Ducati Monster 2023 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2020

Ducati Monster 2023

Ducati Monster 2023

Kawasaki Z900 2020

Kawasaki Z900 2020

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Overview - Ducati Monster 2023 vs Kawasaki Z900 2020

The Ducati Monster 2023 and the Kawasaki Z900 2020 are both naked bikes that offer a thrilling riding experience. While they have some similarities in terms of technical specifications and equipment, there are also notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the Ducati Monster 2023, it is powered by a V-twin engine with a displacement of 937cc. It produces 111 horsepower and 93 Nm of torque, providing ample power for an exhilarating ride. The fuel system is injection-based, ensuring efficient fuel delivery. The Monster features a liquid-cooling system to maintain optimal engine temperature. It has a two-cylinder configuration and is equipped with a swing arm suspension at the rear, along with a monoshock for shock absorption. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork. The frame is made of aluminum, which contributes to the bike's lightweight and agile handling. The brakes on the Monster are double disk with a diameter of 320mm and four pistons, utilizing radial monoblock technology for enhanced stopping power. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Monster 2023 has a stylish design with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display for clear and modern instrumentation.

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2020 is powered by an inline-four engine with a displacement of 948cc. It delivers 125.4 horsepower and 98.6 Nm of torque, making it a powerful contender in its class. Like the Monster, it also features a fuel injection system for efficient fuel delivery. The Z900 has a liquid-cooling system and a four-cylinder configuration. The suspension setup consists of an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The frame is made of steel and has a double cradle design. The braking system on the Z900 includes double disk brakes with a diameter of 300mm and four pistons. It utilizes petal technology for improved heat dissipation. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. The Z900 features LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display for clear and modern instrumentation.

Ducati Monster 2023

Ducati Monster 2023

In terms of strengths, the Ducati Monster 2023 stands out with its typical Ducati powerplant, offering a charismatic riding experience. The bike also provides a comfortable seating position and has a good, responsive braking system. Its agile handling and high-quality components contribute to an enjoyable ride. The Monster 2023 comes with a comprehensive electronics package, including cornering ABS and lean angle-dependent traction control.

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 2020 has strengths such as a powerful four-cylinder engine, great handling, good equipment, and aggressive looks. It offers excellent value for money, making it an attractive option for riders looking for a high-performance naked bike.

Kawasaki Z900 2020

Kawasaki Z900 2020

However, both models have their weaknesses. The Ducati Monster 2023 is known to have engine jerks at low revs, which can be a drawback for some riders. The front fork is also tuned too softly, affecting the bike's overall performance. Additionally, the lack of a trellis frame may disappoint fans who associate the Monster with its iconic design.

As for the Kawasaki Z900 2020, some riders may find the menu navigation somewhat tiring, which can be a minor inconvenience. Another drawback is the absence of a quickshifter option, which could have enhanced the bike's overall performance and riding experience.

In conclusion, both the Ducati Monster 2023 and the Kawasaki Z900 2020 offer exciting rides with their respective strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences, priorities, and budget.

Technical Specifications Ducati Monster 2023 compared to Kawasaki Z900 2020

Ducati Monster 2023
Kawasaki Z900 2020

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeVEngine typeIn line
BoreBore94 mmBore73.4 mm
StrokeStroke67.5 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power111 HPEngine power125.4 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,250 rpmRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpm
TorqueTorque93 NmTorque98.6 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque7,700 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio13.3 Compression Ratio11.8
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
Throttle BoreThrottle Bore53 mmThrottle Bore36 mm
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath, AntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDesmodromicValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement937 ccmDisplacement948 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
DiameterDiameter43 mmDiameter41 mm
TravelTravel130 mmTravel120 mm

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSwing armSuspensionSwing arm
Shock absorberShock absorberMonoshockShock absorberMonoshock
Shock mountShock mountdirectShock mountDeflection
TravelTravel140 mmTravel140 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreloadAdjustmentPreload, Rebound
MaterialMaterialAluminiumMaterialAluminium

Chassis

FrameFrameAluminiumFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeLoad-bearing engineFrame typeDouble cradle
RakeRake66 degreeRake65 degree
TrailTrail93 mmTrail105 mm

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter320 mmDiameter300 mm
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountSemi-SchwimmsattelShock mountFixed caliper
ActuationActuationHydraulicActuationHydraulic
TechnologyTechnologyradial, MonoblockTechnologyPetal

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter245 mmDiameter250 mm
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonSingle piston

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsRiding modes, Cornering ABS, Launch-Control, 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
WheelbaseWheelbase1,474 mmWheelbase1,450 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height775 mmSeat Height795 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)188 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)210 kg
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Equipment

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

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Ducati Monster 2023

Ducati Monster 2023

You can always argue about the looks and the lack of a trellis frame, but the current Monster is anything but ugly. Basically, it would be a great everyday naked bike with pleasant ergonomics and a braking system that won't surprise even the inexperienced. The even softer suspension can also be seen as an acceptable compromise, but for a Ducati it is rather surprising that at least the front fork has not been set a little firmer. Unfortunately, the charismatic engine bucks heavily at low revs and therefore only reveals its marvellous V2 character on the country road. All in all, however, this reflects the overall image of the Monster very well: a typical Ducati that is also good for everyday riding in terms of suspension and brakes.

Typical Ducati engine with charisma

comfortable riding position

good, easy-to-use braking system

agile handling

high-quality components

comprehensive electronics package

cornering ABS

traction control depending on lean angle

Engine jerks a lot at low revs

front fork too softly set up

no longer unmistakably a Monster due to the missing trellis frame

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 Ducati Monster vs Kawasaki Z900

There are a few key differences between a Ducati Monster 2023 and a Kawasaki Z900 2020. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Ducati Monster 2023 is about 31% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Z900 2020 there are less Ducati Monster 2023 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 12 compared to 34. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Z900 with 124 days compared to 143 days for the Ducati Monster. Since model year 2021 1000PS.de editors have written 13 reviews for the Ducati Monster and 46 reviews for the Kawasaki Z900 since model year 2017. The first review for the Ducati Monster was published on 12/2/2020 and now has more than 90,700 views. This compares to more than 93,200 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z900 published on 11/11/2016.

Price Ducati Monster

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z900

Model year
Current average market prices

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