Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2018

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 and the Kawasaki Z900 2018 are both popular naked bikes with their own unique features and strengths.

In terms of engine power, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 has a 115 HP in-line three-cylinder engine, while the Kawasaki Z900 2018 boasts a more powerful 125.4 HP in-line four-cylinder engine. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling for optimal performance.

When it comes to torque, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 offers 87.5 Nm, while the Kawasaki Z900 2018 provides a higher torque of 98.6 Nm. This means that the Kawasaki Z900 2018 may have better acceleration and pulling power.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for both the front and rear suspension. The Kawasaki Z900 2018, on the other hand, only offers preload and rebound adjustments for the front suspension.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019

In terms of chassis, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 features an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the Kawasaki Z900 2018 has a steel frame with a double cradle design. The choice of materials and frame design can affect the overall weight and handling of the bike.

Both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with similar diameters, providing strong stopping power. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 has the additional advantage of ABS, which enhances safety during braking. The Kawasaki Z900 2018, however, lacks ABS.

In terms of rider assistance systems, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 offers ABS, a quickshifter, and traction control. The quickshifter allows for smooth and seamless gear shifts without the need to use the clutch. The Kawasaki Z900 2018, on the other hand, only offers ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

Kawasaki Z900 2018

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 has a slightly wider front tire width of 120mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2018's 120mm front tire width. Both bikes have the same rear tire width of 180mm. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 has a longer wheelbase of 1500mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2018's 1450mm wheelbase. The seat height of the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 is higher at 820mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2018's 795mm seat height. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 also has a lower kerb weight of 193kg with ABS, while the Kawasaki Z900 2018 weighs slightly more at 210kg with ABS.

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 stands out with its incredibly powerful three-cylinder engine, good brakes, sporty and comfortable seating position, ABS, traction control, and shift assistant. The Kawasaki Z900 2018, on the other hand, impresses with its powerful and silky engine, great sound, sharp and sporty look, low seating position, and easy handling and maneuverability.

However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 does have some weaknesses, such as a high saddle, shift assistant only for upshifting, and instruments that do not stand out strongly from the basic version. The Kawasaki Z900 2018, on the other hand, lacks traction control and may have a strenuous knee angle for tall riders in the long run.

In conclusion, both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 and the Kawasaki Z900 2018 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2019 offers a powerful engine and advanced rider assistance systems, while the Kawasaki Z900 2018 provides a smooth engine, sporty look, and easy handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two bikes will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.