Kawasaki Z900 2023 vs. KTM 790 Duke 2020

The Kawasaki Z900 2023 and the KTM 790 Duke 2020 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 is equipped with an in-line, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 948cc. It produces 125 horsepower and features a fuel injection system. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke 2020 also has an in-line, liquid-cooled engine but with a smaller displacement of 799cc. It generates 105 horsepower and also utilizes a fuel injection system. While both bikes have similar engine types and fuel systems, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 offers slightly more power.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Kawasaki Z900 2023 has a monoshock rear shock absorber with adjustable preload and rebound settings, while the KTM 790 Duke 2020 only offers rear suspension preload adjustment. Both bikes have aluminum rear suspension components, providing lightweight and responsive handling.

Kawasaki Z900 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the KTM 790 Duke 2020 features a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame. Both frames are designed to provide strength and stability, but the choice of materials may result in slight differences in weight and handling characteristics.

In terms of braking systems, both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 300mm and four-piston calipers. The Kawasaki Z900 2023 utilizes petal technology for improved heat dissipation, while the KTM 790 Duke 2020 features radial technology for enhanced braking performance.

Both bikes come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control. Additionally, they both offer similar front and rear tire dimensions, with a width of 120mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The Kawasaki Z900 2023 has a wheelbase of 1450mm and a seat height of 795mm, while the KTM 790 Duke 2020 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1475mm and a higher seat height of 825mm.

In terms of equipment, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 features LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke 2020 comes with an adjustable windscreen in addition to its other features.

KTM 790 Duke 2020

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 KTM 790 Duke 2020 is praised for its high-revving two-cylinder engine, quickshifter as standard, great chassis set-up, playful handling, high-quality electronics package, TFT display, and good price/performance ratio.

As for weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z900 2023 is criticized for its relatively cumbersome operation of the menu, lack of slope-dependent assistance systems, and high weight. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke 2020 is noted for only offering rear suspension preload adjustment.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Z900 2023 and the KTM 790 Duke 2020 are impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki Z900 2023 offers more power and a steel frame, while the KTM 790 Duke 2020 provides a slightly longer wheelbase and an adjustable windscreen. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on individual preferences and priorities.