Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 vs. Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020

The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 and the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced features.

Starting with the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023, it is equipped with a four-cylinder inline engine that produces 125 horsepower and 98.6 Nm of torque. The fuel system is injection-based, and the displacement is 948cc. The bike features a liquid-cooled engine for efficient cooling. The suspension setup includes a telescopic upside-down fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear. The rear suspension is provided by Öhlins, offering excellent performance. The frame is made of steel and has a double cradle design. The front brakes consist of dual discs with a diameter of 300mm and four-piston calipers from Brembo. The bike also comes with advanced rider aids such as ABS, different riding modes, ride-by-wire, and traction control. The dimensions include a front tire width of 120mm, a rear tire width of 180mm, a wheelbase of 1450mm, and a seat height of 795mm. The bike weighs 210kg (with ABS) and features LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 is powered by a V-twin engine that delivers 147 horsepower and 126.2 Nm of torque. The fuel system is also injection-based, and the displacement is 1198.4cc. Like the Z900 SE, it has a liquid-cooled engine. The front suspension consists of a telescopic upside-down fork with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension is a single-sided swingarm with a monoshock, also provided by Öhlins. The chassis is made of steel and has a tubular frame design. The front brakes are dual discs with a diameter of 330mm and four-piston radial monobloc calipers from Brembo. The bike also offers advanced rider aids such as ABS, different riding modes, ride-by-wire, and traction control. The dimensions include a front tire width of 120mm, a rear tire width of 190mm, a wheelbase of 1485mm, and a seat height of 795mm. The bike weighs 211kg (with ABS) and features LED headlights.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 stands out for its powerful and pleasantly sounding four-cylinder engine, high-quality chassis components including Öhlins rear suspension, strong Brembo M4-32 brakes, good ergonomics, and easy handling.

On the other hand, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 excels in its high-performance powertrain with high torque even at low revs, fantastic electronic equipment including DTC, DWC, RbW, and customizable riding modes and assistance systems, high-quality chassis and excellent riding position, and a cohesive and harmonious overall concept with agile and maneuverable characteristics. It also offers emotional Italian beauty.

Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020

However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has some weaknesses, including the lack of quick shifter options, no lean angle-dependent traction control or cornering ABS due to the absence of an IMU, and a high weight.

Similarly, the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 has a few weaknesses, such as the gear lever requiring some sensitivity to get used to, noticeable increase in wind load on the upper body from 130 km/h onwards, and the absence of a steering damper in the S variant.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 and the Ducati Monster 1200 S 2020 offer powerful performance and advanced features. The Z900 SE excels in its four-cylinder engine and high-quality chassis components, while the Monster 1200 S impresses with its high-performance powertrain and fantastic electronic equipment. However, each bike has its own weaknesses, such as the Z900 SE's lack of certain advanced features and the Monster 1200 S's minor drawbacks in terms of gear shifting and wind load. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.