Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 vs. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

The Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and touring capabilities.

In terms of power, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 has a more powerful engine with 142 HP compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021's 119 HP. The Kawasaki also has a higher torque rating of 111 Nm compared to the Yamaha's 93 Nm. Both bikes have a chain transmission and a 4-stroke engine, but the Kawasaki has 4 cylinders while the Yamaha has 3 cylinders. The displacement of the Kawasaki is 1043 ccm, while the Yamaha has a smaller displacement of 890 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature a telescopic fork front suspension with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound. The Yamaha has a slightly longer travel of 130 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 120 mm. In the rear, both bikes have a monoshock suspension with adjustable compression and preload, but the Yamaha has a slightly longer travel of 137 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 144 mm.

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019

Both bikes have an aluminum frame and dual disc front brakes. The Kawasaki has slightly larger front brake discs with a diameter of 300 mm compared to the Yamaha's 298 mm discs. Both bikes are equipped with ABS and traction control as advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a front tire diameter of 17 inches. The Kawasaki has a wider rear tire with a width of 190 mm compared to the Yamaha's 180 mm. Both bikes have a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The Yamaha has a longer wheelbase of 1500 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 1440 mm. The seat height of the Yamaha is slightly lower at 810 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 815 mm. The Yamaha is also lighter with a curb weight of 220 kg compared to the Kawasaki's 235 kg. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of 19 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 offers a notable increase in power compared to the Versys 1000, with a controlled and responsive four-cylinder inline engine. It is also considered the winner in terms of price/performance among the tested sport touring motorcycles. It strikes a good balance between sportiness and touring capabilities.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021

On the other hand, the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 offers excellent standard equipment in its GT variant, with a powerful and well-tuned engine. It is easy to handle and provides stable and comfortable riding. It also features a comprehensive electronic package, an excellent e-chassis, good wind protection, and a long range.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 has a relatively rudimentary electronics system and instruments that are not very legible under direct sunlight. The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 has a less readable and illogical screen, noise levels above 95 dB in idle (96 dB), a slightly rough clutch, and moderate responsiveness.

Overall, both the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 and the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 offer a combination of sportiness and touring capabilities, with each bike having its own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and priorities.