Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 vs. Yamaha MT-09 2023

The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 and the Yamaha MT-09 2023 are both naked bikes with similar technical specifications, but they have some notable differences.

Starting with the engines, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 is equipped with a powerful four-cylinder engine that produces 125 HP of power and 98.6 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 2023 features a three-cylinder engine that delivers 119 HP of power and 93 Nm of torque. Both bikes have liquid cooling and fuel injection systems.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear. However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 features high-quality Öhlins suspension at the rear, which provides better performance and comfort compared to the Yamaha MT-09 2023.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Yamaha MT-09 2023 features an aluminum frame with a twin-tube design. Both frames are sturdy and provide good stability and handling.

In terms of braking, both bikes have dual disc brakes at the front, but the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has slightly larger discs with a diameter of 300 mm compared to the 298 mm discs on the Yamaha MT-09 2023. The Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 also features Brembo M4-32 calipers, which provide strong braking performance.

Both bikes come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control. However, the Yamaha MT-09 2023 also offers quick shift technology, which allows for seamless gear changes without using the clutch. Additionally, the Yamaha MT-09 2023 has a more comprehensive electronic package compared to the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023.

Yamaha MT-09 2023

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same tire widths and diameters, but the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1450 mm compared to the 1430 mm wheelbase of the Yamaha MT-09 2023. The seat height of the Yamaha MT-09 2023 is also higher at 825 mm compared to the 795 mm seat height of the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023. Furthermore, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 is heavier with a curb weight of 210 kg compared to the 189 kg curb weight of the Yamaha MT-09 2023.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 is praised for its powerful and sonorous four-cylinder engine, high-quality chassis components, strong Brembo brakes, good ergonomics, and easy handling. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 2023 is praised for its smooth power delivery, complete electronic package, functional gear lever, comfortable seating position, well-designed chassis, lively handling, and enjoyable riding experience.

However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 has some weaknesses, including the lack of quick shift technology and angle-dependent traction control and ABS due to the absence of an IMU, as well as its high weight. Similarly, the Yamaha MT-09 2023 has weaknesses such as polarizing aesthetics, a small TFT screen, somewhat indirect front wheel feel, and cruise control only being available in the SP variant.