Yamaha XSR900 2018 vs. Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Yamaha XSR900 2018

Yamaha XSR900 2018

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

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Overview - Yamaha XSR900 2018 vs Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

The Yamaha XSR900 2018 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 are both naked bikes with similar engine types and displacements. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Yamaha XSR900 2018 has a slight advantage with 115 HP compared to the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021's 111 HP. The Yamaha also has a slightly lower torque of 87.5 Nm compared to the Kawasaki's 98.6 Nm. Both bikes have liquid cooling systems and feature a 4-cylinder engine, but the Yamaha has 3 cylinders while the Kawasaki has 4.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspensions at the rear. They also both have monoshock shock absorbers. However, the Yamaha has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the Kawasaki has a steel frame with a tubular design.

Yamaha XSR900 2018

Yamaha XSR900 2018

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with similar diameters (298 mm for the Yamaha and 300 mm for the Kawasaki). Both bikes also have ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1440 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 1470 mm. The seat height of the Yamaha is also slightly lower at 815 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 835 mm. However, the Kawasaki is heavier with a kerb weight of 215 kg compared to the Yamaha's 191 kg. The Kawasaki also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 17 liters compared to the Yamaha's 14 liters.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Now let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each bike. The Yamaha XSR900 2018 is praised for its extremely sporty and rev-happy engine, excellent brakes, and pleasant seating position. It is also known for its high-quality workmanship and offers a good price-performance ratio. However, some riders find the Yamaha's response to be almost too direct, and the retro style of the bike is not thought through to the last detail.

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 stands out for its authentic and beautiful retro look. It offers a very comfortable seating position and is easy and comfortable to ride. However, it lacks a quickshifter and driving modes, although it does have adjustable traction control.

In conclusion, both the Yamaha XSR900 2018 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha offers a sportier riding experience and a better price-performance ratio, while the Kawasaki provides a more comfortable and retro-styled ride. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Yamaha XSR900 2018 compared to Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Yamaha XSR900 2018
Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore78 mmBore73.4 mm
StrokeStroke59.1 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power115 HPEngine power111 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power10,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,500 rpm
TorqueTorque87.5 NmTorque98.6 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque8,500 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio11.5 Compression Ratio10.8
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
IgnitionIgnitionTransistorIgnitionDigital
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders3Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement847 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
LengthLength2,075 mmLength2,100 mm
WidthWidth815 mmWidth865 mm
HeightHeight1,135 mmHeight1,150 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,440 mmWheelbase1,470 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height815 mmSeat Height835 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)191 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)215 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity14 lFuel Tank Capacity17 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Yamaha XSR900 2018

Yamaha XSR900 2018

The Yamaha XSR900 is a classic case of optical illusion – with its round headlight, angular fuel tank and mounted rear light, it clearly comes across as a retro bike. However, it’s no coincidence that its performance is reminiscent of the powerful mid-range naked bike, the Yamaha MT-09, as that is the extremely sporty basis for the XSR900. The engine is therefore a real force to be reckoned with, and the brakes, as you’d expect, bite with real ferocity. Fortunately, the engineers haven’t gone overboard with the suspension; the XSR900 offers plenty of comfort, and the upright riding position is more relaxed than one might expect given the engine’s powerful acceleration. Within the retro bike segment, the XSR900 is yet one of the sportiest models overall.

an extremely sporty and revvy engine

excellent brakes

a riding experience on a par with a naked bike

comfortable riding position

high-quality build

value for money

almost too direct responsiveness

the retro style hasn’t been thought through down to the last detail

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 Yamaha XSR900 vs Kawasaki Z900 RS

There are a few key differences between a Yamaha XSR900 2018 and a Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 is about 41% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 there are less Yamaha XSR900 2018 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 4 compared to 14. It takes less time to sell a Yamaha XSR900 with 123 days compared to 125 days for a Kawasaki Z900 RS. Since model year 2016 1000PS.de editors have written 30 reviews for the Yamaha XSR900 and 26 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 RS since model year 2018. The first review for the Yamaha XSR900 was published on 25/11/2015 and now has more than 17,600 views. This compares to more than 63,700 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z900 RS published on 06/09/2017.

Price Yamaha XSR900

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z900 RS

Model year
Current average market prices

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