 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 795 mm. The kerb weight of both bikes is also similar, with the Honda weighing 212 kg and the Kawasaki weighing 210 kg (both with ABS).

In terms of equipment, both bikes feature LED headlights and TFT displays. The Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021 also offers a 5-inch TFT display, which provides clear and detailed information to the rider.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 boasts a powerful and sonorous four-cylinder engine, high-quality chassis components including Öhlins rear suspension, strong Brembo brakes, and good ergonomics, making it easy to handle. On the other hand, the Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021 offers a powerful engine, smooth quickshifter, nimble handling, a 5-inch TFT display, and a classy appearance.

Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021

However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has a few weaknesses. It lacks a quickshifter, even as an optional feature, and does not have lean angle dependent traction control or cornering ABS due to the absence of an IMU. Additionally, it has a relatively high weight compared to the Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021.

The Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021 has a minor weakness in the form of a narrow handlebar, which may not suit all riders' preferences.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 and the Honda CB1000R Black Edition 2021 offer powerful naked bikes with impressive features. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences, with the Kawasaki offering high-quality chassis components and good ergonomics, while the Honda provides a smooth quickshifter and a classy appearance.