Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2020

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

Kawasaki Z900 2020

Kawasaki Z900 2020

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Overview - Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 vs Kawasaki Z900 2020

When comparing the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 and the Kawasaki Z900 2020, it is evident that both bikes have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Starting with the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021, it boasts an upright and comfortable seating position, making it ideal for long rides. The chassis is well-tuned, providing a smooth and stable ride. One of the standout features of this bike is the ability to easily adjust the mappings and traction control, allowing riders to customize their riding experience. The MT-09 SP also impresses with its high-quality workmanship and attention to detail. The engine is tuned to perfection, delivering great acceleration and plenty of power in the relevant rev range.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2020 stands out with its powerful four-cylinder engine, which offers impressive performance. The bike's handling is also highly praised, providing a thrilling and agile riding experience. In terms of equipment, the Z900 offers a good range of features, including LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. Additionally, the aggressive looks of the Z900 give it a distinct and eye-catching appearance. Another advantage of the Z900 is its value for money, making it an attractive option for riders looking for a high-performance bike at a reasonable price.

Despite their strengths, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 has a horn that is mounted in a crude way, which can be seen as a design flaw. Additionally, the display on the MT-09 SP is considered poor, lacking the clarity and functionality found in other models.

Kawasaki Z900 2020

Kawasaki Z900 2020

Similarly, the Kawasaki Z900 2020 has its drawbacks. The menu navigation on the bike can be somewhat tiring, as it may require more effort to navigate through the various settings and options. Another downside of the Z900 is the absence of a quickshifter option, which can be a disappointment for riders who prefer the convenience and seamless gear changes provided by this feature.

In conclusion, both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 and the Kawasaki Z900 2020 have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The MT-09 SP impresses with its comfortable seating position, well-tuned chassis, and customizable features. On the other hand, the Z900 stands out with its powerful engine, great handling, and attractive design. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on the individual preferences and priorities of the rider.

Technical Specifications Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 compared to Kawasaki Z900 2020

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021
Kawasaki Z900 2020

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore78 mmBore73.4 mm
StrokeStroke62.1 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power119 HPEngine power125.4 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power10,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpm
TorqueTorque93 NmTorque98.6 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,000 rpmRpm at Torque7,700 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio11.5 Compression Ratio11.8
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
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
DisplacementDisplacement889 ccmDisplacement948 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
TravelTravel137 mmTravel120 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentCompression, Preload, ReboundAdjustmentPreload, Rebound

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSwing armSuspensionSwing arm
Shock absorberShock absorberMonoshockShock absorberMonoshock
Shock mountShock mountDeflectionShock mountDeflection
TravelTravel142 mmTravel140 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentCompression, Preload, ReboundAdjustmentPreload, Rebound

Chassis

FrameFrameAluminiumFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeTwin TubeFrame typeDouble cradle
RakeRake65 degreeRake65 degree
TrailTrail108 mmTrail105 mm

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter298 mmDiameter300 mm

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter245 mmDiameter250 mm

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Cornering ABS, Ride by Wire, Quickshifter, Traction control, Anti-wheelieAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Riding modes, 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 width180 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,090 mmLength2,070 mm
WidthWidth795 mmWidth820 mm
HeightHeight1,190 mmHeight1,065 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,430 mmWheelbase1,450 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height825 mmSeat Height795 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)189 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)210 kg
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Equipment

EquipmentEquipmentLED-Headlights, TFT displayEquipmentLED daytime running lights, LED-Headlights, TFT display

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021

The Yamaha MT-09 SP already had it easy in the previous generation, as it is the even more refined version of an already really good, because wonderfully agile fun machine! The current SP version is no different, but it has been improved even further. A little more power, increased torque and better-tuned electronics make it even more fun. As expected, the suspension with classier KYB and Öhlins components works excellently, the brakes could be a little sharper, but the seating position is still what you would expect from such an agile and easily controllable fun machine. The few quirks like the small TFT display or the controversial light mask in no way make it worse, but simply an even more independent personality!

Extremely agile and powerful engine

comfortable riding position

high-quality suspension elements from KYB and Öhlins

good quickshifter with blipper

distinctive look.

Small TFT display

horn half-heartedly installed at the front

wide turning circle

Kawasaki Z900 2020

Kawasaki Z900 2020

The Kawasaki Z900 may not be up to scratch when it comes to modern, lean angle-dependent electronic features, but it's relatively cheap and you shouldn't underestimate the fan base of the good old inline four - the Z900 is one of the cheapest ways to own such a great engine with just under a litre of displacement in a sporty naked bike! The higher weight is noticeable, but not massively annoying, because the handling and stability are quite alright. In terms of "outdated" electronics, the most annoying thing is the missing shift assistant, which is not even available as an option. Overall, however, the Z900 is a great naked bike with a great price-performance ratio.

Light and natural handling with high stability

silky engine with full pull from low revs

high chassis transparency, great feedback

seating position with feel-good factor

absolutely fair price.

Relatively cumbersome operation of the menu

no slope-dependent assistance systems

high weight

Price Comparison Average Market Price Yamaha MT-09 SP vs Kawasaki Z900

There are a few key differences between a Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 and a Kawasaki Z900 2020. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 is about 27% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Z900 2020 there are less Yamaha MT-09 SP 2021 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 15 compared to 34. It takes less time to sell a Yamaha MT-09 SP with 120 days compared to 124 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 11/6/2017 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.

Price Yamaha MT-09 SP

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z900

Model year
Current average market prices

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