Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017 vs. Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

The Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 are both naked bikes that offer powerful engines and comfortable seating positions. However, there are some key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 has a clear advantage with 111 HP compared to the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017's 80 HP. The Kawasaki also has slightly less torque at 98.6 Nm compared to the Triumph's 105 Nm. Both bikes have fuel injection systems and liquid cooling.

In terms of suspension, the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017 has a telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with dual shock absorbers at the rear. The suspension is only adjustable in spring preload at the rear. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 features an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension is adjustable in preload and rebound. The Kawasaki also has a lighter aluminum rear suspension compared to the steel suspension of the Triumph.

Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017

Both bikes have steel frames, but the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017 has a central tube frame while the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 has a tubular frame. Both bikes have double disk brakes at the front, but the Kawasaki has larger diameter disks at 300 mm compared to the Triumph's 310 mm. The Kawasaki also has four piston calipers at the front, providing more stopping power.

In terms of rider assistance systems, both bikes have ABS. However, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 goes a step further with additional features such as ride by wire and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 has a wider front tire at 120 mm compared to the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017's 100 mm. The Kawasaki also has a larger fuel tank capacity at 17 liters compared to the Triumph's 15 liters. The Kawasaki has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1470 mm compared to the Triumph's 1450 mm. The seat height of the Kawasaki is also higher at 835 mm compared to the Triumph's 785 mm.

Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017 offers a powerful engine with decent torque, a comfortable seating position, good brakes, and a wonderfully authentic look. The Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018, on the other hand, offers a powerful and smooth engine, good looks, a comfortable seating position, and easy-to-ride balanced handling that is neither nervous nor ponderous.

In terms of weaknesses, the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017 has limited suspension adjustability, with only spring preload adjustment at the rear. It also has unnecessary performance modes that may not be annoying but are not particularly useful. The Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018, on the other hand, lacks a shift assistant, is heavier than other retro bikes in its class, has a seat that may be too soft for long tours, and lacks wind protection.

Overall, both the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black 2017 and the Kawasaki Z900 RS 2018 are solid naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference and priorities.