Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 vs. Triumph Bonneville T120 2021

When comparing the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 and the Triumph Bonneville T120 2021, it is important to consider their technical specifications as well as their strengths and weaknesses.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 features an in-line, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 948cc. It produces 111 horsepower and 98.6 Nm of torque. The fuel system is injection-based, and it has four cylinders. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork, while the rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock absorber. The frame is made of steel, and the front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 300mm. The bike also comes equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, Ride by Wire, and traction control. The front and rear tires have a width of 120mm and 180mm respectively, with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1470mm, and the seat height is 835mm. The bike weighs 215kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 17 liters.

On the other hand, the Triumph Bonneville T120 2021 features an in-line crankpin offset, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 1200cc. It produces 80 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. The fuel system is injection-based, and it has two cylinders. The front suspension consists of a telescopic fork, while the rear suspension is a swing arm with dual shocks. The frame is made of steel, and the front brakes are double disk with a diameter of 310mm. The bike also comes equipped with ABS as an advanced rider assistance system. The front and rear tires have a width of 100mm and 150mm respectively, with a diameter of 18 inches for the front tire and 17 inches for the rear tire. The wheelbase is 1450mm, and the seat height is 790mm. The bike weighs 236kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 14.5 liters.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 is praised for its powerful and smooth engine, attractive design, comfortable seating position, and easy-to-ride nature. It also offers balanced handling, striking a good balance between being responsive without feeling nervous or ponderous.

On the other hand, the Triumph Bonneville T120 2021 is appreciated for its classic forms in their purest form, superior engine performance, and ergonomics that fit almost everyone. It is also known for its high quality of workmanship and materials, providing a comfortable riding experience.

Triumph Bonneville T120 2021

However, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 does have some weaknesses. It lacks a shift assistant, making gear changes less seamless compared to bikes that have this feature. It is also heavier than other retro bikes in its class, which can affect maneuverability. Additionally, the seat may be too soft for some riders during long tours, and there is no wind protection, leaving the rider exposed to the elements.

Similarly, the Triumph Bonneville T120 2021 has a few weaknesses. It has limited lean angle clearance, which can restrict its performance in aggressive cornering. The chassis may also reach its limits at a brisk pace, potentially affecting stability and handling.

In conclusion, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 and the Triumph Bonneville T120 2021 are both notable naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki offers a powerful engine, attractive design, and comfortable riding position, while the Triumph boasts classic aesthetics, a superior engine, and excellent ergonomics. However, the Kawasaki lacks a shift assistant and wind protection, while the Triumph has limited lean angle clearance and potential limitations in its chassis. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.