Ducati Monster SP 2023 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2018

The Ducati Monster SP 2023 and the Kawasaki Z900 2018 are both naked bikes that offer a thrilling riding experience. However, they have several differences in terms of technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the Ducati Monster SP 2023, it is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers 111 horsepower and 93 Nm of torque. This engine provides a lively and high-torque performance, making it a joy to ride. The fuel system is injection-based, ensuring efficient and precise fuel delivery. The bike has a liquid cooling system to maintain optimal engine temperature. With a displacement of 937cc, the Ducati Monster SP 2023 offers plenty of power for exhilarating rides.

In terms of suspension, the Ducati Monster SP 2023 features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm suspension at the rear. Both the front and rear suspensions offer adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike's handling to their preferences. The rear suspension is made of aluminum, providing a lightweight and durable construction. The frame of the bike is also made of aluminum, which contributes to its overall strength and stability.

The braking system of the Ducati Monster SP 2023 consists of double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 320mm. These brakes are equipped with four pistons and utilize radial, monoblock technology, ensuring powerful and precise braking performance. The bike is also equipped with advanced rider assistance systems, including riding modes, cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. These systems enhance the overall safety and control of the bike.

Ducati Monster SP 2023

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Ducati Monster SP 2023 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm. Both tires have a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase of the bike is 1472mm, providing stability and agility during rides. The seat height is 810mm, offering a comfortable riding position. The bike has a kerb weight of 186kg with ABS.

Moving on to the Kawasaki Z900 2018, it is equipped with an inline-four engine that delivers 125.4 horsepower and 98.6 Nm of torque. This engine provides a powerful and silky-smooth performance, ensuring an exhilarating riding experience. Similar to the Ducati Monster SP 2023, the fuel system is injection-based, ensuring efficient fuel delivery. The bike also has a liquid cooling system to maintain optimal engine temperature. With a displacement of 948cc, the Kawasaki Z900 2018 offers impressive power and performance.

In terms of suspension, the Kawasaki Z900 2018 features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm suspension at the rear. Both the front and rear suspensions offer adjustable preload and rebound settings, allowing riders to customize the bike's handling. The rear suspension is made of aluminum, providing a lightweight and durable construction. However, the adjustment options for the suspension are limited compared to the Ducati Monster SP 2023.

The frame of the Kawasaki Z900 2018 is made of steel and has a double cradle design. This frame provides strength and stability to the bike, ensuring a confident ride. The braking system consists of double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 300mm. These brakes are equipped with four pistons and utilize petal technology, offering reliable and responsive braking performance. The Kawasaki Z900 2018 is equipped with ABS as an advanced rider assistance system, enhancing the safety of the bike.

Kawasaki Z900 2018

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki Z900 2018 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm. Both tires have a diameter of 17 inches, similar to the Ducati Monster SP 2023. The wheelbase of the bike is slightly shorter at 1450mm compared to the Ducati Monster SP 2023, which may affect stability and maneuverability. The seat height is 795mm, offering a low seating position. The bike has a kerb weight of 210kg with ABS, making it slightly heavier than the Ducati Monster SP 2023.

In terms of strengths, the Ducati Monster SP 2023 offers a lively and high-torque engine, finely responsive Öhlins suspension, very well controllable and powerful Brembo Stylema brakes, a beautiful sound from the Termignoni exhaust, sporty ergonomics, and a good quickshifter. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2018 boasts a powerful and silky engine, great sound, a sharp and sporty look, a low seating position, and easy handling and maneuverability.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Ducati Monster SP 2023 may experience jerking in the low rev range, has a very high price, and a sluggish clutch. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2018 lacks traction control and the knee angle may be strenuous for tall riders in the long run.

In conclusion, the Ducati Monster SP 2023 and the Kawasaki Z900 2018 are both impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Ducati Monster SP 2023 offers a more powerful engine, advanced rider assistance systems, and a higher level of adjustability in suspension. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2018 provides a smooth and powerful engine, a stylish design, and easy handling. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on individual preferences and priorities.