Yamaha MT-09 2016 vs. Kawasaki Z650 2021

Yamaha MT-09 2016

Yamaha MT-09 2016

Kawasaki Z650 2021

Kawasaki Z650 2021

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Overview - Yamaha MT-09 2016 vs Kawasaki Z650 2021

When comparing the Yamaha MT-09 2016 and the Kawasaki Z650 2021, it is important to consider their technical specifications and strengths and weaknesses.

In terms of engine and drive train, both bikes have an in-line engine. However, the Yamaha MT-09 2016 has a more powerful engine with 115 HP compared to the Kawasaki Z650 2021's 68.2 HP. The Yamaha also has higher torque at 87.5 Nm compared to the Kawasaki's 65.7 Nm. The Yamaha has three cylinders and a displacement of 847 ccm, while the Kawasaki has two cylinders and a displacement of 649 ccm.

Both bikes have a telescopic fork front suspension, which provides stability and control. The Yamaha has an aluminum frame with a twin tube frame type, while the Kawasaki has a steel frame with a tubular frame type. This could result in differences in weight and handling.

Yamaha MT-09 2016

Yamaha MT-09 2016

In terms of brakes, both bikes have double disk front brakes, ensuring good stopping power. The Yamaha has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the Kawasaki has the same measurements. However, the Yamaha has a wider rear tire width of 180 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 160 mm. Both bikes have a rear tire diameter of 17 inches.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, the Yamaha has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1440 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 1410 mm. The Yamaha also has a higher seat height at 815 mm, while the Kawasaki has a lower seat height at 790 mm. In terms of weight, the Yamaha has a kerb weight of 188 kg without ABS and 191 kg with ABS, while the Kawasaki has a kerb weight of 185 kg without ABS and 187.1 kg with ABS. The Kawasaki also has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity at 15 liters compared to the Yamaha's 14 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha MT-09 2016 has a wonderfully powerful three-cylinder powerplant, three power modes, and a fully adjustable chassis. It also comes with a quickshifter as standard, providing a seamless shifting experience. The bike offers a sporty upright seating position, good brakes, and aggressive looks. Additionally, it features traction control, enhancing safety and control.

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z650 2021 has its own strengths. It has an accessible two-cylinder engine, compact dimensions, and a low seat height, making it suitable for riders of different sizes. The bike also has a stable chassis, providing a confident and comfortable riding experience. It features a TFT display with connectivity, allowing riders to easily access information and stay connected. The Kawasaki also has a grown-up look, appealing to riders who prefer a more mature aesthetic.

Kawasaki Z650 2021

Kawasaki Z650 2021

In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha MT-09 2016 has a saddle that may be too hard for long tours, potentially causing discomfort for riders. Additionally, its license plate holder on the swingarm offers less splash protection compared to a conventional one.

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z650 2021 may not be as comfortable for tall riders due to its lower seat height. Furthermore, some riders may find that the adrenaline level in the saddle is lower compared to its competition, potentially affecting the bike's overall excitement factor.

In conclusion, the Yamaha MT-09 2016 and the Kawasaki Z650 2021 have their own unique features and characteristics. The Yamaha offers a more powerful engine and adjustable chassis, while the Kawasaki provides accessibility, compactness, and a stable chassis. Riders should consider their preferences and priorities when choosing between these two bikes.

Technical Specifications Yamaha MT-09 2016 compared to Kawasaki Z650 2021

Yamaha MT-09 2016
Kawasaki Z650 2021

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore78 mmBore83 mm
StrokeStroke59.1 mmStroke60 mm
Engine powerEngine power115 HPEngine power68.2 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power10,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,000 rpm
TorqueTorque87.5 NmTorque65.7 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque8,500 rpmRpm at Torque7,000 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio11.5 Compression Ratio10.8
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders3Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
DisplacementDisplacement847 ccmDisplacement649 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTelescopic forkFront suspensionTelescopic fork

Chassis

FrameFrameAluminiumFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeTwin TubeFrame typeTubular

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc

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 width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,075 mmLength2,055 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,440 mmWheelbase1,410 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height815 mmSeat Height790 mm
Kerb WeightKerb Weight188 kgKerb Weight185 kg
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)191 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)187.1 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity14 lFuel Tank Capacity15 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Yamaha MT-09 2016

Yamaha MT-09 2016

The Yamaha MT-09 did not need to be reinvented for the coming season - it already was extremely well done almost four years ago. Instead, the Japanese focus on fine-tuning and adding practical, contemporary gimmicks such as traction control and automatic shifting. Due to the Euro4 standard, however, the engine management has been changed once again and offers an emphatically powerful but well controllable power delivery in standard mode; the power explosion of the first generation is now no longer offered even by the sharper A mode. The biggest change, recognisable at first glance, is the, in my opinion, extremely successful design with the more aggressive front and the newly designed rear. All in all, an even snazzier naked bike that was clearly built for the fun of motorcycling.

Wonderfully powerful three-cylinder powerplant

three power modes

fully adjustable chassis

quickshifter as standard

sporty upright seating position

good brakes

aggressive looks

traction control.

Saddle a little too hard for long tours

licence plate holder on the swingarm offers less splash protection than a conventional one

Kawasaki Z650 2021

Kawasaki Z650 2021

Even in 2021, the Kawasaki Z 650 stands for easy riding with great looks and good equipment. Both seat height and engine are very accessible and will give both experienced riders and newcomers a lot of pleasure. If you are looking for an honest naked bike without any big surprises, this is the bike for you. Due to its compact dimensions, however, you should try it out before buying and perhaps go for the raised seat.

accessible two-cylinder

compact dimensions

low seat height

stable chassis

TFT display with connectivity

grown-up look

Probably uncomfortable for tall riders

adrenaline level in the saddle lower than with the competition

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Yamaha MT-09 vs Kawasaki Z650

There are a few key differences between a Yamaha MT-09 2016 and a Kawasaki Z650 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Yamaha MT-09 2016 is about 15% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Z650 2021 there are less Yamaha MT-09 2016 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 11 compared to 25. It takes less time to sell a Yamaha MT-09 with 87 days compared to 106 days for a Kawasaki Z650. Since model year 2013 1000PS.de editors have written 57 reviews for the Yamaha MT-09 and 31 reviews for the Kawasaki Z650 since model year 2017. The first review for the Yamaha MT-09 was published on 6/10/2013 and now has more than 39,900 views. This compares to more than 25,000 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z650 published on 11/8/2016.

Price Yamaha MT-09

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z650

Model year
Current average market prices

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