Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 vs. Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 are both naked bikes from Kawasaki, but they have some significant differences in terms of specifications and features.

Starting with the engine and drivetrain, both bikes have an inline four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 948cc and liquid cooling. However, the Z900 SE 2023 has a higher power output of 125 HP compared to the Z900 RS 2021's 111 HP. Both bikes have the same torque rating of 98.6 Nm. Both bikes also feature fuel injection systems and have four cylinders.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm at the rear. The Z900 SE 2023 has an additional feature of Öhlins suspension at the rear, which provides high-quality performance. Both bikes have adjustable suspension settings for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension on both bikes is equipped with a monoshock, and the material used for the suspension is aluminum.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

When it comes to the chassis, both bikes have a steel frame. However, the Z900 SE 2023 has a double-cradle frame, while the Z900 RS 2021 has a tubular frame. Both bikes have dual disc brakes at the front with a diameter of 300mm and four-piston calipers. The Z900 SE 2023 also features Brembo M4-32 brakes, which provide strong stopping power. Both bikes have ABS and traction control as advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same tire widths and diameters, with a 120mm width and 17-inch diameter at the front and a 180mm width and 17-inch diameter at the rear. The Z900 SE 2023 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1450mm compared to the Z900 RS 2021's 1470mm. The seat height is also different, with the Z900 SE 2023 having a lower seat height of 795mm compared to the Z900 RS 2021's 835mm. The Z900 SE 2023 is slightly lighter with a curb weight of 210kg compared to the Z900 RS 2021's 215kg.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Z900 SE 2023 has a powerful and pleasantly sounding four-cylinder engine, high-quality chassis components including Öhlins suspension at the rear, strong Brembo M4-32 brakes, good ergonomics, and easy handling. On the other hand, the Z900 RS 2021 has an authentic and beautiful retro look, a very comfortable seating position, and is easy and comfortable to ride.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Z900 SE 2023 does not have quick shifters, not even as an option, and it lacks angle-sensitive traction control and cornering ABS due to the absence of an IMU. It also has a relatively high weight. The Z900 RS 2021 lacks quick shifters and riding modes, although it does have adjustable traction control.

In conclusion, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2021 have some similarities in terms of engine, suspension, and braking systems. However, they differ in terms of frame type, suspension components, weight, and some advanced features. The Z900 SE 2023 offers a more powerful engine, higher-quality suspension components, and stronger brakes, while the Z900 RS 2021 has a retro look and a more comfortable seating position.