Kawasaki Z900
125 hp, 948 cc, 463 lbs2017 - 2019
Yamaha MT-09
115 hp, 847 cc, 425 lbs2017 - 2020
EngineKawasaki Z900Yamaha MT-09
Displacement948 cc847 cc
Max power125 hp (@9 500 RPM)115 hp (@10 000 RPM)
Max torque72 lb ft (@7 700 RPM)64 lb ft (@8 500 RPM)
Redline10 500 RPM11 300 RPM
Idling speed1 100 RPM1 200 RPM
ManagementFuel InjectionFuel Injection
LayoutDOHC Inline-4DOHC Inline-3
Compression11.80:111.50:1
Oil capacity3.79 quart2.27 quart
Oil type10W40, Motul 300V 10W40, Shell Rotella 10W40
Spark plug typeNGK CR9EIA-9NGK CPR9EA-9
CoolingLiquidLiquid
Valves1612
Bore73.4 mm78.0 mm
Stroke56.0 mm59.1 mm
Weight to power3.70 lbs/hp3.70 lbs/hp
Power to weight674 hp/2500lbs675 hp/2500lbs
Battery type12 V 8 Ah, YTX9-BS12V 8.6Ah, YTZ10S
GearboxKawasaki Z900Yamaha MT-09
TypeSequentialSequential
ClutchWetSlipper
DriveChainChain
Chain typeDID 525V10
Gears count66
Primary ratio1.6271.681
Final drive2.9332.813
1. gear2.692 (60 mph)2.667 (66 mph)
2. gear2.059 (79 mph)2.0 (88 mph)
3. gear1.65 (98 mph)1.619 (109 mph)
4. gear1.409 (115 mph)1.381 (127 mph)
5. gear1.222 (133 mph)1.19 (148 mph)
6. gear1.034 (157 mph)1.037 (170 mph)
ChasisKawasaki Z900Yamaha MT-09
Frame typeTubular backbone (with engine subframe), high tensile steelDiamond
Front susp.41 mm inverted fork (120 mm travel)USD fork, 5.39 in travel
Rear susp.Bottom-Link Uni-Trak (137 mm travel)Monoshock, 5.12 in travel
Summary

Motorcycle enthusiasts often find themselves in a dilemma when choosing between two equally great bikes. In this comparison, we will be analyzing the 2017-2020 Yamaha MT-09 and the 2017-2019 Kawasaki Z900. Let's take a closer look at each motorcycle and how they stack up against each other.

Basic Characteristics:

The Yamaha MT-09 comes powered with a 847 cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, triple-cylinder engine that produces 115 horsepower and 87.5 Nm of torque. It includes a 6-speed transmission, multi-plate assist and slipper clutch, and a fuel capacity of 14 liters. The bike features an aggressive naked design, boasting a muscular tank and a sharp headlamp, making it look visually appealing.

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 is equipped with an equally impressive 948 cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, four-cylinder engine that generates 125 horsepower and 98.6 Nm of torque. It includes a 6-speed transmission, a slipper clutch, and a fuel capacity of 17 liters. The bike boasts a sleek design, with an edgy headlamp and a compact tail section.

Targeted Audiences:

The Yamaha MT-09 targets riders who require an aggressive motorcycle that is both visually appealing and powerful. The triple-cylinder engine and the naked design appeal to riders who prefer smooth acceleration and responsive handling, making it easier to navigate through city traffic.

The Kawasaki Z900, on the other hand, appeals to riders who want a sporty performance bike that can handle long highway rides with ease. The four-cylinder engine, along with the aerodynamic design of the bike, allows for smoother acceleration, better stability, and less wind resistance while cruising at high speeds.

Best Points Compared to Each Other:

While both bikes perform exceptionally well, there are areas where each one shines.

The Yamaha MT-09 is known for its smooth and quick acceleration, as the triple-cylinder engine is incredibly responsive. It's also lightweight, allowing for easy maneuverability and better control. Riders who love taking sharp turns and dipping through corners will find the Yamaha MT-09 an absolute delight.

The Kawasaki Z900, on the other hand, boasts superior handling and stability at high speeds, making it perfect for long highway rides. Its more advanced suspension setup provides comfort and better handling while taking corners. The Z900 also stands out for its outstanding braking system, with a strong

Dyno chart of 2017 Kawasaki Z900