Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2021

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022

Kawasaki Z900 2021
Overview - Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 vs Kawasaki Z900 2021
The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the Kawasaki Z900 2021 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.
In terms of engine power, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 has a slightly lower output with 119 HP compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2021's 125.4 HP. However, the Yamaha model compensates with its high torque of 93 Nm, providing a lively and responsive ride. The Kawasaki Z900 2021 offers a torque of 98.6 Nm, which is slightly higher but not significantly different.
Both bikes feature fuel injection systems and liquid cooling, ensuring efficient and reliable performance. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 has a 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889 ccm, while the Kawasaki Z900 2021 has a 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 948 ccm. This difference in cylinder configuration may result in variations in power delivery and engine characteristics.
In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspension with monoshock absorbers in the rear. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 offers more adjustability options for the front and rear suspension, including compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. The Kawasaki Z900 2021, on the other hand, only provides preload and rebound adjustments for the front suspension.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022
The chassis of the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 is made of aluminum and features a twin tube frame, which contributes to its lightweight and agile handling. The Kawasaki Z900 2021, on the other hand, has a steel frame with a double cradle design. While the steel frame may add some weight to the bike, it also provides stability and durability.
Both bikes are equipped with double disc brakes in the front, with the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 having a slightly smaller diameter of 298 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2021's 300 mm. Both models also come with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, traction control, and ride-by-wire technology. However, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 offers additional features such as cornering ABS, a quickshifter, cruise control, and anti-wheelie control, enhancing its overall performance and safety.
In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1430 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 2021's 1450 mm. The seat height of the Yamaha model is also slightly higher at 825 mm, while the Kawasaki model offers a lower seat height of 795 mm. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 has a kerb weight of 189 kg, which is lighter than the Kawasaki Z900 2021's 210 kg.

Kawasaki Z900 2021
Both bikes come with LED headlights and TFT displays, providing clear visibility and modern aesthetics. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 also features LED daytime running lights, which are not available on the Kawasaki Z900 2021.
In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 is praised for its lively and high-torque engine, extremely agile handling, top brakes, high-quality chassis, and pure driving pleasure. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2021 is commended for its powerful four-cylinder engine, intuitive handling, good equipment, aggressive looks, and value for money.
As for weaknesses, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 is criticized for its poorly legible TFT display, rather hard seat, and the potential for improved intuitiveness in the control of electronics. The Kawasaki Z900 2021, on the other hand, lacks the option for a quickshifter and falls behind competitors with 6-axis IMU in terms of electronic advancements.
Overall, both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and the Kawasaki Z900 2021 offer impressive performance and features in the naked bike category. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences and priorities, whether it be a preference for a livelier engine and advanced electronics or a more affordable option with good handling and equipment.
Technical Specifications Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 compared to Kawasaki Z900 2021
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022

The fun bike MT-09 is at its best in the SP version! The extremely fun, lively three-cylinder engine feels like more than just 119 hp thanks to the abundance of torque. Add to that terrific, bike-like handling and phenomenal, finely controllable brakes. The upright, rear-facing riding position doesn't take away as much front-wheel feel in the MT-09 SP, as the high-quality chassis gives clean feedback from the road and rides every radius with stability. Unfortunately, as is typical for Yamaha, the clarity of the TFT display and the operating concept of the lush electronics leave a lot to be desired. The seat and pillion comfort could also be better. Otherwise, however, the MT-09 SP is the (almost) perfect bike for massive riding fun.
Kawasaki Z900 2021

In terms of price-performance, the Kawasaki Z900 is hard to beat at the moment. With the perfectly tuned engine, the high-quality chassis components and the electronics added for 2020, this naked bike offers everything that sporty riders will be looking for. There is really nothing to complain about, except for the lack of a quickshifter option.
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Yamaha MT-09 SP vs Kawasaki Z900
There are a few key differences between a Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 and a Kawasaki Z900 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 is about 32% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Z900 2021 there are less Yamaha MT-09 SP 2022 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 18 compared to 33. It takes less time to sell a Yamaha MT-09 SP with 104 days compared to 107 days for a Kawasaki Z900. Since model year 2018 1000PS.de editors have written 29 reviews for the Yamaha MT-09 SP and 46 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 since model year 2017. The first review for the Yamaha MT-09 SP was published on 06/11/2017 and now has more than 49,000 views. This compares to more than 93,200 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z900 published on 11/11/2016.