KTM 790 Duke 2020 vs. Kawasaki Z900 2019

The KTM 790 Duke 2020 and the Kawasaki Z900 2019 are both naked bikes with similar engine types, inline and liquid-cooled. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of power, the KTM 790 Duke has a slightly lower horsepower of 105 HP compared to the Kawasaki Z900's 125.4 HP. This gives the Kawasaki Z900 a slight advantage in terms of acceleration and top speed.

Both bikes have fuel injection systems and a similar number of cylinders, with the KTM 790 Duke having 2 cylinders and the Kawasaki Z900 having 4 cylinders. The KTM 790 Duke has a displacement of 799cc, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a larger displacement of 948cc. This larger displacement gives the Kawasaki Z900 more torque and overall power.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The KTM 790 Duke has a preload-adjustable monoshock, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a monoshock with both preload and recovery adjustment. This gives the Kawasaki Z900 more options for fine-tuning the suspension to suit different riding styles and preferences.

KTM 790 Duke 2020

The chassis of the KTM 790 Duke is made of chromium-molybdenum, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a steel frame. Both frames provide good stability and handling, but the chromium-molybdenum frame of the KTM 790 Duke is known for its excellent rigidity and lightweight construction.

In terms of braking, both bikes have dual disc brakes at the front with a diameter of 300mm and four-piston calipers. However, the Kawasaki Z900 features petal technology, which provides better heat dissipation and improved braking performance.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes have ABS. However, the KTM 790 Duke also features additional systems such as riding modes and traction control, offering a more comprehensive package of electronic aids.

Both bikes have similar tire sizes, with a width of 120mm at the front and 180mm at the rear. The KTM 790 Duke has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1475mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900's 1450mm. This longer wheelbase can contribute to better stability at higher speeds.

Kawasaki Z900 2019

In terms of seat height, the KTM 790 Duke has a slightly higher seat at 825mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900's 795mm. This may be a factor to consider for riders with shorter inseams.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Duke offers high-revving twin-cylinder performance, a quick-shifter as standard, excellent chassis setup, playful handling, high-quality electronic package with a TFT screen, and a good price-to-performance ratio. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 offers light and natural handling with high stability, a smooth and torquey engine, excellent feedback from the chassis, a comfortable riding position, and a fair price.

As for weaknesses, the KTM 790 Duke only has a rear suspension preload adjustability, while the Kawasaki Z900 has a low-mounted TFT screen, a complicated menu operation, and mirrors that offer modest visibility.

Overall, both the KTM 790 Duke 2020 and the Kawasaki Z900 2019 are capable and exciting naked bikes, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.