Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 vs. Yamaha MT-09 2023

The Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 and the Yamaha MT-09 2023 are both naked bikes that offer unique features and capabilities.

Starting with the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021, it boasts an authentic and beautiful retro look, which appeals to riders who appreciate classic styling. Its comfortable seating position ensures a pleasant riding experience, and it is known for being easy and comfortable to ride. The bike is equipped with an in-line engine that delivers 111 horsepower and 98.6 Nm of torque, providing ample power for thrilling rides. The fuel system is injection-based, and it has four cylinders with liquid cooling. With a displacement of 948 ccm, the Z900 RS offers a smooth and powerful performance. The suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear, ensuring a stable and comfortable ride. The steel frame provides durability and stability, and the double disk brakes with a diameter of 300 mm offer reliable stopping power. Advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control enhance safety. The bike has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1470 mm, and the seat height is 835 mm. With a kerb weight of 215 kg (with ABS), the Z900 RS is a substantial bike. The fuel tank capacity is 17 liters, allowing for longer rides without frequent refueling.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Moving on to the Yamaha MT-09 2023, it has several notable strengths. The bike is known for its lack of load change reactions, providing a smooth and stable ride. It offers plenty of pressure from the center, allowing for quick acceleration and exhilarating rides. The over-complete electronics package includes features such as ABS, quickshifter, and traction control, enhancing the overall riding experience. The quickshifter is particularly praised for its smooth and efficient operation. The seating position is comfortably integrated, ensuring rider comfort even during long rides. The bike features an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, providing a balance of strength and agility. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork, while the rear suspension includes a swing arm with a monoshock. This combination results in a successful chassis and lively handling, offering enormous riding pleasure. The front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 298 mm, providing reliable stopping power. The Yamaha MT-09 2023 features a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1430 mm, and the seat height is 825 mm. With a kerb weight of 189 kg (with ABS), the bike is relatively lightweight. The fuel tank capacity is 14 liters, which is slightly smaller compared to the Kawasaki Z900 RS.

Yamaha MT-09 2023

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 lacks a quickshifter and driving modes, although it does have adjustable traction control. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 2023 has polarizing optics, meaning that its appearance may not appeal to everyone. It also has a small TFT display, which may limit the visibility of information for some riders. Additionally, some riders have noted that the front wheel feel is somewhat indirect. It's worth mentioning that cruise control is only available in the SP variant of the Yamaha MT-09 2023.

Overall, both the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 and the Yamaha MT-09 2023 offer unique features and capabilities that cater to different rider preferences. The Z900 RS excels in its retro styling and comfortable riding position, while the MT-09 impresses with its lack of load change reactions, powerful quickshifter, and lively handling. Riders should consider their priorities and preferences to determine which bike suits them best.