Kawasaki Z900 2019 vs. Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020

In terms of engine and drive train, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 features an inline 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 948cc, producing 125.4 horsepower and 98.6 Nm of torque. It has a fuel injection system and liquid cooling. On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 has a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1198.4cc, delivering 147 horsepower and 126.2 Nm of torque. It also has a fuel injection system and liquid cooling. The Ducati Monster 1200 S offers a more powerful engine compared to the Kawasaki Z900.

Both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension and monoshock for the rear suspension. The suspension on both bikes can be adjusted for preload and rebound. The rear suspension of the Ducati Monster 1200 S is made of aluminum, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a swing arm suspension. The chassis of both bikes is made of steel, with the Kawasaki Z900 having a double cradle frame and the Ducati Monster 1200 S having a tubular frame.

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 300mm for the Kawasaki Z900 and 330mm for the Ducati Monster 1200 S. Both bikes also have four-piston calipers and advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS. The braking technology for the Kawasaki Z900 is petal, while the Ducati Monster 1200 S uses radial monoblock technology.

Kawasaki Z900 2019

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The rear tire width is 180mm for the Kawasaki Z900 and 190mm for the Ducati Monster 1200 S, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1450mm for the Kawasaki Z900 and 1485mm for the Ducati Monster 1200 S. The seat height is the same for both bikes at 795mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 210kg for the Kawasaki Z900 and 211kg for the Ducati Monster 1200 S.

Now, let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each bike. The Kawasaki Z900 2019 is praised for its light and natural handling with high stability. Its engine is described as silky, providing full pull from mid revs. The chassis transparency and feedback are also highly regarded. The sitting position is comfortable and offers a feel-good factor. Additionally, the Kawasaki Z900 is considered to have a fair price.

On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 is praised for its high-performance power unit, delivering 147 horsepower and plenty of torque even at low revs. It boasts fantastic electronic equipment, including DTC, DWC, RbW, and customizable driving modes and assistance systems. The chassis is high-quality, and the seating position is great. The overall concept of the Ducati Monster 1200 S is described as coherent and harmonious, making it agile and maneuverable. It is also considered an emotional and beautiful Italian bike.

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 has a TFT display mounted too low, making it less convenient to read. The menu operation is also described as cumbersome. The rearview mirrors offer modest visibility, which can be a drawback for some riders.

On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 has a quickshifter that requires some sensitivity to operate smoothly. The wind load on the upper body increases noticeably at speeds above 130 km/h. Some riders feel that a steering damper in the S variant would have been a nice addition.

In summary, the Kawasaki Z900 2019 and the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 are both powerful naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki Z900 offers a light and stable handling, a smooth engine, and a fair price. On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S provides a high-performance power unit, advanced electronic equipment, and an overall coherent and harmonious concept. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.