Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2019

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 and the Kawasaki Z900 2019 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 is equipped with a three-cylinder engine that produces 115 horsepower, while the Kawasaki Z900 2019 features a four-cylinder engine that delivers 125.4 horsepower. This gives the Kawasaki Z900 a slight advantage in terms of power.

Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling, ensuring efficient performance and engine temperature regulation. The Yamaha MT-09 SP has a displacement of 847cc, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a larger displacement of 948cc, providing it with more torque at 98.6 Nm compared to the Yamaha's 87.5 Nm.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018

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

The chassis of the Yamaha MT-09 SP is made of aluminum and features a twin tube frame, providing a lightweight and rigid structure. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, offering stability and durability.

Both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, with the Yamaha MT-09 SP having a slightly smaller diameter of 298mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900's 300mm. Both models also come with ABS as part of their advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha MT-09 SP has a wheelbase of 1500mm and a seat height of 820mm, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1450mm and a lower seat height of 795mm. The Yamaha MT-09 SP also weighs less at 193kg compared to the Kawasaki Z900's 210kg.

Kawasaki Z900 2019

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP boasts an incredibly powerful three-cylinder engine, good brakes, a sporty and comfortable seating position, and advanced features such as ABS, traction control, and a shift assistant. The Kawasaki Z900 offers light and natural handling with high stability, a silky engine with full pull from mid revs, high chassis transparency, a comfortable seating position, and a fair price.

However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP does have some weaknesses, including a high saddle, a shift assistant that is only available for upshifting, and instruments that do not stand out strongly from the basic version. The Kawasaki Z900 also has its weaknesses, such as a TFT display mounted too low, cumbersome menu operation, and rear view mirrors that offer modest visibility.

In conclusion, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 and the Kawasaki Z900 2019 are both powerful naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha offers a powerful three-cylinder engine and advanced features, while the Kawasaki provides a comfortable riding experience and a fair price. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.