Kawasaki Z900 2017 vs. Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Kawasaki Z900 2017

Kawasaki Z900 2017

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

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Overview - Kawasaki Z900 2017 vs Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

The Kawasaki Z900 model year 2017 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS model year 2021 are both naked bikes with similar technical specifications. They both have an in-line engine with a displacement of 948cc and a liquid cooling system. The engine power of the Z900 is slightly higher at 125.4 HP compared to the Z900 RS which has 111 HP. However, both bikes have the same torque of 98.6 Nm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension adjustments for both bikes include preload and rebound. The Z900 RS also offers compression adjustment for the front suspension.

Kawasaki Z900 2017

Kawasaki Z900 2017

Both bikes have a steel frame, but the Z900 has a double cradle frame while the Z900 RS has a tubular frame. The braking system for both bikes consists of double disk brakes with a diameter of 300mm and four pistons. Additionally, both bikes are equipped with ABS as an advanced rider assistance system. However, the Z900 RS also features traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters. The wheelbase of the Z900 RS is slightly longer at 1470mm compared to the Z900 which has a wheelbase of 1450mm. The seat height of the Z900 RS is also higher at 835mm compared to the Z900 which has a seat height of 795mm. The kerb weight of the Z900 RS is slightly heavier at 215kg compared to the Z900 which weighs 210kg with ABS.

The Kawasaki Z900 2017 has several strengths including its ingenious naked bike chassis, superb looks, and a responsive engine with a well-balanced torque. It is also praised for offering a good intersection of performance, price, and practical use. However, one weakness of the Z900 is its narrow knee angle which may be uncomfortable for taller riders.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 has a retro look that is highly praised for its authenticity and beauty. It also offers a very comfortable seating position and is considered easy and comfortable to ride. However, it lacks a quickshifter and driving modes, although it does have adjustable traction control.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Z900 2017 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 are impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Z900 offers a higher engine power and a more affordable price, while the Z900 RS provides a retro look and a more comfortable riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Z900 2017 compared to Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Kawasaki Z900 2017
Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore73.4 mmBore73.4 mm
StrokeStroke56 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power125.4 HPEngine power111 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,500 rpm
TorqueTorque98.6 NmTorque98.6 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,700 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio11.8 Compression Ratio10.8
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
Throttle BoreThrottle Bore36 mmThrottle Bore36 mm
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
IgnitionIgnitionDigitalIgnitionDigital
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders4Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement948 ccmDisplacement948 ccm

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABSAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,070 mmLength2,100 mm
WidthWidth820 mmWidth865 mm
HeightHeight1,065 mmHeight1,150 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,450 mmWheelbase1,470 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height795 mmSeat Height835 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)210 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)215 kg
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Z900 2017

Kawasaki Z900 2017

Fortunately, the new Kawasaki Z900 has lost none of its character through the use of electronics. It is and remains a playful mid-range naked bike, which at the same time masters the brisk pace on the country road magnificently. The riding pleasure and suitability for everyday use are high, the now installed riding aids offer a plus in safety. Your opponents will have a really hard time from now on.

Light and natural handling with high stability

Silky engine with full pull from mid revs

High chassis transparency, great feedback

Sitting position with feel-good factor

Fair price

TFT display mounted too low

Cumbersome menu operation

Rear view mirrors offer modest visibility

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

The Kawasaki Z900 RS is the perfect combination of classic design and modern technology. Its four-cylinder Inline engine, which runs silky smooth, delivers linear power and impressive elasticity across the entire rev range. The suspension strikes an ideal balance between comfort and stability, making it perfect for both long-distance riding and sporty riding. Despite the lack of a windscreen, the Z900 RS impresses with a comfortable riding position and agile riding performance. Aesthetically, it pays homage to the legendary Z1, whilst modern features such as traction control and high-quality build quality round off a very successful overall package. For anyone looking to combine a retro look with modern power, the Z900 RS is a reliable and versatile companion, both for everyday use and for longer tours.

attractive design

powerful engine

stable riding performance

responsive brakes

comfortable riding position

analogue instrument panel

adjustable levers

silky-smooth four-cylinder Inline engine

linear power delivery

excellent mechanical refinement

comfortable suspension with sporty progression

high-quality build

agile handling

versatility on both long journeys and in everyday use

great elasticity of the engine.

Not available with the optional Quickshifter

the RS’s rear shock absorber reacts a little rough when dealing with small potholes

Price Comparison Average Market Price Kawasaki Z900 vs Kawasaki Z900 RS

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Z900 2017 and a Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 is about 22% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 there are more Kawasaki Z900 2017 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 43 compared to 14. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Z900 with 85 days compared to 125 days for a Kawasaki Z900 RS. Since model year 2017 1000PS.de editors have written 46 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 and 26 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 RS since model year 2018. The first review for the Kawasaki Z900 was published on 11/11/2016 and now has more than 93,200 views. This compares to more than 63,700 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z900 RS published on 06/09/2017.

Price Kawasaki Z900

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z900 RS

Model year
Current average market prices

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