Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 vs. Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

Suzuki GSX-S950 2021

Suzuki GSX-S950 2021

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

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Overview - Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 vs Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

The Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 are both naked bikes with similar engine types, fuel systems, and cooling systems. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 has a higher horsepower rating of 111 HP compared to the Suzuki GSX-S950 2021's 95 HP. The Kawasaki also has a slightly higher torque rating of 98.6 Nm compared to the Suzuki's 92 Nm. This means that the Kawasaki may offer a more powerful and responsive ride.

Both bikes have four cylinders and utilize fuel injection systems. They also have similar suspension setups, with upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arms with monoshock absorbers in the rear. This should provide a comfortable and stable ride for both models.

Suzuki GSX-S950 2021

Suzuki GSX-S950 2021

In terms of chassis, the Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 features an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 has a steel frame with a tubular design. The choice of materials and frame design may affect the overall weight and handling characteristics of the bikes.

Both models have double disk brakes in the front with four-piston calipers, providing strong and reliable stopping power. However, the Suzuki has slightly larger front brake disks with a diameter of 310 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 300 mm. This may result in slightly better braking performance for the Suzuki.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes come equipped with ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. These features enhance safety and control while riding.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 has a slightly narrower front tire width of 120 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 120 mm. The Suzuki also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 19 liters compared to the Kawasaki's 17 liters. However, the Kawasaki has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1470 mm compared to the Suzuki's 1460 mm. The seat height is also slightly higher on the Kawasaki at 835 mm compared to the Suzuki's 810 mm.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

When it comes to strengths, the Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 offers an engine with plenty of power, a good sound, stable brakes, and a comfortable seating position. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 boasts a powerful and smooth engine, good looks, a comfortable seating position, and balanced handling that is neither nervous nor ponderous.

In terms of weaknesses, the Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 has a chassis that is too soft and not adjustable, as well as a cockpit that may be difficult to read in sunlight. The Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018, on the other hand, lacks a shift assistant, is heavier than other retro bikes in its class, has a seat that may be too soft on long tours, and lacks wind protection.

Overall, both the Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Suzuki may appeal to riders looking for a bike with punchy performance and a comfortable riding position, while the Kawasaki may be more attractive to those who prioritize a powerful engine, stylish design, and easy handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 compared to Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

Suzuki GSX-S950 2021
Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore73.4 mmBore73.4 mm
StrokeStroke59 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power95 HPEngine power111 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,800 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,500 rpm
TorqueTorque92 NmTorque98.6 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.2 Compression Ratio10.8
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
Throttle BoreThrottle Bore44 mmThrottle Bore36 mm
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
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
DisplacementDisplacement999 ccmDisplacement948 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
DiameterDiameter43 mmDiameter41 mm
TravelTravel120 mmTravel120 mm

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSwing armSuspensionSwing arm
Shock absorberShock absorberMonoshockShock absorberMonoshock
TravelTravel130 mmTravel140 mm

Chassis

FrameFrameAluminiumFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeTwin TubeFrame typeTubular
RakeRake65 degreeRake65 degree
TrailTrail100 mmTrail98 mm

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter310 mmDiameter300 mm
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter250 mmDiameter250 mm
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Ride by Wire, Traction controlAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Ride by Wire, 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 width190 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height50 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,115 mmLength2,100 mm
WidthWidth810 mmWidth865 mm
HeightHeight1,080 mmHeight1,150 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,460 mmWheelbase1,470 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height810 mmSeat Height835 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)214 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)215 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity19 lFuel Tank Capacity17 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Suzuki GSX-S950 2021

Suzuki GSX-S950 2021

The "small" GSX-S950 is damn close to the GSX-S1000, which is why it seems as if the proud surcharge for the 1000 will have to be properly justified. However, anyone who wants it to be as sporty as on the GSX-S1000 will already fail due to the somewhat too soft, non-adjustable suspension. However, this more comfortable design of the 950 fits the character of the engine very well. With (only) 95 hp, the engine, which is identical to the GSX-S1000, is designed for torque from below and in the middle; there is little point in stubbornly wriggling out. So if you are looking for a comparatively comfortable naked bike that is suitable for A2 and that can hardly be distinguished visually from the top model, you can save a lot of money!

Engine with plenty of punch from below

good sound

stable brakes

comfortable seating position

Chassis too soft and not adjustable

cockpit not easy to read in sunlight

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

Its four-cylinder is silky smooth while delivering enough power to make you grin under your helmet. It is also very easy to move, which should make it a great commuter bike in everyday life and serve as an iconic fun bike at the weekend. The looks find the perfect straddle of classic design and modern details to form a coherent retro package that is also a worthy tribute to Kawasaki history. It's a great naked bike with a snazzy look.

Powerful and smooth engine

good looks

comfortable seating position

easy to ride

balanced handling. Not nervous and not ponderous

no shift assistant

heavier than other retro bikes in this class

seat a little too soft on long tours

no wind protection

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Suzuki GSX-S950 vs Kawasaki Z900 RS

There are a few key differences between a Suzuki GSX-S950 2021 and a Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Z900 RS with 154 days compared to 298 days for the Suzuki GSX-S950. Since model year 2021 1000PS.de editors have written 10 reviews for the Suzuki GSX-S950 and 26 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 RS since model year 2018. The first review for the Suzuki GSX-S950 was published on 16/06/2021 and now has more than 37,200 views. This compares to more than 63,700 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z900 RS published on 06/09/2017.

Price Suzuki GSX-S950

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z900 RS

Model year
Current average market prices

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